Brompton  C Line 4-Speed Mid Handlebar Bike with Rack

I purchased my first Brompton in mid March, I’ve put just over 200 miles on it now. As a recovering road rage-a-holic, I needed a peaceful alternative to get to work. Yet the Brompton has nearly become the only bicycle I ride now, out of both fun and convenience. Although it has less momentum than a larger wheeled bike, it’s nimble steering and quick small wheels make it a joy to ride. Also, it obviously folds which has made my life easier while living in a small apartment, commuting to work or hopping in a friend’s car. No locking up my bike outside on a rack, no large vehicle required to transport it, no expensive hitch and bike rack. I just roll it into my closet when I’m done riding it. A few essential upgrades I’ve made: First things first, get a proper chain-stay protector to protect the axle hook (on the front wheel) from destroying your frame when folding the bike - I purchased a carbon fiber one from Vincita on Amazon, works great. I also swapped the 54T front chainring to a 50T chain ring in the front to help me get up small hills. I swapped the saddle out. Also, put on some non-folding pedals (as the stock folding pedals developed a slight bit of play after about 200 miles). The Brompton does require having some basic knowledge about bicycles to maintain. I was a skeptic about the front hinges, but after over 200 miles, no issues so far. Keep the clamp surfaces greased up and flush some Tri-Flow through the actual hinge-pin areas to flush out any dirt and grime. Do this every so often and it’ll make the hinges work smooth and last longer. Also keep your hinge clamps real tight until they bite down, but don't force them! The entire clamp mechanism will kind of settle in with time, the paint on them will wear off a bit (which is normal) so give it 200-300 miles - I’ve found now that this has happened on mine, everything actually seats better. Also, the aluminum hinge plates are a replaceable part, they are a softer metal (unlike steel) and are made to wear out and be replaced. So only use Brompton brand hinge clamp plates. Don’t buy steel or titanium clamps because you’ll only hurt your frame. Otherwise, I’ve heard the rear pivot more commonly wears out first. But luckily Brompton has updated the rear triangle on the c-line - which has made the rear pivot easier to replace once it wears out. All in all, it’s a super rugged and beautifully engineered bicycle. It’s the perfect minimalists bike, someone who doesn’t want to take up a lot of space in their vehicle. Had my eye on a Brompton for years and only wish I had purchased one sooner. Now I just need a G-line and I’m covered.

This thing is pretty great. Expected a good fold, but it really has the feel of a high quality bike. The grips aside, just about everything here feels good.