What are Folding Bikes?
A Great Innovation in Bimodal Transport
If you are an urban dweller traversing the roads and highways, bimodal transport might be part of your daily grind. In this case, you may need a folding bike – not just any ordinary bike, but a folding bike.
The trendy and versatile folding bike is easy and convenient to use around train stations or bus terminals. It’s handy as a backpack when you ride in buses or trains. It can even be kept in a car compartment. Plus, it is friendly on the pocket too.
So, what exactly is a Folding Bike?
A folding bike is essentially a bike that folds up into a compact form. Its design is for ease of transport and limited storage space. This one-of-a-kind innovation provides a practical solution to urban dwellers who find daily commute a challenge.
How it folds up is simply impressive. The back wheel folds up under the bike’s mainframe. The front-wheel swings around to sandwich the rear wheel. The handlebars drop down alongside the back wheel, and the saddle is dropped down and locked in place. The entire process of setting up and tearing down takes only 30 seconds!
Your friendly guides at Stead Cycles Beresfield will be more than glad to demonstrate it for you. Here you can find an array of bicycles to suit your style and personality. What’s more, you can spice up your folding bike with hip and trendy accessories to add fun and excitement.
What are folding bikes for?
Manufacturers of folding bikes provide the best solution for city dwellers with horizontally-challenged studios or apartments. You can fold and keep it safe at home. You can also keep it beside you on trains or buses.
It is for short distances and flat roads. Bike enthusiasts now have a great time riding their folding bikes on mountain roads.
What are the different types of folding bikes?
There are two main categories of folding bikes:
- Small-wheeled
It has 16” or 20” wheels designed to minimise size when folded.
- Normal-wheeled
It has 26” or 700c wheels like a ‘normal’ bike.
Factors to consider when buying a folding bike
Here is a checklist to help you choose the folding bike for you.
1. Quick and easy to fold up and unfold
Ask for a product demo from your store assistant. Check out how quick and easy it is to fold, or tools are needed to get it done. It is one way to see if you get the hang of it. Choose a bike that folds with the chain enclosed to avoid grease on your clothes.
2. Light and portable
Try walking while carrying folded. Is it light and portable? Make sure it is comfortable to carry around. Look up the folding dimension to see if it fits your storage space. Check if you can wheel it when it’s folded. Also, check if it locks together when folded or you need a strap to get it closed.
3. Size
The ideal size is compact enough when beside you on the train or bus. It could come with a carry bag to prevent dirt and grease on your clothes.
4. Comfortable and stable to ride
A folding bike has smaller wheels compared to a regular bicycle. It may take a little while for you to get used to it. If your purpose is to use it as a bimodal transport, then ease of folding and carrying may be more important than the ride.
5. Easy to maintain
It would be inconvenient and awkward to repair punctured tyres while in public. So, it is advisable to carry spare tubes with you.
6. Good right from the start
At Stead Cycle Beresfield, we are sure that your folded bike is well-assembled. We can do some fine-tuning to make sure the wheels spin without a wobble. We also make sure that all the components are operating as smoothly as possible.
See if your folding bike includes mudguards and luggage racks. But some folding bicycles are not designed to carry luggage at all.
What are the pros and cons of a folding bike?
Before you decide on buying a folding bike, read up first on the pros and cons of using a foldable or folding bike.
Pros
- Security
You don’t have to purchase multiple locks and have an intricate system to keep your bicycle secure while locked outside.
- Quality
Most folding bicycles are made of aluminium, Chromoly steel, or titanium. Quality is assured.
- Compact
The compact shape makes them easy to store when at home or work. Fold it up and put it in your closet or under your desk. It takes up a very modest space.
- Easy to transport
Most commuters have to get off the bus or train and walk a bit more to reach their destination. A folded bike is a good bet for bimodal transport. Or if you are on a business trip, you can carry it overhead the bin of a plane.
Cons
- The weight
Most folding bikes range from 18 lbs to 35 lbs. The lighter ones are more expensive as they are made of titanium and carbon fibre, while the heavier ones are aluminium.
- The price
The price of a folded bike is more expensive than a regular bike.
- Stiff ride
A bit bumpier and stiffer ride compared to regular bikes due to the size of the tyres.
What are the popular folding bikes in the market?
Several brands manufacture folding bikes. But three of them ring a bell for cyclists and bike enthusiasts: Brompton, Citizen Bike, and Tern.
Stead Cycles is your one-stop bike shop. We have all the different brands to suit your needs – GT Bicycles, Mongoose, Redline, Felt, Cannondale, and Felt. We can also order for you if we do not have the brand you prefer.
Are folding bikes worth buying?
The answer is a resounding yes. The functionality is simply perfect for commuters. Storing in a cramped space is not a problem. You don’t have to worry about being stolen.
Aside from features like great acceleration and easier to manoeuvre, folded bikes offer a practical solution for city rides. Rough surfaces and longer distances are doable with its suspension block. Best of all, you get value for your money.
Drop by Stead Cycles and discover our range of available bicycles.
Looking hip and trendy has never been this easy on the pocket. Choose from a wide array of products that suit your lifestyle and budget. Visit our store at 29 Landor St, Beresfield, New South Wales. You can also call on 02 4966 2141 or email info@steadcycles.com.au us for enquiries. Our sales team will be more than glad to assist you.