Brompton vs. Strida vs. SwissBike LXThe Gadget Show (a television program that is produced for the UK's Channel 5) recently did a comparative video review of folding bikes from Brompton, Strida and SwissBike.
For the review, show host Jon Bentley enlisted the help of Rebecca Romero, the female cyclist that took the Gold at the 2008 summer Olympics in Bejing. Jon and Rebecca each rode a Brompton M3L, Strida 5.0 and a SwissBike LX and traded impressions of each bike while they rode.
As the winner, they chose the Brompton for it's "classic, timeless looks", ease of folding/unfolding and ride; however, the SwissBikeLX was a close second place. The reason: the SwissBike's larger folded size, the need to remove the front wheel and the bike didn't roll when folded. They did like the SwissBike's ride and the SwissBike was the only one they could ride off road.Watch the full folding bike review
Larry
3 comments:
I think it was a bit unfair comparing these three bikes directly against one another. IMHO the only thing they really share in common is that they fold. Apples, oranges and grapes!
Strange result as gadget show's main presentor ( Suzy ) likes the Strida ....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kVVgsQt1DK4
Apples and oranges? How about apples and broccoli.
Basically, the review featured 2 folding bikes designed for riding short distances and one designed for long distance touring on or off road.
For hopping on/off public transit and short, "last mile" type cycling in an urban environment, my choice of the 3 bikes is the Strida.
The Strida 5.0 comes with fenders and carry rack yet weighs 7 lbs less than the Brompton without a carry rack. For commuters that have to carry their bike any significant distance (especially up stairs), this weight difference is notable. Additionally, folding/unfolding a Strida takes less time and the Strida rolls more easily when folded. Strida's are more twitchy and the 1 speed Strida 5.0 goes slower than the 3 speed Brompton. To be fair, they should have compared the new Strida Sport Duo 2 speed to the Brompton M3L.
For long rides on or off road, my choice is the Montague SwissBike LX.
The SwissBike's solid design, gearing, larger wheel size and front suspension make it much more enjoyable for riding long distances. For short distance riding off pavement, the SwissBike is also superior. Naturally, the SwissBike does not fold as small and weighs more; however, it was never intended to be the perfect choice for short, multi-modal commutes.
Brompton's do fold/unfold into a very compact package and have a fairly nice ride; I would not call them THE perfect bike though. And the Brompton M3L's starting price is almost $600 more than an entry level Montague folding bike...
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