Folding Bike FAQ - Kent Compact Nexus

Here are answers to frequently asked questions regarding the 3 speed folding bike known as the Kent Compact Nexus. As additional questions are asked, the answers will be posted here.

Q: Why should I buy a Kent Compact Nexus folding bike?
A: For a sturdy, low maintenance folding bike at a reasonable price, the Kent Compact Nexus is the way to go. The Shimano Nexus internally geared hub used on this bike is a huge improvement over a multi-speed bike with exposed gears and a rear derailleur. With the Nexus system, the gears are inside the rear wheel hub, keeping the drivetrain cleaner much longer. Having a coaster brake on the rear wheel, there are fewer brake components to maintain on the Compact Nexus and the rear wheel will remain cleaner longer too. By the way, when the time does eventually come, mechanical components (from the Nexus drive to the brake pads on the front wheel) are all readily available at local bike shops.

Q: What's the shipping time?
A: For destinations within the USA lower 48 states, shipping typically takes a week or less.

Q: Which delivery carrier do you use?
A: Within the USA lower 48 states, we now use Fedex Ground. For orders to Hawaii, Alaska, APO's and some other destinations outside the USA, we use the US Postal Service.

Q: Do you provide tracking info?
A: Yes. Tracking info is sent via email so you can see the status of your delivery.

Q: Is the Kent Compact Nexus a good choice for commuters?
A: Yes. In fact, the Compact Nexus is one of the folding bikes that I show to transit agencies that ask about bikes that fold. When folded, it's compact and light enough to carry aboard mass transit. The high, middle and low gears on this 3 speed are all that most urban commuters typically need and you can shift gears even when you're not moving.

Q: Does the bike have folding pedals?
A. Yes. The bike does ship with single sided folding pedals. In other words, one side of the pedal is flat and the other is angled (because there's a locking pin to keep the pedal from folding while riding). As a result, the pedal is really meant to be pedaled on just 1 side (you can pedal on the under side too but it's not comfortable).

Q: Do you offer better folding pedals?
A: Yes. I offer lighter, dual sided folding pedals as an optional upgrade. The optional pedals fold/unfold faster and can be pedaled on either side; the locking mechanism is virtually instantaneous and fool proof. The optional folding pedals are an additional $29.99 when purchasing a bike or $35.99 as a stand alone purchase.

Q: What's the cruising speed on the Kent Compact Nexus?
A: The bike was designed so that most riders could cruise comfortably at 12-14 mph. If you want to cruise at a higher rate of speed, replace the stock rear cog with a cog that has fewer teeth. Most local bike shops can complete this upgrade in 15 minutes and suitable replacement cogs cost $10-20.

Q: What is the maximum safe limit for extending the seatpost height?
A: With the seatpost raised to the min. insertion safety hashes and the pedal at it's lowest position, the max. distance from seatpost to pedal is 33".

Q: What is the distance between the handlebars and saddle?
A: When measured from the center of the saddle to the weld point where the handlebars are welded to the extendable handlebar stem, the distance is 24".

Q: What size are the pedal crank arms?
A: To provide proper ground clearance with 16" wheels, the cranks are 6" or about 1.5" shorter than normal.

Q: Are the cranks long enough to make this bike pedal similar to a comfort/cruiser bike?
A: You can still cruise comfortably at 12-14 mph (I cruise at 15mph at a high cadence which is natural for me).

Q: I’m 5’11”, 32 inch inseam. Is the seating position high enough to get good leg extension while pedaling?
A: I have a 29" inseam. I ride the Kent 3 speed with the seat post an inch from the min insertion line and the saddle midway on the rails. If you raised the seat to the min insertion notches and pushed the saddle back on the rails, you'll be fine.

Q: Are the standard folding pedals 2 sided?
A: Standard pedals on this and previous Kent folders have a lock pin protruding from the bottom of the pedal. Though you can do it, the side with the lock pin is not meant for pedaling. If you're riding occasionally and for short distances, it's not a problem. If you're riding more regularly and for longer rides, go for the optional Marwi folding pedals (much better quality, lighter, no chance of the lock pin coming loose and can pedal on either side).

Q: Would this bike be appropriate to pop in the trunk and go for a five mile ride around the park?
A: The Kent folds small enough so you could fit it in the smallest car trunk. Additionally, I have ridden the current Kent on leisurely circuits of 5-7 miles and an early version around NY's Central Park, shifting into middle gear for the hills and low for one gentle climb.

Q: With a comfortable pedaling cadence what would the cruising speed be for this bike?
A: Comfortable for most people would be about 10-12 mph. Stronger riders: 12-15 mph.