Our Leeds store have become big fans of the wonderful British Brompton since we first became a dealer five years ago. Store manager Graham is a particular fan who owns two and uses them to follow cycle races or commute up to head office. We gave our demo Brompton M6R to co-op friend (and former mechanic and weekend salesperson) Mark Blount, who moved back into the engineering business last year. Would his new peripatetic life benefit from having a Brompton in it?
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Brompton M6R 2019 Review – My extended test ride
I’ve always liked the “idea” of a Brompton; its quirky, Its British, it’s mind bogglingly clever in how it’s been designed and above all its incredibly practical.
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The ride, well I’ve already covered the gears – so on to the most important bit – the brakes! The side pull cable rim brakes stop the bike really well… and that’s really well! It may be that smaller wheels have less inertia, and so stop quicker, but these brakes are comparative to some hydraulic discs that I’ve ridden!
A very minor comment about the ride its self, is that the small wheels are really responsive and hardly any steering is required it’s quite snappy; but as with the shift differences – after a short while riding you become used to this; in fact it becomes enjoyable, quick & responsive and just that: snappy!
There are other major advantages that don’t, at first, spring to mind. Security. My first outing on the Brompton was to a not too local, local to watch the rugby, it was packed. Nowhere to lock the bike up… So I just folded it up and put it under the table all safe as I watched England’s dismal display. That is a massive benefit.
All in all, did I enjoy the Brompton M6R? I really did, it’s fun, convenient and practical. Would I buy one? Definitely… Just as soon as I sell one of my other six bikes!