Let’s face it, folding bikes might be good for different styles of riding, but in commuting they come into their own. So if your shop is near where people live or work (there’s a fair chance…) then a folding bike is worth considering. Jonathon Harker lists some options…
Airnimal
THE AIRNIMAL Joey is a folding bike designed and assembled in Britain. Pitched as a high performing all-rounder, from sports to commuter and touring, the Joey works well with two wheel sizes – fat profile (24-inch ISO-507) for the city or trail, or narrow profile (24- inch ISO -520) high pressure for speed. All Airnimals are fitted with high quality standard components, BikeBiz is told, so dealers or customers can upgrade easily. The Joey has two levels of fold, with the first taking about 30 seconds and
with the addition of the Commuter kit (except for some bar configurations) will leave you with a contained package that can either be picked up with one hand, or wheeled. There is also the Joey bag, specifically designed to fit this fold. The second level of fold takes a few minutes, depending on the accessories fitted, and gets the bike small enough to fit into Airnimal’s dedicated Traveller case. The Airnimal Joey models starts
from £999 RRP. Find out more from Cyclecentric directly on info@cyclecentric.com or on 01954 782020
Tern
THIS URBAN bike brand has a number of ranges, including the Verge (20-inch wheel) models: X30h, X20, X10, S11i and Duo. Priced between £650 and £2,000 and aimed at performance riders, Verge bikes feature hydroformed, super-stiff and lightweight frames, and high level components. The Link range (20-inch wheel) bikes include the P9, P7i, P24h, D8, D7i, Uno and C7 models. Link bikes are priced between £330 and £775 and are designed for daily commuters looking for easy folding, a great ride experience and value. Swoop (20-inch wheel) bikes have, new for 2013, an RRP of £750, offering comfort, convenience and a relaxed ride for
Raleigh
RALEIGH IS the UK distributor of folding bike specialist Dahon. One of the latest models from the brand is the Mu P27, made from a sturdy aluminum frame and an assortment of quality components. Combining a SRAM X7 derailleur with the newest version of the SRAM Dual Drive II 3 x 9 rear hub, Mu P27 is pitched at riders seeking a bike that performs for a variety of different riding styles. It folds in as little as 15 seconds, Dahon says, and retails at £770.00. Dahon’s Jifo 16 stands for compact
size, fast assembly and easy means of transportation. This ultra-compact bike
2x2
is the ideal for daily commutes by bus, train or tube. The Jifo is uber fast at folding – in just seven second due to ‘longitudinal folding
frame latch technology’. The telescopic bimodal bar seatpost adjusts with the folding of the bike and after folding, the saddle still can be used for balance or as a chair. RRP is £600.00. 01773 532600
MONTAGUE HAS an updated Boston 8 for 2013. This year there’s a rim upgrade, a nicer tyre selection and – most importantly – a lighter, more rigid version of the well known patented folding frame giving an 11 per cent weight saving over previous models (£999.99 at retail). Also available via 2x2 is a new 700c Land Rover folder, complementing the existing two 20- inch wheel folders and the 26-inch wheel folder already in the range. Meanwhile, the City X-Elite features 21 speed STI shifting, a front disc and the ability to pack it away into a carry
bag (which is supplied) and stow it in the boot of the car/train luggage
rack/cupboard in the motorhome or boat/cupboard under the stairs, etc. According to 2x2 it’s much better than a 20-
inch wheel for longer distances and much more efficient than a 26-inch wheel for tarmac, green lanes, towpaths etc. RRP is £399.99 and more details can be sought at 01827 331099
“well-travelled” riders, with a low-step frame. Eclipse (24-inch wheel) bikes combine small wheeled convenience with full-sized ride quality, says Tern. New models coming to the UK this year include the X20, S11i and P9. Finally, Joe (26-inch wheel) bikes come in models P24, D24 and C21, priced between £375 and £575. These are full-size bikes that fold in half for easier storage and transportation. There’s also a full line of accessories.
To find out about the bikes or becoming a dealer contact Mark Bickerton at Cyclemotion mark.bickerton@ternbicycles.com; 01580 755633