Choosing to cycle to work isn’t exactly a new concept, but as cars and public transport become more expensive and local authorities crack down on pollution in city centres, bikes are looking more likely to be the next major mode of transport for short-distance commuters.
But getting a bike around a tight city centre flat, then onto a train or tube, then into the office is a hassle right? Well, not with a Brompton.
Take a look at our top reason why a Brompton bike could not just be your next bike purchase, but also a suitable replacement for your current way of getting into the office
1. They fold up
This one may be slightly obvious if you’ve already heard of Brompton, but a revelation if you aren’t a keen cyclist. Brompton bikes are designed to fold away into a compact shape that makes them easy to carry, store or squeeze into the luggage rack on the train. This means you can still cycle pretty much anywhere, without having to argue with the bus driver or stand awkwardly into the end of the train carriage with a full-size bike.
Discover our full range of folding Brompton bikes
2. They’re comfortable to ride
Naturally, Brompton bike wheels and frames are much smaller to enable the whole bike to stay compact when folded, but this doesn’t mean you’ll be hunched over a short set of handlebars pedalling furiously to get up a small hill.
With four different handlebar options and an easily adjustable seat post, you don’t need to crouch over or bend your knees – just ride along as you normally would, with no bad backs or soreness from awkward positioning!
3. They’re light
If you’ve ever tried to wheel a road or mountain bike onto a train, then you’ll know how hard it can be to bump the back wheel up the step or struggle to carry a heavy steel frame down to the platform. Brompton bikes feature lightweight components as well as reduced overall size, so picking your Brompton folding bike up is easy, even with one hand.
Discover more about the Brompton brand
4. They’ll last a long time
Brompton understand that folding bikes will take some punishment. From constant folding and unfolding to dealing with knocks and bangs on public transport, Brompton’s insistence on using premium quality materials and strenuous stress testing means their range of bikes can take pretty much anything thrown at them. They’re also hand-made in London, so you’ll be getting a folding bike that’s crafted with plenty of care and attention, and one that will last a long time with the right maintenance.
5. They’re incredibly easy to use
Anything that folds up or collapses can be a bit fiddly (we’re looking at you, ironing board), but Brompton bikes avoid this issue completely. With a bit of clever design and smart locking system, Brompton bikes can be folded and unfolded within seconds and with all mucky bits tucked out of the way.
6. They pay for themselves
Let’s face it, driving to work or even taking public transport can rack up serious costs, and we’re all looking for the best ways to save money as the cost of living rises. Brompton bikes are completely free to ride once you’ve bought one (it costs nothing to hop on and start pedalling), plus you can probably get rid of that gym membership too with all the extra calories you’ll burn cycling to work!
The other great thing about buying a Brompton bike from Halfords is the ability to spread the cost over 12 months, making this brilliant folding bike even more affordable.
7. They’re harder to steal
Bike theft is a major problem in many UK cities – almost 60,000 bikes have been stolen in London alone in the last 3 years – so keeping your bike secure is a priority for any cyclist.
This is where a Brompton bike has a major security advantage over full-size bikes that need to be left outside on a bike rack. Thanks to their small size, Brompton bikes can be stored in large lockers, in a cupboard at work, or even next to you in the office, so you don’t need to rely on a bike lock and vigilant passers-by!
8. You can tune them to your style
With a huge range of colours to choose from, as well as Brompton clothing and matching bags from big names like Barbour and the Cambridge Satchel Company, you can customise your Brompton to match your look – perfect for standing out from the crowd!
9. They’re not just for the commute
Who said you can only use your Brompton to cycle to work? Thanks to their compact size, Brompton bikes can be taken pretty much anywhere. Just shove it on the plane, train, bus, or in the car boot and get exploring! Check out what other Brompton riders are doing with theirs.
Test ride your next Brompton bike at your local Halfords store, or learn more about the range at Halfords.com.