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  C.M. Wasson Company
Authorized Brompton Dealer
423 Chaucer Street
Palo Alto, CA 94301-2202

Voice:    (800) 783-3447
Voice: (1-650) 321-0808
Fax:     (1-650) 321-8375
info@foldabikes.com

Features

The Brompton is an easy to use, versatile machine fine for longer rides yet worth getting out even for the shortest of errands, and it comes into its own in any number of situations:

  • A Brompton can be kept out of the way in the back of a car and is a tremendous convenience when parking or traffic is a problem; it is also fun to have on hand for an occasional spin or touring in the country.
  • For apartment dwellers, the Brompton solves the storage problem that other bikes present.
  • Even if only used as an every–day bicycle, the Brompton has advantages: the risk of theft can be virtually eliminated, and it can readily be taken away on holidays or occasional excursions.
  • For boat owners and rail travellers, pilots and caravan users, a Brompton is invaluable.
  • Biking is healthy, it is usually the fastest way around town, it saves on fares and is fun: you can enjoy these benefits with a Brompton wherever you choose to take it.
  • A Brompton does not dictate how you travel: without a second thought you are always free to take an elevator, use public transport, or whatever takes your whim.

USING THE BROMPTON

Ride: given its portability, the most striking aspects of the Brompton in use are its rigidity and precise, responsive handling. The pedaling effort needed is the same as for a larger wheel machine and the 3 and 5 speed gears provide ideal ratios for town and touring use.

Front carrier: the Brompton system is unique. Purpose–adapted carriers (basket, pannier bag, briefcase etc.) can be attached or released in literally a couple of seconds. Anyone who regularly carries luggage on a bike will appreciate the immense convenience of this system.

Rear carrier: this provides a rigid platform which can accept larger loads.

Parking: the Brompton is parked simply by letting the rear wheel swing under the main frame. This parking facility obviates the need for a propstand, and also prepares the machine for folding.

FOLDING THE BROMPTON

Folding or unfolding is a simple procedure as, once parked, the Brompton stands on its own, leaving both hands free. Folding takes 15-25 seconds. Only three parts have to be unclamped and folded: the main frame, the handlebar and the saddle. The folding pedal, if fitted, takes an extra moment to stow. Once folding is complete, the package stays automatically locked together.
As there are no projections or loose parts, the folded package is really easy to manage: the saddle forms a natural handle, but however one happens to pick up the folded Brompton, it remains secure: the chain is almost completely enclosed, which means that carpets and upholstery are not marked: no vulnerable parts are exposed to damage and, most importantly, the cable runs are fully protected. The bike can be treated like a small suitcase, and even wheeled around on its own casters

Brompton Bicycle Type L:

Brompton Bicycle Type T:

This is the simpler and lighter of the two types. Although it is without a rear carrier, the optional front carrier system, if fitted, can take care of most day to day needs in this respect. For riding after dark, battery lights can be fitted easily to front and rear of the Brompton. The type L is for those who expect to use the Brompton mainly by day, or for whom weight saving is of particular importance. The type L is painted red and black. Altough other colors may be ordered at an additional charge. This is equipped with a rear carrier and a dynamo lighting system. These do not affect folding or the folded size, but they add some 10% to the weight. It is a great convenience to have carrier and lights permanently to hand on the bicycle, and the type T is recommended for those who regularly need these. The lights are mounted out of harm`s way, with the wiring carefully routed. The carrier itself is rigid, wide and strong, it comes complete with purpose made elasticated cords for securing baggage, and it can be used for large loads. The type T is painted gloss black.

Gearing: The ratios provided by the three–speed models, types L3 and T3, are fine for general use and for around town. Types L5 and T5 have five speeds: these five–speed models are intended for the user who appreciates the benefit of a wider range of gears, and although they require a little more care in use, they are invaluable for touring or for riding in hilly areas.

Lower gearing: bicycles may be supplied to special order with reductions of 12% or 18% on the gear developments given in the specification.

Riding position: As supplied, with standard seat pillar, the Brompton offers a satisfactory riding position for the majority of users. Some however, may require a closer reach to the handle bars, others may wish for a higher saddle. To meet these various needs, therefore, a "saddle adapter pin" and longer seat pillars are available as options. These can be supplied to order on a new machine, or they can be fitted later. Small fore/aft adjustments to the handlebar position can also be made.

SPECIFICATIONS


Brompton Bicycle Type L2000
This is the simpler and lighter of the two types. Although it is without a rear carrier, the optional front carrier system, if fitted, can take care of most day to day needs in this respect. For riding after dark, battery lights can be fitted, but these will normally need to be detached if the bicycle is to be folded. The type L is for those who expect to use the Brompton mainly by day, or for whom weight saving is of particular importance. The type L is painted red and black.
The Traveller
This is equipped with a rear carrier and a dynamo lighting system. These do not affect folding or the folded size, but they add some 10% to the weight. It is a great convenience to have carrier and lights permanently to hand on the bicycle, and the type T is recommended for those who regularly need these.

Specifications

Wheelbase 1015mm - 40.0"   Folded size:  
  height 565mm - 22.2"
Bottom bracket height  270mm - 10.6"   (note 2) length 545mm - 21.5"
Saddle height:       width 250mm -  9.8"
min  760mm - 29.9"        
(note 1) max A  975mm - 38.4"   Weight
(note 3)
11.5kg - 25.4lbs
max B 1065mm - 41.9"    Gears Sturmey Archer hub
Handlebar height 1015mm - 40.0"   Gearing:  
Steering angle 72.4 degrees   3 speed 46" 62" 82"
      3 speed
With 12% lower
gearing installed.
(Preferred option.)
40"  55" 72"
      Please note that other gearing options for higher and lower gear rannges are available with use of our hi-end alloy front derailleur system or use of the Swiss Mountain-drive. 
 

Note 1: The saddle can be mounted in various ways; dimension A is the maximum saddle height obtainable with the saddle mounted direct on a standard seat pillar: dimension B is the height obtainable using an extended seat pillar and saddle adaptor pin.

Note 2: The size given is that of a 3 speed with a saddle adaptor pin fitted and with the left hand pedal removed; the folding pedal projects 20mm from this envelope   (depending on rider preference, the saddle may also lie outside the given envelope).

Note 3: The weight given is for an L3 without accessories. A Brompton T3, fully equipped, weighs approximately 12.9kg, 28.41b.


Main frame: Low-carbon and Mn/Mo steel tube with forged steel hinges, nickel-bronze brazed; oversize steering bearings; two stage finish, zinc plating and polyester powder coat.

Wheels & tires: Size 16" x 1 3/8", aluminum alloy rims, Schrader valves

Standard accessories: Rollers on rear frame: reflectors to BS 6102: 10" pump (for roadside use): chainwheel disc as chainguard.

Maintenance: The Brompton is fitted with a conventional transmission and with standard lightweight componentry: maintenance is much the same as for a normal bike.

Warranty: Because the complete production cycle, from raw tube to finished bike, is carried out on our premises, we maintain close control of quality, and we offer a 10 year warranty on the frame of every Brompton.


Patents worldwide. Product specifications may be changed. © 1994.