A carbon fiber Brompton Clone (first look)

[@82ogo]

Chedech from korea!

[@박제홍-x7p]

체데크 넘 좋아요.

[@Fetucinee]

I'm ambivalent. CF doesn't tolerate incidental knocks and impacts well and these are what folders are regularly subjected to (especially when folded).

[@daytriker]

Something that might be useful is if you were to post your height & weight on your reviews. It would help us relate to our own expectations. i.e.being heavier or taller. This Clone was of interest to me having the 18 inch wheels for not being as squirrely as 16 inch bikes. With SO MANY Brompton Clones on the market now, it would be a top video if you could grab 7 or 8 for a complete comparison between them.

[@enricoflor3601]

Two years hence, I don't think popularity of the Chedech has exploded.

[@rainbowhiker]

Wow! It is beautiful.

[@elliotoliver8679]

Not too convinced about a carbon foldie, the jury well and truly out on that one

[@bluewolf7909]

More folding bikes of good quality are needed for some more options, but looking up that price? Brompton still wins by a large margin.

[@rainbowhiker]

My 610 Miyata flexes a bit but makes the bike more comfortable absorbing road shock. If I had money, I'd like to try that out. How much is it.

[@jamesdonnelly8888]

Natural to have more flex than steel, but I can't see how this is ever good. Makes a huge difference to how you get to speed and stay there. No thanks!

[@josegarciarey2033]

Honestly... I think you seems like a Bro soldier🤣

[@sitoudien9816]

Carbon and folding is a bad combination. I love the 18 inch wheels. Why no aluminum? Why there aren't more reviews of this unicorn?

[@musiqsoundsproductions]

Mannn im looking for one of these, but can;t find them anywhere :(

[@skepticalmechanic]

Your videos are AWESOME!

[@josegarciarey2033]

..., well, I really doubt this...

[@skepticalmechanic]

@@josegarciarey2033 Take credit where credit is due…👍🏻

[@CP-ym9eh]

Geeez the constant sniffing

[@josegarciarey2033]

totally...annoying!!! he makes a review with mucus...even doesn't how to pronunce the brand

[@bakerstreet101]

Building folding bikes isn't building Teslas. People will eventually refine their skills and produce a good quality product. I look forward to when more affordable tri-fold bikes make their way over to North America. It is surprising that this hasn't happened already given that the patents expired in 1999, and clones are available in Asia.

[@ibikeunfolded]

I notice that a lot of people here in america seem to have no interest in small folding bikes. Maybe that is why so many other manufactures were in no hurry to create a similar bicycle.

[@alexmorgan3435]

@@ibikeunfolded I thought few people in the US had any interest in cycling let alone riding small wheeled folding bikes!

[@bakerstreet101]

@@ibikeunfolded actually, due to COVID, there is a massive shortage of bikes in the U.S., and Bromptons and folding eBikes are very hard to come by, even at their high price. I am pretty sure Brompton's attempts prevent competition beyond the end of their patents is what is keeping the clones out of North America and Europe, but not Asia.

[@JaydelCorro]

Keep making videos. I’m loving your vlog and reviews. I been intrigued by the Brompton for some time, even though I have a few bikes already, including a Dahon Jetstream. Currently waiting for my Black Edition C Line Explore. Thanks a lot, lol.

[@ibikeunfolded]

Thank you for watching. I appreciate the comment.

[@davidhunternyc1]

Have you seen any other Brompton clones that you were impressed by? Better yet, would you ever ditch your Brompton if you found a clone that was qualitatively better than the best Brompton?

[@tobewiser6738]

And you have to be under 200 lbs--maybe 150lbs is the limit. I can see it crack apart under upper limit stains. Love your unbiased honesty and thoughtful thinking. Thank you!

[@matthewcain2880]

How could I buy one of these in the US. I can’t find them for sale online

[@BlitzWorks]

Wish i had known about this a month or two ago as i am in the process of rebuilding my brompton after some expensive to repair damage to a sheared bolt head (not bromptons fault) I have a full titanium build now (ie main chassis and steering unlike the titanium brompton) and once you go below 10KGs on the brompton your ability to move it large distances significantly improves the downside of that however is that most of the weight comes off the mid and front end making the front very light but the plus side ifs you can now take 1L of water with you and still weigh less than the brompton i found the SRf-5 wonderful on the brompton and cant wait to go 10 speed once the new frame arrives. having the flexibility to go fast on down hill and haul cargo up hills really suits my lifestyle and area. Weight savings helped on that and long distance trips

[@TheRealWindlePoons]

I like to see the continued success of Sturmey Archer even though it is no longer British. The SRF5 may be the next thing in the family "pool" bike (currently it has an S-A AW3). I had a Saturday job at school, working in a local bike shop where I learned to strip and re-build Sturmey-Archer hubs. I now live within a mile of the site of the original Sturmey Archer factory. I'm a fan.

[@BlitzWorks]

@@TheRealWindlePoons Really love it it has been solid and reliable and wish i could put them on more machines. i may try dismantaling the original brompton one as its not in use and have always wanted to do so

[@MadeInGreatBritain]

In Britain, we don’t design stuff you have to kick to undo.

[@johnrgoodman]

On the Brompton you. Can set the suspension block so that when you fold it you do not to need to use the little lever to realise the rear, you just lift and fold the rear under.

[@ibikeunfolded]

🤔 hmmm, I will have to check that out. Thanks.

[@duncanhamilton5841]

@@ibikeunfolded Yep, just rotate the block so the notch on the plastic end cap that the latch clicks into isn't at the 12 o'clock. Means you can't pick it up without the rear dropping and swinging about... older Bromptons didn't latch, and people would jury-rig all sorts of cable-tie based solutions to stop it doing that

[@peterpengkai7163]

This brand has been around for a long time and I believe that is the company that Brompton took to court in Spain. Koreans are good manufacturers. I wish I could buy them both, but pricy. So we “poor” people or ppl troubled by our conscience for paying too much for something that doesn’t look to cost that much have to be content with the Chinese alternatives. I just purchased a Mint and a Litepro, I want to see what is the difference between external and internal gear.

[@ibikeunfolded]

It’s a great bike, but you’re right…it’s expensive.

[@BurgertripinAmerica]

Brompton sued and lost the case

[@jrushen4235]

Brompton has taken Get2Get to the European Court over Copyright Infringement rights hence the bike is unavailable in Europe at the moment. However owing to Brexit ( a bad idea ) this may no longer apply as the divergence means it will have to follow the UK's infringement rules which are different. Great video as per usual, thanks...

[@ibikeunfolded]

I did not know Brompton took them to court. I will do some research on that......I think it would be interesting.

[@alexmorgan3435]

@@ibikeunfolded It's clearly an infringement of Brompton's intellectual property rights on it's design.

[@kwhatten]

Just noticed another copy Backer Gravity.

[@BurgertripinAmerica]

Brompton sued and lost the case

[@johnnymac8680]

Bromptons are relatively expensive but they have a great reputation. People like 'The Brompton Traveler' have taken one to 16,000 feet in the Himalayas and more recently on a 2500 km trip from England to Italy. This new bike has a lot to live up to if it is going to compete. The bike mechanics will have to be available locally to handle any problems.

[@phillblake6829]

Hope you get to test a Tline they better send some to chuck

[@adamm3492]

2:40 "clone" ? They made it better

[@svenmaier6673]

Just as an FYI - the DO sell optional racks with wheels if you really want to get the "brompton feeling" ...

[@ibikeunfolded]

Awesome, I will have to search that out. Thanks.

[@karenhendricks204]

what is the width of the tires?

[@apachewarrior45]

Nice video. But I’m concerned about the airway respiratory symptoms you displayed in this video esp without a mask in the shop.

[@Sakura1]

I could not bring myself to stomp a carbon fibre bike everytime I need to fold it.

[@paulhask7840]

Considered that carbon bike before purchasing a 2 spd ti. Remembered had justified cost for 1 ib saving and questioned its durability -see no comparison.

[@lonestarlaurel]

Wouldn’t invest in a beta bike. My don’t likes - the kick fold, ultra limited rear rack, no rolling wheels, the no weight bearing front end. My M6 Brompton experience - arrives in the mail next Wednesday, can’t wait!

[@ibikeunfolded]

I agree and enjoy your Brompton. 😀👍

[@oliverpolden]

It’s a very good point about parts. These bikes are so unique that they need to be popular to keep parts available at a reasonable price. That mudguard/rack looks like it would do a good job of protecting you or the bike from dirt and I bet it’s next to impossible to get new ones that fit well with the fold. Not to mention other accessories as well as third party, I love the toolkit that fits in the frame of the Brompton and the whole array of bags etc. You’re not going to get these for rare bikes. I like how you put a pump in the seat post. A lock that goes in the main frame would be cool, you don’t really want to leave these locked up anywhere but say you’re having a coffee and can lock it nearby in view.

[@davidhunternyc1]

Why doesn't Brompton make a full Titanium folding bike?

[@alexmorgan3435]

It is my understanding that the main frame tubes are steel for strength and rigidity which you lose with other materials, but I might be wrong. Also a full titanium Brompton frame would be very expensive even more than it is at present.

[@ilovevegetables]

Sniff..sniff...but get that checked out.

[@ibikeunfolded]

It’s called allergies.

[@JonathanChan333]

So it's lighter, wider geared, faster, more comfortable, corrosion proof; and in all likelihood, actually available for purchase? That's a lot of pros. Kind of makes me second guess my Brompton order which I've been waiting months for.

[@TheRealWindlePoons]

We didn't get any indication of price though. I have seen several interesting folding options at 2-3 times the price of a Brompton.

[@ivanteo1973]

it's ashamed the Brompton didn't go further to use carbon as a material.

[@WheelersAtLarge]

Only 1lb lighter? And it flexes... Maybe not quite there yet?

[@ziggarillo]

Its about the same price as an Electric Brompton, The Electric weighs 10kg(battery included) more so maybe you could compare the two in terms of getting up a hill. Durability is a real issue, carbon frames fail with very superficial damage.

[@BlitzWorks]

A standard brompton is heavier than 10Kg, the electric is significantly more than that (as per the brompton site) 2-speed: 13.7 kg (16.6 kg total with battery) 6-speed: 14.5 kg (17.4 kg total with battery) 8KG seems to be the sweet spot for moving with an object that size and shape (something i have tested a lot in my own build)

[@ziggarillo]

@@BlitzWorks "WEIGHS 10kg MORE" in other words AN ADDITTIONAL 10Kg. I have one I don't need the stats. My point was that given the electric Brompton was 10kg HEAVIER but had pedal assist and the carbon copy was 10kg LIGHTER and they are both around the same price.Which was the better one to commute with if there were hills along the way and you were not that fit. ie: would making the Brompton lighter rather than electric powered be a viable option. Carbon fibre durability notwithstanding.

[@BlitzWorks]

@@ziggarillo ah thanks for clarifying, that sentence confused me and could be read two ways

[@inpadiii563]

Does the carbon make it naturally better at absorbing bumps and jolts?

[@ibikeunfolded]

I notice it absorbs road vibrations much better than steel, however it does flex more than my liking. Carbon(depending on how rigid it’s made) can flex or not depending on construction.

[@lonestarlaurel]

I’ve been told that putting a titanium seat post on the Brompton help with cushioning “bumps and jolts” to the extent can be called game changing!! That by a very experienced user. Gonna try it when I get past paying off my bike !!

[@en8718]

the sniffiling was a real turn off ... nice bike

[@duncanhamilton5841]

Brompton's frameset has evolved with the constant design brief of being able to cope with a 16stone Rugger-Bugger (roughly, a British version of a Linebacker) on London's abysmal road surfaces, but staying light enough for a 5'2" 7 stone nurse to carry onto the train. As a 16st former Rugby player, I'm as happy charging about on my 2017 S6L as I was my 2014 S2E before it. I've seen carbon frames snap... and it would never leave my mind on that thing.

[@ibikeunfolded]

I am not a fan of carbon fiber. I have seen similar frame/handle bar/seat post failures further instilling my lack of trust in that material.

[@daveadriffield7296]

Crappy plastic gear shifter components on Bromptons.

[@sacharehsia1327]

I am surprised at how this bike got away with copyright laws as it is a complete copy of the Brompton design.

[@duncanhamilton5841]

Brompton didn't renew the copyright/patent when it expired a few years ago. They didn't see the point in spending money trying to enforce it in the Chinese market.

[@alexmorgan3435]

@@duncanhamilton5841 They should have done as it would have prevented these knock off bikes being imported to countries where their intellectual property rights can be enforced such as the EU and US any other country with a proper legal system with teeth.

[@adrianstealth340]

Nice find , seems more of a novelty bike & I really bet they don’t guarantee their frames ( as Brompton does ) I’ll gladly take the extra kilo or two of the Brompton to be safe & peace of mind in the guarantee , i also prefer the finger latch rather than kicking the rear down to fold Thanks for vid.

[@쓰레기담당일진]

that hexagon-tubed carbon frame is not just a carbon frame you can see anywhere. It has a patent. the frame builder also is a brompton user who's wanted carbon brompton so bad, but you know they don't(except selling hiten steel for more than very expensive price). so he started making one himself. that's the origin of chedech. everyone(professionals) who hopped on that frame get marvelous, like I said, it's not just a carbon frame. made in Korea, much lighter, beautiful, most of all, super strong! bellow, it's Chedech youtube channel, builder Oscar explain everything about Chedech. kzbin.info/door/b-Pz_VEIg82cryn4njTyjw kzbin.info/www/bejne/aHvboq2Aidyirdk

[@douglaslin5469]

Funny thing is though Adrian, Ritchie himself (the designer owner of Brompton) does attach the finger latch. He rides with it un-latched. So even for him, a latch is not necessary. He said so in a lecture to the London Business School, maybe it was in 2013 , or 10 years ago!!

[@norahalkefs]

Brian,I would like to have your thought on the Brompton Chap 3 model and the Brompton Adventure model. I also have tried many folding bikes,for some reason there is nothing like the BROMPTON. MANY THANKS NORA

[@colinhoward2200]

I know this is directed at Brian. But....I have Superlight. The adventurer is just a standard Bromoton with a dodgy paint job and at the time different bags - which you can get now. The Chap 3 is just a superlight with no mudguards and slick tyres that have no grip. IMHO the Superlight with mudguards is the best compromise. Light, fast but has mudguards and normal tyres. It is also a lot cheaper than the Chap 3!! You can always turn it into a Chap 3 in summer. removing the mudguards and putting slippy tyres on it. Then in its normal form it is also an Adventurer but lighter and easier to ride, but as durable.

[@norahalkefs]

Colin Howard Thanks,that was great information.

[@colinhoward2200]

Nora Halkefs No prob. It is always best not to get taken in by Marketing hype and just look at the raw specifications. Bromptons are fun though whichever you choose. They are just trying to appeal to different markets -and people will be prepared to pay more money for less for some reason, so guess they are tuning into that 😂

[@Rob-cv3vh]

A really good honest review, thanks mate. I bet if Brompton wanted to build a carbon bike they could but decided not to for most of the reasons you covered. Considering how much mine has been bashed about over the years I'd certainly have trust issues with structural carbon parts. I remember my dad had a Bickerton folding bike in the 70s which was pretty dreadful and flexed a lot but was the catalyst for Andrew Ritchie to create the Brompton. If ever you get chance you should test ride a Moulton double pylon, you'd be blown away. They're megabucks but also can be split in half for transportation. We went though an era of cycling innovation in the UK back then and the best designs have survived and evolved. Stay safe dude, always a pleasure to watch your channel.

[@ahmadbudiman80]

Thank you Mike for your genuine review about this bike.

[@johnny212]

Correct me if im wrong but i thought carbon fibre is supposed to be stiff? Or because its a low quality carbon?

[@ibikeunfolded]

Not really. Steel has flex, but it depends on the bike. Steel race bikes have higher tensile steel so it’s more stiff for racing. The same principle applies for carbon. Some carbon frames have flex, others don’t...depends on the application.

[@lilliansullivan5867]

They make archery bows out of carbon fiber.

[@carolleenkelmann3829]

The price of the Brompton then becomes only the price difference between the two. Thankyou for the review. You should write to the manufacturer to see if they could donate to your cause. Where does this bike come from?

[@ibikeunfolded]

It comes from south Korea.

[@carolleenkelmann3829]

@@ibikeunfolded Aren't they sneaky! I wonder if the Brompton business is aware of the similarities and if somehow it could be legally contested?

[@ibikeunfolded]

Carolle Enkelmann it wouldn’t matter as Brompton’s patent has run out. Anyone can produce a mirror copy and Brompton can not do anything about it. 🤷🏻‍♂️ it’s the way it works I guess.

[@carolleenkelmann3829]

@@ibikeunfolded that patent didn't last long!

[@ibikeunfolded]

Carolle Enkelmann I am not sure how long patents last, I just know theirs ended a couple of years ago. Even Dahon started making a Brompton copy.

[@omarlondon]

just 0.45kg lighter? i'd rather stick to my titanium brompton thanks

[@RoadtrekRich]

This is a comprehensive, cogent, down to earth review by someone with more bicycling experience than ten of me. So what I can add is something from a little different but related perspective. You mentioned the "unknown factor". Will it last? Will parts be available? Will it stand up to the punishment a Brompton can handle? I think the answers to those questions might be found in where the two bikes are made and the differences in those design philosophies. Brompton is a western design. The clone is an eastern design, philosophically speaking. These are two very different approaches. What's different? My experience is with a completely different industry. Appliances. Western manufacturers, Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana, Kitchen Aid, GE, Bosch are all western design philosophy. Samsung and LG are both Eastern design philosophies. The difference is eastern asks why would we keep a shelf full of parts when we could take those parts and make another complete product, sell the product, and make a profit immediately? The western asks what is going to be needed in order to support this product in terms of replacement parts for those that are weak, break, or wear out so the customer can realize maximum value from our product and be incentivized to purchase more of our brand? The eastern asks how can we improve existing art? How can we make it faster? How can we use less materials, lighter materials, less robust materials to make an overall lighter package for shipment? The western, who created the original in the first place, asks how can we use our experience with the product to advance and maintain our brand? How can we take all the necessary steps to retain and expand our customer base with products that have the utmost trust, reliability, and brand loyalty? When these two philosophies are combined and modulated correctly the resultant products are optimized to the greatest extent possible. When these two philosophies operate in this "original" vs. "clone" environment, it has been my experience that, over time, the original will trump the clone every time.

[@ziggarillo]

A very simplistic and innacurate analogy, it would be an easy choice if it was true. However the Hond Cub ( C50, 70, 90 etc) and its clones Have a ruled the world for over 50yrs based on reliability and the availability of parts ( over 100,000,000 sold so far and still going) Other sections of Far Eastern industry have followed that path too.

[@RoadtrekRich]

@@ziggarillo Guess you missed this part, "When these two philosophies are combined and modulated correctly the resultant products are optimized to the greatest extent possible."

[@ziggarillo]

@@RoadtrekRich No I didn't, I think I connected with the spirit of what you were implying and rejected it.

[@RoadtrekRich]

@@ziggarillo Okay.

[@alexmacdonald8394]

Love the hub gears, maybe yjey will add a druve belt some day.,

[@ibikeunfolded]

Maybe, but it would be hard with the fold.

[@tuanazleyibrahim2038]

Carbon fiber folding bike? Won’t be that durable don’t you think? It won’t last, my personal view on it.

[@helloitsdawn]

It just occured to me that maybe they are going after the CHPT3 folks. If it were less than USD $1500 it might be an interesting option.

[@finncarlbomholtsrensen1188]

I owned an early Italian ALAN carbon racing frame many years ago, with alu brackets in the "corners". It was light, but it felt like riding a slightly trained "jellyfish"!

[@jaylay30]

Great report Brian. Interestingly Brompton are fighting get2get the Korean maker of the Chedech in the European court. So far the have won claiming copyright infringement. I am sure get2get will appeal. What’s the difference in price between the 2 makes? I see many very old Brompton on my daily commute through London. I don’t think a chedech will last as long as Brompton. 2nd hand Brompton have always been expensive and even more so at the moment due to demand. For me it’s Brompton all the way.

[@lilliansullivan5867]

Brompton has won a ruling that industrial designs with expired patents ~may~ be covered under copyright IF there are other ways to accomplish the same function AND if the design is novel. It's been sent back to the original court for a judgment on that. Brompton shows up with a Dahon Curl and says, "See, another expressed way to accomplish the same folding function." Chedech shows up with a 1974 DiBlasi and asks, "But was Mr. Ritchie's design effort in the late 1970s really novel?" We wonder: how will the Belgian court rule?

[@sitoudien9816]

There are any clones in SE Asia. The horse has left the barn.

[@tdgdbs1]

I am a former Brompton owner; I can't justify the price for the service I received compare to Tern, also own two Dahon bikes. Very happy with both for 1/4 the cost.

[@ibikeunfolded]

I was thinking of getting a Dahon to use for grocery shopping. I might pick one up and try it out.

[@daveadriffield7296]

I love my Tern. Brompton crappy plastic components break.

[@markstevens9402]

Not for me, flex is not good news, may not last long! Brompton all the way!

[@ibikeunfolded]

I agree😀

[@gblan]

Won't be long before that rear stand dealio would be all scratched and mangled to hell.

[@threedot141]

I don't think carbon fiber is a good material for this type of bike. Carbon fiber tubes are easily damaged when they get knocked, for example when putting the bike in a luggage rack on a train or bus. Also, the carbon seatpost will get scratched easily if you fold the bike when it is dirty. Then the seatpost will be at risk of failure due to the stress concentration effect of the scratches and cutting of individual fibers/topcoat damage. Brompton considered all these factors, that is why the Brompton seatpost is steel (scratch-resistant) and the plastic sleeve it slides into is designed to be a wearable item. If you want to learn more about carbon fiber, look at the KZbin channel: Luescher Teknik. But thanks for the video!

[@alexmorgan3435]

Indeed. Carbon fibre is a fabulously strong and light material for many applications just not the Brompton frame. The continued clamping and unclamping of the seat post and possibly other clamps on the frame would mean strength, durability and safety would be a real issue.

[@kzarz0219]

I'll pass. The Brompton just feels and rides like a fine tuned machine.

[@ibikeunfolded]

I agree, but comparison is necessary to see if there is any challengers to contend for the thrown. So far no dice.😀

[@kzarz0219]

@@ibikeunfolded FWIW, Asia has a ton of Brompton clones. There's a Chinese version named 3sixty. Alibaba was selling it, the last time I checked. Good video as always !!

[@bryansammis998]

When one has to “stomp kick” as part of its folding process, I’m getting that wierd misgiving feeling🤔👎

[@TurtleTrader]

@@bryansammis998 Haha, I know, right!?!! ;D

[@CosgroveNotts]

😂

[@bobwilliamson5574]

Why does he have cigarettes in his ears?.

[@ibikeunfolded]

Because I have a smoking problem.

[@josegarciarey2033]

🤣🤣🤣

[@babyshake81]

It makes me laugh how we're using the word "Clone" instead of knock-off, or copy, or stolen design etc. For me you need to cover off the brand, the notoriety, the quality control, customer service, the global recognision etc. This new bike does not have any of that yet. BUT, brompton should heed that alternatives are fast approaching and should address this asap. Great detailed review though.

[@ibikeunfolded]

I sort of used the word "clone" in more of a derogatory fashion.. I think as far as design is concerned, Brompton has the edge. Even though both bikes have very identical folding designs, Brompton has been doing theirs for quite some time and has perfected the manufacturing process. For example, the joints on a brompton have a lot of design that seemingly looks simple, but upon closer inspection you will find small minor design differences functionally useful for durability and safety. I would be afraid to ride hard on one of the brompton knock offs because I could not trust that over time the joint would fail causing a horrific crash.

[@alexmorgan3435]

@@ibikeunfolded This bike quite clearly STEALS Brompton's design. There might be small differences here and there but it essentially a COPY of a Brompton. The folding of a Brompton is unique to Brompton. No other folding bike folds anything like a Brompton. I hope these guys get sued.

[@bakerstreet101]

@@alexmorgan3435 Brompton's patents expired 20 years ago. Insulin is a great a thing, but its patents eventually expired, too.

[@SunshineFL]

R these hand Made like the Brompton or by factory machine made

[@ibikeunfolded]

Random Things With FloridaGurlForLife not sure, I would think so due to the fact it’s carbon fiber.

[@lilliansullivan5867]

You know the Brompton is made in a big factory where they have auto braze stations, right?

[@ziggarillo]

@@lilliansullivan5867 Brompton frames are fillet brazed by hand, with the exception of the hinges, which are autobrazed in a machine designed and manufactured specifically for the job,

[@lilliansullivan5867]

​@@ziggarillo The first two minutes of this video are a good example of how a carbon fiber frame is made...by hand. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fXncZ6Jue5mFndE

[@ziggarillo]

@@lilliansullivan5867 I am aware how much effort goes into a carbon bike, they are technologically superior to steel in many way's. However it is now possible to 3d print them, so the days of hand building is probably over, not necessarily a bad thing it depends how 3d printing works out. www.indiegogo.com/projects/superstrata-bike

[@dempstermarples112]

Interesting review... The parts issue is a biggie... But a carbon Brommie? That WOULD be exciting... Did they infringe any patents, I wonder...

[@alexmorgan3435]

They did.

[@BurgertripinAmerica]

Brompton sued and lost the case

[@zedcred]

Great review as always. I doubt whether you could add a bag to the front as you can with a Brompton without adding to that flex. As I understand it, carbon fibre is really strong in the direction it's laid down. Add forces in a different direction and it can fail.

[@TheRealWindlePoons]

You'd just better hope the bike designers know as much as the folk designing racing cars. I suspect the chaps in Formula 1 know more though. Carbon fibre has a reputation for being rigid. The flex comes from the resin which holds the fibre together. Having worked in engineering for 45 years, that frame flex would stop me buying one...

[@monthonsriyoscharti2714]

Hope to see a Helix bike in carbon version. 🤣 And some triathlon folding bike too..!!

[@maheshv1395]

The brompton reliability is a myth. With all proprietary parts, I am already seeing a lot of rust on the frame and seat post.

[@tdgdbs1]

Nothing British made is reliable anymore.

[@ibikeunfolded]

I don’t know, A little TLC goes a long way. I beat the hell out of mine and it’s doing just fine.

[@jbacsjabs9365]

you probably bought the fake brompton

[@daveadriffield7296]

Cheap crappy plastic components on Bromptons.

[@ABC-ue3pl]

@@jbacsjabs9365- "you probably bought the fake brompton" - Dude, this script sounds familiar.. was it taken from an Apple fans' forum or website?

[@TurtleTrader]

Good review! This bike doesn't come close to taking on the Brompton line ... it's just an (expensive) knock-off with none of the planning, design or multi-functionality of a Brompton bicycle. It had caught my attention early this summer, but after looking it over I decided that getting a good used Brompton is 10X better than getting this Clone.

[@ziggarillo]

Yes I think you are right, Brompton looked at carbon fibre and it is too easily damaged and fails very quickly if it is. Fine for a cosseted occasional use racing bike and maybe for a sturdily built fixed frame bike. The folding and unfolding process alone will cause failure at the junction of the metal hinges and the carbon fairly soon. That wouldn't be a problem if the failing part was replaceable, however it would be the carbon frame not the hinge that would fail. Bromptons fail too, they are sometimes well used and subject to stresses beyond their specification. However ALL the parts for your Brompton (even old models) are available to fix your bike wherever in the world you are and often under warranty or sometimes just good will.

[@junbing626]

WOW CARBON BROMPTON!!! Does it come with hospital insurance?

[@ibikeunfolded]

That’s extra😀

[@MasterShibari73]

How much does it cost?

[@ibikeunfolded]

Way too much. I think it was 3500 dollars if I’m not mistaken. Way too much for a bike with so much uncertainty.

[@helloitsdawn]

Lost me at slamming the back fender. It takes two seconds to use the release or to adjust the suspension so that a slight jolt undoes the rear frame. Nevertheless, Brompton should really consider a more affordable option for the masses, like the B75 (discontinued). I understand the craftmanship contributes to its high price tag, but it's a shame that quality bikes are often priced out of the reach of many folks. Everyone should be able to have access. The expensive bike trend has gotten out of hand.

[@ziggarillo]

Thev B75 is out of stock not discontinued, they don't have the capacity to take more orders yet

[@TheRealWindlePoons]

I bought a Taiwanese built Raleigh folder (against my better judgement as I live in Nottingham where the originals were built). By the time I had modified it to my satisfaction, I could have spent the same money on an entry-level Brompton and had a better bike. I now have a 2018 Brompton too and there is no comparison. Folding bikes are always a more expensive option and the Brompton is not the cheapest folder - but it is one of the best. I guess you get what you pay for.

[@forceninewinds]

@@ziggarillo At the moment much of Bromptons manufacturing capacity has been turned over to making and delivering bikes to NHS workers here in the UK. Their scheme to provide NHS workers with bikes to get to work has been slightly more popular than they expected and getting hold of any kind of Brompton is hard work at the moment

[@ziggarillo]

@@forceninewinds I'm an NHS Nurse I can't get one and was never offered the opportunity. No one in my NHS trust has.

[@forceninewinds]

@@ziggarillo We were never offered in my trust either, wonder if it was a Londoncetric thing. We seem to get bugger all in the way of perks down in the South West even in the best of times.

[@gtex1963]

Interesting. Great review and vlog, but not for me. I just love my little Brompton’s, I always enjoy your vlogs, honest and with no Bs. 🇬🇧

[@spadeofspades]

Imagine the moment of 3 - 5 kg folding bike with the next level of materials.

[@delldavis6222]

I definitely liked this review! And I would definitely like to know the price!

[@ibikeunfolded]

Way too much money😬. I think he said about 4000.00. I may be mistaken but it was definitely much more expensive than the Brompton.

[@KennethWuAU]

Interesting. I really dislike the sporty look of it, and the flex is bad. The flex will introduce weakness over time. I’d rather a fully titanium brompton vs a carbon fibre. I’ve seen some super-lights mods go down to as low as 8.5-9kg with 6-speed, but you really have to shave off every single gram. Sorry for using metric, but US needs to keep up with the rest of the world.

[@ibikeunfolded]

I agree, I know metric and imperial so it’s all good👍

[@lordhamptonwick5320]

Sod the rest of the world we like you just the way you are. Some of my family emigrated to America back in the late 16th century, and they are still there. I'm assuming it was ok then and it's even better now. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🇬🇧🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🇬🇧🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🇬🇧

[@TheSPY12]

About kg??

[@robertgillingwater]

Did you mention the price?

[@blueyonder1233]

Interesting!

[@majorshreeve6723]

Hi Brian, interesting copy, I suppose some manufacturer was going to do one sooner or later. I like your 'carbon' copy play on words. I don't think your Denver roads as you said, and with all those potholes would be good for this bike, even as strong as Carbon Fibre is it could REALLY flex! or break?, bet it's expensive also. A long punishing trip covering hundreds of miles would test it!. Your mountain trip would be a interesting with the lighter frame on the way up, and especially with those larger wheels on the way down!. Hope you're enjoying the Brompton book, sent via Chuck, all the best & stay safe.

[@johnf9614]

Great video Brian, it just kinda shows that the original is the way to go, many years of miles with proven results.

[@phungmoe2302]

Don't do it! Why T Line did wht T Line Did bcos ..... we know Carbon will thin out n break or crack. Bcos biking does that. Unlike instrument cases, it dont wear it out as much.

[@letsif]

I sold my car a few years ago and splurged on a ti 2 speed Bromy with all ti parts and carbon handlebar. It weighs under 8kg, is racing green and rides like a bike version of a British MG sports car. It's an amazing ride and sturdy. I bought it to travel with, but just before COVID hit, so I'll have to wait. But in the meantime it's so much fun to ride, I'm always tempted to skip things I need to do, just so I can wheel around my city.

[@ibikeunfolded]

Awesome, I am the same when it comes to joy riding around the city. It’s so much fun😀👍

[@paulhask7840]

Interested how you managed to drop weight to 8kg, have 2 spd ti but struggling at 9.5 with ti bits such as stem, seat post, bb etc..

[@ellishatfield9207]

I have a 2 speed Brompton Ti with all the Ti parts (heaviest part is a Ti Brooks B17 Saddle but that is non negotiable because it is so comfy!) However the rest of the bike is incredibly light and I thought I got it down to 9.8kg but the bike shop weighed it and it is 11, yes ELEVEN!!!!! kilos. So Brompton must be really mis-advertising their weights.

[@daveadriffield7296]

What about the cheap plastic parts on the Brompton?

[@alexmorgan3435]

This bike is quite clearly a knock off Brompton whether it's made of carbon, steel, aluminium, titanium or cheese. If Brompton have declined to approve or license it's production then their intellectual property rights are being infringed. If this is the case then I hope the manufacturer(s) and this guy selling them get sued. I just don't get how more people here aren't really annoyed by this especially as they claim to be Brompton owners? How would you feel if it was your design and product being ripped off, losing you business and costing you money?

[@ibikeunfolded]

I agree, but I am no expert on design patents. From what I understand, patents only last for 10 years then after that anyone can copy the design. Not 100 percent sure this is fact.....it’s just how I understand it.

[@ABC-ue3pl]

Patents last a stretch of time to protect innovators and then, to let the market benefit from the innovation. Take LEGO blocks and CHERRY key switches whose patents have expired. Not sure though whether Brompton's patents are still pending. On another note, I agree that reliability is something to look for when buying an expensive bike. If the newcomers can collaborate to use generic parts, they can tackle one aspect of reliability. This way, consumers can purchase parts from another brand in case one brand is discontinued.

[@BurgertripinAmerica]

Brompton sued and lost the case

[@vincentnnyc]

how much is this bike? how many speeds? does it have a front mounting bag? check out this exact brompton clone in malaysia. it is the same exact duplicate of the brompton. too bad you can only get it in malaysia. they don't ship it to the usa. the price for this brompton clone is around $500 - $800. kzbin.info/www/bejne/eIesqJ-eeMZnldU

[@Merllynn1]

Thats looks like another blatant Asian copy. I don't spend my money that way if possible with any products.

[@ibikeunfolded]

It definitely is a copy for sure.

[@PRH123]

Brompton’s patent expired 25 years ago. The design is literally public property since then. It’s good that someone is updating the design. Customers are longing for innovations like carbon frames, disc brakes, more gears, etc.

[@MrRoyck10]

Nobody can beat London’s finesse, the Brompton is timeless and durable over tested time. The titanium Brompton perhaps will be my choice over a carbon fibre bike, if you have a fall or a ding on the carbon then you have a big problem at hand. You can’t beat a Brompton in its own game but it’s good idea for bike makers to keep trying.

[@raychambers3646]

Copyright issues, or is it different enough?

[@daveadriffield7296]

Apart from the cheap plastic gear components.

[@daveadriffield7296]

Tern.

[@theunholysoul]

Hey Brian, you might hate me. I sold my two old Bromptons last week and bought a Pashley-Morgan 8. It will take a couple of months before I get it. The bike is freaking gorgeous!!! You and your followers should check it out.

[@ibikeunfolded]

Hmmm, I will check it out. My channel revolves around folding bikes in general. Not necessarily just Brompton.

[@ibikeunfolded]

@@theunholysoul thanks,!i will😀👍

[@rydmerlin]

My biggest concern would be stress fractures. No Brompton dealer should be allowed carry this. They should put a nicer BB in this and then the drive train would feel nicer.

[@SunshineFL]

Interesting

[@TheLastCockney]

Steel is real❗❗

[@TheRealWindlePoons]

Old pilots prefer alu-alloy air frames to carbon fibre. It is far easier to detect a crack before catastrophic failure. Even so, my son's commuting hybrid just failed with a crack through its aluminium frame. I have never seen a steel frame fail that way. A couple of years ago I bought a frame to build my "retirement bike". I had it made to measure in Reynolds 725 steel tubing. That's what I ride when not on my Brompton. Steel for me. Enough said.

[@sergeyprazdnikov2649]

I don’t like the bike from the moment it should be kicked to be folded

[@daveadriffield7296]

Looks good, like it belongs in this century unlike the old fashioned Brompton.

[@davidluck4608]

Far too gimmicky ..... I’d stick to the brompton 🧐

[@ibikeunfolded]

I think you are right. I will do the same.😀

[@aldrianvoo]

US3700 too much....

[@ibikeunfolded]

I agree, I would never pay that much. I would have a hard time justifying that purchase at the Brompton's price point.

[@lonestarlaurel]

Warranty? Aftermarket customer support? Durability? Won’t take weight well on the front!!? Rear rack option and weight bearing tolerance?? Soooo, limited functionality and so many unanswered questions are serious barriers to investing in this bike.

[@h.bsfaithfulservant4136]

Thanks Brian. I’ve been watching and enjoying your channel for a few months now 👌I’m no cyclist, but have always felt that if I owned a Brompton I would be, they tick so many boxes! I’ll have to keep saving my pennies, and maybe one day I’ll get one...this Korean knock off doesn’t get my vote! ☹️ Keep up the good work 👍

[@ibikeunfolded]

Thanks for watching, I appreciate it.

[@williamferguson869]

You made some good points, to think about, especially replacing parts, I’ll stick with Brompton 👍

[@inpadiii563]

Sniffles. 😢

[@ginyamaguchi1421]

Covid

[@lonestarlaurel]

Hope not!