Brompton suspension block - types and installation

The Brompton suspension takes away some of the road roughness when riding
This video shows the different versions - current and previous
Standard
Firm
The new one size fits all standrad
B75 version
We show how to remove and install the Brompton suspension block step by step
It also does a quick non-scientific comparison of the different blocks side by side when riding

[@mariomota9075]

Another great video about brompton. When I want to know something about brompton or do/ change something in my brompton I watch your videos.

[@brilliantbikes]

Thank you! And thank you for watching!

[@moonbeam_base]

I only came here for a small bit of information but I like the presentation/format so I watched the whole thing

[@brilliantbikes]

Many thanks!

[@mikexhejghdlfbrjshfjfvs3624]

My beloved Brompton recently caught a chesty cough (a creaky noise). I couldn’t identify the issue immediately and after some TLC and lemon sip in the form of lubrication, I narrowed the noise to the rear suspension block. Having watched your video, not only did I stop the creaking with a little grease, but you re-educated me over the difference types of blocks and how they work. Ii thought your scientific test was great. Really helpful. t turns out that my bike has a block that I was slightly too soft for my weight. I’ve ordered the ‘one size’ fits all, as I’ve ridden the B75 recently and have noticed the difference in the ride quality. Love your videos. Thank you again. You have saved me time, money and effort. Brilliant Bikes for Mayor.

[@stephenschuit7880]

Just spent a week or two trying to figure out what that annoying squeak was on my bike. I oiled just about everything. I noticed, though, that the squeaking with particularly annoying on bumpy surfaces and deduced that it must be the suspension block. Then I remembered that I had the same experience on another Brompton years ago. It also developed during the first 3-4 years. So the best way to approach this obviously is to be proactive and lube the rod in the suspension block on a more routine basis. Thanks for mentioning that during your video.

[@LorenzoCirrincione]

Was on my way to the store to buy a new suspension block but the grease did the trick. The creaking sound coming from the suspension block is now gone! Thank you.

[@brilliantbikes]

Thank you for watching and commenting We’re really happy it was of some help and saved you a journey and some money

[@Luke-san]

Ha, creaky things. Just did the suspension thing, same result. This time it was the Brooks sadle. In case someone reads this and has the same issue and it isn't the block give next a try. Remove the saddle, penta clip, turn it upside down on a rag not damage it. Losen the bolt with that 'special' Brooks tool. I used grease and a toothpick and got in between all the metal parts that could rub against eachother. Wipe off the remaining grease, retighten that bolt till the leather is tensioned and .. my creak was gone.

[@hunteraaa2666]

Thumbs up from the new owner of the very bike😊😊😊 it rides beautifully and the white block still looks great!

[@brilliantbikes]

Thank you! And thank you for watching

[@BadByte]

3:29 Thanks for this 👍. This fixed the creaking noises I kept on hearing but the repair shop could not locate.

[@brilliantbikes]

Glad it helped - thanks for letting us know (and thanks for watching!!!!)

[@markstevens9402]

Awesome Video! Everything you need to know about suspension blocks, I now know that I need a firm suspension block, Thanks.

[@brilliantbikes]

Thanks for watching Thank you also for the kind comment :-)

[@jonathanleach3914]

Very good. V informative. I’ve swapped mine to an even firmer Joseph Kuosac block. As you say greasing is v important. Well done.

[@brilliantbikes]

Thanks for watching We havent tried those - are they good? The grease is super important (we think)

[@Randyak1]

Thank you very much for the video. I highly appreciate your channel. I'm in progress in buying my first Brompton and I soak up every bit of information I can get. To me it seems that the pre 2018 suspension blocks are more responsive. Damping seems to be quite well. The white block appears to be the hardest one as it shows almost no movement during the ride. As a gentleman should never ask a lady for her weight, I'll unfortunately won't get a hint, whether it might be interesting for me to change to the firm pre 2018 block. I did my testride with the black coloured post 2018 block and found suspension to be above my expectations. I weigh more than 90kg. Excited to see your next video.

[@compassionsix]

My first Brompton comes in the post in 3 days!

[@NicholasFerrar]

Thank you Hannah! All fitted no problem.

[@brilliantbikes]

So glad it helped and thank you for watching

[@ianelleray7755]

I haven't got a Brompton (had one once and loved it but it wasn't for me), but I love watching your videos as they are simply charming - thank you!

[@brilliantbikes]

Thanks for watching - especially as a non-Bromptoneer! And thank you for the kind feedback - we really, really do appreciate that :-)

[@GrahamAtDesk]

Back in terms days before the two older blocks you've shown were introduced there was just one block available. It was quite soft, so people used to fit a jubilee clip around it to firm it up. It worked really well. I'm tempted to do that again to the pre 2017 "firm" one that I upgraded to. And in your test the B75 block appears to be flexing least of all. Which is odd.

[@mohammadar-razaak2682]

My birthday is coming, I've been dreaming that someday, someone will give a Brompton bike :( I hope by watching all of this channel's video, subscribing this channel, turning on the notification of this channel and gaining every detail information of a Brompton bike, my dream will come true...

[@brilliantbikes]

Than you for watching and taking the time to comment We also hope that cosmic karma does come your way, and that by writing nice comments you will be the receiver of nice things

[@mohammadar-razaak2682]

@@brilliantbikes Thank you so much! You're so nice! I hope nice things will come to you too, brilliant bikes team!

[@campbellcaraher1008]

I watched this after searching you tube for a squeaky brompton as mine has developed an annoying squeak when i sit on the seat and i was thinking that it was my firm suspension block which ive never greased. I'll be greasing itvtomorrow though and might even swap it forca post 2017 version. Great advice

[@limtongwah6272]

thank you, British teacher..The very Best of DIYBrompton info and Fix It. Just like You know I pickup all your Priceless Tips and Guidance from These Marvellous Video Presentations.the Very Best Training Guide Ever for. Year 2020. Thanks U.

[@soldierloz]

Superb. This is how info vids should be.

[@brilliantbikes]

Thank you so much and thank you for watching!

[@andythousand345]

Awesome video. I changed my suspension block in my Brompton about 3-4 years ago. The B75 looks to be the firmest.

[@brilliantbikes]

Thanks for watching once again At first we thought the B75 was just solid polyurethane - but we think it could be the same as the black and maybe the fact it looks firmer could be an illusion due the colour ... Maybe we need to invest in some caliper like device that can measure the amount of travel during the ride - though getting the same power / pedal stroke is impossible! (hence the fact we said it was non-scientific)

[@devjon123]

@@brilliantbikes Perhaps if you put each of the blocks on a flat surface, put a weight on top and see how much each of them compress? Another way might be to put a bolt through with a penny washer each end then use a torque wrench to see how much force is required to compress each of them a fixed amount. Just wondering if the simplest way might be to weigh them? ( I'm thinking Firmer = Denser? ) Sorry to ramble, I've been watching Worzel Gummidge and I've got my thinking head on ;-)

[@1nvisible1]

*Agree white B75 appears to have least compression.*

[@thorstenwidmer7275]

You are brilliant Thank you very much, warm, thousandfold.

[@doooofus]

i got a third party spring suspension block from aliexpress for like a tenner (precovid though idk about current price). lovely and soft, takes out a lot of the harshness of bumps int he road

[@brilliantbikes]

Thanks for watching! Glad it works well!

[@jobenmenachem2269]

excellent video. many thanks.

[@jobenmenachem2269]

I always watch your videos more than once and they are so easy to follow, since you explain and demonstrate so well !!!

[@tommyrq180]

You may also get an irritating squeaking noise from your Brompton if the bushing sleeve on which the rear frame triangle rotates comes loose. Finding squeaks on any bike can be a frustrating process but on a Brompton it takes on a whole new complexity! FWIW, I use a MiniMods custom color (Lagoon Blue to match my S6L Black Edition!) firm rear shock spring and it significantly helped my commute as I ride hard (am bike racer) and am used to a firm ride. I also run my Marathons at 100+ psi but you should know that if you’re looking for comfort, a softer suspension block AND (slightly) lower tire PSI will help the bike absorb bumps and irregular surfaces. Also think about saddle padding as another solution. 😊

[@GiNodrog]

I recently fitted a replacement titanium nut and bolt "why , it just came in a kit so why not" and I wondered why the old bolt had grease on it, I just put on the new one and now I know why. Also I didn't know it was also meant to turn round as it was fun trying to tighten the grip nut.

[@brilliantbikes]

Thanks for watching and your comment Not greasing the bolt is a very common cause of creaks Take care

[@lracmil]

thanks for posting this video and with regards to suspension block , can you tell me if I were to turn or rotate the suspension block with the wheels on the ground to ride so that the hook wouldn't catch the block and I needn't engage the click hook to fold the rear wheel, would it cause any damage to the hook or suspension block ?

[@ignasiorta130]

It looks like the 2018 onwards suspension block is firmer than the old one. Is it?

[@zedonius85]

Hello I love your chanel! I'm struggling finding the suspension block for me my weight is 52 kilos Wich one do you recommend for me? Thank you!! ✨

[@LaurenceRutherford]

Your videos are always very informative! I get that Brompton standardised the blocks into one - but why should the B75 be different? Is it a cheaper block - I would have thought one block across all bikes would be cheaper overall. Does the electric have the standard block?

[@brilliantbikes]

Thanks for watching and the kind feedback We thought that the B75 was actually firmer - thats part of the reason that we did the test, but it seems the same Maybe its just the colour - to match the bike - but that would be pure speculation! The electric does have the standard block You are right - it would be cheaper from a manufacturing point of view to have just one type

[@TM-vg4mx]

I am looking for a kickstand for my Brompton, any recommendation? thanks for the great videos

[@azlananuar3315]

I like your wrench. What brand and where you bought them?

[@devjon123]

CHECK YOUR NUTS! I was out riding on Friday and stopped to take a photo. Flipped the back under and the suspension block fell out. I managed to find the white plastic washer but the Nyloc nut was nowhere to be found. Carried on cautiously to my destination with just my body weight holding the block in place. Fortunately I was able to find a suitable replacement nut. I know that the block had been fitted correctly with the thread through the Nylon insert but it would seem that the constant road buzz was enough to cause it to work free. Went around the bike checking everything and noticed that the mudguard clamps holding the mudguard stays could be tightened half a turn or so. A lesson learned, check your nuts regularly

[@brilliantbikes]

Thanks for the feedback - mudguard rollers is another one to check regularly

[@alanchapter440]

Exactly the same thing had just happened to me. 🙄

[@RupertBear412]

Hi, do you sell the ratchet spanners you use in your videos? thank you

[@hhoebeke1]

as always excellent video.. used to have the firm suspension block, now on new bike I have the new standard and feels softer - too soft - is the old firm one still available or would it make sense to install the b75 one (would stick out a lot as I have a black version....)?

[@brilliantbikes]

Thank you for watching The older blocks are not available any longer The new standard one shouldn't feel too soft - it should be as firm as the old firm block (although if like me you ate too much pudding over christmas - that could be a reason?)

[@juliantse6730]

Great video (and store)! My block is about 2-4mm too short which allows some play when the bike is lifted or you lightly jump for a bump , is this normal/as design? Can we improve it? I’ve stuck on clear rubber dots and that solves it but maybe there is a better way

[@lutheredmead648]

Hi, any grease products you recommend? I’m a beginner at this.

[@raymondchew8894]

Is the suspension adjustable to rider weight and comfort ?

[@davidburgess5419]

Gosh ! You've opened a real Pandoras Box with this. IMHO the suspension is the third most important element on a Brompton, after the brakes and saddle as it has a real impact on your ride quality. Like the saddle it tends to come down to one's personal perceptions, just as it does in cars, however unlike with autos, one's weight is also an important factor. Talking about cars, the early BMC Minis also relied on rubber suspension but it was eventually replaced with conventional springs, which to me suggests that there is scope for more a lot more development for this item. " Now here's the thing that's driving me berserk." a brief look at eBay or Alibaba reveals a massive range of aftermarket Brompton springs in a various materials ( wood !!!) in a rainbow of colours without any evidence whatsoever as to their efficacy. WHO IS BUYING THEM ??? There is one proven metal alternative, but it would be churlish to mention it as sadly, Brilliant Bikes do not stock it, (at present.) :-) Excellent thought-provoking video though.

[@bimble7240]

The early minis did have rubber cone suspension but later ones were fitted with Hydrolastic suspension, not conventional springs. Although Hydrolastic had a softer ride many owners changed them back to rubber cones as this improved the handling.

[@davidburgess5419]

@@bimble7240 Thank you for that. My apologies, of course you are completely correct. However it is also correct that virtually every car now has spring suspension irrespective of price, which suggests that there is little appetite for developing better rubber alternatives. Indeed judging from the questions posed by Brompton in their recent owner’s survey, they concur.

[@carr16k]

When im tightening the nut, the recess part of the block (black part that lines up with the hook) turns with it as I'm tightening. Hence the nut is not firmly tighten and it will come loose after a few km of riding it. Is there something I'm missing.

[@zamman7493]

Can you show us to install a new dog leg and the wiring and spring components for a 6 speed?

[@brilliantbikes]

Thanks for watching We have added to our list and will definitely do that Do you have the integrated (2017 onwards) lever or the older (pre 2017) lever?

[@rattymouse]

Is the new block any better ride wise?

[@carolleenkelmann3829]

So which one was the best in the comparative categories? I must have missed something.

[@steveneumeyer681]

it depends on the loadout of your setup and preference. it's clear from the video that the standard pre '17 block was squishiest, followed by the firm & smooth black new version and finally the white new version is the firmest.

[@oldidea]

Hi, My Brompton is make in 2011. May I ask the suspension block of the old and new model, is the difference big? Thank you.

[@stolenorange]

I would like a "soft"ish ride. Could I put a pre '18 block onto an eBrompton?

[@devjon123]

I've just fitted one of these to my wife's Brompton. The kit came with an extra metal stepped spacer in the bag. It is not shown in the exploded diagram printed on the packaging. Any idea as to why it is included in the kit?

[@brilliantbikes]

Thanks for watching. We had the same part in our packet, we feel this is a packing error, as the stepped metal washer is part of the seat post clamp assembly / rear frame clip.

[@shengyanglee504]

Can you give review for the Suspension Block (Extra Firm) for the CHPT3 v3. In terms of performance and weight.

[@tommyrq180]

FWIW, I ride with a very firm MiniMods suspension coil and as a road bike racer found it very helpful. I also ride with my standard road racing saddle and very high PSI in my tires to get a firmer, more responsive ride. I believe it’s also lighter but on a Brompton that’s not as much of a consideration compared to other mods you might make for lightness. So if you’re a roadie or are a larger person (I weigh 80 kilos) you’ll like the firmer suspension block. But like many things, there’s no substitute for experience, so just buy the thing, install it, and try it out! 😊

[@truthseeker8483]

So which suspension block feels the smoothest? The earlier ones look softer..the later better controlled...

[@brilliantbikes]

Thanks for watching and for your comment. My preferred was the later, with a firmer ride.

[@samueljameskennedy3093]

Hello, could you please show off the Roll Top Bag in Khaki waxed canvas? I want to pick it up but want a better look at it. :)

[@brilliantbikes]

Thanks for watching Do you mean this one? brilliantbikes.co.uk/brompton-bags/2274-brompton-roll-top-bag-brown.html

[@timtube1663]

Is the new standard black 'one size fits all' block more like the old soft block or firm block?

[@brilliantbikes]

Thanks for watching We would say it’s more like the firm block

[@MadeInGreatBritain]

It’s interesting to see just how much your boots rub the easy wheels

[@APEXGuerilla]

What's the difference beteeen the post 2018 standard and the B75 version? Just the colour?

[@mahesh1983]

can I use wd 40 on the squeaky bolt? Or must the product you used in the video? If so what was that?

[@jurgendorries5763]

...what make is the bicycle repair stand you are using?

[@brilliantbikes]

Thanks for watching It’s a Park Tool stand - the home mechanic PCS-10

[@greggh]

Other than color, is there any difference between the B75 & Post 2018 Standard?

[@brilliantbikes]

Thank for watching The B75 comes with an extended length seatpost - it is 6cm longer than the standard seatpost This means it will fit talker riders - though it can be dropped lower to also suit shorter riders It does mean that the the bike is not quite as compact when folded We reckon a good dealer would swap it to the shorter one for free (they would on a standard Brompton) - but that’s not guaranteed

[@greggh]

@@brilliantbikes Thanks for the reply. But I was specifically asking about the difference between the suspension blocks.

[@gilberttan7952]

Hello, I'm writing from Singapore. I would like to know where I could purchase the "saddle height insert". Thank you

[@Inkling777]

Try ebay and look for "seat post limiter insert." You many not want to buy it though. It costs $5.52 or $6.90 but with a ridiculous $68.82 shipping from the UK. A mere sleeve without the limiter bit of plastic is only about $9 with free shipping from China.

[@AA-dk7pn]

Is it the same way to replace the block for 2019 on wards please?

[@brilliantbikes]

Thanks for watching and the question Yes - it’s exactly the same

[@briandavies2833]

Thanks for the video. I have a new H6R and I'm wondering about how much play there should be between the block bolt head and the release clamp. Mine has 2 or 3 mm and I can 'rattle it' by lifting the rear by the saddle and shaking it up and down (not side to side). Is there a way to adjust the slack?

[@sweetpadre]

I was told by the Brompton Junction in NYC that this is normal.

[@briandavies2833]

@@sweetpadre Thanks for the info.

[@user-fy5bx5wp7i]

Tankiu ; )

[@brilliantbikes]

Thanks for watching

[@predpalina]

Is there a seatpost suspension for Brompton bikes?

[@Inkling777]

For all things Brompton, eBay is a good place to check. I did find a rubber adaptation of the Pentaclip that holds the Brompton seat in place. The seller describes it this way: "The B3F Seatpost includes an elastic rubber suspension that allos the saddle to move in 3-Way(X,Y,Z Axis) in react to the movement of the rider." Search for "BF3 Rubber Suspension Brompton Pentaclip Silver. But be prepared for a shock. It is $299.99.

[@anthonylloyd6094]

Watching this makes me think of marshmallows......

[@brilliantbikes]

lol! It makes me think of them now too! Thank you for watching!

[@compassionsix]

Why would a rider not want the suspension to lock on to the seat clamp?

[@brilliantbikes]

Thanks for watching Good question - maybe they are very old school from before the bike used to "lock" in the unfolded position - so for backwards compatibility, or just like it to fold quickly each time they pick it up Personally we always use them in the "lock when unfolded" position

[@iant5222]

thankyou... that penny worth of grease will save you sleepless nights thinking something is sick that you cant find . I swore blind it was my bottom bracket and paid for a new one only to find awwww I don`t want to talk about it .Listen to the lady she knows

[@brilliantbikes]

Thank you for watching That is such a great comment - thank you again That irritating squeak is so often mistaken for bottom bracket, and a little grease is a so much easier and cheaper solution ;-)

[@buixote]

It's refreshing to see a bike mechanic presentation by someone who isn't male, tatooed, and goateed! ;-)

[@shoegazer666]

simp

[@charlesdale1462]

Suggest Silicone grease. Tends not to rot other materials.

[@TheLastCockney]

Another lovely clear concise instructional for Brompton owners. 👍 I replaced my suspension block with an aftermarket "Wave Spring" which stiffens up the rear and (IMO) looks very snazzy! ae01.alicdn.com/kf/HTB1RrlHpTtYBeNjy1Xdq6xXyVXao.jpg_q50.jpg

[@brilliantbikes]

Thanks for watching and the kind feedback That does indeed look snazzy!

[@elijahmodnar1]

Try out a titanium spring/PU core ;)

[@finncarlbomholtsrensen1188]

And I found the small original easywheels utterly useless!

[@finncarlbomholtsrensen1188]

This is unfair!! It shows the piece of wire which isn't on my Lightweight, for some absurd reason - as Lightweights aren't supposed to have a puncture, it seems??