Comparison of trifold folding bike of 20inch and 16inch.

In this report, I compare and contrast a 20 inch and a 16 inch 3 trifold folding mini-velo.
In Asia, where patent-expired Brompton clone bicycles are very popular, it is possible to build a trifold folding bicycle with the same design as a Brompton by selecting the frame and basic parts, as well as various parts with specifications that are not available in the factory version, to complete a bike to your desired specifications.
In addition, because Shimano parts can be used for the external transmission and sprockets, we obtained 20 inch and 16 inch models of the compactly foldable chromoly-framed Brompton Clone mini-velo bicycles and actually took them on a loop trip from Singapore to Japan.
The 20 inch bike has 20 inch aluminum wheels, 10 speed Shimano external Tiagra wheels, and a chromoly frame with the same three-stage folding design as the Brompton.
The 16 inch bike has 16 inch aluminum wheels, a Chinese 9-speed external derailer, a chromoly frame, and the same trifold folding design as the same as Brompton.
Comparing the two bikes, I realized that the 20 inch and 16 inch bikes have different characteristics due to the difference in wheel size and wheel base length.
The 20 inch wheel is more stable, easier to maintain cruising speed, and less tiring to ride for a long distance, with the 20 inch wheels, it is easy to maintain about 25 km/h in cruising.
On the other hand, the 16 inch wheels are slightly more compact when folded than the 20 inch wheels, making them suitable for carrying transport with wheeled bag.
They are suitable for leisurely pottering at speeds of 25 km/h or less.
Both the 20 inch and 16 inch models have a highly rigid frame that does not flex or squeak, and they are folding bicycles that move forward when you step on them.
Both are easy to ride, with a good match between the front chainring and rear sprocket, but depending on the application, the rear sprocket can easily be replaced to customize the gear ratio.
These clone models can be replaced with pedals, tires, and other components for a better ride feeling.
Since they are so well made, we have decided to assemble, sell, and ship them to Japan from May onward for foreign cyclists who want to use these bikes in Japan.
#Folding #Chromoly frame #Maintenance #Trifold #Brompton #Brompton clone #20inch minivelo #16inch minivelo

[@SonixGirl77]

Thank you for your comparison vehicle. The photos are extremely helpful in showing how you transport yourself and the things you carry with you.

[@YoureNowOnTV]

Really useful information. So many people think that they should only look at a Brompton bike, but there are other options like this. The 20" size is worth carrying 1 kilogram more if it means you can ride further and more comfortably. Not as comfortable as a full, non-folding bike but better than the 16" wheels. Thanks so much for your advice and sharing your experience with people ! ☺👍 ありがとうございました

[@pinholecam01]

Good review of the 2 options

[@Sid_Lin]

precious experience sharing! Thank you very much!

[@tot-not-filip]

情報を共有してくれてありがとう 🙏

[@randomoto928]

I enjoyed this video. Thank you! Your website is amazing, too.

[@RollingJapan2024]

Thank you!

[@jcteo8168]

Thank you for your sharing, a very well thought off and comparative analysis.

[@apilgrim8715]

Thank you very much for the video.

[@RollingJapan2024]

Thank you for your comment! Please check the site below when you travel Japan with your bike. www.rollingjapan.com

[@Nurych312]

Where did you buy the 20 inch wheel bike? You said that the smaller bike can travel on average at 20 km per hour. What about the bigger bike's speed? thanks.

[@RollingJapan2024]

20 inch bigger wheels can easily maintain the speed once rolling, so more easy to ride long distances. The average speed also +3 〜 5 km/hr higher than 16inch. I recommend 16 inch for city run about , and 20 inch for touring. This is my touring set up. kzbin.info/www/bejne/roPVioedgtODeKMsi=CMyI0OQHhmqAfOMU

[@ktneo1831]

How do you hang your backpack behind your 20inch bike saddle? Thanks

[@RollingJapan2024]

I use the seat post bag as its seat post is long enough.

[@daytriker]

There are so many models of Tri-Fold Bikes now, I am wondering how you chose your brand? I am considering the 20 inch Takachia Tiime but need to learn more first.

[@RollingJapan2024]

Thank you for your comment! I think there are few differences between brands in their frame, folk, stem and triangle, so I choose the better parts upgrade my bike. It means I don’t care about the brand, but get high cost performance as a core platform to customize. Recently, I’m interested in titanium parts to save the weight.

[@daytriker]

@@RollingJapan2024 Did you look at several different 20 inch models? I have been seeing if there are quality differences in the build of Cranston, Leggero & Takachia. We do not get these models in North America.

[@RollingJapan2024]

@@daytriker There are many choices in Asia, but I think the main frame is important. There are 3 type, steel, aluminum and titanium frame. In the point of cost performance , I recommend aluminum frame. We can assemble other parts, from choice of Shimano or China brand. There are no manufacturers which can build the complete bike with their parts except Brompton. Once you have the frame from online, the structure is simple and you can assemble it with your favorite parts.

[@daytriker]

@@RollingJapan2024 I think that would be the same route I would also take. Thank you.

[@haytingtee6294]

What is the bottom bracket height of the 20 inch trifold?

[@RollingJapan2024]

Sorry but I can’t measure it now as it is at the storage in Japan. I suppose 2inch higher than 16inch.

[@jkevinAH]

is the 20inch trifold allowed on airline handcarry? I think the 16inch is allowed but i am not sure about the 20inch. thanks! I really like the 20inch but the trifold appeal is I can bring it as hand carry on the airplane

[@RollingJapan2024]

Thank you for your comment! Depends on the airline's size regulations. If the size of the box is within 200 cm and the weight is within 23 kg, Japanese airlines (JAL and ANA) allow up to two pieces as checked baggage free of charge, even in economy class.

[@KlausJacobi-oo9cz]

Where excately can I buy such a bicycle?

[@RollingJapan2024]

Thank you for your comment. I’ve bought them at the bike shop in Singapore.

[@detan65]

Is Decathlon 500 series folding bike good enough for this cycling trip in Japan?

[@RollingJapan2024]

Sorry, but I have no idea about Decathlon 500. What kind of bike?

[@tot-not-filip]

The Decathlon bikes cannot really compare with these trifold designs. They have a really short wheelbase and are a lot bigger when folded

[@vincentnnyc]

How many speed are your 16” and 20”?

[@RollingJapan2024]

Thank you for your comment! 16 inch has 9 speed with Sora , Shimano RD. 20 inch has 10 speed with Tiagra, Shimano RD. I think they have enough gears for both purposes.