Electric Brompton bike VS MUCH cheaper competitor (Estarli e16)

[@keelferm]

Oh Eilish, the Bromton has it's own stand built in! Just fold the back wheel in. Were you operating a sweepstake on how long it would take for someone to make this comment? ;-)

[@gazzaman28]

I was just about to say this exact thing!

[@Helloworldhello663]

Same… this dose question the quality/accuracy of the review

[@xmasaartax]

And it has suspension….

[@gregorysilvera8103]

Also illustrated during the folding process…😁

[@JamesSmith-qs4hx]

OMG, that's just like so Amazing, us Europeans are totally the best inventors in the whole world....... I mean, imagine an African Brompton.... Nooooooo!!!! 😆😆

[@shafqatahrarjaigirdar9562]

I think people often misunderstand the Brompton electric. It is first a folder, second an electric bike. That amazing fold and store ability is what makes it worth it!

[@michaeljones6144]

One aspect of folding that’s often missed is that when folded, the Brompton’s chain is safely between the wheels. This makes a huge difference on trains. Also the folded Brompton fits in train luggage racks where others are less stable.

[@peetiegonzalez1845]

My Brompton didn't cost almost £4k. I paid enough for my M6S but this electric thing is an absolute cash grab. I'm not an e-bike fan so I'll stick with my porridge-powered for now. I love Brompton bikes but come on... The value proposition for a Brompton e-bike is a complete joke compared to the competition.

[@peetiegonzalez1845]

@@michaeljones6144 This is a Brompton superiority and nothing to do with the e-bike thing. I mean if you REALLY need an e-bike and you already know how superior the Brompton is, then I suppose you're gonna go that route.

[@rockfire1669]

And the weight

[@_cn_1970]

@@peetiegonzalez1845 My Brompton costed £750, this was before they started to get really popular with the London elite and stopped being something green heads would look as an alternative transport mode (2010). After that, the company started a strong gentrification process which is essentially a cash grab and a stab in the back of the brand history. The electric version price is a total outrage and I am definitely prefer to buy a second bike for the trips the really need the motor help than splashing £3.5k for it on what is essentially a £1k bike.

[@larshelmin]

If you turn the rear suspension rubber 180 degrees ( yes the Brompton has rear suspension) you don't have to loosen the hatch to fold the rear wheel as stand. You just lift it by the saddle, rear wheel moves forward , you set it down and it stands by itself. Time to go, you lift the bike again, rear wheel moves back and off you go! Faster than a kickstand!

[@lsamoa]

I forgot about this! Thanks for the reminder :)

[@oliverpolden]

I can’t stand bikes that fold axel to axel. You’re putting the widest points together resulting in a wide and unwieldy package. I had a bike similar to the estarli? and the Brompton I would say was about 3 times as efficient. Love the Brompton, it’s such a joy to ride and very refined.

[@mramg6038]

Brompton 100%. I've never been into cycling until i bought one on the cycle to work scheme. Now I wouldn't go without! I've even used it offroad on dirt trails and along canal paths. It's awesome. Though maybe not great if you're a bit fat - the tyres sagged quite a bit when my old man got on it! haha

[@tedthesailor172]

The Brompton is obviously the Go-To bike - if you've got the wonga. In fact, riding a Brompton is a statement in itself - that you HAVE the wonga! But for lesser mortals, a broadly similar spec for one third of the price - which is also British - is a no-brainer...

[@theamateurboater5892]

The e-brompton at first feels very expensive, but I think it is worth every penny. It is invaluable for any journey involving public transport, and it is built to last. I live on a narrowboat, and I wanted a second bike with fatter tyres for the rougher towpaths and the muddy, rutted country lanes, where the small, thin and hard tyres of the brompton felt uncomfortable to ride. But because the one with wider tyres would be a second bike, I didn't want to spend too much money. But it turned out that buying budget ebikes was a huge waste of time and money. In the time I've been using my brompton, I've bought three of the cheaper ebikes, and they all failed terminally. My personal view- after wasting £3000 on failed cheap ebikes- is that they are quite simply not worth wasting your money on. The components are of lesser quality than the brompton, and they are very prone to deterioration and failure. The brakes will be iffy, the tyres will be frankly garbage, the gears will be imprecise and unreliable, and the stainless steel components will show signs of rust if left for even a few hours in the rain. When you buy a brompton, you only buy once. And it works. And it works for years and years.

[@miles-x4u]

LMAO a £700 argos 20'' wheel bike just as good at a fraction of the price!

[@bobrew461]

so NOT true about ebikes. it depends what you buy; I've had a £700 BTwin 500e from Decathlon for over a year with hardly any problems. Got it serviced after xmas. Then put new tires on meself 2 months back, as they were dirt cheap! people buy cheapo PCs for 300 quid then complain that it wasn't as good as the £1500 macbook they decided to buy after. Jeez! :-0

[@theamateurboater5892]

@@bobrew461 , I'm glad that you had hardly any problems with your budget ebike purchase. However, just because you had a good experience and your opinion of cheap ebikes is positive, that does not mean my opinion above is 'wrong' or invalid. I got my first ebike a decade ago and to be fair it lasted for 5 or 6 years, so I dont want to say all cheap ebikes are bad. You can get a budget ebike that will last longer than 18 months, but you have to watch what you buy. In the last 4 years I've had 4 budget(ish) ebikes, and all of them malfunctioned in different ways. The first was a Samebike L026, and the rear hub motor died after 14 months of use. I was not able to fix that, and the bike shop repair quote was almost half the cost of a brand new bike. The second bike was a Fiido (a little bit better than 'budget)', and the manufacturer recalled that bike after 2 months, due to a serious fault with the frame folding joint. The replacement bike they sent me was not suitable for my needs, and I did not get a great price for it when I sold it on- so that was another financial loss. The third bike was a Byocycle Boxer (from Decathlon). The components were poor quality but to be fair it did work- but only for 13 months. Now to be fair, the Byocycle was left out and exposed to heavy rainfall over several nights, so that might well have caused its fault. But after about 14 months of use, the electrics became faulty and after a couple of tries at fixing (by me and a shop), I eventually scrapped it. So that was another £1000 or so down the drain. The one I have now is a Forme Buxton Pro- at £1500 its not a budget bike per se, but its not expensive. And just two weeks ago, after 14 months of use, it is showing a fault. I had a friend look at it, and in this case I think I can fix it. Which is just as well, since the manufacturer Forme has gone bust, and there are very few spare parts available. Note that Byocycle are also no longer in business. Disappearing manufacturers is another risk with some cheap ebikes, So after £3000 spent on bikes that were scrapped or sold at a loss after about a year, my experiences are the opposite of yours. And so my opinion is that buying a cheap ebike can be an expensive mistake, IF you dont pick the right bike. E.g. I bought the Samebike from a Chinese manufacturer on Amazon, and I doubt there was any reliable system in place for warranty repairs. So my advice is beware any bike purchase of that sort, unless you have the skill and knowledge to do your own repairs. I think Halfords cheap ebikes are a safe bet, because there is a physical shop where you can return the bike for warranty repairs etc. The bike shop is key- the one who sold me the Forme bike were super-helpful is resolving a collapse of the rear wheel spokes after 4 months, so it is crucial to buy from the right shop. And tbh, I was not impressed with the reply I got from Decathlon about an early but minor fault I had with the Byocycle, so I wont be using them again. And the Brompton electric that I bought 4 years ago is still going faultlessly. The brakes and gears still work smoother and better than the ones on the cheap ebikes, and it has never malfunctioned. So far it has outlasted 3 cheap ebikes, and might be set to last another decade or more. People run Bromptons for many many years.

[@bobrew461]

@@theamateurboater5892 "...because there is a physical shop where you can return the bike for warranty repairs etc." That was your error with the first purchases, I fear. I was going to buy an ADO bike, as their site says they have a warehouse near to me. But I emailed them and asked for the location of it, and they never replied. So I did not buy from them. Anyway, I'm glad to see that you've resolved things. BUT...even on the Brompton website, there are complaints about their bikes. Maybe you were lucky too, eh? :-)

[@bobrew461]

@@theamateurboater5892 What a saga! "...I think Halfords cheap ebikes are a safe bet, because there is a physical shop where you can return the bike for warranty repairs etc." I reckon that's what you should've done in the beginning; I was going to buy an ADO ebike as their site stated there was a wherehouse near to me. But after I emailed them to find out the address, they didn't reply. So I didn't buy their bike, and got one from Decathlon. Ebike technology has come a long way in the last 10 years, but even Brompton has complaints on their site. Good luck with it in any case. :-)

[@N.o.b.o.d.y1991]

I've had my Estarli E20 for a year now, absolutely love it!

[@euanmaclean2633]

I have both a standard m6 Brompton and a 6 speed Brompton electric. They are almost identical to ride without using the electric assist and very nippy. With the Brompton front luggage block each can mount a decent size bag which is easily detached. The electric machine has the battery in the bag and at £600 a time it is highly larcenable. I recently took mine on a trip using a train on the out run, Neither station had lifts and carting the city bag with battery plus a Brompton had me wishing I had used the m6 to the extent that I cycled the whole way home . The whole distance cycled was 27 miles of which 19 were under power and as on the Brompton you have to stop to turn the power on or off it gets left on so I had almost emptied the battery. I love riding it but I can not justify it. I honestly love the m6 more.

[@ianpellant9312]

The most significant advantage of the Brompton is the way they fold with the small rack wheels contacting the ground. That makes rolling the folded bike very easy. My ebike is a Leitner Aria (in Australia) which is very similar to a range of new folders like your orange ebike. When folded, they cannot easily be wheeled around; but at less than a third of the Brompton price, you must accept some compromises. In the UK, buy the Brompton. In Australia, it's just a bit too expensive and a long way from service centres, so the long warranty is not so significant.

[@zeniktorres4320]

Agree. Brompton here is quite slim pickings, east coast is slightly better. I bought a Dahon Mariner D8 instead, doesn't fold as small course, but at costing than 3 times less, and including all the fruit, and with a nice ride, I'm happy. I'll have a look at your ebike model. Update: Leitner Aria looks a very good bike. I'll keep an eye on that. Thanks.

[@trevorfox5703]

I have a Brompton and a Chinese Fiido D4S. It might be slower and not get such a good distance on a charge, the Brompton is the better bike. I know if the Brompton breaks, I'm covered. BTW - EB, not so golden on folding a Brompton! :) I've done the miss the clip thing on the front wheel a few times. Can be embarrassing, when in a crowded street, where there's always a wannabe Brompton owner watching me folding up! As already mentioned in the comments... just folding in the back wheel only, would make a Brompton stand up, so no stand needed! The genius of Brompton. :)

[@Electroheads]

Glad to hear I'm not the only one who has had a mishap with the fold 😂 I was so sure I had it.

[@ads2829]

Have you managed to insure the D4S?

[@trevorfox5703]

@@ads2829 I have never tried to insure the D4S.

[@tonynanton9912]

I waited on Estarli to release their updated suspension fitted 20”…. After months of promises, they were honest enough to admit that supplier issues would delay the new model. So, I looked at other bikes. I had no intention in getting a Brompton, anything but. Then by chance I had a test ride. Of all the e-bikes I had ridden of all sizes, I fell in love with the C-Line Electric instantly!! Two years of testing, and just like that I was smitten (I would have brought the P-Line version had they been in stock)!! I recently got knocked off it, so hard that my helmet cracked right through the back. The bike? Battery pack was damaged, back wheel buckled. That was all, the rest of the bike is perfect. My body is still suffering though!! Not sure many other small e-bikes would have held up as well…. Brompton everytime for me! Great video here though.

[@theunfinishedarticle]

What were the differences that made you smitten with the Brompton?

[@tonynanton9912]

@@theunfinishedarticle Build quality is leagues ahead of most folding e-bikes. The E-starli is more comfortable, 20" wheels help, however I know two ES owners who wish they had got a Brompton instead. The fold is simply superior, in my opinion...

[@petergilbert72]

Oh what a crappy analysis by someone who hasn’t bothered to know anything about the Brompton! No mention of saving £1000 by buying the Electric C instead of Electric P, no mention that with battery removed the Brompton becomes 3kg lighter, no mention of Brompton’s extraordinary versatility using buses and trains in rush hour, no mention that it’s easiest to carry the Brompton unfolded and fold at last minute, no mention that the Brompton does have rear suspension, no mention that the Brompton has other bigger and more stylish bags available etc. Oh, and no mention that the Brompton doesn’t require a kick stand because in part folded mode it self supports.

[@lsamoa]

She also got the folded dimensions wrong, sigh

[@megapangolin1093]

As always a great video. There is no contest for the best choice- the Estarli. My everyday car cost a fair bit less than the Brompton, into which I would put the bike when commuting and I expect that the servicing costs, knowing Brompton, will be less for the car too. People really must be made of money, there is clearly no recession for some. The Estarli does everything that the Brompton does. But that bike is a target for thieves. The Estarli has a much better colour- dayglo orange is the best way to be noticed on a bike in traffic and in my view, cyclists should be encouraged to choose kit that is essentially, hi-vis. Like workers, it makes you stand out and that is what is best for safety. Every cyclist should wear a hi-vis vest and helmet if they want to maximise their personal protection. (whoops, bit of a rant!). Well done Eilis, love your stuff. Some of the best presenting on YT.

[@shafqatahrarjaigirdar9562]

The electric C line Brompton is a bit cheaper at £2995 and often on deals closer to £2500. The thing about Bromptons also, is they hold their value incredibly well. I recently bought a used 2009 Brompton (not electric) for £500 and that was a bargain. If somebody rode that bike for the full 13 years then it would work out to be incredible value for money, probably bought new for around £1000? The bikes are also incredibly well built to last in my experience.

[@krshoreham7634]

@@shafqatahrarjaigirdar9562 still far too expensive for me and I suspect many others

[@horsenuts1831]

Oh dear, a helmet Nazi.

[@megapangolin1093]

@@horsenuts1831 Stasi, please!

[@Darwinion]

I bought a Brompton B75 before Covid cost about £650-700 iirc. then added a 3rd party kit to it with an HL battery I strapped to the stem. Doesn't affect the fold and it's done 2300 miles so far. Total cost was about £1200 which is easily less than half the price of official Brompton electric. But I still get the fold and build quality and I use a large Borough bag as my battery didn't sit there. Mine perhaps looks a little less elegant than official bike ofc. but I 100% feel I made the right decision.

[@kupferblum64]

Which 3rd party kit did you use? How much did it cost and was it easy to install?

[@rabokel]

My non-electric brompton definitely was one of the better biks i have owned. Excellent quality.

[@theunfinishedarticle]

‘Was’ ? What happened?

[@iainamurray]

Brompton owner here! (Non electric versions). Doesn’t need a stand because you just Rick the back wheel forward and it stinks up on its own! Plus you don’t need to take the battery off and you can also use the saddle as a handle. Another thing about the B is that as far as I’m aware, it’s the only folding bike that can be taken on the tube. Multi modal travel FTW! It’s a hell of a lot of money though. In fact, I’ve got a BMW GS motorbike that cost less.

[@ianferguson3543]

My wife (5ft 0in) tried the Brompton electric. She bought the Estarli E20. The Brompton has both the motor and the battery on the front and smaller wheels so she found it skittish to cycle. The E20 test was in Keswick including some hills so we were able to be comfortable that the bike fitted our needs. Even tried lifting in to the camper van and it fits under the bed which is great.

[@Electroheads]

The e20 is a great option!

[@robhemsley9181]

My Bromptons are my favourite bikes - so versatile - not good for long rides on rough roads but for short rides and shopping they are fabulous and cannot be matched

[@LaurenceRutherford]

Eilis... Great video... the Brompton will last a lifetime and check out the 2nd hand prices.... It may be expensive to buy, but it will last forever and will lose little or any value. I dread to think what the 2nd hand value of even a 3 year Estarli is. The Brompton is the best long-term buy...! But yes, expensive! Brompton for me every time!

[@Snoodlehootberry]

In all seriousness, after purchase modifications for making a Bronson into an E bike using a Swytch Kit gives you exactly the same for far less, and personally I have done this and brought my classic Brompton into the electric age for far less.

[@peetiegonzalez1845]

I have to disagree on your speed comments. I ride a Brompton and the twitchyness tends to disappear the faster you go. I regularly ride mine way faster than 15.5mph (it's not an e-bike, I just enjoy being quick and getting a workout) and it's surprisingly stable at high speed. Thanks for the great review! Also... the kickstand is a relatively inexpensive option on the Brompton when you buy it. Even though you don't really need it most of the time as you can simply fold the back wheel under the seat.

[@chilternman]

Totally agree centre of gravity is low on 16" wheel bike so more stable.

[@peetiegonzalez1845]

@@chilternman I don't think it's that. Sorry to get geeky here but larger wheeled bikes are more stable because of the angular momentum of the front wheel, which means that due to the geometry they self-right when moving. You can send a large-wheeled bike down the road and it will stay upright until it runs out of speed. Smaller wheels mean this force is less prominent so as a rider they feel very twitchy, but the faster you go, because momentum increases with speed they naturally become more stable. This is true of any bike, it's just that the threshold for not feeling "twitchy" requires more speed on a smaller-wheeled bike. Again sorry for the geek-out but in my experience, the Brompton is very twitchy when maneuvering round pedestrians but once you get some speed up on the roads it feels like pretty much any other bike in that regard.

[@midkort]

15:46 So when it's folded, the chain and sprocket hit the ground. hmmmm, Brompton wins on that note.

[@poweredbyplantsgirl]

The Brompton handlebars shape meant that I could angle them towards me for a better position. The fold enables me to use it like a shopping trolley and take it everywhere, no need to chain it up outside a shop and wonder if it's still there upon returning. The fold enables me to pop the Brompton in my car boot for rides with my husband or ride the rest of the way to shopping where there is no parking eg city without relying on public transport. The only drawback is the electric Brompton is fairly heavy. I wish for them to make an electric t line Brompton with high handlebars. That would be awesome.

[@angusmccrum2671]

The way the Brompton folds, you don't need a kick stand. Just lift the seat and the back wheel tucks under with its second set of wheels allowing the bike to stand. Nicely done and it becomes smaller with is really useful in the city. To go... just lift the seat and off you go! No clips/levers etc...just gravity! (I'm not a Brompton owner by the way!! But probably why there is such a price tag on it - well designed and not bulky to carry.) Not sure the estari e61 folds well for transport. Carrying it extended in a busy city...?!

[@weircottage]

We added Swytch kit to our existing ten year old Bromptons. Now also bought the backwards compatible ‘flight safe’ batteries, just arrived. Been very pleased with the electrification that has added to usability.

[@itsfahys]

Now youve got me thinking too, as i also own a 3 speed Brompton but impossible to cycle up hills where i live. Did you get the job done at a shop and would would the cost be roughtly ?

[@yodel_diploma2315]

I nearly bought a switch conversion kit, but then I saw that it had a narrow range even even with the bigger batterie. Instead I bought an yosepower-kit, although it is more complex: more cables... Isn't the swytch.brompton- kit more expensive than a 20"-kit?

[@weircottage]

@@yodel_diploma2315 think the longer range one was about £750. It will do about 30 miles, more if you are not too heavy. I’m about 100kg

[@weircottage]

@@itsfahys hi Stephen. We did it ourselves. It should take an hour. The second one probably did but the first one all afternoon!!! The reason is that the pedal cadence sensor bits come with an extra Brompton part. For us it was not at all obvious how it went. I was all for chucking it out of the window but my wife read the instructions over and over. It turned out an assembled two part piece needed to be pulled apart and one half added to the extra Brompton bit. So you actually end up with bits you don’t actually use as they are for a regular bike. We also got the Brompton mount taking it from the handle bars to the bag mounting point. This is absolutely worth it and more akin to the Brompton real one. One big reason for the Swytch is that we travel a lot and with this you can still be a regular Brompton for flights by just swapping the wheels (obviously get a new tyre and tube for the Brompton motor wheel). Last week our flight safe batteries arrived. Been too preoccupied with other stuff and haven’t even opened the boxes. We’ve loved the change it has made to usability not to mention fun going to pubs farther away this summer!

[@weircottage]

@@itsfahys cost was about £750 for long range

[@glennoc8585]

Shout out to that scarf! The orange bike got me from first sight as I just like orange and black. Brompton are taking the proverbial with that pricing so I'd hope the bike is mostly made in the UK.

[@kevinseversonandhisvizslas8287]

It’s all about the fold; once you fold each bike, there will be no question. The Brompton is the better choice.

[@VitD4me]

Had a Brompton since 2008. Just electrified recently with a Swytch kit mainly because i didnt need another bike and i did need to keep the Brompton luggage mount free for all the expensive Brompton bags I use. Bike pedals as before when power is turned off and power is great into headwinds and up hills.

[@carolinepaige217]

Where the e Brompton wins hands down compared to all other folders is the folded size and ease of transporting. I have the P-line e with 4 wheel advanced set which makes transporting using public transport a dream. The other point I would like to make is that being able to take the battery off and wear it as a cross body bag making the Brompton itself so much lighter to transport and lift up onto trains etc is most definitely a deal breaker for a 67 year old woman. The Brompton is THE bike for commuting when also using public transport. But if you don't need a folder, then buy a standard e bike with a much higher spec at a much cheaper cost!

[@ep8029]

I've had an electric Brompton for about 4 months and love it. Easy to take with you so no risk of it being stolen.

[@kevinwillis6707]

i think thats its biggest selling point, its always with you, bike theft is rampant, my mate was a courier and lost 3 or 4 high end bikes that added up to a couple of bromptons.

[@themeatspot5020]

How's it Been? I'm thinking about getting one

[@dallysinghson5569]

More bespoke bits means you're solely reliant on Brompton who will dictate what they can sell you the more off the shelf bits means the parts are cheaper and more accessible if you want to repair for yourself. Bromptons warranty is mostly just frame... Not really amazing considering a solid hunk of steel that's covered xd

[@lsamoa]

There's a lot of aftermarket parts for Bromptons, you don't rely solely on them for these

[@M0rga7a]

I recently had the opportunity to test ride Volt Metro (and Metro LS) and the Brompton C-line electric and I must say, the Volt Metro felt miles better than the Brompton. I know the folding factor is a big part of Brompton's appeal, but for half the price, the Volt bikes (20 inch btw) brought in some great hydrolic disk breaks, front and rear suspension, rack, stand, integrated ABUS lock, lights, boost button and a computer to show you the speed. I was quite underwhelmed by the Brompton in comparison to those 2 bikes, I must say! For me, if I do buy a Brompton, it will be the regular non-electric one. The Estrali looks great too btw, definitely a contender :)

[@oddtechman]

how does the front wheel drag of the brompton feel in comparison to the standard rear wheel push of a standard ebike? I know the brompton has a bit of an advantage having leg power at the back "AND" the powered front .. where everything from the estarli has everything at the rear only... Just something that was missed from an otherwise awesome, as always, comparison :)

[@MadeInGreatBritain]

I’m afraid you can’t alter the angle of the brake leavers like you suggest. They are at that strange angle because of the way the bike folds. They seem odd at first, but you quickly get used to them

[@highwaycycles2012]

It would be interesting to understand the Cost-Of-Ownership on both these bikes after, say, 3-years? Would it be a case of buy right, buy once with the Brompton, and buy cheap, buy twice with the Estarli? From a dealers perspective we can't fault the quality, reliability, and customer service that you get from buying a Brompton, but then perhaps we're biased! ;-)

[@DarrenBurgess1989]

Can we meet up and have a ‘how to fold a Brompton’ session? Unscrew both screws first on the frame and handlebar stem and then pull the lever at the back and it will fold in one smooth motion.

[@poweredbyplantsgirl]

There are a few bags to choose from for the Brompton electric, the Valeria Barcelona shopping bag was my choice. The Brompton rides very well loaded with shopping front and back.

[@alcurtis93]

Got my fiido d4s with 20 inch wheels, 384wh battery for £350. Love it! I wouldn't want to drop to a smaller wheel size

[@kostyafedot551]

You have to be in the good shape to lift regular Brompton on commute. For electrical one you really have to like workout. But if you like workout, no need for electrical.

[@oliverpolden]

If you don’t want to sweat then you need electrical.

[@kostyafedot551]

@@oliverpolden Been restricted from sweat must be medical condition, feel sorry for those. For the rest of us, most of the companies will provide changing and shower rooms. Also, some needs to discover deodorant, it is 21st century already.

[@cliff6797]

I test rode a 16" Estarli (single speed) and found it very twitchy compared to the MiRider and Brompton. Brompton is a very stable bike for 16" and folds much smaller. Personally I wouldn't buy an electric Brompton. Motor is poor quality and assist switch is on the battery so you have to stop or lean over the handlebars to change assist level which is poor compared to other electric bikes. I would buy a standard Brompton and add an aftermarket electric kit.

[@ACELog]

Regarding "folding": the Bromton is a truly folding bike; the Estarli is only a hinging bike. I learnt this when I was considering which type to buy in 2006. Hence, I bought a Bromton (non-electric), for £750 then. Also, to qualify to be able to take on the tube (and some Overground line sections), the Estarli would have to be folded (hinged), hence could not be carried balanced as you did here. And I agree: the Bromton battery "satchel" is poor: a lack of good design. Surely, a more rigid, unique enclosure could have been designed! Here the Estarli scores best - the battery is designed-in.

[@fensterputzernuernberg]

That Estarli is made in Asia ( taiwan or china ) apart from the Shimano but do not quote me on that etc ,, has many many different names.. Eovolt amongst others... You wont find a lighter Ebike than the Estarli ( Eovolt ) i have to question the 14.5 KG though it may actually nearer to 16 KG.. You should have got the weighing scales out and actually proved this ..Th Estarli ebike has its Battery in the sadlle post and may give you only a certain amount of KM with asisistance.... The Brompton can be ridden when the battery goes flat i am not sure what the Astari can do... Choosing all depneds on what distances you are doing .. Th E-brompton is very expensive but so are many other high end ebikes, Any other Ebike(s) will be near impossible to carry up flights of stairs or bring on a bus a train or an underground train system....... If you are a high earner then then use that money and buy something of quality ( the E-brompton ) and if not just get the normal Brompton ( great bike !! ) .All Ebikes potentially may be a little complicated when it comes to repairs or fixing things.. I have ridden this 16 Inch version of the Astari and it is a very nice ride.. The electric assistance really does help.. The Brompton is very expensive but it does fold away or unfold much quicker and is the most manageable bike on the market for convenience and piece of mind when going onto buses , trains or the underground system .... MY tip would be to buy both the Estarli Ebike and then buy a standard Bromtpon ( 12 Kg ) This way you not only save around 1800 GBP but you also get 2 bikes with 2 different advantages !! The E brompton is a great bike if you can afford it... This is a great review because it is in depth.. The lady has a great voice and is a great host .... all in all a detailed and great review... PS.. @11.03 it looked like the air in the E brompton was very low .. You are meant to ride with high pressure on the 16 Inch wheels to prevent a pinch flat and proetct the rims from damage and make a more comfortable ride. The only problem i have is is that the webpage link above to elctroheads is misleading they claim the bike is manufactured in the UK ????? the bike is manufactured in Asia but assembled in the UK A HUGE DIFFERENCE !!

[@peterwillson1355]

If I could give your comment multiple likes, I'd have done so. Brilliant thinking.

[@fensterputzernuernberg]

@@peterwillson1355 Thanks Pete.. very kind of you ..

[@fensterputzernuernberg]

@Homie Very good point as well... There are videos about standard bromptons with Swytch upgrades....

[@joules531]

Over time, the Brompton is better value because it will last a lifetime. Remember that a 4K Brompton, over 10 years, is only £1.10 a day. When you consider the ease of the fold, the 7 year warranty, parts availability, and the more convenient folded size (on public transport, in shops, and under an office desk) £1.10 a day is a bargain.

[@TR4zest]

Not to mention its resale value.

[@srowley85]

I’ve ridden a non electric Brampton for over 10 years and roughly 20,000 miles. If you want a bike that folds into a compact package for travel by train or air, it can’t be beat. The build quality is excellent and, as you point out, this comes at a price.

[@willv198412]

Thanks for the review, I might get the Estarli E20. P.S. you forgot to fold the Estarli pedals and lower the seat. Once the seat is lowered it creates a tripod so you're not resting the bike on the chain ring. Just saying 😎

[@briansture4353]

Having bigger tyres gives more weight at the rim of the wheel giving a better gyro effect, less twitchy with better comfort and traction. A larger diameter wheel is always a more stable ride. Disc brakes are better as wheel rim brakes are not as effective in the wet.

[@JoePenaProductions]

The only deciding factor between the two for me would be my budget. I liked them both. Also, the ease of portability (mini wheels) with the Brompton is not to be underestimated. (I'd probably rig something up for the Estarli as well). -- Excellent review, btw.

[@anver97]

Excellent review, how would you compare the Estali to the Mi rider and Decathlon B Twin?

[@kennethlinton4432]

Two key points Eilis: 1. Where is the eSartli battery and how do you charge it? 2. The Brompton does NOT need a stand, after the first folding, the bike stands on its own!

[@finncarlbomholtsrensen1188]

And the Brompton has a stand! Just fold the back triangle and it stands fine on that!! If needed you may buy an extender to give it more distance when foldet. Finn. Denmark

[@drevo50]

I like Brompton folders, always have. Tried the electric version, hated it. Just a poor implementation and integration. They need to do better to catch potential e-buyers.

[@GarGri]

You didn't mention that the Brompton as a separate battery whereas the Estarli e16 appears to have built their battery into the frame.

[@karlInSanDiego]

@15:00 "sorry about the angle grinding" - as Brompton is being cut from its lock and stolen around the corner

[@peterwillson1355]

👋👋🤣🤣

[@rockfire1669]

Idk I decided to get an cheap e bike and I pulled a muscle putting it away. Going to get the brompton when I can.

[@fugdefano]

the Brompton is a brilliant bike to rise with or without the electricity. ps half fold the brompton , no need for a stand

[@techtitanuk5609]

Estrali 20.7 comfort is the refreshed bike and it looks great

[@normawingo5116]

If it was my choice I’d buy Brompton, they come with a whole new family!

[@MokChweeSeah-v9v]

Brampton is great but the price is also great😂 The Estarli is new to me but based on your introduction it seems like value for money with quality if you have a budget. Brampton only offers 16” but Estarli offers 16” & 20” wheels size. Enjoy your presentation ❤

[@tarafrances952]

Brompton me do a 20” wheel - the G line.

[@lotuselise4432]

The P Line is the most expensive I have a C Line in Flame Lacquer and I think they where £3200.

[@blackdog7979]

Will you be doing a review of the new G line Brompton e bike?

[@dallysinghson5569]

Brompton may last a really long time, but for the richer middle classers. Affordable alternative exists that's non folder (why bother with EV foldie?), will last long...

[@aussieideasman8498]

It seems that nobody has considered that buying two orange ones will probably last longer than the Brom, and you still save 1,200 pounds (my keyboard has no pound sign). I have a folder because I drive 60 kms to the Gold Coast and ride the flat beach paths with great views (some of it scenery).

[@Why-I-Oughta]

I might have found the perfect e-bike! It's called the Trilix Electric Folding Bike. It's made by an Italian company called Moto Parilla. It comes with battery options of 250W or 500W*, and the choice of a 16 or 20-inch frame. It has a mid-drive torque sensor motor. The bike is pretty lightweight for its specs. It's about half the price of the Brompton. I think Beyond PEV are selling them. Hopefully, we can see a review of the Trilix by you. 🚴 🔋 *I think the maximum lawful limit of 250W in the UK is ridiculous, especially when trying to climb hills on a small e-bike. Hopefully, the limit gets increased in the near future.

[@petergilbert72]

I have climbed 20% hills on my six gear Electric Brompton with 250W motor. It produces sufficient power to back up your leg muscles.

[@gdwlaw5549]

It’s good bike and better for people that live in the EU

[@piershunday]

Thank you for finally doing a Brompton review! For me it is a work of art and you do truly get what you pay for- a bike (or e-bike) that will last the test of time and will be versatile for any journey as well as being able to store anywhere.

[@familyshaw2482]

How do you charge the battery of the eStarli? And where is it?

[@hyperspace32]

How does it compare to the GoCycle - folding electric bike?

[@philparker7231]

Lots of mistakes about the Brompton, I think we know that from the comments. The Estarli has a shorter wheel base and not suitable for 6 foot plus riders - your knees would be getting close to those handlebars!! Brompton is the only folder that has a decent long wheel base - I know from experience.

[@Simcore999]

Strangely the Brompton looks better without the battery, still for public commuting inside the Brompton is my choice and did you find the tire width made a difference for range

[@dvdsbl]

I don't understand why brompton doesn't have controls to change the level of assist on the go.

[@charlenemccullough2293]

We purchased this Vivi 27.5” electric bike and a Tentaquil 26” electric bike for our 13 and 14 year olds. kzbin.infoUgkxUiL0GnyDjP32RJdd660sP8mZk4CRLTCJ The Vivi was much easier to put together. With the Vivi, there was a video link to assist with assembly which made the process easier to follow (we did put the handlebars on upside down, but it was a quick and easy fix). With the Tentaquil, the assembly was not as simple to follow, but after we messaged the company for an assembly video, it was easier and they did respond quickly. The other major differences were that the Vivi has a grip throttle on the right handle (like a motorcycle) and the Tentaquil has a push throttle that you use your thumb to activate. The monitors were also different, so if you’re looking for something specific in terms of changing the bikes functions, pay attention to what the monitor offers. We were really impressed with the overall quality and functionality of both bikes, but if you’re looking for more power and an easier assembly, definitely go with the Vivi!

[@ultrastoat3298]

1:06 It literally has a build in "kick stand". Just flip the back wheel underneath it.

[@loneranger5928]

Great review 👍

[@Milesjoshua25]

You got here before me! But I second this! You should have just folded the back wheel under 🙈

[@mr.d7372]

Does the estrali 16.7 have a torque sensor or a cadence sensor?

[@philgard7623]

You should make a video on what you do with the bikes after you've reviewed them

[@MGriff-q1i]

If you have owned a Brompton and established a good understanding of the advantages, the chances of owning and keeping an alternative brand will be low. I have had standard non electric Brompton for almost 10 years now. I love my Brompton. We did try a non-Brompton electric bike for a while. There was no point trying to fold it. It was possible but almost pointless. We still have the Brompton but we abandoned the electric bike and gave it to a family member.

[@pheona1000]

Great Vid. Can you do a review on the Volt Metro Folding Electric Bike please as I hear it is more of a contender to the Brompton E-Bike that the Estarli E=16

[@williesurvives1]

hum I did purchase a brompton e bike but it did not last long for me because I thought the quality was bad but I had the steel frame one one of the things that really turned me off was that brompton would not send me any info on buying repair parts they want you to send it to a brompton dealership for repairs and I am a certified automotive mechanic I latter sold it

[@RichardWoodward-my6pr]

Non-electric Brompton is great, still an expensive bike but worth it. For an e-bike I have something similar to the E-Starli

[@stevencrinson7986]

you can flip the rear wheel under as a stand. :)

[@miles-x4u]

Introducing the new electric brompton millionaires only need apply!

[@greensavant2573]

I would take the Brompton, but would not want 16"...tried it, and 20" is a good mix. Have you done a comparison of the Brompton and Gocycle? Another great video Eilis!

[@MiniorMinority]

You folded the estralli totally wrong! You push the seat post through the frame and rest it on the floor so you don't rest the bike on the front gear and it also acts as a stand whilst folding. It also means it folds much smaller. I suggest if you are going to review products you should know how to use them in the first place!

[@MalcomMcLeod]

Do you get any QiO or Cube E-bikes over in the UK you could review?

[@philippecasteleyn9327]

Is it still normal not to have disk brakes ?

[@lech2050]

My e-Brompton has a range of only 20 km after three years of use. Anyone have an idea how to increase this range?

[@xxwookey]

Anyone tried the Flit? Also has a very nice fold, but designed as an e-bike from the start, unlike Brompton. Also expensive, but cheaper than Brompton and very nicely engineered.

[@richardp1780]

Please can you tell me the lightest ebike you have tested?🎉

[@sicko_the_ew]

More flatter? Why not just "more flat"? (Save a syllable.) Or even, just "flatter" (without "more"). You'd also save a syllable that way. More to the point, though, you might find out something interesting if you do some research on why the Moulton racing bikes had small wheels. It surprised me when I did. (Made me regret having bigger wheels fitted to a bike I once bought, that was meant to have more smaller ones than the ones I asked for. It had the right wheels in the shop and I less improved it by asking for them to be changed.)

[@robertb7643]

That’s how we talk in London

[@sicko_the_ew]

@@robertb7643 Aye. For now. Next year it'll go to out of the date. Is it something to do with the large immigrant population these days? (So English grammar being adapted to be more Something-Else - just like Saxon grammar once changed to be more Norman - etc etc, and on forever)? Maybe in the long run what'll happen is London will speak like San Francisco or something? (As it loses influence, some other variant of English might take a hold, and I'm betting that Online Gamer English will take over from everything, everywhere.) That might even turn out to be much more better good in the end. Which never comes. There be no end. Except the last lines of Vogon poetry we ever here.

[@bobrew461]

5:15 another informed review by Miss Kayliegh. :-0

[@johnmorrison9424]

One bike at 1/3d the price to me is a no brainier . Brompton like Dyson overpriced

[@KeithApp]

I did not expect to see Roy & Hayley in a bike review 😀

[@jam365days8]

I am amazed. You are doing a review of a Brompton but you don't know that it does have suspension, and you don't know how to stand it up. Wow

[@antonyreid7419]

You never said anything about the Estarli battery. Is it removable for charging etc.

[@Electroheads]

The battery is in the seat post so it is removable!

[@kevinmcgrane4279]

Good vid! Thanks. If I could use a folding bike where I live, I’d opt for the Brompton. It would be a close call, though.

[@longlivefreedom9853]

On your webpage it says >>.............. "The e16.7 is Estarli's new seven-speed version of their original folding electric bike. Made in the UK, it's a great, lightweight option for commuters and cyclists around town "............ made in UK ? can you prove that it is made in the Uk and not asia ? .. or have you made writing mistake and you mean it is assembled in the uk ? please clarify ??????

[@esgee3829]

woefully under-inflated rear tyre on the brompton. also, once you think about how you'll carry stuff and how much stuff you can carry....well, the brompton is really the only option if you want folding.

[@luishsteuer1660]

Oh god, just a little more than 3min in I can see how horrible is the Estarli fold. That’s all I needed to see to re-affirm my choice in the Brompton. Eugh.

[@neilmccartney6573]

I just cannot understand or believe the ridiculous prices of bikes in general now ? I have bought two bikes lately , I’m an old ex semi pro (30 yrs ago Lol) Mtb … I’ve been at it all my life ,, I know bikes a little ,, my second hand immaculate well equipped quality mtb and road bikes cost me 120 euros for the mtb and 160 euros for my campagne equipped Columbus tubed steel road bike , both do exactly what I want ,,, why do people get drawn in to this carbon fibre apparent « must have « to be good culture ? It’s the man who pushes the pedals that is the most important . Electric world is great for lots of newbies of course but if you are a serious or pleasure cyclist look back to the 1990 s find one that’s been sat in someone’s garage for 30 yrs and enjoy for peanuts ,,, I just love smoking the 5k carbon boys on me old iron it’s so much fun …

[@chrisl7902]

Coming from a regular road bike and an MTB the Brompton rides nicely and doesn’t feel twitchy to me. The Estarli looks shorter still, which would surely make it twitchier still. But for a third the price of the Brompton it looks good value. However, I bought my electric Brompton second hand with a years warranty left on the motor for less than 2/3 the new price.