My Touring Brompton Setup

Check out the Brompton folding bike I use to tour around places like Big Sur and the Olympic Peninsula! It collapses down to a neat little package I can get into an airplane overhead compartment, but this is what it can do with a full load.

[@felixcat9318]

This looks to be about the most logical layout, though I aim to get one of the StandUpForBrompton platforms to strap my Alpacka Raft Packraft to as that'll keep it out of the way when cycling.

[@tristamnewey7118]

I've been listening to your podcast for a while now and happen to have bought a Brompton last month. I'm already planning a tour next year with it and like the idea of the rucksack on the back as a way of carrying kit. How stable do you find that configuration? Also, the chainring looks smaller than standard - is that the 12% reduction option, or something else, and how do you get on with it? Cheers!

[@Pedalshift]

It is the -12% but I also have a speed hub that doubles it up, so I get the best of both worlds (although I rarely use the higher gears when touring). I find the backpack method to be surprisingly stable, but I don't tend to use it as much anymore unless I need the extra capacity for a camping-focused tour. Shoutout to Path Less Pedaled for the concept and inspiration though! Check out Russ and Laura's channel!

[@georgesolomon5696]

Thanks for the video... I recently went through Big Sur also (very nice ride). What is the gearing ? There are a couple of major climbs in Big Sur, especially to towards Ragged Point. My concer with the Bromtopn is I could not get low enough gearing.. Thanks

[@Pedalshift]

I have the minus gearing and also a special speed hub to double my gears to 12. Build specs are at pedalshift.net/2016/09/pedalshift-touring-brompton/

[@vladimator1842]

Nice bike sir, and great color. May I ask which year model is it? I may buy my Brompton tomorrow and haven't decided on the color.

[@Pedalshift]

I got it in 2015 I think? Sadly Brompton discontinued orange, which is such a bummer... it's a great color!

[@johncacciottoli7948]

Great radio. What size backpack and brand is over the rear wheel? Thanks

[@Pedalshift]

55L - Teton Sports Scout 3400. It's worked nicely, but you can use any backpack of about that size.

[@johncacciottoli7948]

I mean great video

[@patrickploenzke489]

What saddle is that? I was in Berlin last week and a friend their told me about his must have saddle for touring but I can't remember the name.. Is that tge one that conforms to the rider?

[@Pedalshift]

It's a Brooks leather saddle - I have to confess I don't know which model. I like it, but it definitely needs more care than a typical synthetic saddle. People who've owned them for years swear by them... I'm only a couple of years into this one.

[@josephgrn2818]

I think yours is a 6 speed (?). Some you’re with a three speed because it’s lighter. What would you recommend?

[@Pedalshift]

It's a 6, but I have a speed-hub on it that I engage with my heel on the center of the crank, so I have 12 speeds. I've never done the math, but I suspect there may be some overlapping within the two sets of 6 speeds, but it gives me a good flats vs. climbing option, then the 6 speeds within that.