The Cooper by Brilliant Bicycle Company

A first look at the Cooper by the Brilliant Bicycle Company. This is a three speed belt drive with a Shimano Nexus hub, making this a very different bicycle than a traditional chain driven bike. Is the belt drive worth it though?
The Brilliant Cooper: www.brilliant....
Cameras Used:
Canon Vixia HF M500: amzn.to/31DVFtt
Polaroid Cube (POV): amzn.to/3lu1OQJ
Google Pixel 3: amzn.to/3jtwuje
Audio:
Blue Snowball iCE (Voice Over): amzn.to/3jtndaS
#brilliantbicycleco #beltdrive #bicycle

[@RobertMayfair]

This is a really good review. Well written and executed. Thanks

[@MZtestvideos]

I am about to order one for myself. I went looking on KZbin to see whether anyone had did a full assembly of the bike as it comes in the box. I am happy that not only is there a review, but it is pretty recent - thank you good sir! I think your review of this bike is probably the best out of all the other ones on KZbin :)

[@klallmo]

Thanks! I hope you enjoy that new bike!

[@MZtestvideos]

@@klallmo have been using it for a while now, still good as new :) thanks to your review, really sealed the deal for me to buy.

[@MrSteveb1]

Looks like a nice bike but it’s now $550, probably still a fair value for what you get.

[@WanderingAroundAZ]

Looks like a more affordable (and classier) version of my Priority Gotham. Same 3-speed internal hub. Mine came with the same out-of-true front wheel.

[@johnrodriguez2222]

I interested in buying this bike but I’m not sure what size is right for me since it’s online and not enough specs on that part I just wanted to know how tall you are and what size bike do you have for comparison?

[@patjohnson6571]

Great video. Thanks for making. I just received the Priority Classic Plus Gotham Edition bike which is very similar. It also needs the wheels trued out of the box. I have been impressed on how capable it is on hills. A lot of people questioned getting a 3 speed in this area. Thinking of buying the Brilliant Cooper for my son.

[@joellebrodeur1015]

That occurs during shipping mainly. I received my Classic Plus earlier this month and took it in for a post assembly inspection. Both wheels were out of true and the brakes were then readjusted.

[@retsimlegin4372]

Having bought a belt-driven pushbike a few years ago (that one has Shimano Alfine 11 speed gearbox) I don't ever want to revert to a chain. And having had both gearboxes (of various types) and derailleurs (of various types) over the years, I'd never willingly revert to a derailleur either. So, when I decided to get an EBike recently - yes, it has a gearbox and a belt. When they say maintenance free, I'd tend to concur. The pushbike has gone about 3500 miles with the only maintenance being a gearbox oil change. It's probably about due for another. No stretching or other damage to the belt and (importantly) no adjustment needed to keep those gears changing smoothly. If there were one advantage (beyond subjective like or dislike) of a gearbox, it's the ability to change gear when the mechnaism is not in motion. So, stop or slow unexpectedly, on a hill, and you can put it in the right starting gear before you set off again. Lovely.

[@briangay5418]

Great review of what appears to be a great bicycle! I remember riding the 70's 3 speeds and it's good to see a newer company making them especially with the Gates belt drive.

[@TheSongBlade]

Getting mine tomorrow! Excited to see how it is. Hope it doesn't have the problem with the wheels being out of true

[@klallmo]

If it's shipping in, you very well may. Be prepared to take it to your local bike shop. The super nice folks at Brilliant really want to give you an awesome riding experience and offered to pay for my truing. Regardless, you will not be disappointed in the bike!

[@joellebrodeur1015]

@@klallmo My Priority Classic Plus had both wheels out of true. I only paid $40 for a basic tune up and wheel true. I don't think I'll bother asking to be reimbursed for something so nominal.

[@johnrodriguez2222]

How tall are you and what size bike did you get? That’s what I’m curious about for me.

[@jeshely]

For the experts in the topic, would this bike being 1020 high tensile steel be a concern for a commuter style of bike? I plan on using twice a week for commuting plus fun leisure rides with friends on weekends. I was comparing this one with the L Train which uses chromoly which I like but I don’t see me needing the extra gears and cost more.

[@andwevibin8518]

What size frame did you get? And what is the wheel size?

[@jamesnewton1196]

All gears, including internal geared hubs, make a clicking sound, except the standard gear.

[@CheerUp2]

Hi there I was wondering if you know if the handle bars are adjustable? I really like this bike but sadly I hate with a burning firey passion, bikes that have the seat higher up than the handle bars and forces you to lean forward. Do you know if this come up at all?

[@klallmo]

Hey, yea they are slightly adjustable. In the video, the handlebars are about halfway up, I really like the set up and that’s the way I have kept them since I first put the bike together. Hope that helps.

[@steveeg1525]

I would really love to try out this bike it's cheap reliable very low maintenance I think this would make an outstanding commuter bike and even in the bike for long-distance, thank you for another outstanding review.

[@klallmo]

I can say for certain, it’s an all around fantastic bike. The only real downside is the limited 3 speed, but the gear ratio is so good, you barely notice. I live in a hilly area too. You would not be disappointed IMO.

[@jeshely]

Very Classy! Great review.

[@tructran8783]

What the 3rd gear for? gaining speed? When ? in which situation we use 3rd gear?? thx.

[@klallmo]

You are correct. The 3rd gear is used on the downhill to gain speed. The 2nd gear is mostly used for the flats and 1st gear is for climbing. Hope that helps. Thanks!

[@walterbyrd8380]

How bad is the clicking noise from the internal hub? Does it click all the time?

[@klallmo]

It does click all the time, but it’s barely noticeable. When I asked Brilliant about this, they stated it would go away over time. To be clear, the clicking does not go away, you just get used to hearing it, which is what I believe they were referencing.

[@MrQuay03]

First gear has absolutely no clicking sound. The clicking in 2nd and 3rd gears are there by design. They are similar to the ratchet sound from wrench tool. 2nd gear is direct drive, 1st gear is 33% easier, 3rd is 33% harder

[@Globeguy1]

With use, the clicking volume decreases. We have two 3 IGH bikes, mine is significantly quieter than my wife's now. They used to be same.

[@GordoGambler]

@@MrQuay03 You are describing the Sturmey Archer 3 speed. NOT the same as Shimano 3.

[@LL-tx2kj]

Are there frame mounting points so you can easily upgrade to aftermarket disc brakes?

[@klallmo]

There are some mounting points on both the front and rear dropouts, but I believe they are more for the addition of racks and accessories of that nature. I am not much of a rim brake fan either, but after I got the stock ones adjusted, they really do a good job!

[@LL-tx2kj]

Kevin Allmond Thanks for reply, unfortunately have to go elsewhere as shipping costs are horrendous outside US with no options for slower/cheaper shipping.

[@klallmo]

L L That stinks. I hope it works out for you.

[@gauras2000]

Very low maintenance. Changing the tube was a breeze. 3 speed plenty for me. It looks so simple but drives beautifully

[@Kaufeetimevideo]

How does the belt stay on? I don't see any guides to keep the belt on. I would be worried that my heal could hit it and throw it off.

[@joellebrodeur1015]

The cogs and belts have vertical slots that keep everything in line. It will never pop right off.

[@quilu7470]

Great review. What size is this bike? Did the kickstand come with the bike?

[@klallmo]

Qui Lu - Thanks for the question. Mine is a size large. I am 5’10 (177.8 cm) and it fits me perfectly. Yes, the kickstand comes factory installed! I appreciate the comment!

[@quilu7470]

@@klallmo Thanks for the information provided. :) My cooper bike won't be shipped until Oct 7th, quite a long wait

[@klallmo]

Qui Lu worth the wait IMO. Congrats on the new ride. You will enjoy it.

[@AB-jm3iu]

Qui Lu , just ordered one with a shipping date of 31 October, appreciate if you have any change in yr shipping date to let us know good luck with your bike.

[@quilu7470]

@@AB-jm3iu Brilliant sent me an email last week stating my bike shipping is delayed until Oct 31st, originally shipping was on Oct 7. Well, I guess more waiting

[@truliapro7112]

Can I make it tubless ?

[@mercuryminute]

It would be good to see the bike from a distance moving up the hill!

[@BooLee01]

Same here. I have been looking at the Priority Apollo and trying desperately to find some climbing videos.

[@john12ryan]

@@BooLee01 Based on my experience with the Apollo, if the cyclist is fit he or she can climb any hills. So far I have no problem ascending with the Apollo using the 1st gear.

[@GordoGambler]

@@john12ryan Knees have a limit. It's foolish to exceed it.

[@chriscampana89]

I figure the weight limit for this bike is 275 pounds. I’m 310, would I break the bike if i ride it? Give or take

[@klallmo]

Thanks for the question. I am not sure on the limit and have reached out to Brilliant support. They should be able to answer that for us. This I know for sure; Cooper has a steel frame. That could change the rules a bit so let’s wait for their reply. I will let you know as soon as I hear back.

[@chriscampana89]

Kevin Allmond THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! awesome video.

[@klallmo]

@@chriscampana89 Thanks for watching! I heard back from Brilliant Support. Unfortunately, 275lbs is the max recommended weight. The Cooper is pretty sturdy, so I don't think you would "break the bike" per se, however there could be potential issues over extended time. Another thing Brilliant mentioned is that there may also be a geometry change to consider as well. If you were to pick a Cooper up, those would be some things for you to consider. Good luck in your decision. Let me know if you have any other questions!

[@chriscampana89]

Kevin Allmond can’t thank you enough for the follow up. I went ahead and bought it (it’s actually coming today haha) I’ve lost over 80 pounds so far this year so I’m not worried about having to lose some more before I ride! Again thank you so much!!!!

[@klallmo]

chriscampana89 that is awesome! Congrats on the new ride. You will enjoy it! Keep it up!

[@AB-jm3iu]

Thanks for the video, just ordered one, appreciate if you have any notes or issues on the bike.

[@klallmo]

A B thank you for watching! It’s been my go-to since I got it in mid-July and there has been nothing more to call out aside from the points in the video. It’s a dream to ride now. I would suggest a trip to your local bike shop though after you get Cooper. Get those tires trued up and a safety check. Enjoy the bike!!

[@nearly-blindbrian8372]

I love my Cooper, I wish it had a 7 speed hub, but for the price, I get it.. I did switch out the grips so Prioirity vegan leather. also, Priority accessories wil fit on the cooper, I picked up a front rack and fenders and they fit perfectly.

[@GordoGambler]

I have a Nexus 7i too. Do NOT get one with their idiotic boat anchor roller brakes. SA drum brakes have ZERO drag and need ZERO service.

[@dannyize]

I have the Brilliant L-Train. Both the Cooper and the L-Train are nice-looking bikes in my opinion. Some of the deals available when the Cooper came out made me regret spending a lot more. I love three-speeds. If you can find a trigger shifter, it's worth replacing the lame twist shifter either bike comes with. I replaced mine for about $25. I really dislike twist shiters; they limit your handlebar options. I also dislike coaster brakes. Give me two hand brakes. The seven speed is OK. However, 3-speed bikes are MUCH easier to remove the back wheel from. Flat repair is less aggravating. Disconnecting the shift cable from my Nexus 7 hub is fiddly and a hassle. So, you really aren't missing that much.

[@iamdjsluggo]

Great video Production. Voiceover, music all there. Why’d you stop making videos?

[@klallmo]

Thanks for the comment. Unfortunately, life caught up with me and it became increasingly difficult to produce these videos in the manner that I wanted and still have time for work and family. I have some ideas on the horizon though so stay tuned!

[@davidwpinkston4226]

there is room on the street

[@tomherron4334]

It’s now $550 :(

[@GordoGambler]

So???

[@randomdude5938]

@@GordoGambler so it’s 35% more than it was shown to be in the video. You ok?

[@TwoNote]

Sucks that the prices of these bikes have gone up quite a bit.

[@MrQuay03]

Here is a tip: if you have Costco membership, go to Costco Next Priority page to get 20% off $550. Not bad

[@klallmo]

I really did not realize that the Cooper had jumped up $150 in price until this comment. I hate that as well, but still well worth the money. I can only assume it has to do with demand and lack of supply due to the pandemic. Hopefully when things settle down, the price will come back down with it.

[@search4truth104]

Shoes should have shoelaces.

[@frankducett9]

If you have to bring your bike to a bike shop... then you should simply go there in the first place. If you're a good mechanic, and have real bike tools, then go ahead and do it yourself. This bike however should not have unexplained clicking that will "go away" in time.

[@joellebrodeur1015]

Internal geared hubs tend to click on some gears. It could also be that he did not adjust the part that shifts the hub's pin (it's the piece hooked to the outside of the drive side). I have a Priority Classic Plus and it has some clicking. They also have a video explaining what is normal and not normal to hear and experience on the standard 3 speed Nexus hubs.

[@retsimlegin4372]

My first gearbox (in 1965) was a Sturmey Archer 3 speed and that, like all of them, clicked in use. It's not "unexplained"; it's part of the mechnaism.

[@georgevavoulis4758]

I am so fed up with bicycles costing so much I may as well just buy a Vespa motor scooter instead . Absolutely no way anybody should pay this much for a bicycle . British Brompton folding bikes are over $5,000 in Canada and go much hire . Single speed bikes should sell $300 not $1,000

[@frankducett9]

I do not see the advantage of the carbon belt drive. I ride 7 days per week and have been for 49 years. I enjoy tinkering with bikes, with the suspicious internal gearing I would be deprived of tinkering and powerless to actually make any repairs. They have managed to find a little niche in a very collective world and are making slot of money. These belts do break, see Ryan Van Rider videos, he carries an extra belt, hmmm.

[@joellebrodeur1015]

Not everyone wants to piss away time tinkering on bikes. And I saw Ryan's video. That belt brake didn't happen on it's own. He effed up the belt tension and that caused the break (he did a follow up video and said he screwed up). Those are composite belts. You have to really screw up for something like that to break. It's not a rubber reinforced belt like the serpentine drive belts on engines.

[@MrStingraybernard]

Your seat was to low

[@GordoGambler]

Then the bike is too small.

[@Suber156]

😎! 4:00 So so some bike videos! Get it Good to view my videos on your iPhone SE open your KZbin app and then search up Joseph Allmond!

[@GordoGambler]

Way too much looking at the ground view. Should cost more and come better assembled. The pedal bearings are so tight you can screw them to the arm like that?? LOL What a joke. My new bike came with those exact pedals. First thing I did was take them apart. Most pedals are stupidly tight when new. Then anyway I got upgrade Vsixty pedals with pegs so my shoe won't slip. I have a Sturmey Archer drum brake 3 and 5w speed. Absolutely Fabulous and dead simple to take apart. I do lots of 100+ mile rides. Need a light bike like a hole in the head. Rim scratch brakes, NO thanks.

[@mherzig95]

Nice bike, but what are you doing in the side walk? It’s a vehicle. Ride it like one. Bikes belong in the street.

[@GordoGambler]

At 5 mph, stay on the sidewalk.

[@boogboog8097]

It's a geek bike does nothing new.

[@joellebrodeur1015]

Have you ridden a belt drive bike before?