Zizzo forte - the fatal flaw

[@becomeaudible1]

I bought a Forte a couple weeks ago and have had zero issues with shifting. I also weigh 300lbs. I love the bike and will be ridding it like crazy.

[@ibikeunfolded]

Glad yours is working. Maybe I got a lemon? I will be changing out my drive train and then it will be a great bike.

[@becomeaudible1]

i bike unfolded to be honest I wasn't paying enough attention when I bought it. I assumed it was the same as the other higher priced bikes. I'm going to piece meal upgrade the entire drive train over the next few months. The bike is tough as hell and rides pretty damn smooth. I even bought the corral color. The looks I get are priceless. I bought it to always have with me so I can unfold and ride it anytime.

[@ibikeunfolded]

@@becomeaudible1 they are strong bikes for sure. 💪

[@becomeaudible1]

@@ibikeunfolded just a tip, I emailed Zizzo and asked what derailer they would suggest and they reminded me that by upgrading I could void the warrantee. I’m going to do it anyway. I do think it really needs it. After riding it some more I really do love he bike. A folding bike is the best idea ever. Also, I’m 300lbs and I’ve put some more weight in it and it has zero problems with it. It’s an incredibly tough little bike.

[@becomeaudible1]

@@ibikeunfolded my Zizzo just went in for a new derailer and new trigger shifters. I’m not a fan of grip shift. These are the 2 things I see as the weak links on the bike. I will be picking it up the 15th. I do think it will be a much better bike once it’s done.

[@kaku00]

I really love your reviews! They are quite honest. My wife daughter and I each have a Zizzo Via which have the exact same drive train. I couldn't agree more with you on this. I have adjusted the heck out of these derailleurs, but they ghost jump constantly. Why 3 Via you ask? I live in Hawaii and the Via ships free with prime on Amazon none of the other Zizzo ship free. 🤔 I originally wanted Liberte but shipping was cost prohibitive for me. Unfortunately changing out 3 drive trains is also somewhat cost prohibitive for me as well. 🥴 We have ridden on 30 mile rides, but it is annoying. We primarily now ride them under 5 miles. Less annoying. I'm eager to see how you upgrade in future Videos. I don't want to give people the wrong impression though, for what Zizzo is and it's price point I am very happy. There are just a few things that need help to be great, and people should be aware of this going in. Mahalo 🤙

[@Ratlins9]

I can’t praise your videos enough for your truthfulness in critiquing folding bikes. I was hoping to find a bike reviewer with integrity and pleased to say, “you are that person”. I’m now a subscriber.

[@ibikeunfolded]

Thank you…. I appreciate you. I just want to tell it like it is..

[@tomallen6073]

The drivetrain is why I went with the urbano and just bought the accessories separate. Mine just came in today, need to put some miles on it to see how it holds up. Btw I’m 6 ‘5’’ and 220lbs with a 36inch inseam and the bike might be just a little on the small size but fits me well enough for those who are on the fence. ‘

[@evelynvega1730]

You are very good articulating and reviewing bikes. Take the good and leave the bad. thank you Brian, be save.

[@ibikeunfolded]

Thank you, I am getting better. I am not a good speaker and the videos help me become a better one.

[@Ghost-sz7uo]

it's really unfortunate that the forte didn't live up to your expectations. have you tried reaching out to zizzo about the issue? i have the via and love it. hopefully, you'll continue to make zizzo content!

[@ibikeunfolded]

I am going to change out the drive train and then everything will be fine. I think I just got a lemon so I am going to make some lemonade. I will continue to make zizzo videos. Like I said in the video, I love my liberte so i am sure I will be doing more videos with the forte and liberte in the future.

[@jonscott623]

Hi - thanks for the great video. I was about to buy the zizzo forte, but had concerns after seeing your review. I went to the website and found that they have a new 2023 model that has some changes/upgrades. I’m wondering if these fix any or most of the drivetrain issues you raised in the review. The changes that looked most significant to me are: 8 speed, Altus rear derailleur, Prowheel aluminum alloy crank arm, 170mm black anodized w/black aluminum chainring cover (as opposed to the previous Aluminum Alloy Crank arm; steel integrated chainring; 170mm; black anodized w/black; PVC chainring cover). The derailleur seemed to be what you were most critical of. Does this look, overall, liked they’ve fixed the issues you have with the bike?

[@DukeTrana]

I just got mine in early April '23, and it has been flawless so far after a few weeks and several multi-mile rides.

[@kzarz0219]

I hope the suits at Zizzo sees this video. Thanks Brian.

[@ibikeunfolded]

I hope not😂. They will probably send some goons after me. Just kidding, I hope they just make an option to upgrade the drive trains on some of the other models.

[@woodsculptor675]

@@ibikeunfolded Let me know if they send some goons after you. I will send some goons after their goons.

[@garyspears7342]

For the under $500 price this is a great value. Now that I've had a folding bike for a couple years and know that I really enjoy having one I'm ready to upgrade to a Brompton or a bike Friday. The rear derailleur is fine even after a thousand + miles. My big issue was that the chain would come off the front chainring is Shifting to rapidly to the smallest Cog in the rear. I moved the front chainring plastic chain stop down closer to the chainring which solved the problem.

[@jokojoko5980]

Great review Brian! I was just going to buy a Zizzo bike and I expect the bike to be able to carry heavy stuff. Now Forte gets off the list.

[@ibikeunfolded]

Don’t totally discount it. I just said the drive train sucked. The rest of the bike is awesome. After I make a few upgrades it will probably be one of my favorite bikes.

[@jokojoko5980]

@@ibikeunfolded Looking forward to seeing the video on your upgrades!

[@TheMrjonv]

You are doing a great service making videos such as this. Thank you so much!!

[@paulanderson388]

I think the Forte is still a"good" bike that unfortunately has a cheesy derailleur. The easiest fix would be to just put an inexpensive Altus derailleur on it right out of the box, and then upgrade to an 8 speed drivetrain as the original 7 speed cluster and shifter wear out. I agree with you that they should haved equipped the Forte with the same drivetrain as the Urbano. It makes good sense to have more gear ratios on a bike that will see more loaded or heavy duty use. Love your videos.

[@PRH123]

Kinda think there's no issues with the Tourney derailleur. Issues are more likely inaccurate/ incorrect cable pull by the shifter, slack cable, misaligned frame, or slop in the freewheel / freehub. The shifter may be designed to a different cassette spacing than is actually on the bike. That happens with cheaper bikes. Mismatched derailleur + shifter + cassette + maybe chain too. You're right Altus derailleur is good, in fact excellent, it only differs from a 105 or better in its weight essentially. Shifts are crisp and accurate if you have the right shifter and everything else.

[@nojo19363]

I absolutely love my forte I actually bought two of them one for myself and for my sister and we love them I understand your issue being a real cyclist we just ride our bikes for fun and we enjoy them

[@gmcjetpilot]

14:54 I just bought a folding bike (Not a Zizzo but like it). It came with a Shimano Tourney RD-TY21B derailleur. *Same one you have on this Forte'.* Out of box bike would not shift into #1 gear. I adjusted it. It worked PERFECT, smooth, fast, quiet. But the side play of cage/pulleys was way too much for me to accept. As you say per my research and forum post, it is hit or miss. Shimano rivets that direct mount plate on, and that is where the play is. May be they get some right, but mine was loose like yours. Yet it worked. Did not have the shifting issues you had however. I showed it to a bike mechanic and he said ride it until it fails. I replaced it myself with Shimano Altus M310 (same shifter on the Liberté . They are on line for $23 and bike shops $32. Got mine for $16. Shifts the same with Altus derailleur, quiet, accurate, but not all floppy. The cage/pulleys are aligned dead on. The Altus is slightly larger, heavier and sticks out a tad more. However the Tourney is junk. The upgrade is easy however. Having the pulleys being at cockeyed angles on the Tourney must cause chain and gear wear. Weird thing is the Tourney RD-TY21 sells for about the same price as the Altus M310 or even more than the Altus. BTW I have an almost brand new one barely used for sale. Ha ha. I am kind of joking, I cold sell it on eBay. But in good consciences I can't. This needs to be smashed to bits. I may call Shimano and ask for warranty. However the bike maker Green Zone gave me a small refund that more than paid for the the new derailleur. Green Zone is a very good bike and worth a look. Very similar to Zizzo but the wheel base unfolded is about 40.5 inches, which is 2.5" longer than Zizzo. I LOVE the ride of the Green Zone and it cost less than Zizzo. The down side was of course the garbage derailleur. That was it. Everything else is excellent and comes with carry case/bag, rear rack, fenders, water bottle and holder.

[@wthompson006]

Disappointing to hear this. I also have a Brompton M6R and a stock Forte by Zizzo. They are very different bikes but I haven’t had these issues. I have a feeling I might be the type of person you discussed who doesn’t put the bicycle through extraordinary stress. Being close to 50, I tend to be a bit more conservative with the speeds I try to ride and the terrain I take it on normally. I would be VERY interested to know what modifications you make to the u Forte drivetrain. As always, this is great and informative content and even though it’s disappointing news, I appreciate the honesty and lack of bias. As far as I know, you purchased all of your bikes with your own funds.

[@MrHwin]

I just bought the Forte, and based on your previous Zizzo review, I took the jump to purchase assuming this pricier model should be as good. But yes, on my 2nd ride I notice that the drivetrain doesn't feel smooth and I'm nowhere close to 300lbs. Too bad I wasn't patient enough to get the bike before this vid comes out.

[@ibikeunfolded]

Not all is lost.....the bike is a great bike, you just have to spend a little extra and up grade some of the components.

[@blueyonder1233]

Brian, I've been watching your video's since when you were lucky to get views in the 10's. This is one of your best. The street footage in particular is first-class. 🥇

[@ibikeunfolded]

Thanks, you have been around a while. I appreciate the complement on my filming.....I am still learning.😃

[@dannydnice1]

I upgraded my chain and derailer. Shifts like butter. I did spend 225 on a new derailer but it was worth it. The chain is snug and sturdy

[@Kleingarten]

I'm really looking forward to see how the bike will perform after you changed some things.

[@ibikeunfolded]

So am I. I know once I change some things out, that bike will be one of my favorites.

[@dorianblue4229]

Hey Brian you're the man, I have so much (good) fun watching your vids from Italy, your way of speaking IS fun, just like a cool movie. In this case here, I see they did just like Dahon with their big load bike, is it the "SUV", and if I remember well it's 6 gears. Which really IS sh*t because you can't expand the sprocket range, with a megarange or something. Which, is still cheaper and easier than expanding with a bigger chainring - and you did even that - so don't be such a cry baby bud!! 😁☺️ I still have an entry level 6-speed foldie, a 2011 dawes jack which equates a Dahon Roo (the Roo had 7 speed though, again). It does its job, with decent uphill/downhill grades too. Let's be honest, yes you put a lotta stress on the drivetrain, but on a "cargo load" foldie you won't do crazy speed rides anyway. Even with its cheap screw-on freewheel, on the Forte you can still easily fit a 11-34 sprocket piece. With a 48ish chainring it's good enough. Bottom line, I do love your mega chainrings but... where the hell can one really pedal on a 60+ t. ring? On a superlong straight descent maybe? And, what about headwinds etc.? I have a rather strong leg but a 53t like some dahon - owned for years - is more than enough for me. Well anyways. Respect! Ciao!! And keep the goooooood work man!

[@sojurn48]

Brian, The Zizzo Forte is perfect for the price. Easy step-through entry, adjustable stem and handlebars, ergonomic grips, comfortable seat, fendens, mudguards, rack, heavy duty frame and tires, 300 lb weight limit all for around $400.00 I can climb the hills in my neighborhood easily using all 6 gears. It’s not a Brompton $1,500.00 plus but give me a break! Third week update. Brian, you were right and I was wrong. When I'm climbing my chain slips out of 1st gear.

[@sojurn48]

After spending a week learning about adjusting derailleurs, I have been able to correct the problem.

[@andrechezlewis]

I’m looking at the Zizzo website and it looks like they’ve updated to a new Forte 2023 model with the same drivetrain as the Liberte.

[@ibikeunfolded]

I know, they sent me one to look at. Should have a video out soon.

[@JTGould]

I bought a Forte a year ago for the exact same reasons mentioned in this video. I like everything about the bike except for the shifting. I was riding it casually and the chain just came off the drivetrain for no reason at all. I didnt want an expensive Brompton but something I could use as an all purpose bike that I could easily fold up in my small car which it does great. Thanks for the honest video and kind of relieved I am not the only one with the same experience with this bike.

[@dawn_rider]

The lower speed chains e.g. 7 & 8 speed are generally not great quality. 9 speed is really the minimum where you get hardened pins, better chain coatings which reduce the chain wear rate / rust durability and better dimensional tolerances. Industry development goes into road & mountain bike race chains and quality chains for these currently tend to be for >=10 speed. Derailleur development follows the same pattern which implies that for most of the current generation of folding bikes the derailleur quality won't be top notch. I did note the Tern Verge P10 that Brian reviewed is an exception to this , being 10 speed and having much better quality drivetrain components. For other folding bikes it's probably possible to widen the cage plates in say a 10 speed derailleur so it will take an 8 speed chain as you can buy longer jockey wheel screws. You can certainly upgrade the jockey wheels if they are horrible quality as I have done that. For chainrings, the cheap ones are stamped out of a sheet of metal . The best ones are CNC machined so the shape of the teeth are accurate. The materials matter. Cheap Aluminum chainrings are usually made of 6061 alloy. The good ones are heat treated 7075 alloy. You can also buy stainless steel ones like from Surly Bikes but I think they only go up to 50T. Avoid painted mild steel rings as the paint eventually chips and they look horrible !

[@sharkmentality9717]

You are the guy to give us a great review of the Schlumpf Mountain Drive. Best front spocket, climbing hills, speed on the flats. Come on man!!

[@andb3887]

Informative review Brian. I have a Tern S11 as a commuter bike and a X22 as a road bike. Wouldn't go back to non folders as they are so practical. See weather has picked up eh? Your journeys to work look a lot more traffic congested; stay safe. Great vlog as always 👍🚲🇬🇧

[@ibikeunfolded]

Weather is getting better.....well sort of. 😃. I would not go back to regular bikes either. Love the folders-they fit into our lives so easily.

[@blkout3279]

Good video. I had to adjust mine too and when I hit a steep enough incline it will do the ghost shifting on flats it’s fine. I plan on upgrading the drive also. Good video look forward to see your upgrades.

[@ibikeunfolded]

Thank you. I will definitely film an upgrade video👍

[@duyle557]

I own the ferro--which is the lowest end model. I just replaced the crank arms and added a 50t chainring. Problem solved. Also swapped out the twist shifter for for trigger and better brake handles.

[@KennethWuAU]

Production of cheap drive trains needs to stop! It's a massive hazard and liability on roads. I never understood why Shimano and other drive train manufacturers keep so many SKU's of the budget stuff. Get rid of it and focus on economies of scale for your medium to high low-end SKU's. It should be legally required that bike perform a roadworthiness sign-off every so often.

[@ibikeunfolded]

I couldn’t agree with you more.👍😃

[@merlemunque1876]

An Altus derailleur is around 25 bucks on ebay. I recall Tourneys were about 14 bucks.

[@qui11]

I have the Urbano (was debating between Liberte and Urbano but decided I want bolt-on nuts, wider tires and wider seat). It weighs 24lbs, probably 1lb heavier than Liberte, and it shifts amazingly. Regarding Tourney derailleur issue you have, I think you just happened to get a bad Tourney, I have a few Tourney derailleurs and they shift fine with no phantom shifts. Tourney is a bit slower and very noisy on bumps

[@ibikeunfolded]

Yes, I said this in the video. Some of them are good, and some are bad. It’s hit or miss. The type of bike the derailleur is fitted to also has an effect on the performance. Urbano and forte are the best zizzo bikes.😃👍

[@whazzat8015]

Well packed. Seat , bars and gearing always need to be customized, unless mom buys you clothes at Costco. Checking the derailieur alignment is part of new bike set up and the first thing to check when adjusting cables doesn't make shifting happy. Smooth shifting is what you pay the bucks for in shiftgear. 30$ for an Altus vs $20 for Tourney, retail. on a $430 bike FFS. Bike looks otherwise decent, and if you want a cargo bike , get a trailer. BOB or Travoy. Consider a 3x9 rear if you ride it much. Easy build $150tot Either ways , you end up with a decent bike at a decent price. Get a 105 RD , and smile when you ride it.

[@practicalguy973]

I bike hard and have been destroying drive trains (mainly bottom bracket bearings and crank arm connections) for years on mountain bikes. I'm just getting into folding bikes and I wanted something that is not internal gear hub. I'd rather external gears and rear derailleur. I''m 225 pounds and can't believe that most adult folding bike brands are rated mostly between 220-240 pounds. I will want a rack bag on mine and with carrying anything I'm over. I'm going to add a coil spring seat so some shear force is minimized at least. The weakest parts of these bikes look like the fork, head tube and frame hinge. I think I'll stick to rear rack bag only which looks like the strongest part of the bike and puts load right on the back wheel. I'm not opposed to changing the drive train if going with the heavy duty model. I agree with you that they should not have put a cheap drive train on the heavy duty bike! Might be great to put a mountain bike style drive train like the Microshift AdventX for a little more gear range. I wonder if it would fit, its meant to work with the typical Shimano free hub on 26" wheels. I have that AdventX for my mountain bike, might have to swap it to the folding bike when I get one and if its works order another set for my mountain bike.

[@greenhill004]

Amazon had the Campo for $230, so I bought one to travel with. Went to my local post office then they sent it to another delivery service. It was lost. So now I'm back at step one.

[@mlee6050]

I had that on some of my bikes, it is why I ride around as adjust the gears when stop and check again

[@tomshahriari6602]

My wife was watching over my shoulder and she said wow, he tells them how he feels!” Bravo, dont change. Call em as you see em.

[@PaulBarnes1968]

Glad I saw this. I was considering ordering the Mini Cooper bike until I saw the Zizzo. Much cheaper and better.

[@bigtexas7580]

*My Altus RD recently started phantom shifting, I tried changing the jockey wheels to 16T and 14T sealed bearing pulley wheels but didn't make a difference. Ebay here I come; $32 later and now I have a Deore XT RD which shifts perfectly (won it in an auction). I overload my bike all the time, it's rated for 230lbs, I weigh 225 and my 6 year old daughter who has her own passenger seat on the bike weighs 80 lbs. Our combined weight is over 300 lbs and this bike carries us both without a struggle. Only thing I had to do was upgrade the cheap headset that came on the bike (it started squealing under load) to an aluminum Litepro headset with sealed bearings and now this bike is a tank. Next thing I will do to this bike is replace the fork with an air suspension fork for smoother riding.*

[@jfouellette5174]

One way around the problem with low performance derailleurs is to replace them with a better quality one by buying an old one designed for 6 7 speeds. I replaced mine with an old Shimano 105 7 speed. Problem fixed. What is the price of a Zizzo? The lower the price is often a sign of low performance components. BTW nice videos.

[@mlee6050]

Top 3/4 most important Frame, wheels Brakes Drive train In that order as best they not cheap out on brakes as might not stop

[@thetds101]

Great review. I'd definitely swap out the complete drivetrain on the Forte. Then it'll be a great bike. As it stands, it's nowhere near it's potential.

[@colinhoward2200]

Yeah - you are right. People underestimate what a difference the drive chain makes. I made the mistake in the UK of having my relatively expensive hybrids bike serviced by a National company, They replaced all the parts with cheap versions to make it look as if they were offering a cheap service - but they whole bone felt like total cr*p afterwards so had to take it to a proper bike shop and spend the correct amount of money on top of the cheap service to get to correct components added back. Good video as always 😀

[@mlee6050]

And why I service myself, also I wish more knew me as if got buckled wheel I happy do them at no cost unless lots to do

[@PRH123]

Evans cycles by chance..? A good bike shop that doesn't lie and f things up is a very rare gem, when found they should be treasured....

[@stevegelman7838]

Great video and information I'm definitely thinking about getting the Zizzo Libety thank you for all your great videos I have a lot of respect for you and all your hard work

[@ibikeunfolded]

I appreciate that, thank you. I like making videos about bikes so it’s my pleasure.😃👍

[@m.e.3862]

Thanks for the info. Was about to get it but now will probably get the liberty from your review 🙂

[@ibikeunfolded]

Don’t get me wrong, it’s a solid bike. I just wish they put a better drive train on it. I would have paid the 50-60 dollars extra to have the drive train off of the liberte. It would be a great bike once I upgrade the drive train.

[@eml3148]

FIGURES! 10 minutes before I seen your video, I just ordered it. :( Great Video!

[@hhoebeke1]

Good video - would like to see some more Brommie action - in particular your Chpt 3 :-)

[@ibikeunfolded]

I am about done with the zizzo videos for a while. Been riding my bromine a lot lately and he’s getting jealous over the lack of attention.😊

[@prieten49]

Weren't we promised a review of the Zizzo website? Which video is that in?

[@jrushen4235]

On my folder I have a Shimano finger and thumb gear changer which I think is much nicer than the twist grip. You can buy the parts and retro fit it.

[@ibikeunfolded]

Thanks, we called those trigger shifters.

[@trigs1441]

Great review as per usual.Keep them coming.

[@ibikeunfolded]

Thank you, I appreciate that.👍

[@onlyonetoserve9586]

Grate info. I lern lot from you

[@ibikeunfolded]

Thank you, I appreciate you.

[@ilkeakdeniz1620]

Hi Brian, I have a similar experience with Forte. Would it be possible to replace just the derailleur with Altus or another better Shimano derailleur instead of replacing the entire drivetrain?

[@ibikeunfolded]

Yes, that would work. I was only wanting to replace the front gear because I wanted a bigger gear, but you can totally get away with just replacing the derailleur.👍😃

[@kielday1666]

what is the brand that you use for the chainring upgrade you did for the liberte?

[@edenaimusic]

Hey Brian, thanks for this video! I also have a lemon Forte with delayed gear shifting even after Zizzo was kind enough to replace the casette and pay for the labor (great customer service). Can you please let me know which exact parts you are upgrading and to which pieces? I'd like to do the same. Thank you

[@josefprobst7090]

I have a forte 2023, is the one in the video the 2023 or the original model?

[@ibikeunfolded]

Original model. The 2023 model fixed the issue I was complaining about.

[@elmop3609]

Would you please keep us informed on upgrades you are going to do?

[@toddjohnson6809]

I have the 2023 Ferro that has the same issue. The roads I run on are rough. Phantom shifts and throws the chain.

[@saurabhsonic]

I slapped a like on this really good review video.

[@ibikeunfolded]

Thank you, I appreciate that😀👍

[@garethleaney888]

Great video Brian, England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@tallonhunter3663]

I bought a forte as a primary vehicle after seeing your liberte review (and the favorable comparison to your brompton), and being around 240 (so no cargo if i chose another). I've had it going three weeks almost every day, had some issues with the front magnet and rear reflector shaking lose. I'm in the BC Interior and ... that 11-28 cassette is not adequate for a proper hill. Replaced it with a SRAM 12-32 after a week and have been ok. I noticed the phantom shifting, also had chain jumping. Adjusted the derailleur twice now, once before changing the cassette, once after replacing it. This is part of why i got it though, high capacity tinker folder. The idea that you can replace/upgrade pretty much anything at a local store was a draw for me.

[@ibikeunfolded]

Yeah, I thing it has the potential to be a great bike...once I upgrade some stuff that is. I will keep posted about the parts I upgrade....

[@kervinrodriguez1833]

I’m a new subscriber and really been enjoying your channel. Thanks for the review I’m thinking of purchasing a zizzo bike as a Father’s Day present to myself. I’m leaning towards the campo since it’s only for recreational and getting in better shape.

[@ibikeunfolded]

Thank you, and welcome. Depending on what you are using the bike for the campo can be a good bike. For recreation and light riding-fine, but for heavy duty bike packing-maybe not so much. Regardless, the zizzo frames are rock solid and any parts can be changed out if need be.

[@CarsonRH]

@@ibikeunfolded it's good to hear that the frame is solid.

[@kelalamusic9258]

Great review, as is all of yours. Sleek looking bike. Maybe it’s me, I don’t know, but when you were riding, most likely using a chest mounted can, I noticed that the handlebars aren’t all that wide. Like I said, most like me, the way I’m viewing them. How wide are the handlebars, by the way. Thanks.

[@brucesmith9144]

Oh, the irony that the advertisement preceding this video was for Zizzo.

[@miguelalarcon1552]

Thank you, I was already thinking of buying it... Not any more.

[@SM-bm7mk]

Hi. I like your videos. You seem very knowledgeable about bikes and folding bikes. I'm considering a folding bike with an internal hub (multispeed). Citizen, Worksman, and Sun all have 3 speed. Worksman and Tern have 7 speeds. And Downtube has 8 & 11 speeds with belt drive (not a chain). Those are the only brands that I have found with Internal hubs. Internal hubs keep the bike cleaner and shift smoother / less mechanical problems from my research. I live in an area that is basically flat, no steep uphills / downhills. Would like to stay under $1000. Any suggestions or comments about any of the brands above or other brands that you may know or about internal hubs are greatly appreciated. Thank you.

[@PRH123]

Hmm, he didn't give you any suggestions, did he...

[@SM-bm7mk]

@@PRH123 Hi. I found a used Tern Link D7i on Offerup. My First folding bike. It definitely is a different ride than a regular full size bike. But it does have everything that I was looking for. Internal gear hub and 7 speeds. There is not a lot of gear difference like on an 18 or 21 speed bike, but I live in a relatively flat area. I will probably put a softer seat on it. And at the grocery, I can fold it and put it in a cart so I don't have to lock it up. Anymore, bikes in the Phoenix area are stolen as soon as you turn your back. So far it has been a good little bike, but I did have one fall as I tried to navigate an almost u-turn while turning onto a path. I won't go that way again. 🙂 If I were to get something else, I'd probably go with the Tern Electric folding bike. It is a little bigger and heavier, but there is one long incline that wears me out with just 7 speeds. The Tern Electric is a pedal assist which means you must be pedaling for the motor to be on. I am older and I think that for safety reasons, a pedal assist is smarter. Oh, a friend, who is more of a cyclist, has a couple of Bromptons. One reason that he likes Brompton is that he can carry it on a plane and it fits in the overhead when folded. He takes it with him when he travels. Brompton has smaller wheels and a longer frame. I never road on it. So I cannot say how it rides. Good luck in your selection.

[@PRH123]

@@SM-bm7mk nice bike, good choice, I had one identical to it, only under the decathlon brand... doesn't do for distance or speed of course, but that's not what it's for... If you're healthy though and under 70, don't give in to the ebike craze... go the other way and get a faster lighter bike, and keep the folder for shopping... the sensation of a light road bike under your feet is like you're dancing on the road, you'll get so much more satisfaction than having a battery drag you around..... And you'll fly up that long incline like it's not there... :)

[@afhollister19]

Im looking to get my first folding bike. I’ll ride it in nyc but I also want to ride it on trails outside of the city that’s mixed pavement light gravel. Would you recommend the urbano/liberté or look at something like a tern link a7? Thanks!

[@StevenYoungEtc]

[@ibikeunfolded]

Making that video as we speak.😀👍

[@MegaAluchi]

Hi Brian I cant agree with you more. Zizzo didnt do a good job here with this bike. So what is your thought about changing the drive terrain? Which kind and model? How much the upgrade would cost?

[@ibikeunfolded]

Upgrade cost can vary depending on the type of components you use as a replacement. I spent about 150ish to upgrade mine. For serious cyclist the upgrade to the drive train is absolutely necessary to get the full potential from the bike.

[@MattMatt33713]

How exactly did u fix? What’s parts etc. Drivetrain and derailer right is 2 parts ? my bike is bad. Put 90miles a month I am only 180.

[@elnous]

I loved the reference to South Park. Knowing that you are in Denver, I always wondered if you liked them hahahaha!

[@ibikeunfolded]

South park is funny. I also like the fact that they don’t mind offending everyone.😃👍

[@elnous]

@@ibikeunfolded In fact, it is one of their best features xD

[@priscillahubenak5773]

Buy an Acera rear derailleur and Acera crankset. Get an Altus rapid fire shifter.

[@Austin1990]

Thank you so much for this! Although disappointing, this is very good to know. I am 200lb, so I am hesitant to get the lower end models. Any better suggestions? Or, do I just need to plan to upgrade this?

[@ibikeunfolded]

Either….the best really strong folding bikes are made by Bike Friday. The Diamond LLama can hold up to 330 lbs with the heavy rider frame option. Depending on how you ride you might not need to upgrade the zizzo much to make it usable. Some leave the front gear alone and just upgrade the derailleur. Others find the bike does “ok” as it is. I ride hardcore so my needs differ more than most.

[@npinjest7779]

Looks like Zizzo agreed, cause for Forte-2023 model they upgraded to the same components as Liberte and Urbano. Price tag went up too, as predicted, you might get it on sale.

[@Austin1990]

@@npinjest7779 That is awesome of them! I actually bought it already, and I got a new derailer at the same time. I rode the bike once with the stock derailer to see how much I needed the new one, and the chain slipped off the highest gear when I stood up to peddle. With the new derailer, it works perfectly.

[@henryfernandez2533]

Thanks for the video boss, My Urbano should arrive any day now. Do you have the link for the 62 teeth chain ring from Vuelta?, I only see ones with less teeth for that brand. I want to have it in case I decide I want more speed too :)

[@ckeilah]

What about the e-forte and the marino?

[@ibikeunfolded]

Just got the Marino in…. I let you know.😁👍

[@thatrandomtechguy9899]

Which bike do you recommend for someone 6’2 280 lbs? Folding bike that would fit in car trunk.

[@WCoast_]

I have the Urbano and the spokes are rusting. Can anyone advise on wheel upgrade?

[@bobbigrant9158]

Must Have

[@awakeningscotland]

Hi, could you possible recommend me a folding bike? I'm going round in circles here. Of course id love a brompton but cant afford. I'm a 5'3 female and want something simple and easy to maintain. ideally less then 14kg, folds small and easy. My work commute is flat and only about a mile but I need to do it fast. I'm a little nervous on the road so something steady and I like a raised handlebar. thanks!

[@elizetes7313]

Thank You for all your knowledge

[@monkeyman522]

Kind of a bummer. I'm 300lbs and was looking at the Forte'. Any ideas on a different folding bike for big guys like me?

[@ibikeunfolded]

I am making an update video about the zizzo forte. There might be hope yet.😀

[@johnjordan6032]

I can tell you the real fatal flaw and that’s their stupid foldable pedal which snapped on me mid ride causing me to crash and wreck the gears on the side. It is literally a little plastic piece that keeps the pedal in place. I noticed now they make solid completely removable pedals now vs collapsing ones, jeez I wonder why….

[@duyle557]

Isn’t the bb a square tapered? Can’t you replace the crank arms with square tapered arms and put on a larger chainring?

[@vmadugolkar]

I wanted to compare Zizzo to Tern A7. Don't see any youtube video if you can make one would be great as they both fall in same price tag. :)

[@ibikeunfolded]

I will see what I can do. I have a tern verge coming, but I can see if I can get my hands on an A7.

[@puckja616]

The title should be updated to "pre-2023" model to be more factual.

[@ibikeunfolded]

👍 good idea

[@claudearthur4532]

I have a new Campo. Same problem.

[@mohammedalshalabi3122]

Very nice, insightful video 👍

[@PuertoRicanSoja]

how do i lower the handlebar?

[@redditchscroller7049]

I would say that derailleur is faulty, you should get it replaced under warranty. There's no way that jockey wheel cage should be moving all that side to side play and zero chain tension, no wonder you are skipping gears!!

[@TheMrjonv]

Yea,.,.,, Its day 3 of my Forte and guess what!?? I noticed the same problem the day I received it. But, day 2 I only went a quarter of a mile with no problem. Now, I am VERY disappointed....

[@adamrivera5730]

do you have any recommendations for a replacement drivetrain?

[@ibikeunfolded]

Not yet, I am still shopping for one myself. I will make a video when I replace the old drive train with something better.

[@adamrivera5730]

@@ibikeunfolded looking forward to hear how that goes.

[@rainbowhiker]

Seems like the chain may be too long. I'm sure you checked.

[@viadharmawheel]

Did you pay or was it a freebie?

[@ibikeunfolded]

I paid. I don’t get free stuff. I am not that important.😃

[@viadharmawheel]

@@ibikeunfolded Cool, unbiased reviews are always the best and hard to find these days.

[@Laughing400]

Thanks a lot I purchased a zizzo forte it’s a piece of junk and will return it.

[@carolleenkelmann4751]

Brian. I really hate saying this but.... you are a Rambo. A Zizzo Rambo. Where i live, what you did, weaving in and out of the traffic, switching lanes and crossing against the lights, using Pedestrian Crossings, behaving like the unruly motorbike renegades who think no rules apply to them. - we'd be fined heavily and lose a few points off your Drivers Licence./I know, you don't have one. It is dangerous. But your vlog's I value so, all I can do is to complain about the things I don't like and "like" the vlog, if I like.

[@ibikeunfolded]

I do have a Colorado state drivers license because I have to have one to be employed with my company. Here in Denver it’s sort of the Wild West when it comes to the rules. Drivers don’t obey the rules- cyclist don’t obey the rules and the police don’t really seem to care. I say if you can’t beat them, join them.😃

[@RebeccaAuge]

Have you made out your will?

[@ibikeunfolded]

@@RebeccaAuge as I always say “if I am going to die, I’d rather it be by my own stupidity then someone else’s.” My life insurance will be paid out to my beneficiaries and all I ask is they incinerate me- hopefully with my bicycle😃

[@evelynvega1730]

@@ibikeunfolded You mean your Brompton? Just kidding Brian, just be aware that life is short and eternity is long.

[@Tykoon]

I wanna get the Liberte but it’s not sold in Canada ☹️

[@markvincentcocjin]

That's not a fatal flaw. A fatal flaw is a flaw with the frame. Zizzo does not spec their bikes properly that makes you happy. You essentially bought a bike that had a proxy drive train that needed you to spend more on. There's a different market out there that does not care about the parts. They just need a Zizzo folding bike that won't collapse under their weight. That's it. How come the drive train came to you as a surprise? I personally would have looked up the specs before purchasing and upon doing so, have already considered the true cost of the Forte where it would receive after-purchase upgrades until it fits my requirements. The company probably considered a few customers being disapointed over people with a price range that would not have been customers had it been higher-specced.

[@kaykrisusa7350]

How about compare it with Dahon mariner D8?

[@ibikeunfolded]

Zizzo is better😃👍 When I get some time I’ll do a comparison.👍

[@kaykrisusa7350]

@@ibikeunfolded oh good to know that.. b/c of the aluminum is better? Please make a video about them.. i like your video and channel 😘👍

[@gblan]

How come no videos on that Bike Friday?

[@finncarlbomholtsrensen1188]

I have got a Makita 18 volt folding bike that fills less than this one! But it is also a single folder and can't really compare to a Brompton, of which I own a LightweightH6LXBrompton, bought from new in 2020.

[@finncarlbomholtsrensen1188]

And I'm a tall guy of 100 kilos, but why don't use a trailer?

[@finncarlbomholtsrensen1188]

And a Dutch Guy, from his shop: Bromptonian, sels modified Bromptons for heavy Duty use. :-)