(06-27-2010, 05:01 PM)Kor link Wrote: [ -> ]From a purely utilitarian viewpoint, how is this not exactly the bike you're looking for? Is it lacking in capability or practicality? You've already assigned two of the most important traits to it: Distance at which you'll use it, and its portability. If I didn't know any better Rummy, I think you're simply seeking validation.
I'm sure you'll enjoying using it for more than just a mile at a time as well, depending on your fitness.
Well, yes, I am seeking validation. When I first sold my WRX and went to a car-less commute almost 5 years ago, I did a bunch of research on folding bikes, dahon, brompton, bike friday, etc. At that time, I was convinced that brompton was the best choice for me, and had a model and all options/accessories picked out. Then I realized that my walk on both ends of the train ride were just about a mile and I could walk that comfortably in 10-15 mins. So, I figured I didn't need it, but never stopped lusting for one. Now, it's five years later, and I haven't (yet) updated all my research on foldy bikes, so I thought I'd start a thread in which to discuss and cull the wisdom resident in the community. Also, Brompton's revamped their product lines quite a bit since then, and there are a lot of new options/accessories. I'm interested to know if folks have first-hand experience, good or bad.
On the fitness side, I've lost 28lbs since October, walk 5 miles regularly in the course of commuting, then take the dog for a 5 mile walk on most evenings, and have been doing some increased cardio via Krav Maga (which I will miss terribly-today was my last class and the instructor brought a switchblade in and tried to stab us).
(06-27-2010, 05:12 PM)LT Crow link Wrote: [ -> ]Is this a time-hack problem? you can't spare the 15 minutes per mile walking?Â
For my normal commute, I'll probably stick with the 15 minute/mile walk on both ends. But now that I won't have access to the shared spousal car, I'm looking to extend my effective range. I'm not interested in owning a car at this point in my life.
(06-27-2010, 05:16 PM)Duck link Wrote: [ -> ]Longer than 1 mile and less than how many? I assume this is just for mild terrain, city streets, no hills, etc etc? Is there showers or a gym near your place of employment (or is the commute short enough that it doesn't really matter? If it rains, or it's hotter and muggier than Sandra Romain's ass in 2007, nothing can ruin a day faster than showing up damp and sweaty in linen pants for work. Though if you get rain gear you also don't want to go full-blown sealed and waterproofed, as those don't breath at all and unless it's an incredibly short ride, you'll just end up stewing in your own juices and show up just as wet as if you had worn nothing.
I dunno how much you cycle, but it could be worth checking out to prepare yourself for all the little things that will come up that you'll have to learn to deal with for your commute.
Probably up to 5-10. Mild mid-atlantic suburban/city terrain. Few hills. Showers at work, though I don't expect to bike there. And in these months, I sweat through my linens in 5 minutes just walking anyways. I've always been a sweaty dude. And, no, I haven't cycled since I was a kid and we called it riding a bike.
Also, I'm considering this prep-time for when I have money enough in 6-8 months to move to philly (or some other city) and go fully urban biker.
Thanks all for the brotips thus far.
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