Brompton Bicycle

by David Henshaw

"Brompton Bicycle" tells the fascinating story behind one of the world's most unusual and popular folding bikes. It details how you can modify and convert your Brompton for such uses as child carrying and tackling hilly country as well as acting as a unique maintenance and repair manual, full of tips you won't find in any standard bike repair book. In short, everything you need to enjoy this incredible bike to the full. Written by a true expert on the subject, the book a brief history of folding bikes, putting the Brompton in the context of previous developments; the story of how the Brompton came about - from a sketched idea by engineer and Brompton founder Andrew Ritchie, to a bike with major sales throughout the world today; Brompton specials - converting for use by children and multiple riders amongst many other uses; and, using and maintaining a Brompton - tips on caring for and repairing your cherished machine. "Brompton Bicycle" will appeal to all those who love this iconic British brand Brompton riders & owners and other cyclists - especially those who are curious about the bike's background but also keen to use and maintain it correctly; designers - the Brompton is more than a bike and was used as a British icon in the London 2012 Olympic ceremony in Beijing; and, those who love a good British underdog story of success in the face of adversity.

Genres: Nonfiction

160 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2010

Reviews

[George · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is likely the one place on the planet that readers will find such detailed and comprehensive information on the history, design, and evolution of the unique Brompton bicycle. While in need of a more ruthless editor, as a Brompton enthusiast myself, I am glad I own a copy. Also, while the updated 3rd edition does bring us through 2020, the book is stronger on the earlier history than on recent developments. Helpful maintenance tips included.

[russell barnes · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay, so it was a little heavy on Sturmey-Archer gears, and was *very* positive, but I get the impression this is essentially this is a magazine article that has been expanded to meet the demand of Brompton Geeks such as myself.

Taken with this caveat, it's pretty good: it's packed with interesting snippets of information about everybody's favourite bike, has detailed maintenance instructions at the back, and is massively geographically fascinating if you live in SW London, of which pretty much most bits get a namecheck. It's not going to appeal to non-Bromptononians though...

[Tan Kit Hoong · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great companion for Brompton enthusiasts

Most likely if you're buying this book, you're already a Brompton bike owner. This book is a short but excellent companion for the bike, detailing the history of the folded bike as well as some useful information on maintaining the bike. Highly recommended if you're interested in this foldable mechanical marvel.

[Peter Hall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great little book but only really for bicycle or British engineering fans. The book includes both the story of the bike and the key people involved. Plenty of technical detail, some nice photos and insight into why my Brompton combines a 3 speed Sturmey Archer and a 2 speed derailleur.

[Tom · Rating 3 out of 5]

a nice little history of a very cool bike