In the four years we’ve been on the road we’ve never taken our bikes with us, and regretted it every time we saw a great bike trail. We finally decided to do something about it.
But first, why not just take the regular bikes we already own? As large as a motorhome is, there is no place inside (or in the cargo bays) that will stow a bike. The only option is on the rear of the unit, exposed to the elements and theft. Likewise, you could tote along the bikes attached to the tow vehicle, but the same problems crop up.
In researching folding bikes I began the way I normally do, via Amazon. Ignoring the cheapy ones that are obviously not built for longevity, I arrived at the Dahon Mariner D7, which gets very good reviews. Some members of RV forums had recommended the Tern Link D8, which is in the same price range as the Dahon. I had pretty much settled on one of these two bikes when Karla and I headed to Boulder, CO for test rides.
Our first stop was at Freedom Folding Bikes, which carries the Tern. Upon stepping in the door I immediately notice all these tiny folding bikes that are significantly smaller than a Tern. Perhaps for kids? No, it turns out those tiny bikes are Bromptons, a well respected British purveyor of folding bicycles. Ignoring the price difference, I challenge anyone to unfold, ride and then re-fold both a Tern and Brompton and choose the Tern. It won’t happen.
Brompton only makes a single model of folding bike, which you then customize to your liking. We chose the M type handlebar for a more relaxed riding position, the 6 speed internal hub gears for handling variable terrain, the mud guards and luggage rack for shopping in towns, and the mini O front bag for me and the larger S bag for Karla.
They fold up so compactly they fit anywhere; in fact, they fit under the bed in the RV. Perfect. The picture at the top of the post contains two Bromptons (cat added for scale).
