Orange becomes a stock colour

Back in the day, if you wanted an orange Brompton you had to pay extra. For reasons only know to Brompton HQ, orange was discontinued. It then became a Special, Black Edition, colour and then back to one you paid extra for. It seems that it is now a stock colour. 

Of course, for the moment at least, trying to get hold of any Brompton - if you are in the market for one - is not an easy task. It is a case of best of luck trying to find an Orange one!

There are now lots and lots of orange Brompton bicycles out there but the strange thing is that in certain parts of London I occasionally get the odd person asking me if I am Mr Orange. The label on the bike sort of answers their question I suppose. 

One day I will write about why the colour orange is so important to me but as yet I don't think I have revealed this to even my closest Brompton cycling buddies. 

I am hoping to get out and about on one of my beloved Orange Brompton bikes much more next week and already I look forward to that prospect.

Just a word of thanks to those of you who left a comment on my last blog post and to the many more fo you who sent me an email. Really appreciate it!

Stay safe out there people!

Ten years of 'My Orange Brompton.'

My relationship with Brompton goes back a great deal longer than ten years. When at University a 1989 / 1990 Brompton was gifted to me. I used it all the time and loved it. Back then I even remember chaining it to the railings in Cavendish Square and leaving it for hours. I was eventually to gift it to someone else and didn't buy another until ten years ago. I think that it is true to say that it has certainly been a positive move!

My first Brompton was orange framed with black extremities and I loved it. I cannot tell you how many adventures were made on that bike and the friendships made - that last to this day. 

The original Orange Brompton

I eventually sold it for a P-type, that was closely followed with a titanium number. 

Orange Brompton P-Type

My first Titanium that I didn't get on with!

These were also sold and I am back with two Orange Brompton bikes - one an Orange, Black Special Edition and a fairly new Titanium Orange Brompton - that I am already very fond of. 

Orange, Black Special Edition

Back with another Orange Titanium and this one I like!!

I cannot really think of me getting any more Brompton bikes for some time and think that I have reached the point where I am happy just replacing parts as and when needed, rather than sell and buy new. 

Owning a Brompton has brought me into the heart of an near-near-subcultre of fellow enthusiasts. As I have said it has been nothing but a positive experience for me. I have become fitter, made several friends, been to wonderful locations and embarked upon some adventures, the memories of which will stay with me. 

Owning a Brompton has also been a source of wellbeing. When I need to unwind a quick spin on one of my Brompton bikes generally does there trick. More recently with the 'C' word abound, it has helped to keep me sane. 

I own larger wheeled bicycles that are wonderful in their own way but cannot really compete with a Brompton (especially in Orange) in terms of the smile it puts on your face. 

Some of you out there have been with me on this journey for the full tens years and I am very grateful you have stuck around. Some of you are newer readers but I am equally grateful for your support. 

So, keep reading and spread the word.

Stay safe out there people!!

Looking forward to the last overnight ride?

This weekend yours truly will be embarking on a night ride. Not to the coast this time but it did get me thinking as to whether this would be the last night ride of 2020?

The weather is starting to get a little chillier of late and I suspect that the ride this weekend could well be the last this year, as much to do with the weather as anything else. However, I did think about the march to Christmas and I will almost certainly do an all night ride in London, taking in the Christmas lights.  I may be able to join some fellow Bromptonians for this ride or get a few roped in. If I can't I will probably do it myself. 

As this week progresses I know that I will be eager to get out for another night ride and look forward to the preparations that seem be a part of these adventures.

Watch this space for a write-up.

Until then, stay safe out there people!!