Now I won't post a photo of the 'Brompton Explore' as I would be copying one from the Brompton website which isn't cool, so if you click HERE it will take you to the Brompton page all about this bike. (If I see one in the flesh I will of course post a few photos of it).
The 'Explore' is 'kitted out and ready for you to either find a new route, or plan your next escape.' They have teamed up with all round good egg and adventurer Alastair Humphreys to create a special edition ready for anything.
The details of the bike are at the bottom of this blog post for the M6E version which costs £1525 and it is with some of this I raised an eyebrow.
I would question why standard Marathon tyres weren't used as they offer better puncture resistance? Why no rear rack? In addition - although there is a mudguard version - why no mudguards? I am fortunate enough to know several truly hardcore Brompton riders, who have gone on adventures that many can only dream of. I am not sure the 'Explore' would be good enough with these omissions.
Of course I would also question why a dynamo hub and lighting system was not fitted. This has been a godsend on many an adventure - not having to worry about whether batteries will last.
The luggage looks great, as does the spares kit but I do wonder whether Brompton has rummaged around in the spares bin for discontinued colours and simply done what it has done for a few years which is non-standard paint job labelled 'Special Edition..'
Don't get me wrong, I am a Brompton fan boy through and through but the special editions are bordering on the comical. Many equally keen Brompton types often joke that the Costa Coffee, Greggs, Argos and Subway special editions are surely but a step away?!
I suspect what people really want is a little more innovation. For things like a double chairing with derailleur or disc brakes for example you have to go to hardened Brompton fans or independent shops offering these enhancements. Should it be Brompton that leads the way on this?
The 'Explore' will be a popular bike and sell out quickly but if you own a Brompton already it wouldn't take a great deal of effort to kit your existing Brompton out so that it was ready for truly epic adventures.
Bike
- Edition: Brompton Explore
- Model: M6E
- Handlebar Type: M type (1015mm)
- Gears: 6 speed
- Mudguards / Rack: version E (no mudguards or rack)
- Frame Material: Steel
- Colour: Distinctive colour scheme - Forest Green with Explore Orange highlight front frame and bespoke graphic
- Gear Ratio: Reduced (-12%) 6 speed with 44T chainring - Lower gear range aids climbing and luggage
- Saddle: Brooks Cambium C17 - All Weather Saddle in special Giallo finish
- Seatpost: Extended (inside leg up to 35 inches)
- Lighting: Reflectors only
- Tyres: Marathon Racer Tanwall folding tyres
- Grips: Gum rubber grips - softer compound for increased comfort
- Folded Dimensions: 565mm (H) x 585mm (W) x 270mm (D) (22.2'' x 23'' x 10.6'')
- Weight (approx.): 11.88 kg
Luggage
- Front Carrier Block: Yes
- Explore Edition Metro Pouch:
- New pouch, designed to fit under seat, on handlebar or inside larger luggage
- Includes magnet to avoid bouncing
- Explore Edition Borough Rolltop 28L bag:
- Big capacity with lots of sections, ready for any adventure
- Custom camouflage fabric
- Fidlock closures on rear pockets
- Integral water bottle sleeve
- Laptop sleeve
- Extra load strap system for securing other items
- Spares kitEverything you need to keep you on the go:
- 2 x Impac Inner Tubes
- 4 x Spokes (2 front + 2 rear)
- 1 x Chain Power Link
- Replacement Brake Pads (front and rear)
- Rim tape
- 1 x 3-Speed Gear Cable
- 1 x Rear Brake Cable
- 1 x Marathon Racer Folding Tanwall Tyre
- 1 x Brompton Toolkit with extra puncture repair patches
- 1 x Brompton Pump
My thoughts entirely. Not sure I raised an eyebrow at he Explore edition..but I had a bit of a chuckle. Keep up the good work -- Good piece!
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