Happy New Year!

Well, 2024 is almost coming to an end here in London, and for many of you reading this, 2025 has already arrived. 

2024 has seen me buy a Brompton Electric any more recently a G-Line. I really enjoy using either of these. It also saw me complete the Ride 100 and the Dunwich Dynamo. The Ride 100 will not appear for 2025 but I hope to complete the Dynamo again. 

2024 has also been a record year in terms of the number of page views I have been getting each month. For 2025 I plan to post one blog post every Sunday. There may be more but I am going to commit to a weekly blog post. 

If you have read any of my ramblings, posted a comment, followed me on Instagram, sent me an email (I’m also trying to get better at reading and replying), said hello in person or provided some inspiration to get your own Brompton, thank you! I really appreciate it. 

Have a happy New Year and I hope that 2025 proves to be a good one for you!!

Until next time (it will be Sunday) stay safe out there people!

Brompton G-Line full review

As you might have read recently in a previous blog post, I bought a Brompton G-Line and after my initial impressions, I thought I would give a more considered review. As time goes on, it is likely more opinions will fall into line, However, I feel I have a pretty good take on what this Brompton means for me. 

Probably best if I start with what I went for:

• Medium size
• Rack and mudguards
• Alfine 8x speed internal hub
• Schwalbe G-One tyres 
• Adventure Orange colour

There wasn't really lots to deliberate on the options front, apart from the size. I am about 6' 1" so was in the cusp of going for the medium or large. I chose the medium as it just felt right for me having taking it for a test ride. It was the first size I tested and knew that it was going to be the perfect size for me before I took a large for a short run about 40 minutes later.

With the G-Line, one of the biggest changes is of course the wheel size, moving from 16 inch to 20 inch wheels. In addition to this, the tyres are much, much wider - 2 inches in old money. This along with the geometry of the bike and its wider handlebars allows for (and please do not get upset greatly by this next bit) a better ride. It is more comfortable, smoother and handles the very worst of London's roads with ease. Added to this is the fact that canal towpaths, riverside tracks and gravel paths can be tackled in relative comfort compared to its smaller wheeled relative. Saying that, I have taken and will continue to use my 16 inch Brompton bikes on such surfaces - albeit more slowly and with less ease. The G-Line is though, a more comfortable bike to ride. 

On the tyre front, I bought an additional pair of Continental Urban 2 inch diameter tyres and was going to swap to these almost straight away. I haven't done so yet and probably won't for a while as I like the Schwalble G-One's a great deal. There is always the option of going tubeless on these, which is something I need to investigate a little more.

The G-Line has hydraulic disc brakes and they work very well. They provide additional confidence in the wet stuff and in combination with the wheel size, tyres and general feel when riding it, allow me to descent hills a great deal quicker than I would dare on my 16 inch wheeled Brompton bikes. 

The 8x speed Alfine hub is quite heavy - like all internal gear hubs - but it works well. The best way to describe it would be to compare it to one of my 6x speed Brompton bikes with a 44 tooth chainring fitted. This allows for better ascending (compared to a 50 or 54 tooth chainring) but I cannot get to the same speeds on the flats as I can on my Electric 12x speed (without the motor engaged) or one of my bikes with a standard 50t chainring. 

I have used Swain's Lane as my benchmark hill for the last few years and ascended it dozens of times since I took possession of my G-Line. I found tackling Swain's easier on my G-Line than I have done on my normal 6x speed with a 44t chainring. Not sure why this is? It could be that the gearing is slightly lower than that on a 6x speed, 44t chainring setup, the larger diameter of the tyres or perhaps combination of the two. I am not sure but it is pretty good up hills. Many might spin out on the flats and would like a few gears that allow them to go faster. I have glided along at 18mph and could perhaps do more but this may be an issue for some. I am okay with the gearing though. 

The micro shifters work really well and moving from one gear to the other is slick. So far I have eased off the pedalling slightly when changing up or down but I have not encountered any issues getting the gear I desire. 

I must confess that I was going to take off the wide pedals the G-Line comes with in favour of those that are fitted to P and T Line bikes. However, I like them and they are staying. 

The bars are wide and offer a super comfortable riding position that doesn’t put any strain on the hands, shoulders or back. It also affords the user lots of bar real estate to put lights, devices etc. The new Brompton ergonomic grips are great, forgiving and highly comfortable. Really like them. 

The rear rack is a bit of a novelty to me as I have never had one on any of my Brompton bikes. The addition of the rack makes the folded position very stable and it rolls along really well. I bought some of the bungee cords and fitted them. (Shout out to the wonderful Hannah at Brilliant Bikes who arranged for a second set to be sent out when the first failed to arrive). So far the only thing I have used the rack for is to transport a large Panettone home from a posh delicatessen. It was therefore rather useful. 

I think the G-line looks rather fetching. There are original Brompton bikes that have been converted to have 20 inch wheels but to me they just do not look right?! A little like a chap wearing a lovely suit with white socks. Or even worse a three button blazer with all three buttons done up…my eyes! The G-Line looks very smart.

The mounts on the stem are useful and the Fidlock mount and bottle has worked well. I am not sure what I will use the mounts on one of the outer forks yet though, if at all. 

So, will I use it off-road a great deal? Probably not a great deal but it is nice to know I can. It is almost the G-Shock of the Brompton range - tougher and able to cope with anything. It does seem to me like the perfect bike for London and cycling adventures. The ride is extremely comfortable, inspiring confidence that it can cope with anything. It will in no way take the place of my existing Brompton bikes. They have taken me on all manner of strange adventures. My G-Line is very much a happy addition to the fleet. 

The G-Line is a bigger and heavier bike and that bigger size is also apparent in its folded footprint. You can’t get away from that fact however (if this makes any sense) it isn’t that big. I don’t use public transport a great deal but for you dear reader, I braved the masses and took the tube more than I needed to deliberately! Being the run up to Christmas, the tube has been packed but a folded G -Line wasn’t a problem. When transporting it up and down stairs, I placed the saddle on my shoulder and carried it. The roller wheels are large and brilliant for wheeling it along. If you used the G-Line for your commute every day and use lots of stairs, the 16 inch standard Brompton might be better.

 

The way the cables run, they do hang very close to the chainring. Not too bad on mine and no rubbing, yet. I have seen photos on others where it is very, very close. 

In the last few hours Brompton has issued a recall to do with the hinge pins. Mine is not affected, having the updated version already. Recalls are a thing and more to do with potential issues occurring. Brompton have done the right thing and I am sure they will look after those that need it. 

Could the G-Line have ditched the heavy Alfine hub in favour of a cassette with several cogs and a derailleur? It surely could be done and make the bike lighter in the process. It might be a thing Brompton do in the future? I do like the Alfine though, and any changes would need to give me something more before I’d change. 

So, do I like it? Yes! It is a wonderful addition to my stable and I’m already very fond of it. It rides really, really well and silently too. I haven’t mentioned that but you just glide along with very little noise. 

I’ll be frank. I will not be cycling across a field to a campsite to pitch a tent that I had strapped to the rear rack, like that Geography Master you used to have at school. Those who know me, would also suggest that my G-Line will remain quite clean. The off-road part was not in my thoughts when I parted company with the folding stuff. My G-Line will be used for all kinds of adventures in/around London and occasionally on a night ride to the coast. These can involve all sorts of terrain, especially when I go off course - which believe me can be quite often!

Do I really need a G-Line? Well, I compared it to a G-Shock. Both are tough, rugged and can handle a bit of action. The G-Shock can be submerged to a depth of 200 metres. The G-Line can handle light off-road stuff easily. I own a G-Shock and will never dive to anything near 2 metres let alone 200 metres but is good to know that I could. The G-Line can cope with lots of terrain and although I might not regularly cycle over this, it is good to know that I could! 

Until next time, stay safe out there people!

All night London Christmas lights ride

A few weeks ago, Dr John and I put a date into the calendar for a Christmas all night ride in London. Last Friday (13th) was that day, so just before midnight we met at our usual starting point.

I arrived in good time soon Dr John did too, perhaps surprised at my new addition to the fleet. We wasted little time and soon headed off into the night. The route loaded into my Wahoo started from near Trafalgar Square and passed not too far from where we had met, so I decided to pick it up from there. The Wahoo however, for reasons unknown, didn't take kindly to this and was not cooperating. In the end we headed back to the start as we had lots of time on our hands. 

We knew that by the time we reached the really famous Christmas lights they would be turned off but this ride was more about taking in whatever was there to be seen, cycling through the night and catching up.

The first location that proved rather pretty was Borough Market. Normally this is heaving and it was strange to see it totally empty.

We headed London Bridge and Tooley Street and then, the London viewing area not far from the London Mayor's office. 

Even Dr John was taking the odd photo - something he only does occasionally - so we were both at it. 

We headed out further east to Canary Wharf which was pretty empty. As said, we knew that doing this would mean that when we returned to Oxford Street and Regents Street (where the most famous Christmas lights can be found), the lights would be turned off. It did however result in the roads being a little quieter and therefore worthwhile doing. 

We arrived at the Greenwich foot tunnel, which by law is required to be open 24 hours. Naturally, it provided a few photo opportunities. It was good fun. Unbeknownst to us, inside lift at the other end of the tunnel someone was there sleeping in their sleeping bag. It made me feel quite guilty and a sobering reminder of how lucky I am. 

Crossing the Millennium foot bridge we headed back towards Central London on fairly quiet roads. Of course, London was still awash with all manner of people out and about. 

The lights on Regents Street and Oxford Street were off, but there were lots on Bond Street. Many of the high-end shops had competing displays as we cycled down. 

On Piccadilly, Fortnum and Mason had a lovely display - as usual. My late mum used to have a few haunts mainly of the cup of tea and cake variety and this place was one of them, so fond memories. I haven’t been there many times since. 

Our last stop was Covent Garden. Normally a location I avoid during daylight hours as it is so busy. In the early hours it was empty - apart from a few tourists taking photos. 

I had to pay a visit to Brompton Junction as I knew the window would feature a G-Line. 

After this, Dr John and I tried to find somewhere open to get an early breakfast from about 06:00. Sadly, we didn’t have any luck (even at Euston Station). We said our goodbyes and Dr John went to get his train and I headed north. Many thanks to Dr John for his company and friendship. 

As I reached Swain’s Lane I felt that I had got to know my G-Line a little better and very pleased that I have one. When making my ascent, mist or fog gently travelled from the east to west side of the cemetery. I was glad to cycle past it, despite it making things a little like a Victorian Christmas!

Until next time, stay safe out there people. 

Oh and by the way, I bought a Brompton G-Line!

Yes, you did read correctly and no this was not some sort of Orange Brompton clickbait. I have a spankingly new Orange G-Line. Reasons why...I will let me explain. 

You might have read my blog post about going to the Brompton G-Line launch at Brompton Junction at Covent Garden. By the time I had left the shop, I had seen the G-Line in the flesh, picked one up and sat on one. I departed before test-rides began however I did get the general vibe as to whether or not it was for me. Not that long after this, I managed to test a couple of G-Lines to ascertain what size would be good for me and an order was placed. After what seemed like an eternity, it arrived. 

So, why did I buy one I hear you ask. There are quite a few reasons - which is good as it justifies buying one - I suppose. The G-Line is meant to be the Brompton that one can take anywhere for longer and in comfort. Off-road and gravel feature in this. At the launch event, a Brompton employee told us about his experience of using one for an overnight adventure to the South Coast. He camped overnight, went off-road and had mud festooned all over the G-Line he used. Mine won't be used for carrying a bivvy bag and tent on my rear rack and camping in a field overnight (or during the day). It will however take me much more happily along canal towpaths, riverside tracks and over the worse of London's potholes and cobbles. 

Having tested out the G-Line on many of the surfaces listed above, it passed with flying colours. It coped with ease and the addition of disc brakes provided confidence when the rain, puddles and potholes appeared. 

There are not a huge range of options but I went for the 8x speed Alfine with rack and mudguards. The only other option was to go electric but my existing Brompton Electric 12x speed - which I love - has that covered. Obviously, I went for Adventure Orange - a colour that could have been made for me. 

The 8x speed Alfine is all good as far as I am concerned. For hills it is a little like, if not better than my 6x speed with a 44T chainring. The 20 inch wheels perhaps accounting for my feeling it is a little better than my 44T chainring 6x speed when ascending hills. On the flats the G-Line glides along rather happily. Again, it is very similar to my 44T, 6x speed. I do think that when I swap the current off-road Schwalbe One tyres with Continental Urbans, it will allow the bike to roll even better. The shifter works well and I do like it. Having a rack is a first for me. Perhaps I will be able to strap an artisan loaf to it from a fancy N6 establishment? I am sure I will find a suitable use for it now and then. 

The G-Line is a bigger bike than my other Brompton bikes but not that much larger if that makes sense. I have taken it on the tube and there were no issues for me. This extra size does make it roll rather well across everything I have been on so far and dare I say...it affords a much better ride than all my existing Brompton bicycles. Having cycled across the wastelands of Hampstead Heath and ascended Swain's Lane, I have already found my G-Line to be of great use!

Still very much early days and a great deal more testing to do, but I like it. I like it a great deal!!

Until next time, stay safe out there people!

Over the Thames on the IFS Cloud Cable Car

A couple of weeks ago I cycled down from north London with the intention of heading testing out a route that takes one towards Greenwich and the surrounding area. I ended up on the the north side of the Thames, with the O2 in the distance. 

I decided to take the IFS Cloud Cable Car - as it is now called - across the river. It has been ages since I did this and it was possibly when I was on a cycle ride with many other Brompton users, all crammed into one of the cars each.

There was no queuing at all and taking a Brompton (or any bicycle for that matter) was easy. I simply tapped in on entry and out when I exited. 

The member of staff I saw supervising people get on the cars was very pleasant and liked my Brompton. A few cars went passed as he asked a few questions about it as he was planning to get one himself by Christmas. (Hope that you managed to get one).

 

The views have changed a little since I last travelled on the cable car. Developments have gone up and others are work in progress. From the top of the car the views do stretch out quite a bit, despite it being a little cloudy. 

Occasionally, the car wobbled ever so slightly and my mind was taken to Roger Moore travelling in something similar having to contend with Jaws! Thankfully, nothing like this was ever going to happen!

At the other side I got off, tapped out and headed back along the Thames path towards central London. From there it was back to north London.

The Cable Car will hopefully stay for a few more years. It is definitely a touristy thing to do. I cannot think that anyone would use it as part of their commute. It does tend to close in high winds (for obvious reasons) so worth checking the TLF website before considering it, just in case. 

Until next time, stay safe out there people!