Chelsea's rural heritage seen on a Brompton G-Line

The other day I found myself cycling in the now rather fancy Chelsea. As I past this particular building, first seen on one of Ross’s brilliant quite interesting Sunday rides a few years ago, I decided to stop and take a few photos of my Brompton G-Line…and the building in question of course! Yes you read that correctly…rural. 

The cows head on the building were once the mooo-dels (sorry, I could not resist) for Wright's Dairy, which proudly served Londoners with milk, from the late 1700s.

Brutal Barbican on a Brompton

I have always held quite the soft spot for Brutalist architecture, often perceived as a subject of polarising opinion - one either loves it or loathes it. I firmly belong to the former category. Throughout my relatively unchanged residence in London, I have been fortunate to be in proximity to some great examples of this architectural style. The Barbican Centre, a quintessential representation of Brutalism, has always been a favourite and epitomises the aesthetics of this genre. As you might suspect, I possess literally thousands of photographs capturing various angles, times of day and different seasons.

Long term review of my Brompton G-Line

It feels like an eternity since I first encountered the Brompton G-Line in person during the launch event at Brompton Junction London back in September of the previous year. Upon leaving the event, despite not having taken one for a test ride — that opportunity arose a few days later — I had an inkling that it would be an ideal fit for me. Subsequently, I placed an order, and just prior to Christmas 2024, it was delivered. I have utilised it almost exclusively since its arrival and have covered several hundred miles. I deemed it an appropriate moment to proffer my long-term assessment of the bicycle, so here goes.

Launch event

Ride Quality 

I have never had anything adverse to say about my smaller-wheeled Brompton bicycles and have quite happily navigated the most treacherous roads in London and beyond without issue. I have accomplished rides exceeding 100 miles on my smaller-wheeled Brompton bikes and have been thoroughly satisfied. However, the G-Line elevates the experience.

The combination of the larger 20-inch wheels, wider handlebars, and the riding position all contribute to a comfortable experience. It seems that nothing can unsettle the G-Line. Potholes, cobbles, gravel, grass, canal towpaths, riverside tracks, country lanes (the list is extensive) are effortlessly tackled. The 'G' in G-Line could also stand for 'glide'; it truly glides along with grace. I did not acquire the G-Line for rugged gravel riding or for that absurdity of carrying tents and bin bags to sleep outdoors like a Sociology teacher in the early 1980s! I procured it for adventures in and around London, and while I recognise it is also excellent for occasional off-road riding, it is splendid for the activities I get up to.

Size and folded package

I do not reside far from the tube line, but I can also choose to cycle into central London if I so desire. Since acquiring my G-Line, I have utilised the tube more than I have for some time. I intended to ascertain what it was like at as many different times of the day as possible. I have not encountered any significant issues when navigating my G-Line on or off the tube or trains; however, it is a heavier bicycle and has a larger folded package. My regular Brompton bicycles are more appropriate for this, as they are lighter (my Brompton Electric is approximately the same weight as the G-Line). If I were to use public transport regularly as part of my commute, the standard-sized Brompton might be a more advantageous option.

Cycling over greater distances

The furthest I have cycled so far on my G-Line is just shy of 80 miles. I have not experienced any ill effects from this, and rides of 40 to 60 miles are handled with ease. As I mentioned, its riding position is very good, which contributes to the overall ride quality. However, I would like to offer one caveat: I swapped the off-road Schwalbe One tyres for Continental Urban tyres. For me, this instantly improved the ride on the road. They rolled better, allowing me to pedal with less effort and at a higher speed. Consequently, this made longer rides more enjoyable. I am not sure that I would want to take my G-Line on a 60-mile nocturnal adventure using the off-road tyres that come as standard with the bike.

Gearing

The G-Line comes equipped with a 54-tooth chainring and an Alfine 8-speed hub, ensuring that gear changes are executed swiftly through the up and down shifters. In my experience, I have found the G-Line to be very similar to my traditional Brompton bikes, which feature a 44-tooth chainring and 6 speeds. Notably, the G-Line demonstrates comparable—if not slightly superior—performance on inclines, likely attributable to its larger diameter tyres and more favourable riding position. On level terrain, while its performance is very good, I perceive that I can attain slightly higher speeds on my standard Brompton bikes. Nevertheless, it is important to clarify that my cycling is not competitive, and the G-Line's gearing functions effectively for my needs.

Brakes 

The G-Line comes with disc brakes and they certainly help you stop. I have not had any particular issues with the brakes on my normal Brompton bicycles but the addition of disc brakes is certainly a welcome addition. They require only the slightest of touches and have proved to be particularly useful when descending steep inclines on country lanes. Also very useful in areas of London with dog walkers, tourists and influencers! 

Cost

It is worth noting that the G-Line carries a significant price premium compared to the standard Brompton. For the same investment, one could opt for the lighter P-Line. Ultimately, the decision hinges on the frequency with which one must navigate stairs in underground stations. Personally, I regard the G-Line as a worthy investment; I have utilised it more than any of my other Brompton bikes. Despite contemplating a change, I constantly find myself returning to the G-Line.

That something you can't put your finger on

All of my Brompton make me happy (and sometimes elicit the same from passers-by), yet there is an undeniable charm about the G-Line. The ride experience is exceptional; it glides almost silently, offers comfort, and performs admirably on uneven surfaces or, dare I mention, off-road. I have acquaintances who champion the electric version, providing an option for those in need of additional assistance. While G-Line is heavier, boasts a larger folded size, and lacks the agility of my standard Brompton, I cannot envision my cycling life without the G-Line now that it has become part of my fleet.

Well, there you have it dear reader. I am sure that you will see my G-Line appear in many more adventures over the next few months and yes I am rather fond of it. 

Until next time, stay safe out there people!

"Are you Mr Orange Brompton? You here to take a photo of that postbox?!"

Not that long ago I went to Wilton's Music Hall (wonderful place) to see if I could get some tickets for an event there later in the month. (Perhaps a blog post for another time). My G-Line and I were very welcome and knowing that Wapping High Street and the Thames path were not far away, I headed south. I did not put anything into my Wahoo and tried to navigate on my own. Obviously this went wrong but I did meet a very helpful chap in more ways than one. 

I realised that I hadn't a clue where I was. I had lost my bearings and resorted to a maps app on my iPhone to at least tell we where I was and what general direction I could point my bike in - to avoid the very busy road that sat behind me. It was then I heard from behind me the words that make up the title for this blog... 

Instinct took over and I summoned up my many years of Judo that I laboured with in my youth, just in case the person who knew who I was turned out to be one of those phone snatcher rapscallion types. They weren't. What they turned out to be was a reader of my blog - Sunil. 

Sunil reminded me of a previous blog post where I had mentioned cyphers on postboxes. I have to confess that I did not remember this blog post or even taking a photo of a post box (apart from the unusual one near the Chelsea Pensioners residence with two sides). Sunil was there on the A1203 for the sole purpose of getting a photo of the postbox cypher you can see below. We had to walk a few hundred metres and there it was. 

This postbox has the Edward VIII cypher on it. He was the king who abdicated so he could marry Wallis Simpson. As such, there are very few of them in existence. Sunil was very pleased to finally spot this one and took lots of photos with a rather fancy Sony camera and lens that looked as if it would be better suited to capturing the images of wild beasts on a safari holiday. 

With directions from Sunil I said my goodbyes and headed off to the Thames Path. (Sunil, if you are reading this, it was a pleasure meeting you and when you get your Brompton on the road again, send me a message). 

As I cycled back reaching Tower Bridge I could not help but take a photo of this Victorian Penfold postbox! 

Until next time, stay safe out there people!