zbdiy

Hello Brains Trust,

I am getting ready to build a mini-velo.
Considerations are:
- Urban commuting (10km daily)
- Easy storage (small flat)
- Weight (carrying up stairs etc)
- Total build cost < $US2k
- Some nice components - Shimano 105 or better
- Disc brakes would be nice - Mechanical are OK.
- Pannier rack - I have a Tailfin X rack that will fit most frames, so not a big issue.

I'm tossing up between two very different frames:

1. Java Carbon minivelo Aero from Aliexpress: (I am not allowed to post links, but a search of these keywords will bring you to the right link)
2. A Titanium minivelo frame from ebay. Seller is called TiSport. Search for TiSport Minivelo Bike Frame


Some question:
- Any subjective opinions or thoughts on these two frames - any free flowing discussion appreciated.
- Any thoughts on mini-velo commuters in general
- I have a Tailfin X panier rack that will fit both, so not an issue
- I'm keen on drop bars, but unsure of STI levers + disc brake options.
- Wheel options? I'd like something more sure-footed than my road bike, so maybe some wide tyres - 32mm-35mm?

I'm a beginner at this, and am collecting & soaking up any information I can find in an unstructured manner.

If you're allowed to post links or photos, please post them in the discussion below.

rhenning

You might want to ask this and look in the Folders section as Mini Velos are discussed often there. Roger

zbdiy

Ah great!! Thank you!

dsbrantjr

I am a fan of larger tires for a smoother ride and they are exceptionally helpful with small-diameter wheels which approach obstacles at relatively steeper angles than bigger ones so can use the cushioning..

fietsbob

Minivelo thread is a long running one in ... folding bike section

https://www.bikeforums.net/folding-b...deas-help.html
how many places will you post the same question?

Bike Friday makes a Minivelo that folds, some, and is made to come apart to fit in a suit case or backpack.
you can look at some of their configurations for Ideas..,

Rinko is a method of outfitting a non folding bike to access rail connections , in Japan.
so as to go for a day ride in another prefecture..
A Minivelo frame can be outfitted with those features ..





...

Mods want to fold this one into the other section?
...

thehammerdog

wow $2k budget is generous given new bike can ge had for $400 on line.
I have always wanted one but feared the fun factor was short lived.
make it cool and give us photos.

zbdiy

Yeah, I've gotten sucked into the Moultons and the Bromptons, and possibly lost all sense of perspective. Of course, cheaper the better.

The carbon Java Mini Velo Aero CL is about $600 (inc shipping) + some nice components + wheels, I expect would add up to $1200.
The Titanium frame is about US$800 (inc. shipping) + components + wheels, say $1400 to $1500.

zbdiy

I recently got a chance to ride a Pacific Cycles Reach flat bar with front and rear polymer shock absorbing blocks (similar to Brompton or Birdy), and it was a lot of fun, super fast. But that bike is $3k, well beyond my budget. Also, I'd prefer a dropbar bike.