Suggestions on buying a folding bike in the Netherlands
02-03-18, 09:33 PM
#26
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Bikes: 1980 Koga-Miyata Gentsluxe-S, 1998 Eddy Merckx Corsa 01, 1983 Tommasini Racing, 2012 Gulf Western CAAD10, 1980 Univega Gran Premio
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Properly tune suspension block, bar-ends, and a DIY aero drop handlebar position made my B just as comfortable as my 700x32 CX/gravel bike (although ~ 0.5mph/3% slower). I can tune comfort between the two just by air pressure, and am now indifferent to riding either on just pure exercise loops (no folding). Long list of Brompton advantages, but it's ability to baby-stroll my touring gear while folded is enough of a tipping point for me. Don't understand the Brompton theft comment above - this is the only bike that virtually eliminates my theft worries since I can take inside almost anywhere with minimal hassle (i.e., slow, sloppy, bulky folds and difficult to carry/roll).
02-04-18, 12:03 AM
#27
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Just added a grip position in the bottom of the 'U' of the M bars**, note there's only room for 1.5 fists, so I have a two finger overlap (clicky). Both bikes shown with 30L capacity - as an ultra-lighter, that's all I need for self-supported touring. A few reasons I prefer touring with the B though (clicky). And FWIW, a size comparison to my Dahons (clicky).
** M bar have changed for 2017+ and maybe too small for my mod, but to be honest, if I were to do it again, I'd seriously consider the P bars (function over form next time?).
** M bar have changed for 2017+ and maybe too small for my mod, but to be honest, if I were to do it again, I'd seriously consider the P bars (function over form next time?).
02-04-18, 12:28 AM
#28
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I think you may find these well suited to Dutch conditions https://www.gazelle.nl/fietsen?tags=stadsfietsen.
Agreed it’s a good idea to talk to the locals before you buy - there’s a reason why the Dutch buy the bikes they do
Agreed it’s a good idea to talk to the locals before you buy - there’s a reason why the Dutch buy the bikes they do
02-04-18, 09:20 AM
#29
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Just added a grip position in the bottom of the 'U' of the M bars**, note there's only room for 1.5 fists, so I have a two finger overlap (clicky). Both bikes shown with 30L capacity - as an ultra-lighter, that's all I need for self-supported touring. A few reasons I prefer touring with the B though (clicky). And FWIW, a size comparison to my Dahons (clicky).
** M bar have changed for 2017+ and maybe too small for my mod, but to be honest, if I were to do it again, I'd seriously consider the P bars (function over form next time?).
** M bar have changed for 2017+ and maybe too small for my mod, but to be honest, if I were to do it again, I'd seriously consider the P bars (function over form next time?).
I think you may find these well suited to Dutch conditions https://www.gazelle.nl/fietsen?tags=stadsfietsen.
Agreed it’s a good idea to talk to the locals before you buy - there’s a reason why the Dutch buy the bikes they do
Agreed it’s a good idea to talk to the locals before you buy - there’s a reason why the Dutch buy the bikes they do
02-04-18, 09:45 AM
#30
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I lived in Den Haag, and kept the bikes in the flat. Most of my friends did the same or kept them in a communal area. What you never want to do is leave them outside overnight.
You can leave bikes in secure parking spots, notably at stations including Amsterdam Centraal, but there is a fee. However, Amsterdam is quite well organised on this - see https://www.amsterdam.nl/parkeren-ve...fietsparkeren/ .
Once you find an apartment you’ll have to register with the town hall, and they should be able to tell you whether there is a secure parking in your area, and what the price is.
You can leave bikes in secure parking spots, notably at stations including Amsterdam Centraal, but there is a fee. However, Amsterdam is quite well organised on this - see https://www.amsterdam.nl/parkeren-ve...fietsparkeren/ .
Once you find an apartment you’ll have to register with the town hall, and they should be able to tell you whether there is a secure parking in your area, and what the price is.
02-04-18, 10:12 AM
#31
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Bikes: Vilano Urbana, DownTube FS9, Montaque paratrooper, Nano mini-velo, Motobecane CX, Raleigh 20, MIFA folder, ROG Pony, Iverson Grand Touring folder, Exclusiv German folder
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Start with an old Yugoslavian Pony or East German MIFA(or some other ubiquitous 40yo brand), get the feel for it and find out what you like. Upgrade to nicer when you want, but you will always have a functional beater. Spray paint beater in color of your favorite team, seat, tires, fenders, lock. Meanwhile research gear inches and what you want in your next bike. Good luck and welcome to our world.
02-05-18, 06:49 PM
#32
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Looks like Holland Bike Shop sells quite a few folders:
https://en.hollandbikeshop.com/buyin.../folding-bike/
https://en.hollandbikeshop.com/buyin.../folding-bike/
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