Whippet Bicycle - new British folder
04-11-17, 09:47 AM
#26
Senior Member
There is quite a buzz about this in the UK (home of Bromptons and moultons). And from what I've seen its between Moulton and Brompton territory (it folds better and is faster, respectively). The designer does time trials etc and did not want any compromises on speed cf conventional diamond frames... wanted something that rolls on its wheels and is super slim. (Not to mention super cool looking enough to mount on the wall, with exquisite jewel like details) .
I just dont get the 'knee-jerk' reactions to new innovations .... "not as good as (my) X " seems like a lot of 'post purchase self-justification' rather than open minded interest and acceptance that we all have different values.
I remember similar negative reactions to Tesla (who are now the biggest, by value, car maker in USA, just overtaking GM and ford).
I just dont get the 'knee-jerk' reactions to new innovations .... "not as good as (my) X " seems like a lot of 'post purchase self-justification' rather than open minded interest and acceptance that we all have different values.
I remember similar negative reactions to Tesla (who are now the biggest, by value, car maker in USA, just overtaking GM and ford).
04-11-17, 10:00 AM
#27
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and frankly a good shake up to the industry ! (other fine electric cars are also available :-) )
04-11-17, 10:27 AM
#28
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There is quite a buzz about this in the UK (home of Bromptons and moultons). And from what I've seen its between Moulton and Brompton territory (it folds better and is faster, respectively). The designer does time trials etc and did not want any compromises on speed cf conventional diamond frames... wanted something that rolls on its wheels and is super slim...
04-14-17, 03:12 AM
#29
Junior Member
Thread Starter
Originally Posted by Graham Powell
...In essence, at Bespoked you are mixing and talking with those who care passionately about their bicycles and really know their stuff,...
...Pretty much everyone agreed that wheeling a bicycle along is preferable to lifting it too!...
...However the real surprise was the extremely positive reaction we received from the majority of Brompton and Moulton owners...
...Equally surprising for us, was that we picked up a Bespoked award for 'Technical Excellence'...
...Pretty much everyone agreed that wheeling a bicycle along is preferable to lifting it too!...
...However the real surprise was the extremely positive reaction we received from the majority of Brompton and Moulton owners...
...Equally surprising for us, was that we picked up a Bespoked award for 'Technical Excellence'...
https://www.whippetbicycle.com/journa...11/our-launch-
Last edited by Blackstrida_A_; 04-15-17 at 07:08 AM. Reason: Link updated
04-14-17, 05:54 AM
#30
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.....the benefits of the "controlled flexing" of the twin tube arrangement.........
That might be a hard sell to anyone who has ridden a Bickerton or Airframe model.
That might be a hard sell to anyone who has ridden a Bickerton or Airframe model.
04-14-17, 06:43 AM
#31
Senior Member
I collect folders (and other bikes) and have about 25 different folders including both models of the Bickerton. Without a doubt the Bickertons are the worse riding bikes I own. They are so flexible I would say they are dangerous and basically my last choice of what to ride. Roger
04-14-17, 10:11 PM
#32
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For me it's not innovative, just another heavy pointless folder. Make it 8KG or less and look great, that's what I want. People who want ugly heavy bikes have the Brompton, it can't be beat for ugly/heavy so why try to compete?
There is just about nothing in the light/stylish bike category and nothing planned now that the Hummingbird is scrapped (bikes on 20inch wheels are impossible apparently).
There is just about nothing in the light/stylish bike category and nothing planned now that the Hummingbird is scrapped (bikes on 20inch wheels are impossible apparently).
04-14-17, 10:15 PM
#33
Senior Member
For me it's not innovative, just another heavy pointless folder. Make it 8KG or less and look great, that's what I want. People who want ugly heavy bikes have the Brompton, it can't be beat for ugly/heavy so why try to compete?
There is just about nothing in the light/stylish bike category and nothing planned now that the Hummingbird is scrapped (bikes on 20inch wheels are impossible apparently).
There is just about nothing in the light/stylish bike category and nothing planned now that the Hummingbird is scrapped (bikes on 20inch wheels are impossible apparently).
04-15-17, 08:38 AM
#35
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I thought they were buying Bromptons because of the brand and now apparently because they are ugly and heavy. Could you please decide? Maybe they are buying them because they are good bikes
I thought there was no point 
, but apparently there is
04-15-17, 10:18 AM
#36
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They have scrapped the 20 inch version, said it can't be done. Only a 16 inch now.
The ugly looks and the weight is the brand. Else they would have changed it buy now. And who thinks they are good bikes? I don't hear anyone praising the ride of them. People say they make great box fillers and great shopping trolleys. Never heard anyone say they function as a bike better than most other bikes.
The ugly looks and the weight is the brand. Else they would have changed it buy now. And who thinks they are good bikes? I don't hear anyone praising the ride of them. People say they make great box fillers and great shopping trolleys. Never heard anyone say they function as a bike better than most other bikes.
04-15-17, 11:00 AM
#37
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To make sure that one cannot claim not reading or hearing, I for one state that for me Brompton is an outstanding bike, great to ride, fantastically designed and the best folder I know. And yes, I do have a list for rational discussion unlikely, to limit temptation of responding in case I might forget, and this where a record from here goes.
04-18-17, 05:33 AM
#38
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Here's an eBay ad for a four speed Airframe, nice photo, love the reverse brake levers.
Airframe Folding Bike Rare British Built Vintage Commute City Travel Bike | eBay
Airframe Folding Bike Rare British Built Vintage Commute City Travel Bike | eBay
04-18-17, 08:38 AM
#39
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They're not good, they're awesome and I love the smooth sprightly ride. I also love the looks as apparently a lot of other people do which is why there's no need to change them after such a long production run. If you don't get 'it' I understand, believe me, I'm considering the source.
