Name: Brompton hub gear setup - Sturmey Archer 3 / 6 / 12 speed @brilliantbikes
Uploaded: 2026-09-26T08:17:00-05:00
Duration: 8 min 17 s
Description: Brompton hub gear setup - Sturmey Archer 3 / 6 / 12 speed

Brompton hub gear setup - Sturmey Archer 3 / 6 / 12 speed

brilliantbikes 2026-09-26 | Brompton hub gear setup - Sturmey Archer 3 / 6 / 12 speed

Brompton 2023 C Line colours and specifications

brilliantbikes 2022-11-09 | This year (end of 2022) there is no "Black Edition" to launch the new 2023 model year Brompton P Line folding bikes

There are 8 colours available (these same 8 are available in the Brompton Electric P Line range)

They are:
1/ Black Lacquer
2/ Cloud Blue
3/ Fire Coral
4/ Flame Lacquer
5/ Racing Green
6/ Black
7/ House Red
8/ Matcha Green - new for 2023

In 2022 the single / 1-speed P Line was discontinued
This year the Urban / 3-speed P Line is being discontinued

The Piccadilly Blue colour has also been discontinued

The bike will revert back (Urban / 6-speed only) to having a Zefal instead of Lezyne pump

All components will be black:
e.g. Handlebars, Brake Levers / shifters, Wheel rims, Spokes, Mudguards, Hinge clamps etc

Brompton SRAM sprocket solution

brilliantbikes 2022-11-03 | We get asked regularly by our Brompton friends if there is a solution for their work out Brompton sprockets on a SRAM / Sachs wheel

This short video will show a solution that we have provided to a few customers - and it works!

So now - when the sprockets are worn - there's no need to throw away the old wheel and get a BWR 6 speed instead (unless you want to!)

0:00 Intro
0:29 Quick history of Brompton wheels
1:48 Sprocket differences
3:48 SRAM / Sachs sprocket workaround
4:47 Summary
5:18 Outtakes

Brompton Electric P Line vs B and W Hard Case #shorts

brilliantbikes 2022-10-31 | We had the question - will a B&W hard case handle a P Line Electric

(sorry we re-uploaded to get the #shorts format correct after we failed 1st time!)

What better way to answer than to try it

So - here we have a Brompton P Line electric ... and a B & W hard case

(of course - if you are using it for flying - you can't take the battery with you!!)

Updated Brompton 6 speed sprockets

brilliantbikes 2022-10-24 | Oh no - it's the wrong sprockets grommet!

Thats not what you want to here when replacing the sprockets on your 6 speed Brompton or Brompton Electric

In 2022 there was a change to the sprocket stack

But somewhere - something went wrong - and some were sent out with a mix of the old and new sprockets - meaning they didn't fit properly

This very short video briefly explains the difference between the original, new and imposter sprocket sets - and what to look for!

Brompton Advance Rack Installation

brilliantbikes 2022-10-17 | It seems like most people with the new lightweight P Line Brompton folding bike opted for the "no-rack" option (probably to save weight)

The rack (or rear frame) helps it roll better when folded

A question we are now being asked a lot is - can I retro-fit a rack to my P Line (or T Line) - the answer is yes and this video shows how to do it

Tools required:
Torque wrench (for tightening nuts and bolts up to the correct tightness)
10 mm socket (for torque wrench)10mm spanner
3mm Allen key / hex wrench
5mm Allen key / hex wrench
Pump

Note: Brompton recommend that you remove the rear wheel, but we thought we’d show how to do it without rear wheel removal)(we made a video on doing removing the advance wheels here: youtu.be/vN_wMaTeYLk )

0:00 Intro
0:58 Removing the old mudguard
3:43 Installing the rack
9:13 End
9:41 Outtakes

Barbour x Brompton 2022 bag collection

brilliantbikes 2022-10-10 | Recently (Oct 2022) Brompton released a collaboration with Barbour - a Brompton folding bike complete with two Barbour bags

Now there are (as far as we know) a limited edition of bags available

There are 3 bags / luggage items available in the Barbour x Brompton 2022 bag collection

Barbour Brompton Metro pouch
Barbour Brompton Holdall
(these two came with the Barbour x Brompton folding bike)
Barbour Brompton City bag

In this video we do our best to show the features of the 3 bags

If we missed anything / got anything wrong - please point it out in the comments section!

You can jump to the part you are interested with the below timestamps
0:12 Barbour Brompton Metro pouch
3:37 Barbour Brompton Holdall
6:56 Barbour Brompton City bag
9:10 End Summary
9:50 Outtakes

P Line front and rear wheel removal and installation

brilliantbikes 2022-10-04 | P Line front and rear wheel removal and installation

In order to put our favourite tyres on our new P Line we needed to learn how to remove (and re-install) the wheels - so we made this short video on how to do that

Tools required:
5mm Allen Key
Pump

0:00 Intro
1:00 Front wheel removal
1:46: Rear wheel removal
3:25 Front wheel installation
5:09 Rear wheel installation
6:50 End
7:28 Outtakes

Barbour X Brompton 2022 Special Edition

brilliantbikes 2022-09-26 | There's a new Brompton special edition folding bike arrived

Normally this time of year (autumn is when Brompton launch their new model year) there is a release of the BLACK edition bikes

This year (2022) it seems to be exactly the opposite of normal - with more silver (and gold) than black!

In this video we run through the collaboration bike between Barbour and Brompton

The bike comes with two bags - a metro pouch and a wax holdall - like the famous Barbour wax jacket - but in the form of a bag

The gold details:
A brass / gold coloured bell
A Barbour logo on the front part of the frame
A Gold Brompton Logo (in the normal Brompton Logo position)

The silver details:
Silver hinge clamp plates and levers - the new advance CNC'd version
Silver rear frame release lever
Silver Lezyne pump
(pump installation details are here: youtu.be/kL4dehkoGi0)

The new things:
Silver hinge clamp and rear frame release
Schwalbe (not Shwobble!) Marathon Almotion Transparent Skin (tan wall colour) nobbly tyres
Brooks Cambium C17 silt colour saddle
Amble Sands (based on Barbours birthplace) frame colour

The video is split into the following parts:

0:00 intro
0:16 intro to the bags
1:19 run through of the features
5:40 did we miss anything
6:04 outtakes

Brompton Advance Roller Wheels - will they fit a standard Brompton

brilliantbikes 2022-09-20 | Since the introduction of the P Line with its new (bigger) advance roller wheels we have been asked many times the following question:

Will the Brompton advance roller wheels fit on a standard Brompton

To be honest we were lazy and said no - the bolt looked different

In this video we finally get around to trying it

(spoiler alert ... the answer is actually yes!)

We also show the different wheels and their diameters and weights

Brompton with Thule Chariot Child Trailer

brilliantbikes 2022-09-05 | We haven't made so many videos recently - due to a new arrival

Co-incidentally we are often asked which bike trailer we would recommend for taking a child on the back of a Brompton folding bike

Well - we wanted to do exactly that, so thought we would give it a go - and here are the results

Spoiler alert: we will be using it a lot in the future

It's the Thule Chariot Cross trailer

We use it as a pushchair for every day use

It has a conversion kit (extra) to allow it to be used for running on rough terrain

It comes as standard with a bike attachment - which is what we used in the video

It also has the option of adding skis for cross country skiing

Brompton Electric P Line unboxing and weighing

brilliantbikes 2022-08-11 | The Brompton P Line electric has been rumoured for a short while now - we thought it was about as real as a Unicorn (sorry Unicorns if you really do exist!)

Then suddenly - some turned up, more or less unannounced

So we thought we would compare the most important thing - weight - against the weight of the 2 speed and 6 speed Brompton C Line electric (and the P Line)

We weighed without the battery ... which is a constant value - and would often be carried separately (partially to avoid damage to the front carrier block)

The video is in different parts:

0:00 | Intro
0:21 | Unboxing the Electric P Line
3:47 | Key features / differences
6:07 | Weight comparison
7:52 | Summary and station test
8:42 | End / subscribe
9:36 | Outtakes

Brompton P / T Line sprocket stack removal / installation

brilliantbikes 2022-05-11 | Brompton P / T Line sprocket stack removal / installation

All previous brompton sprockets (or sprocket stacks) were held in place by a Circlip

The P Line and T Line ranges use a 4-speed derailleur system which is held in place using a lock ring - as used on many Shimano and SRAM cassettes

We show you how to remove and re-install the sprockets - and the tools required - for the 4-speed P / T line bikes

Brompton Disrupt Metro Pouch

brilliantbikes 2022-04-28 | There's ANOTHER Brompton Metro Pouch

Here it is!

The Brompton "Disrupt" Camo Metro Pouch - and we thought when they said Camo, it would be green!

Brompton Electric Front Mudguard Update

brilliantbikes 2022-04-10 | Brompton have released a free update to the Brompton Electric Front mudguard (or fender if you prefer)

It consists of a new mudguard stay and mudguard flap

Note: This is for the Brompton Electric only - and not for the non-Electric Brompton

The new stay gives more clearance under the mudguard and should also stop the mudguard stay bending when under weight / folding resulting in the mudguard being too close to the front wheel

Pre or Post 2017 Brompton Bars?

brilliantbikes 2022-03-06 | This is another question we are frequently asked

Why is it important - to allow you to select the correct gear cables for your Brompton when replacing them, or changing handlebar grips or if replacing the handlebars bars

Here we give 8 clues to point you in the right direction

Timestamps:
0:00 | Intro
1:04 | Handlebar type history
1:42 | Handlebar stem length
2:38 | Brake levers
3:15 | Serial number
4:15 | Handlebar grips
5:07 | Bar bend
5:31 | Bar flex
6:13 | Triggers or shifters
6:34 | Handlebar height

In 2017 (along with the launch of the Brompton Electric), Brompton changed the specification of the bars (and consequently the handlebar stem) on H-type (now known as high rise bars) and M-type (now known as mid rise bars)

Knowing which bars you have will make replacing cables and grips a lot easier

Brompton Electric Small Bag Rain Cover #shorts

brilliantbikes 2022-02-21 | The Brompton City / small bag doesn't come with a rain cover - and we are ofter asked if there is one that will fit

This is our first attempt at a #shorts video - so lets see how it goes

This should answer the question - yes - the Brompton Tote Bag rain cover will fit

(we have seen them in yellow or orange - orange with the Liberty Print Tote bags)

brilliantbikes.co.uk/brompton-luggage-spares/3376-brompton-tote-bag-cover.html

Brompton Aluminium Clamp Set

brilliantbikes 2022-02-13 | The Brompton Aluminium clip set was previously only available on CHPT3 / P Line and partly on the Team GB bikes

Now a set containing the aluminium clip set is available to all as a retro-fit option

Consisting of:
Main Frame hinge clamp
Handlebar stem hinge clamp
Rear frame clip
Seat post quick release
(and a set of bits for fitting them)

The parts are made from black anodised CNC'd aluminium

0:00 | Intro
1:49 | What's in the box
3:25 | Hinge clamps
6:28 | Rear frame clip and quick release
13:50 | Using the aluminium clip set
14:28 | If you liked this video
14:53 | Outtakes

We weighed them - they are approx the same weight as the standard Brompton clamps - so you won't save weight - but they do feel / look nicer!

Brompton Electric 2022 Colours

brilliantbikes 2022-01-30 | Each year we try and make a video on the current (in this case 2022) year Brompton Electric bike colours and any changes - so here it is

There isn't much - so we also run through the Brompton Electric colours available since the beginning and when they appeared / disappeared

The changes for 2022 are:
Re-branding from M-type and H-type to C Line Mid and C Line High

New Lezyne pump
Here's a video we made on the new pump:
youtu.be/kL4dehkoGi0

New catch on bag to help keep the battery connected more securely
Here's a video on the new latch:
youtu.be/9h47SRrfcjI

New front mudguard stay and flap

New colours - Flame Lacquer and Black Lacquer in addition to Turkish Green and Black

Brompton Electric - New latch to fix battery connection

brilliantbikes 2022-01-17 | If you have a Brompton Electric, or are maybe thinking about getting one you may have been searching social media looking for other peoples experiences and come across reports of the battery cutting out / the motor stopping working

There have been reports of issues with the motor - and the battery cutting out
Brompton have been investigating - with feedback from dealers - and come up with a solution

Well - this video is about exactly that!

There are two bags for the Brompton Electric - this video applies to both bags - small and large

Hopefully there will be more bag / luggage options at some point!

This video is less about the actual bag and more about the frame inside the bag- well the catch inside the frame

The bag / battery moves just a bit too much with the old latch - so the connection isn’t tight enough - this means the battery can disconnect and potentially damage the motor

With the new latch you can see that it moves a lot less

The new latch is grey - the old latch is black

One of our viewers - David - has always told us to make sure we push the battery “home” well

There is also a new front mudguard stay / flap
(If you have a very recent C Line Brompton Electric it will already have these two changes)

Brompton CHPT3 sling bag

brilliantbikes 2022-01-15 | We were asked not to make a video on a bag for at least a month - so we waited and here's the Brompton CHPT3 Sling Bag

A collaboration with CHPT3 that was originally supplied with the 2020 Brompton CHPT3 bike

It's now available as an after market bag

We run through the bags features

New for 2022 - The Brompton P Line

brilliantbikes 2022-01-05 | Brompton have released the P Line (or Performance Line) bike for the 2022 range

This time it's not just colours or small changes
(It is available in storm grey or midnight black - both are a metallic finish)

It's almost like a new bike - here we run through all the details (unless we missed some!) - even the box is different

We were going to compare to a C Line (Core Line) bike - but there was so much different it seemed like it would be eating into valuable time to spend with this new bike!

There are so many changes we split the video into the following sections:

0:00 | Intro
0:24 | Our top 5 new features
3:42 | Teaser of all changes
4:00 | Run through of features
12:16 | End
12:36 | Outtakes

If we missed anything - please comment in the comments section

Handlebar grips:
Superlight foam 130mm lock-on - 42 g per pair

Handlebars:
They are black … like all of the extremities - it is effectively a Black Edition (of course the black makes it harder to film!)
Available in low (previously S-type) , mid (previously M-type) and high bars (previously H-type)

Gear shifter:
There is just the one shifter - on the left side
Because it’s a derailleur gear you should only change gear when pedaling

Headset:
Superlight - black aluminium

Front carrier block:
It uses the standard Brompton front carrier block - not standard by default on the P Line

Front Forks
These are standard Ti forks - as used on the CHPT3 - painted black

Front mudguard:
New design and new stays

Front Wheel:
All new 20 spoke wheel with thinner rim profile
Bolt through axle

Tyres:
Schwalbe one Black
Also available with the Continental Contact Urban - our current favourite

Hinge clamps:
New (as used on the CHPT3) aluminium - black

New Chain catcher on main frame

Saddle:
Superlight saddle with chromoly rails, carbon reinforced base and lightweight padding. Includes integrated carry handle and light mount.

Pentaclip:
New and now compatible with carbon rails
Carbon long lips
Others short lips

Lower stop disk is now a lower stop device - with integrated cable guide

Seatpost clamp - now aluminium - black

Rear frame clip - now aluminium - black

Suspension block - new - and a new shape

New roller wheels

Rear mudguards are new with new stays and a new roller wheel - for better rolling when folded

Rear wheel:
All new 28 spoke rear wheel, with new rim profile
New hub

Gearing
4 Sprockets
Gearing 11-13-15-18 Tooth this give a 163% range

Chain
10 speed hollow pin chain

New chain tensioner / derailleur (replacing the chain pusher)

Video equipment: (for our ref)
Sony A7C camera
50mm lens
Sony wireless microphone

Brompton Electric with a manual front wheel

brilliantbikes 2021-12-30 | This video is to answer a question we have been asked a few times

Can I put a manual from wheel on my Brompton Electric folding bike?

This is a video of two subjects
1/ Is it possible to run a standard front wheel on a Brompton Electric
2/ How much effort does it take to climb a hill on the Brompton Electric with a standard front wheel versus with power

We chose one of the top 100 Climbs - these are 100 climbs around the UK that can be “collected” like football cards!

There’s an app for that! And a website describing all the climbs

Here is a link to the website in the details section:
cyclinguphill.com/100-climbs

There is a link to the Strava segment also in the details:
strava.com/segments/6691062
I last did it in June 2017 - in a time of 14:17 on my road bike (the estimated power was 162 W so it will be good to see how good / different that estimate is)

To measure the power required up the hill (by the rider as opposed to provided by the motor) we are going to fit these power meter pedals - they will show how much effort is required during the ride

We’ll do that before we set off

Then we do one run on the Brompton Electric

Then we do the same run on the Electric with a standard front wheel

1/ So - I guess that answers the question - yes it will fit

We made a video on removing / re-installing
youtu.be/_Z1-h5s5FBs

We chose Marathon Racer tyres so that the rolling resistance is as similar as possibleThe Electric ride has tan wall front and rear
The Manual version has black / standard front wheel

2/ So here we are at {if 20 - Toys Hill}
The hill has the following characteristics
* Location: Four Elms, Kent, south of M25
* Directions: Heading on B2042 towards Ide Hill, take a left direction Toys Hill
* Distance: 1.8 miles / 2.6 km
* Average gradient: 6 %
* Maximum gradient: 18%
* Height gain: 172 m
* KOM time: 7.28 | 14.7 mph
* QOM time: 8:20 11.61 mph
* 100 climbs: #20
* Strava – 100 climbs version

Brompton Electric - withe Manual / standard front wheel
Distance 2.48
Time 14.07
Average speed
Total ascent 126
Max HR 175
Max power 413
Average power 164

Steep bit Strava segment
manual: 8.17
QOM 4.17 (beat this on the electric and changed the ride to electric)
Brompton Electric climb time electric 3.37

Brompton Electric - with motor
Distance 2.76
Time 10.28
Average speed 15.8
Total ascent 166
Max HR 135
Max power 431
Average power 242

WE FAILED! to make the climb on the manual - we will be back - and Hannah will beat the hill!
But this shows how good it is to have the electric motor in the front wheel

Timestamps - in case you want to skip some:
0:00 | Intro
1:27 | Checking the manual front wheel will fit
3:41 | Hill climb - Toys Hill
7:00 | End / subscribe
7:32 | Outtakes

Brompton CatEye 500 Lumen Front Light

brilliantbikes 2021-12-24 | Warning: Contains flashing lights!

There's a new light out from Brompton - the Brompton 500 LM - so we thought we would compare it against the Brompton CatEye Volt 400, the CatEye AMPP 500

We recently made a video on mounting the CatEye AMPP 500 - the link is here:
youtu.be/dAyoW8qHmnA

Upon closer inspection we decided the Brompton 500 LM was so similar in looks and specs that we wouldn't compare it too - as it would be a bit boring

So we compare the Volt 400 and AMP 500 in the video - but there are some extra comparisons in this description:

Mounting brackets
Brompton CatEye 400 - fork mounted for BromptonCatEye AMPP500 - handlebar mount - can work on a Brompton, but can interfere with the foldBrompton 500 Lumen - fork mounted for Brompton

Brompton 500 Lumen
4 modes
High - 500 lumens - 1.5 hours
Low - 250 lumens - 3 hours
Daytime Hyperconstant - 500/250 lumens - 5 hours
Flashing mode - 250 lumens - 50 hours

Charge time
Volt 400 - 3-6 stated time
AMPP 500 - 4-8 hours
Brompton 500LM 6 hours

Timestamps:

0:00 | Intro
0:28 | Introducing the three lights
2:20 | Light features
3:26 | Brompton 500 LM modes
4:53 | Brompton CatEye Volt 400 modes
6:00 | Comparison test
7:39 | Summary / End
8:24 | Outtakes

Brompton pump pressure test

brilliantbikes 2021-12-19 | Recently we made a video on the new Brompton lezyne pump

This prompted a lot of comments
The old pump was rubbish
Can it really pump to 160 psi
Etc etc

And this constructive one:
"It would be interesting for you to pump the tyres as hard as you can, then use a gauge to check the actual pressure. I am not convinced that you could even achieve 100 psi let alone their claimed maximum. Now that’s a challenge for you."

This piqued our curiosity

So we decided to:

Install an in-line pressure gauge on a tube (we can only find for Presta valve - but don't think that should make that much difference)

and see how we get on

Here are the timestamps if you want to skip some
0:00 | Intro
3:02 | Pump using the new Brompton Lezyne pump
4:27 | Pump using the old Brompton Zefal pump
5:55 | Pump using a track pump (Topeak Joe Blow)
7:28 | Pump using a CO2 cartridge
9:36 | Outtakes - Unfortunately we did make some mistakes filming!

Here's the DC rainmaker video on the TyreWiz
youtu.be/IFNYIh_EWWw

Brompton Bottom Bracket Removal

brilliantbikes 2021-12-06 | How to remove a Brompton Bottom Bracket and which tools are required

In this video we show you:
What is a bottom bracket
Where does it live

how to remove an older and a newer bottom bracket and which tools are required for the job

Its split into the following sections:
0:00 | Intro

1:55 | Crank bolt removal
14mm socket or 8mm Hex / Allen key

3:33 | Drive side crank removal
CCP-22 - square taper crank puller

7:11 | Tight crank removal

8:16 | Left crank removal

11:18 | Bottom bracket drive side removal
BBT-4 - old / FAG bottom bracket
BBT-22 (or BBT-32) - new / ISIS bottom bracket

13:48 | Bottom bracket comparison
ISO vs JIS

14:17 | Bottom bracket non-drive side removal

15:13 | End and balance bike

15:52 | Outtakes

Brompton 2022 C Line colours and features

brilliantbikes 2021-11-20 | The Brompton C-Line - is the "core" range of bikes

Here we show the colours and features / models available for 2022

The 2022 C-Line colours are:
Black
Racing Green
House Red
Black Lacquer - gloss

Cloud blue - was new for 2021

New for 2022 are:
Piccadilly blue
Flame coral

And dont forget you can mix n match

In 2021 Colours were: Black, Cloud Blue, Gloss Black Lacquer, House Red, Orange, Racing Green, Tempest Blue - so it’s goodbye (or more likely au-revoir) to Orange and Tempest Blue

Gearing
No single speed
2 speed - urban - 2 speed Brompton Derailleur
3 speed - utility - 3 speed Sturmey Archer hub
6 speed - explore - 2 x 3 Brompton BWR wide ratio

Handlebars
S - low - like this S2L - Fire Coral and Piccadilly Blue
M - mid - like this M3L - Racing Green
H - high - like this 6 speed (sorry - Explore) black lacquer - you can see the bars are higher

All bikes now come with mudguards (or mudguards and rack if specified)

Since last year (2021) - all bikes came with a front carrier block as standard

The grips may (or may not be the same)

They all come with the new pump from Lezyne (did we mention we made a video on that)

We made this video for posterities sake … so we could remember / look back at the colours / models for 2022

Brompton Lezyne new 2021 Pump

brilliantbikes 2021-11-13 | There's a new Brompton pump out - to replace the Brompton Zefal one

We first got this pump on the new C-Line black edition bikes

Previously we had done a video on the Brompton / Zefal pump here: youtu.be/mZs829pkA_Y
To be fair to that pump - we have never had a problem (bearing in mind that it is designed for emergency use - as opposed to a track / floor pump for quick / accurate inflation) - and we never lost one (apart from on stolen bikes)

The new pump also comes with the 2022 C Line electric bikes

It should be available as a retro fit pump - and will fit all models including the Superlight, and CHPT3 (titanium frame models) which don’t have the braising for fitting a pump

It will also fit all current / B75 / all older Brompton folding bikes

0:01 | Intro

0:59 | Brompton pump alternatives

We started looking into alternatives - but Brompton beat us to it by bringing out this new pump!
Should we continue with this quest?

1:58 | Fitting the new Brompton Lezyne pump

8:21 | Using the pump

12:20 | Like and subscribe

12:43 | Outtakes

Brompton 2022 BLACK Edition colours and specifications

brilliantbikes 2021-11-07 | We have one of each of the 2022 Brompton folding bike BLACK edition colours - so you can see what they are and how they look

In recent years, the launch of the BLACK edition Brompton folding bikes marks the launch of the new year bikes - at the end of the year

This year is the same - so in November 2021 - we get the 2022 model Black edition bikes

Almost like Christmas comes early!

So let’s see what we have

We run through the colours and options and specifications

Colours:

Once again - the finish is gloss - previously it used to be a silk finish (as with my old orange one - Clementine - she was stolen and now “lost and gone forever!”)

Gloss Black - this has been a standard since the launch of the black editions - black with black extremities - and black detailing

The first thing we notice (peering in the box) is the C - denoting that it is a “Core” bike as opposed to A (Entry level - that was previously the B75) - you can see it through the carry holes

All Bromptons now come with (since 2021) the front carrier block as standard (except B75)

They also now all come with mudguards (unless a rack is specified)

The next thing we notice - in the pack with the manual is a new pump (we will cover that in a separate video very very very soon!)

Turkish Green
Turkish green (some think it’s blue) has been in and out as a black edition colourIt’s also very popular as a Brompton Electric colour (also gloss with black extremities - so this bike could almost pass as an electric look-e-likie)

The other options are “special finishes”

Sorry no “standard” colours - and no rocket red - the most popular (for us) colour last lear!

Black Lacquer
This has been available for a number of years
We have had people ask if the finish of the black lacquer is durable - our camera man has one - this is 3 years old and still looking nice
(Are the extremities black)

Flame Lacquer - new to the Black edition for 2022
We made a video on the flame lacquer bike - it seems we can’t seem to keep hold of them - they are so popular
This is the first year that it’s been available as a black edition

We are interested to see which saddles they come with and which handlebar grips

Common black detailing on all bikes:
All the detailing is black - which seems to be the theme for special edition bikes - as compared to standard bikes (like this example demo one)
Bars and Levers are black
Stem
Headset
Forks
Front mudguard
Front wheel (spoke, rim centres and hub)
Hinge clamp plates
Pentaclip
Seatpost
Chain ring
Crank set
Pedals - non-folding and folding
Rear mudguard
Rear reflector bracket
Rear triangle
Pump fitting braising is still there - even though the new pump is supplied
Rear wheel (spokes, rim centres and hub)

Gearing
The black edition is available in only 2 or 6 speeds

No 1 speed at all for any Brompton since 2021 or 3 speed in black edition

The model denotation has changed from M6L / S3R etc for this year

We could do another video on that - what do you think?

M now mid
S now low
H now high

All of these (as we are focussing on the colour) are the same model C-Line, Black Edition, Mid, Explore (previously known as M6L)

So … that is (for our video history library) the Brompton BLACK EDITION colours for model year 2022

To recap

New colour: Flame lacquer
New pump - we made a video on that here: youtu.be/kL4dehkoGi0
Rear frame (triangle) still has mounting points for the old pump - but one is not included with the bike
New model designations

Link to unboxing a Brompton (it's a B75 in this case)
youtu.be/56cGpmagbJg

Brompton Waterproof Bag Comparison

brilliantbikes 2021-10-31 | Brompton Metro Waterproof Large vs Brompton Borough Waterproof Large vs Brompton Ortlieb bag

We had a request - could we compare the features of the Metro (the black one) vs Borough (the blue one) large waterproof bags - we thought we would throw in the previous champion - the O-bag (the Orange one)

The video started out as a comparison of features then we decided to also see how they performed in the rain

So the video has the following parts:

0:00 | Intro

1:10 | Rain test of the waterproof bags

We did an initial test - leaving the bags out on a rainy day ...

Originally (a week earlier) we were going to leave the 3 bags on the 3 bikes - it started raining (for about 5 seconds) then stopped - we were later reminded that leaving the bikes out in the rain could be seen as Brompton abuse!

So - we left them out without bikes

We are uploading an hour of relaxing rainy day Brompton bag video - with a special appearance by our friendly robin

You can see it here (complete with robin)
youtu.be/yvserAUP178

Even this gentle rain for an hour showed that the zip on the front of the Metro bag isn't reliably waterproof (or we didn't do it up enough!)

3:57 | Extremely wet rainy day ride test

Then the forecast for the following day was for heavy rain - so we decided to re-do, get wet and give them a real test!

If you would like to see 40 minutes of getting wet riding around local roads - we could also upload that!

5:44 | About the three waterproof bags

6:27 | Rear pockets / storage

All three bags have two rear storage pockets - perfect for a thermos flask or bottle of water

They are all roll top so very waterproof

The Ortlieb winds here - the bags can be removed and used as smaller carry bags away from the Ortlieb mothership!

7:23 | Shoulder Strap

Metro bag - fixed

Borough bag - removable - but a bit fiddly

Ortlieb bag - removable - easily

8:38 | Borough waterproof bag features

Including:
Roll top
Webbing straps on the front for attaching .... stuff
Large (orange) interior
13 inch laptop sleeve
Zip up net pocket inside

10:23 | Metro waterproof bag features
Two fasteners on the front - with different settings
Zip pocket in front flap
Pen holders
Two pockets under the front flap
Orange interior
13 inch laptop sleeve
Zip up net pocket

11:50 | Brompton O bag features
Laptop sleeve with velcro fastener
Keyring holder
Pens holder
Two zip up pockets
Two velcro sealed pockets

13:12 | End
Thanks for watching

13:40 | Outtakes
Sorry - we went wrong on some takes!

Brompton pre-2017 / B75 grips - 5 (+ a couple of bonus ones!)

brilliantbikes 2021-10-18 | A selection of grips for your Brompton B75 or older style (pre-2017) M-type / H-type handlebars

Over a year ago we started making a video showing which grips will fit which model of Brompton

It was a bigger task than we ever imagined

And some of the grips we started with have since been modified or discontinued

So we thought we would simplify it (hopefully) so - here goes

The video is in different sections - with time stamps in the description so you can skip to the most interesting part for you (hope it’s not just the outtakes!)

0:00 | Intro

This video will hopefully help with that question- will this grip fit my B75? - we have 5 + a bonus grip options
And we try the GP5

0:35 | B75 standard grips
Current / standard B75 grips - and how to remove (clue - washing up liquid)
The B75 comes with push on rubber grips

1:43 | Brompton standard pre-2017
(these may have been discontinued in 2021)

The first option would be to replace them with the standard pre-2017 grips - but these are one of the options that was (maybe) discontinued during the making of our comprehensive video

They are made of a foam like material - and should be glued on using a copydex type adhesive - making them difficult to replace

The only way we could remove the old ones was with a knife

Top trumps - Brompton branded - lightest @ 14 g

2:21 | Brooks slender short (100mm)

If you like leather - and maybe would like a matching saddle - then we already made a video on the Brooks slender grips -

These are available in the same colours as the Popular Brooks saddles - black / brown and honey (a lighter brown)

though these have also changed specification slightly since we fitted them to our old Brompton - the wording on the leather disappeared

We would say these are more for looks than comfort

Here are the new look ones ….

Weight: 111g

Top trumps - prettiest

3:46 | Madison youth

If you are looking for the cheapest option - then these from Madison will do the job with no thrills

They are actually ‘youth grips’ - hence the handy shorter length (but also a,slightly smaller diameter)

Top trumps - cheapest

Weight: 71g

4:24 | Frog short 90mm grips

If you want cheap but lock on rather than slide on - these Frog (kids) grips will do the job

Top trumps - shortest

Weight: 58g

5:00 | Ergon GP1 short / grip shift

‘Maximum comfort and best possible pressure distribution in a grip designed for touring or mountain biking. Turn the grip to get the correct support platform position.
* 202g per pair’

The most popular option are the GP1 - either Cork or Rubber

These are almost the standard ‘after market’ fit handlebar grips

Some people buy the full length version - these [show them] - and cut to length
(Do you really want to take a knife / saw to your new grips … we know it’s almost hallowe’en but …..)

The shorter version come in two finishes - rubber and bio-cork and rubber

And in 2 diameters - s and l

Top trumps - most fitting options

6:53 | Ergon GS1 short / grip shift

We didn’t want to look Ergon biased - but the nicest looking are the GS1
And they have the option of being short or really short due to the removable end

Cross country / Marathon MTB - designed for comfort over a long period of time

Only one size and one finish

Top trumps - adjustable length

Weight: 134g

7:57 | Ergon GP5 - will they fit?

9:54 | End / Subscribe

10:19 Outtakes

Team GB Metro Messenger Bag

brilliantbikes 2021-10-15 | A short video on a piece of Brompton luggage

The Metro Messenger Team GB bag was originally released with the limited edition Team GB 2020 (released in 2021 due to the delayed Tokyo Olympics)

Now it's available (for now at least) as a stand-alone option for all Brompton folding bikes (with a front carrier block installed that is)

Here we show the bags features

Brompton Electric Light Upgrade - can we do it?

brilliantbikes 2021-10-10 | One of the most common Beompton Electric questions we get asked (after .. are there any other bags yet?) is ....

Is there a brighter light available for my Brompton Electric

The official answer is no

The complexity with the Brompton Electric is that the power goes through the front light and back out to power the rear light

It seems that most electric bikes have two feeds - one for front and one for rear - so the front light must have an input AND output

We found one (two actually) from Bush and Muller - so thought we would give it a try

We wouldn't recommend you try this - as we are not sure what it will do to the warranty

While making the video we discovered it was very long and the bit in the middle was a bit boring! But necessary if you want to see all the steps - so here are the time stamps for the three parts, so you can skip what you are not interested in

0:00 | Intro
3:00 | Light installation
13:57 | Light comparison
16:33 | End
16:57 | Outtakes

It took a while ... we had to find the correct fixings for the cable and to plug into the front carrier block (once the wires are removed - the connector is not-re-useable) - so we had to order these

We also had to find the right lights - so far we found 2 alternatives

Then we had to try it and compare!

Let us know what you think

Brompton B75 Unboxing and Comparison to standard 2021 Brompton

brilliantbikes 2021-09-27 | Almost exactly 2 years ago we made a short video comparing the Brompton B75 against a standard Brompton

It was made in a hurry and to be honest the sound quality vas rubbish (we can hardly bare to watch it)

But by the time we produced the video and noticed - the bike was gone

It's been 2 years and we haven't had any more - until now

We have all learned a bit more about the B75, and the spec.has settled down - that first one had some non-standard features (such as reflective sidewall tyres) to get them out quickly

So here is another effort - hopefully it's better

We also show how to unbox it (for those getting one delivered by post) and fit the pedal and saddle

The video is in 3 parts

0:00 | Unboxing / assembly
5:59 | Comparison of B75 against a standard 2021 Cloud Blue M6L Brompton
14:27 | The end bit

Brompton Schwalbe Marathon Racer Tan Wall

brilliantbikes 2021-09-20 | There's a new tyre available for the Brompton folding bike

The Brompton Schwalbe Marathon Racer Tan Wall 16 inch

Well - it's not actually new - it was launched originally with the Brompton Explore limited edition bike

But in this year of tyre (and component) shortages - 2021, it has - maybe surprisingly been added to the official range of Brompton tyres (though availability could be limited)

The video shows the 2021 tyres available and shows the "new tyre" and how it looks

Brompton Electric 2021 Colours and Options

brilliantbikes 2021-09-05 | This is partly for posterity - to record the Brompton Electric folding bike options available in 2021 (after all, at least the colours seem to change every year)

So we show all the current (2021) colours:
Black
Bolt Blue
Turkish Green
White (discontinued)

Black edition features

Gear options
rear and front gearing

Bags

We made a detailed video on the two bags here:
youtu.be/TkZyYvHr1F8

Brompton 2021 Liberty Jonathan

brilliantbikes 2021-09-01 | Brompton Jonathan Liberty Print Bags

In 2020 Brompton released some of their bags in a limited edition Liberty Print fabric - a floral fabric

These were:
Metro Pouch
Tote Bag
Basket Bag

These proved so popular that in 2021 they released more liberty print bags - this time the print was called Metropolis - a bright coloured range named and representing the tall buildings of London

This time there was the addition of the Back Pack

Now in 2021 there is a more subdued third iteration - the Liberty Jonathan print - though we have been unable to find out who or what Jonathan is!

The video shows the new print and compares to the previous models

Brompton CatEye front light alternative bracket

brilliantbikes 2021-08-01 | The Brompton CatEye Volt light was introduced in 2016 as a 300 Lumen light - the Volt 300 and upgraded to a 400 Lumen light in 2018

The problem is they have been in short supply (none so far this year?)

And CatEye have discontinued the Volt in favour of a new light - the Ampp

But what if you want one on your Brompton - you can't get a bracket

Here's an idea on how to mount a CatEye AMPP light

We previously made a video on how to install the Brompton CatEye Volt 400
youtu.be/J62uVJUo_HE

And how to install the Brompton Hub Dynamo (for how to fix / replace the bracket from that)
youtu.be/9sLr2xIvY0U

Let us know if you have already tried this?

Brompton Zefal Pump - use it, dont lose it!

brilliantbikes 2021-07-25 | Use, don't lose your Brompton Zefal frame installed pump

Too many Brompton users out there seem to lose their pumps - we have done 1000's of kilometres (or miles) on our Bromptons and never lost one (yet!)

This video shows :

How to remove the Brompton pump
How to use the Brompton pump
How to re-install the Brompton pump
Compatibility with different models of Brompton including the B75

Brompton Borough Waterproof Bag Small Navy

brilliantbikes 2021-07-19 | The Mini O-bag from Ortlieb has been around for years - in a variety of colours. In 2021 it was finally discontinued

The Brompton Borough Waterproof Small Bag - in a navy colour is the obvious current replacement

So we thought we would show the features of this simple bag

And ... test the waterproof features in a summer storm

Brompton 2021 Liberty Print Metropolis Bags

brilliantbikes 2021-06-27 | In 2020 Brompton teamed up with Liberty print to release a limited number of bags made using special Liberty Print fabric / design.

The bags included in the range were the Metro Pouch, Basket Bag and Tote Bag

For 2021 there are new Brompton Liberty Print bags out - the print design is named “Metropolis” and inspired by the skyscrapers of London.

This time in addition to the Metro Pouch, Basket Bag and Tote Bag - there is also the increasingly popular Metro Back Pack available in this print

Bag numbers are (we think) very limited this time around - so we thought we would show off the design

We also run through the basic features of the tote bag - as we havent covered that before.

Features of the other Brompton bags can be seen in these previously made videos

Back pack
youtu.be/6PQqOArSxTw

Basket bag
youtu.be/jY38AMkqqHM

Metro Pouch
youtu.be/8s19TB1WuWg
youtu.be/rLsosqS-svk

The Original Liberty Print collection
youtu.be/4q3wmiFfhW8

Brompton Team GB 2020 Special Edition

brilliantbikes 2021-06-05 | We've been waiting a year!

This Brompton Team GB limited edition folding bike was due to be released in 2020 for the Tokyo Olympics

The pandemic delayed both the olympics and the bike launch

Now it's here - very limited - 2020 were built (it's rumoured there is a 2021st one out there!)

This video is just a short one to show the colours and features

Brompton Rack Sack

brilliantbikes 2021-04-11 | We were going to show how to install a rack - it is an often asked question

However - there is currently a global shortage in bicycle components - some saddles are n a 400 day lead time!

The shortage extends to some Brompton spare parts / accessories - including wheels and .... the Brompton Rack!

So we made this short video on the Brompton Rack Sack - the official bag of the Brompton rack

Brompton Continental Urban Long Term Update

brilliantbikes 2021-03-14 | We were reminded this week that we owe an update on the 16 inch Continental Contact Urban tyre which was created by Continmetal specifically for use on the Brompton folding bike - thank you David

We installed a pair of Continental tyres AND inner tubes on the 05 April 2020 so just short of a year. (now it's March 2021)

Since then these Continental Tyres and the Brompton to which they have been fitted have done (according to Strava) 1,400 in or miles / kilometres 869 miles

This is less than would have been done if commuting were allowed!

This has included some long rides around London and the Home Counties - including riding over broken glass (that we didn’t see - just heard the crunch of glass)

The video shows how they look new compared with after almost a year and approaching 1000 miles

They are easy to fit

Weight compared to other Brompton tyres:

Tyre weights
==========
Conti weighs 275 g
Marathon weighs 420 g
Marathon plus weighs 480 g
Marathon racer 300 g
Folding Kojak 185 g
Wired Kojak 175 g

Tyre Pressure range
================
Conti - 65 - 116 psi (4.5 - 8 bar)
Marathon 65 psi - 110 psi (4.5 - 7.5 bar)
Marathon plus - 65 psi - 110 psi (4.5 - 7.5 bar)
Marathon racer - 65 psi - 110 psi (4.5 - 7.5 bar)
Schwalbe one tan wall - 65-110 (4.5 -100)
Folding kojak - 70 -115 psi
Wired kojak - 70 -115 psi (5 -8 bar)

Brompton Quad Lock Phone Mount

brilliantbikes 2021-03-07 | We asked which “short” video we should make next - with a choice of :

Brompton Borough Small Waterproof bag vs Mini O (Ortlieb) bag
Brompton Electric 2021 colours
Brompton Quad Lock Phone Mount
Brompton Electric firmware update

(We are still working on the handlebar grips)

As you can probably tell from the title - the Quad Lock was the winner

We’ve been using Quad Lock phone cases and bicycle mounts on our phones for years - so we actually look forwards to using these on our Bromptons too

The video is in the following parts - so you can skip to a particular part of that’s all you are interested in:

0:00 Introduction - what is the Quad Lock system - and what’s it used for
2:08 Whats the the difference between the mount only and the mount with universal adapter
4:32 Fitting the Quad Lock mount to Brompton S-type handlebars
7:24 Fitting the Quad Lock mount to Brompton M-type (including B75) and H-type handlebars (yes it’s slightly different)
11:01 Outtakes and using the Quad Lock for mounting some alternatives to phones

Please feel free to comment and give suggestions

Brompton Borough Medium (Roll Top) Bag

brilliantbikes 2021-02-28 | We had a question / comment about this Brompton bag

"The Brompton Borough Medium (roll top) bag - is not the same as the Brompton Borough Large Roll Top bag - and not just the size"

The bag is "similar" but has different features

The kind viewer suggested we highlight the features

So, here we attempt to do that!

We haven't run through all the features of the Borough Roll Top Bag - which first appeared with the Brompton Explore bike - as we did that here:

youtu.be/4Z_ErL3sXc4

Sorry it's not the grips (yet) - they are still a work in progress

Brompton 6 to 3 speed conversion

brilliantbikes 2021-02-21 | Bromptons come in different gear options:
1 speed (discontinued for 2021)
2 speed - 2 sprockets and a derailleur
3 speed - Sturmey Archer Hub gear - BSR
6 speed - a combination of the Sturmey Archer BWR hub and a 2 speed derailleur

Why downgrade?

It partially comes from a question we had about Brompton Electric - can they be made 3 speed

Cleaner look without the derailleur mechanism
Simpler with less gear levers / combinations
Wide range 3 speed compared to the standard 3 speed

Steps

Remove old chain tensioner
Tip - remove tension
Tools required: 15mm spanner

Remove wheel - including fixings and chain tensioner
Here’s a video we made earlier
youtu.be/L_RQ4Y94-6M
Tip: remove air from tyre so it will fit between the brake blocks

Here's a bit about the inside of the Sturmey Archer hub: youtu.be/Wsovy4NPJLI

Remove old sprocket stackTools required: small flat head screwdriver
Tip: Whenever you change your sprockets - change your chain

Clean wheel - inside to get warm!

Install new sprocket stack - QRSPRSTACK-BWR3

Remove chain pusher etc

Shorten chain
Use chain link pliers - to remove the master link
and chain tool to cut two links outRejoin the chain
Link to chain choice and installation: youtu.be/ynlbPOPG_QI

Install wheel

Install new chain tensioner and set up gears
Hub gear setup: youtu.be/-mGfuqxilO4

Remove gear shifter

Get out and ride (when the snow stops)

Brompton Front Dynamo Light Upgrade Preparation

brilliantbikes 2021-02-14 | We made a video on fitting a Brompton front dynamo light:
youtu.be/9sLr2xIvY0U

and other on how to upgrade to a different front light
youtu.be/oK805QSHaxs

but we still keep getting asked if its possible to change the font dynamo light

So here we show the preparation required to upgrade your front light

Brooks Cambium Grips and Saddle on a Brompton

brilliantbikes 2021-01-31 | We are often asked which handlebar grips can be fitted to which Brompton handlebar type - and their compatibility

We have STARTED making a video about the combinations of what does and doesn't work - but it's taking a LONG time!

In the meantime we needed to replace the grips on one of our bikes - so thought we would try the Brooks Cambium grips and an orange Cambium saddle as they "sort of" match with the Black Edition Raw Lacquer colour

We just passed 10500 subscribers - so thank you all - so much!

Here's a link to the video on fitting a Brompton Pentaclip (yes it is compatible with a Brompton B75 saddle) - sorry about the music!

youtube.com/watch?v=EKR2E9ec-Xg&t

Brompton Electric 2 speed vs 6 speed hill climb comparison

brilliantbikes 2020-12-27 | We are often asked - should I get a 2 speed or a 6 speed Brompton Electric bike

We were also asked if a 2 speed would be suitable for hilly areas

So we got two bikes - and rode them up a relatively steep hill (for the South of England) 8 times - 4 times each with no power (to simulate a flat battery) and on levels 1, 2 and 3

The video has the following:

Intro

6-speed Brompton Electric
No Power / Power Level 0
Power Level 3
Power Level 1
Power Level 2

2-speed Brompton Electric
No Power / Power Level 0
Power Level 3
Power Level 1
We went home and came back on Christmas Day for ....
Power Level 2

Statistics Intro

Outtakes

And here are those vital statistics - if you want more detail - please ask

Moving time (min) Elevation gain (m) Ave speed (km/h) Max speed (km/h) Ave HR (BPM) Max HR (BPM) Ave power (Watts) Max (Watts) Ave cadence Max cadence
6-Speed power level 0 14.4 139 8.4 14.8 151 164 172 282 51 77
6-Speed power level 1 11.52 141 10.2 16.3 145 155 146 240 54 82
6-Speed power level 2 10.33 140 11.8 20.0 137 146 122 196 58 80
6-Speed power level 3 6.56 140 17.9 24.5 137 145 124 225 59 80
2-Speed power level 0 17.2 139 7.1 11.9 153 173 146 252 28 54
2-Speed power level 1 13.02 139 9.6 14.1 138 150 152 238 37 57
2-Speed power level 2 8.21 144 14.8 20.9 126 138 108 253 50 72
2-Speed power level 3 9.25 140 13.0 18.2 135 148 143 215 48 73

Brompton Electic 2 speed vs 6 speed fail

brilliantbikes 2020-12-13 | The question we get asked most about the Brompton Electric is ... should I go for a 2 speed or 6 speed (it's only available in those two configurations off the shelf)

We thought we would do a comparison - with our new power meter pedals - so we can measure effort

We failed!