Brompton Electric G Line: Bigger wheels for new paths

The folding bikes from Brompton are getting bigger wheels. While the compact folding bikes previously rolled around on 16-inch tires, Brompton is now giving the new G Line 20-inch tires. This should make the riding experience more similar to that of a full-size bike. The Brompton Electric G Line and the non-motorized version will be on sale from October.

After fifty years on 16-inch wheels, Brompton is now offering larger tires for the first time. This should make the folding bikes, which retain the proven folding mechanism, easier to ride off-road. When it comes to tires, Brompton offers a choice between off-road-compatible Schwalbe tires, which can also be ridden tubeless, and Continental tires, which are tailored to road surfaces. In addition to the new wheel size, there have also been changes to the brakes: the new Bromtons are the first with hydraulic disc brakes.

Brompton's 345 Wh battery is also located in a bag that is attached to the frame above the front wheel. The motor has been moved from the front to the rear wheel, which should improve handling and balance compared to its predecessor. The rated continuous output is 250 watts. Brompton claims to have improved the efficiency of the motor by 20 percent and promises a range of 30 to 60 kilometers on a full battery charge. The Brompton Electric G Line transmits via Bluetooth to the smartphone and the manufacturer provides updates via the app.

The Electric G Line weighs 16.1 kilograms without and 19.5 kilograms with battery. The version without the motor weighs 13.9 kilograms without mudguards and pannier rack, and 900 grams more with both. The non-motorized G Line has an eight-speed derailleur, while the Electric G Line has to make do with four gears.

Brompton G Line launches in October

The Brompton Electric G Line costs 3499 euros and is therefore no more expensive than its electric counterpart with small tires, the Electric C Line. The prices for the G Line without motor are between 2849 and 3079 euros, depending on the equipment – mudguards, lights and pannier rack are optional –. Brompton offers three frame sizes for people between 1.52 and 1.98 meters tall. The new models go on sale on October 7 and are available in green, orange and white.

(sht)