On Loan from Green Fleet Bikes, Nashville, TN.
In 1975 Andrew Ritchie began designing a folding bicycle in his apartment which overlooked Brompton Oratory in South Kensington, London. Although his first design was a bit crude, it featured the smallest dimensions of any portable bicycle when folded! This was achieved by creating 2 folding points; the bicycle’s rear wheel folds under the front and the frame also folds in half. Low-volume production began in 1981, and in two years, he had sold 500 bikes. In 1987 Brompton was awarded the Best Product Award at the Cyclex event held at the Olympia Conference Centre, London. The first factory opened the following year under a railway bridge.
Brompton quickly gained a following among London commuters as they are allowed on buses and commuter trains. Also, the bikes can be folded in about 20 seconds, making them easy to take wherever one goes.
Brompton’s cult status and 12 company-run stores across Europe and Asia have attracted riders (and even Brompton racers) all over the world. Each Brompton is hand built and signed by the welder’s “brand”’. With 45K built per year, Brompton has become the UK’s largest bicycle maker.
Specifications:
Designer/builder: Andrew Ritchie/ Brompton Bicycle Ltd.
Country of Origin: England
Weight: 11793g/ 26lbs.