The Brompton rides well, is safe and defines the word portable.

Other folding bikes have their own

individual character and purpose, but none we feel matches the Brompton's
convenience.

"The brainchild of engineer Andrew Ritchie...every part of this most compactly folding
bicycle is designed and put together with meticulous attention to detail" Cycle Touring &
Campaigning
 Certainly out of the ordinary

Like many others, I use a Brompton a lot. I ride mine more or less five thousand
miles a year, and fold it two or three times a day; so I'm something of an addict.
It's my daily transport to work and around London and I'm seldom without it on a train
or on holidays: and a couple of Bromptons invariably come in the car when
away for a weekend, often never used but fun now and again for a day's hiking.

That's the joy of the Brompton; though it's become a way of life, I don't have to
use it. And when I do, the sense of independence is great.

The Brompton is certainly out of the ordinary, but so too is the company that makes
them. In our factory just outside London, the whole engineering process (from bending
tube through frame-building to final assembly) takes place in-house. We have
complete control of materials and for every bike we ship we can identify whose work
went into all stages of its manufacture: moreover,
many of the production team use a Brompton and have a good feel for how the product
needs to be. So we have real confidence in the quality of what we make here.
You may feel that we are unduly enthusiastic in this brochure about the Brompton.
Please remember though, that this is how we at Brompton have come to feel about
the bike, both from our own use and through all the positive feedback we get from users
around the world.
 About the design

The Brompton is a finely engineered and elegant machine. It has a full-size frame, which
for strength and stiffness is made of steel. Thanks to a careful choice of alloys and tube
sections, it's light and the bike is easy to carry: actual weight depends on the configuration
and ranges from about ten and a half to thirteen kilos.

There are three types of Brompton, the T-type, the L-type and the simpler C-type. All have
rear suspension, which incidentally also allows instant "parking" of the bike; a very handy
feature and the first step in folding

On the L- and T-types, many parts are designed specially for the Brompton. In particular,
high-pressure tyres and a powerful braking system are fitted, and these transform the feel
and performance of these bikes.

The Brompton's remarkable ability to fold is achieved without complexity, and its
maintenance needs are much the same as for a normal bike

.
"The central feature of the Brompton is its brilliantly
conceived folding method. It has to be seen to be
believed.....
the Brompton is one of those rare technical
advances that in practice genuinely extend the
scope and attractiveness of cycling"
Robert Poole, NEW CYCLIST

Folding or unfolding is a simple procedure, as once parked the Brompton stands on its
own leaving both hands free: there are three main parts to fold and it takes just fifteen
to twenty seconds. When folded, a Brompton stays locked together automatically,
making an extremely compact package, little larger than its wheels.

Rollers underneath make it easy to stow the bike in inaccessible corners and these
can even be used for wheeling the folded bike around.

As for the ride, the Brompton's a pretty lively machine. The combination of Sturmey
Sram/Sachs hub gears, a rigid frame and accurate alignment makes for really efficient
transmission of your energy. Moreover, its small wheels have a number of intrinsic
advantages: they are strong, light, easy to accelerate and highly manoeuvrable.

The Brompton is the only bike in the world to combine such ready portability with a
first-class ride, and it creates countless new opportunities for using a bicycle.

"It is the sort of bike you can hand in with

your coat at a restaurant cloakroom and
have clicked back into shape while
friends are still arguing over where it
was exactly they parked their car.."
Daniel Ward, THE TIMES
 Perfect for people on the move
There's no better travelling companion than the
Brompton. There are no projections or loose parts
and, with the frame or saddle as a handle, the folded
bike is just like a small suitcase, lightweight and
really easy to manage

On the train or bus, it tucks neatly into luggage space. Vulnerable parts
like lights and cable-runs are out of harm's way, and because the chain
and gears are inside there's no worry about getting grease on your owi (or
your fellow travellers') clothes..

So the folded Brompton is welcome on virtually all public transport, even

where restrictions apply to normal bikes. On aircraft, you might hesitate
before taking it on as cabin luggage, but there's no problem in checking it
in normally (it's lovely hiking off at the other end), and of course one or
more Bromptons can easily go in the car.

On the road, the Brompton is a revelation! The bike rides

like no other folder (or small-wheeled bike for that
matter) I have ridden." Andrew Sutcliffe, BICYCLE
ACTION
"Folding bikes rarely make the grade as a
Design Classic; they are simply full of too many
compromises. The Brompton, however, stands
head and shoulders above the rest" Hilary
Stone, CYCLING PLUS

How do you take the healthy option for travelling about? How do you
avoid reaching for the car for short trips? How do you save fares? How
can you get quickly around town as the roads become ever fuller? You
use a bike.
Fine, but then you have to worry about it being stolen: also it's seldom
easy to take with you. And where do you keep it if you don't want the
bike stuck permanently in the hallway? It's here that the Brompton really
comes into its own.
It's the bike you keep in a cupboard or under the stairs. It's the bike that
carries
lots of luggage or shopping and still rides OK. It's the bike you can pick
up and take in with you when you get to the shops, the theatre, or the
station. It's the bike to use when traffic or parking is a problem. It's also
the bike to bring out for long rides in the country. You'll love its ride, you'll
love the way it tucks into the smallest corner. It's practical and it's fun.
That's the Brompton solution

"the Brompton is not a lash-up, or

a package of compromises; it
works - click! - because
everything about it is right."
BYCYCLE
 Except on the C-type, any combination of the options here can be factory fitted. All the options can also
be retro-fitted on any model. Apart from saddle position, none of the options changes the size of the
folded bike

Options and accessories

Front-Carrier system
The Brompton System provides a highly convenient method for
taking luggage on the bike as it only takes a moment to attach or
release it. As the load is attached direct to the main bike frame, it
has little effect on steering. The system is a delight to use,
especially if you regularly need to take luggage or shopping with
you.

At the heart of the system are a tapered block and a special frame which latches
onto it. There is then a choice of three soft-luggage options which fit over this frame:
all are badged for safety with a reflective Brompton mark. A shoulder strap (not
shown) is available for the two panniers.

"During a long day in Holland most of which was spent in a meeting. I covered some
60km (and passed scores of conventional bikes) on a variety of surfaces.... I also
tried the unique Front-Carrier System, with its briefcase-style bag. This proved ideal
for the trip, with separate compartments for documents, a change of clothes, lights,
etc and is instantly detachable."

Chris Juden, CTC Magazine

 Battery Lighting System (L-type and T-type Dynamo System. Standlights
C-type) for when stationary
The powerful six-LED Basta rear lamp (L) stays fixed to The 'STEADY' version of the Basta rear dynamo
the bike, lightweight and safe from damage when carried lamp (N) stays on for four minutes after you
around. The Catyeye front lamp (M) is removed for have stopped; a great safety feature. For the
folding, using an easy quick release. The set comes front, the Cateye battery lamp (M) can be fitted,
complete with batteries and with the front lamp removed its large switch handy for frequent operation.
weighs 140gms (Complete 350gms).

A - Front Carrier Block and Clip - 100gms G - Brooks Leather Saddle - Extra 420gms
A mounting kit is provided and the block has a sprung clip to keep Made for Brompton, this beautiful traditional saddle will give years of comfortable
luggage in place when riding. The block does not project from the riding. For real refinement specify a titanium frame (235 gms lighter and with more
folded package. spring).
B - Cloth Pannier - 1380gms Saddle Height and Riding Position
A handy and practical holdall made from tough waterproof With the standard seat pillar, the saddle can be up to 965mm from the ground (730mm from
polyester fabric. The main compartment has a divider for keeping the bottom bracket). The three options below allow extra height or a closer reach to the
papers separate from other articles. At the back, there are two handlebars (small fore/aft adjustments to the handlebar can also be made).
pockets for items such as tools, maps etc. All the compartments
H - Extended Seat Pillar- Extra 150gms
have zip-fasteners. Capacity 22 litres. 60mm longer than the standard seat pillar, with the saddle correspondingly higher
C - Folding Basket - 1340gms when folded
Using the same material as the panniers, provides a large,
I Telescopic Seat Pillar - Extra 295gms
open-top container which is ideal for shopping. Its shape is
Permits a saddle height up to 175mm higher than normal, yet when lowered the saddle
maintained by a simple bracing frame which folds flat for storage.
projects only 30mm from the folded package.
Drainage holes are provided in case of rain. Capacity 24 litres.
Saddle Adaptor Pin - 125gms (not shown)
D - Touring Pannier - 1670gms
This brings the saddle forward and, if fitted pointing down, allows the smallest
Has considerably more capacity than the Cloth Pannier, and a
roll-top system with nylon clips for closing. There are two pockets folded-bike size. Pointing up, it raises the saddle 30mm.
at the back and a divider inside. In addition, there are three Tyres
elasticated net pockets around the outside, where you can stuff The standard Brompton tyres (42FL 'YELLOW') are exceptionally free-running, durable and
the things you need during your ride. Total internal capacity lightweight, with a low risk of punctures. This risk is even lower
approx 28 litres. with the following options:
Front-Carrier Frame - 690gms (not shown) J - Brompton Kevlar tyres 42 FT GREEN'
Although its main use is as a backbone for the cloth items, it The Kevlar belt under the tread barely affects the free running qualities and you
may also be used on its own for tying on other luggage. can almost say goodbye to punctures.
E - Rainproof Cover - 55gms K - Schwalbe Marathon tyres
The Brompton rainproof cover keeps your luggage dry in A little heavier (110gms per pair) than the Brompton tyres and not quite so
heavy rain. An elasticated hem keeps it in place and when
free-running, but with a particularly robust construction:
not in use it takes up next to no space.
* Built-in Kevlar belt as on the 42FT
F - Cover and Saddle-Bag - 240gms * Deep uni-directional tread for better grip off-tarmac
A cover is often useful, especially when travelling on public
* Thicker sidewall to lower the risk of pinch-punctures
transport. The zip-up Brompton Cover is quick to fit or remove
and can be drawn tight around the base of the bike using its
draw-cord. The cover fits in the saddle bag.
 The range comprises five models: the relatively inexpensive C-type,
with 3 speeds, and the more sophisticated L- and T-types, where you
have a choice of 3 or 6 gears. The engineering of the frame itself is
broadly similar for all models.
The choice of bikes
On the L and T models, much of the componentry is made specially for
Brompton, which transforms the feel and ride of these bikes: also the
Brompton folding pedal is standard. If you expect to be a regular user,
it's best to opt for one of these. For a small charge, these models can
be specially built to order, using any of the Brompton colours and
options
Main frame Extremities (Forks, handlebar support and rear frame)

Black Blue Green Ivory Red Silver *Turkish Yellow Black Green Red Silver Turkish
Special Colours
Available on bikes made to order. You can choose all one colour,
or opt to have extremities and main-frame different (which allows
some striking combinations). The special-colour surcharge is
higher if you choose silver.
* With Turkish for the main frame, w e recommend that the
extremities are alsoTurkish.

C-type (C3, far left)

Effectively a Brompton in basic form, the C3 has all the
fundamental advantages of the Brompton design; though it's
designed for occasional fair-weather use, it's still fine for riding
hard or far. The C-Type is red and has no mudguards. It cannot be
made to special order, but any Brompton option can be fitted
retrospectively.

L-type (L3 or L6, near left)

Of the two models L and T, the L-Type is the simpler and lighter.
Although it lacks a rear carrier, the optional front luggage system
can take care of most day-to-day needs. And for riding after dark,
Brompton battery lights can be fitted without affecting folding.
Standard colours: Green all over, or Red with Black extremities

3-Speed T-type (T3 or T6 centre)

The highly efficient Sram 3-speed hub, proven over Equipped with a modern
many decades, has a gear change which couldn't be dynamo-powered lighting system as
simpler. For many users the three well-chosen ratios standard, and also a rear rack: these
don't change the folded size, but add
are fine, ideal for general use and around town.
perceptibly to the weight. However,
it's a great convenience to have lights
6-Speed permanently to hand on the bike and
A second sprocket on the rear hub serves to give 6 with the rear and front carriers
evenly spaced gears with a range of 213%. The together, you can really take lots with
unique derailleur mechanism, designed and made by you. Standard colours: Green or
Brompton, is compact and doesn't affect folding. Black.
Changing gear is easy. For both triggers, up gives a
higher gear, and down a lower gear. Maintenance is Special Gearing
The standard gear ratios are given
minimal (though the changer may need cleaning after
overleaf. On made-to-order bikes w e
a muddy ride). With its very low transmission losses
can also supply gearing as follows:
this multi-gear system is the right choice for touring *6-speed models, 12% lower
and for riding in hilly areas. *3-speed models, 12% or 18% lower
 General specifications Specifications for individual models
Weight Range 10.7-12.8kgs 23.5 - 28.2lbs (see note 1) Weight C3 11.35kgs
L3 11.40kgs
Wheelbase 1015mm 40.0" L6 11.60kgs
T3 12.14kgs
Bottom Bracket 270mm 10.6" T6 12.34kgs
Height Raleigh Record, 5.3bar, Schrader valve
Tyress C3
Brompton, free-running skinwall tyres,
L & T - types
Saddle Height (see note 2) flexible, (60tpi)
Min 760mm 29.9" nylon carcass, 6.8 bar, Schrader valve
Max A: 965mm 38.0" Brakes C3 Type 630 pattern sidepull calipers, Saccon
Max B: 1022mm 40.3" City levers
Max C: 1140mm 44.9" L & T - types Brompton dual-pivot caliper at front.
Brompton high-leverage caliper at rear,
Handlebar Height 1015 mm 40.0" forged alloy Brompton levers
Reflectors only
Folded Size (see note 3) Lights C3 Reflectors standard, battery lighting
L - type
Height 565 mm 22.2" optional
Length 545 mm 21.5" AXA IQ Dynamo, Basta 425 halogen front
T - type
Width 250 mm 9.8" lamp. Basta SL6 six-LED rear lamp:
standlight(s) optional
Wheel Size 37/349 ETRTO 16x1 3/8" Gear Ratios C3 42.8" 58.2" 79.2"
Imperial L3 T3 46.5" 63.3" 86.1"
Tyre Diameter 422mm 16.6" L6 T6 40.3" 46.5" 54.8" 63.3" 74.6" 86.1"
3.42m 4.65m 6.32m
Steering Angle 72.4°: bearings Via" oversize meric C3 3.71m 5.05m 6.87m
L3 T3 3.22m 3.71m 4.38m 5.05m 5.96m 6.87m
Frame Low-carbon and Cr/Mo alloy-steel tubes with L6 T6
cast-iron/forged steel hinges. Brazed joints. Ritmo 127mm
BB C3
Phosphate and polyester powder coat finish. FAG 119mm sealed unit
Cartridge L & T - types

note 1 The weights of the standard models are given Transmission C3 Alloy cranks, 46T steel chainwheel, Sachs
in the right hand column. The weights given natural-finish chain, rear-sprocket 13T
here are respectively for: L3 T3 Stronglight all alloy 50T chainset (44T for
a) a bare C3 with alloy chainset and fast lower gearing). Sram nickel-plated chain
tyres, with bevelled inner links. Standard rear
b) a fully equipped standard T6, including sprocket 13T
cover and saddle bag. As for L3 & T3, but two rear sprockets,
L6 T6 13T & 15T
note 2 Dimension A is the maximum saddle height
(from the ground) with the saddle mounted Wellgo, plain bearing, nylon frame
Pedals C3
direct on a standard seat pillar. Dimension  L & T - types LH: Brompton Folding Pedal with precision
the height using an extended pillar, and bearing
dimension Ñ using a telescopic seat pillar. RH; Wellgo, sealed ball-bearings, 'Boron'
With wire framed saddles (heavier) or saddle axle, nylonframe
adaptor pin, you can typically obtain
dimensions 20-30mm higher than the figures As below, but with galvanised spokes
given. Wheels C3 Alesa alloy rims, 28H, stainless spokes
L & T - types (front 14swg,
note 3 The size given is that of a three-speed with a rear 13swg), alloy front hub with sealed
saddle adaptor pin and with the left hand pedal cup and cone bearings. Sram Spectro
removed; the folding pedal projects 20mm (Sachs) 3-speed rear hub.
from this envelope: the five-speed is 7mm C3 Not fitted
Pump
wider. Depending on rider preference, the L & T - types Brompton/Zefal high-pressure with
saddle may also lie outside this envelope. thumblock
Warranty If your bicycle has a manufacturing defect w e will replace the defective
part free of charge if w e are notified within five years (in the case of the
frame) or two years (in the case of other parts) from the date of first
purchase of the bicycle.
The Brompton is for use on roads and well made paths. It is not designed
for cross county riding: this can overstress the frame, and anyway the
tyres and wheels are unsuitable.
Product specifications may be changed: weights and dimensions may
vary slightly. ©2002
Brompton Bicycle Ltd.
Kew Bridge Distribution Centre Lionel Road
Brentford Middlesex TW8 9QR Tel: 020 8232 8484
www.bromptonbicycle.co.uk
Designed and produced by The Bubblegate Company Limited 01227
463350 Photography by Gerard Brown. Digital retouching by Matt Kay.