cycling in heels

The Snow is back

2012-02-09T23:18:00.000Z

I have just finished a bowl of homemade soup after a very cold and snowy journey back home on the Brompton after my etching print class in Shoreditch. As we packed away we heard that it had started to snow and it was a cold and icy journey back to London Bridge to catch the train. Luckily the trains were still running and the heating was on. Despite the cold and snow there were other night cyclists around.

The snow didn’t settle so I was able to pedal fast to keep warm and I wrapped my scarf around my mouth and cheeks.

At this rate I will have to invest in ski goggles.

Fourth Birthday

2012-02-08T23:29:00.000Z

Today marks four years since I have had my Brompton. I have just had a quick read of the blog posts of those first days when I struggled with gears, took forever to get anywhere and was scared of the traffic. But I kept going because I really loved my Brompton and cycling.

Still love my bike.

Sun and Snow

2012-02-07T07:37:00.000Z

I have been cycling around London the last few weeks in a permanent state of cold and the reason why they are no photos for January is that I was too cold to take off my gloves.

The shadow photo was taken on the 1 February and marks the Brompton’s first mini trip outside London to Bexleyheath in Kent. It was sunny enough for sunglasses but the temperature was freezing. I took the Brompton on the train to Bexleyheath Station and just pedalled the rest of the way to my appointment.

It snowed on Saturday night which was a lovely sight on Sunday morning. Even better the temperature rose and by yesterday when I got on the Brompton to cycle to Woolwich the roads were clear. The snow has almost gone but the icy wind has returned.

The Times launches a national cycle campaign

2012-02-04T07:39:00.000Z

The Times newspaper has launched a national campaign to improve safety for cyclists across the country under the slogan ‘Cities fit for cycling’. It is the first time I can recall that this issue has made the front page of a national newspaper. This campaign has come from the reaction to the injury of Mary Bowers a journalist at The Times who was knocked from her bike by a lorry last November. She remains unconscious in hospital.

The launch of the campaign on Thursday was hard hitting with statistics around increases in deaths to cyclists. Yesterday the campaign was back with details of the manifesto for safer cycling.

When I returned to cycling with the Brompton four years ago, in London there was a sense that more was getting done to improve safety with new paths, a commitment to training and the plan to introduce hire bikes. Sadly only the cycle hire is going strong.

There has to be a combination of a change of attitude towards sharing the road of all users, safety measures for large vehicles, accessible training and cycles paths that actually assist cyclists. None of these concerns are new. I would also like to see a series of television adverts about the safety aspects of cycling for drivers and cyclists.

I support the idea of a national campaign but there are going to be regional concerns that have to be addressed. The London Cycling Campaign continues to work hard on the very issues outlined in the Times.

It will be interesting to see how this campaign plays out in an Olympic year given the expectation that Britain will be gaining medals in Cycling.

New Year New Boots

2012-01-02T17:51:00.000Z

Here are my new tan suede ankle boots I got in the sale at Aldo. I was looking for another pair of knee length boots to replace my current favourites which have seen two winters so far but I doubt will make it through a third.

These are spring boots but given the warm winter we are currently having I hope to be using them on the Brompton before we get snow in February. Then I will put them away and bring them back out for April.

I am still looking for long boots.

These boots compliment my Orly Keily bag perfectly.

A Warm & Merry Christmas in London

2011-12-24T22:05:00.001Z

We are having mild weather this year. A complete contrast to last years snow. I have been cycling with no gloves on. It was busy in central London on Thursday and difficult to find space to park the Brompton to avoid taking it into crowded shops. As I was unlocking my bike to leave I found another cyclist waiting for the space. By the time I got to Covent Garden I gave up looking for space and just pushed the bike into the shops. The Brompton got a compliment at the Apple Store from an assistant who told me that she was getting a Brompton for Christmas. The photo of the Christmas tree is the view from outside the Apple Store in Covent Garden.

I was able to wear my almost new ankle boots from Clarks. I have had them since September but I'm only enjoying wearing them now because we suddenly got a brief late summer in early October and then we got a lot of rain. Good rubber sole which gives a good grip on the pedals.

No cycling for me over the Christmas as I am worried that I may get another flat tyre.

New bag for cycling

2011-12-18T23:16:00.000Z

This is a velvet bag by Cath Kidson. I love the texture, the pattern and colour which is bright enough to be seen when cycling. Of course it cannot really serve as well as a bike messager bag but it is just big enough to carry what I need and soft enough to be placed inside my Brompton Pannier and taken out when I fill up the pannier with shopping.

Pink scarf, blue gloves and grey coat

2011-12-07T22:55:00.000Z

It is cold, but not too cold to cycle. I have to wrap up to keep warm, but considering this time last year when we were buried in snow this weather is still mild.

I have been taking the Brompton on the underground again and noticing how helpful or unhelpful some transport staff can be when it comes to getting through the gates with the bike. I always get through but some staff make you wait while they will continue a discussion with another colleague or another passenger, then they make a point of stopping to carefully read the ticket. I remain polite because most staff are helpful most of the time and I think that creating a fuss will only make it harder the next time I have to get through or for another Brompton owner. But given how often the gate staff have to stop to sort out faulty tickets, give directions or just let through luggage, prams and bikes, I can’t see how we are going to manage next summer when we have the Olympics.

Blogging interupted again

2011-11-19T11:49:00.000Z

Little did I realise that I would not be able to do my usual posting. My ladder fall at the start of October was the beginning of having my whole house painted which caused major disruptions. The poor Brompton got covered in plaster dust until I got it under some plastic. I had limited access to broadband and just having a clear space to work. I discovered that having your house painted is the equivalent of the pain of moving house but you don’t go anywhere. Work was very busy with extra long days at the start of November and this week it was confirmed that my ladder fall had caused a small tear in the retina of my right eye and I had laser eye surgery to fix it yesterday.

I had my Brompton with me at the opticians in Covent Garden when I was told that I had to go straight away to Moorfields eye hospital. The Optician asked if I was going to cycle and I reassured her that I would be going by underground which I did. Once again I am very grateful for the flexibility of a folding bike.

After being seen by the consultant and told to go home rest and come back tomorrow for surgery he saw the Brompton and asked me if I was going to carry it as he had just advised me not to do any heavy lifting. I had to demonstrate that I could push the bike along before he would let me go.

With blurry vision I travelled with the Brompton back home to South London by public transport and walking. Wheeling the bike meant I was able to stabilise myself.

My sight is not affected and I am able to drive and cycle now the eye drops have worn off. But I have to go back tomorrow to see if the treatment worked.

So it will be brief posts over the next couple weeks.

Cycling in boots again

2011-10-21T06:09:00.000+01:00

I am back on the Brompton but only using it once a week at the moment. The weather has taken a sharp turn towards cold and I felt the need to get out the boots and my gloves. The first weekend in October gave us the hottest weather in records and now the frost has arrived, and the daylight hours are dwindling away. (Sigh) Last night I was surprised to see a few cyclists still not using lights. I wonder if they are in denial that we really are in Autumn.

Another reason for getting out the boots and ensuring the Brompton tyres are pumped up is the road works are at a peak going through the City of London at the moment. Lots of pot holes and uneven surfaces. I think it is the rush to get road works done in time for the Olympics next year.

My boots that I got last year from Office are holding up very well and I don’t see the need to get a new pair. They are still a comfortable ride and give a good grip on the pedals. I saw another Brompton user just outside Liverpool Street Station and noticed that she was wearing trainers. I have only cycled once with my trainers and I found it I could not get a feel for the pedal because of the padded sole and lack of flexibility which is similar to wearing clogs. Speaking of summer shoes, they now have to go into storage. (Sigh)

Like to Ride a Bike

2011-10-19T11:25:00.000+01:00

Like Riding A Bike from Dominic Latham-Koenig on Vimeo.

Found this video and photography project via a link on Sweet Georgia Brown cycle blog (thank you).

The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea in south west London is trying to get more of people on bikes and see the best way to do this is to show the local residents on their bikes going about their everyday business. The link to the photographs is here.

Works for me & much better than seeing posters of all those Olympic cyclists. I can’t wait to get on my bike tomorrow.

Two Bromptons at the supermarket

2011-10-18T19:07:00.000+01:00

I am still not doing much on the bike at the moment but it was nice to see two Bromptons outside a supermarket in New Cross at lunchtime. They reminded me of the two Bromptons I saw at the local supermarket in Greenwich.

Short break

2011-10-13T06:56:00.000+01:00

I fell off a ladder recently and hit my head. The stitches come out today. I cannot believe it happened. All the care I take when cycling and I injure myself in my own home.

The Brompton meets a rival

2011-09-28T22:21:00.001+01:00

The Brompton and I made another trip to Chingford this afternoon. On the third part of the journey (train from Liverpool Street to Ponders End) we were joined by another folding bike in the carriage. The bike was made by The Saxon Bike Company and is called the 'Fold it' bike. On the internet it states the retail price as £199.99. I couldn’t find any details about the bike company on the internet. It looks sturdy but I admit that I would not trust a bike that cheap and without information about where and how it was made.

Time to switch on the lights

2011-09-23T15:52:00.000+01:00

The shorter days have arrived and I am now back to carrying my lights. I will get fresh batteries today as my main lights don’t look as bright as I would like. These lights have done well for the year. I will throw out my cheap lights because the cost of battery replacement is more than the cost of the light but they did last for over a year. I got a spare set when I found this out.

Yesterday Chingford, today Hornsey

2011-09-15T23:05:00.000+01:00

I am back to traveling with the Brompton by underground train. I have avoided this over the past month due to various reasons, the weather, the summer crowds and feeling too tired to carry the bike up and down stairs. But the sun has returned for a final burst and I have had a couple of long distant journeys across London and just outside my usual area. I was in Waltham Forest yesterday an outer London Borough but if you take the overground train to Chingford you are outside the travel card zone for London. Instead I took the train to Enfield and cycled the rest of the way. Lovely ride too. Today I was in Hornsey which meant a trip by tube train to Finsbury Park. Had a quick chat with another Brompton cyclist at Kings Cross. We agreed that it was at times like this when you have to navigate the stairs and escalators we should have brought the titanium version. To get to Hornsey from Finsbury Park you have to cycle up the hill, but it was too warm so I got off, wheeled the bike and picked up chestnuts. Freewheeled back down on the return journey.

I have barely worn my brogues this year, a perfect transition shoe for the changing season.

It rained!

2011-09-04T22:44:00.000+01:00

So much for the predicted weekend sun. It rained today so learning to screenprint at Print Club turned out to be a better a choice than the Sky Ride after all. I was able to park the Brompton in the studio by the print aprons and later on another bike arrived. This bike is Swedish by a company called Skeppshult and the owner got it from Bobbin Bicycles and added a Brooks saddle. She said it was very handy to for carrying her printing screens and she really appreciated the kick stand.

Brilliant weather for cycling this weekend

2011-09-03T09:04:00.000+01:00

After the chilly and wet days we have had a final burst of summer weather in London and the good weather will last until Monday. (On Tuesday I was in my boots and yesterday I needed sandals.)

Two cycling events going on this weekend in London. Today at 11.30 am the Cycling Embassy of Great Britain will launch their organisation with a ride to Victoria Tower Gardens in Lambeth for a picnic. I love their manifesto and the link is here.

Tomorrow is the Mayor of London’s Sky Ride now an annual mass cycling event. I will be cycling but sadly not with the Sky riders. I am booked to do a screen printing course in Dalston.

August Break - Winter white

2011-08-31T22:26:00.000+01:00

It’s the last day of my August Break. I saw this white Brompton with a matching helmet at the station this evening. I don’t often see white Bromptons and I was impressed by how shiny and clean this one was.

August Break - Happy Bank Holiday

2011-08-29T09:31:00.000+01:00

Today is the last of our sunny bank holidays and to celebrate here is a bright fuchsia pink Brompton as seen in Covent Garden on Saturday.

September is nearly here and it will be time to look for winter boots.

August Break day 26 - Funny weather

2011-08-26T09:43:00.000+01:00

The Brompton is now running very smoothly after it’s service but I’ve only been able to use my Brompton once this week due to the funny weather. It has been raining very hard with pockets of bright sun.

August Break day 19 - The Brompton is back

2011-08-19T23:58:00.000+01:00

I collected my Brompton today from Compton Cycles following it’s annual service. I had a break cable replaced and one of the reflector lights. Cost of Service £54 but with the extra checks/work including the cable the total cost was £63.95.

August Break day 17 - Taking care of the Brompton

2011-08-17T21:54:00.005+01:00

Took the Brompton for it’s service. Back by the weekend.

August Break day 14 - First time on a London hire bike

2011-08-14T21:06:00.002+01:00

How to hire to use the London Hire bikes.

1. Before travel download the free London Cycle App which tells you where to find the nearest hire station and how many bikes and spaces there are at the station. (I don’t know how else you quickly find an a hire station without this very handy App.)

2. You need a credit card or debit card and you follow instructions on the terminal. The terminal will register you for the day and you will be charged accordingly. You can pay for longer but I only wanted a day.

3. You will need to insert your card again after you get your receipt for the daily hire so that you can hire a bike. This time you will get a code that allows you to release the bike.

4. Enter code on panel on the left hand side of bike station. When the green light comes on you can release the bike.

5. Releasing the bike is tricky. It is heavy and you need to lift up the seat and pull back.

6. I missed this the first time around and the bike got locked. If this happens call Transport for London TFL using the number on the terminal station. Sadly the operator was unable to help other than tell me to try another bike. The code did not work.

7. Discovered the code only works for 10 minutes by which time I got another code by putting in my debit card again. (I still don’t know if I will be charged for two bikes but because I called I hope that they will have a record that I had difficulty getting the first bike out.)

8. Lift and pull the bike out and thank everyone who helps you.

9. Work out on the London Cycle App where your nearest docking station to your destination is and whether there are spaces for you to drop off your bike.

10. Adjust the seat and off you go.

11. When putting the bike back, make sure that it is firmly locked on the station or you will be charged for the time.

Verdict. I will use it again. The seat is comfortable but the gears on my bike were useless and I just kept in the highest gear.

August Break day 11

2011-08-11T21:34:00.003+01:00

It rained today. No Brompton.

London - August Break day 9

2011-08-09T20:32:00.002+01:00

Sad events in some parts of this town at the moment but like many other Londoners I am carrying on. This morning as I was pedaling along I saw this gold Chopper bike in a shop window on Oxford Street and this afternoon I have stunned to see images of devastation on the television. It is difficult to believe it is the same city.

August Break day 8

2011-08-08T21:19:00.006+01:00

Thinking about these.

August Break day 6

2011-08-06T22:57:00.001+01:00

Brown suede kitten heel shoes and the Other Bike.

August Break day 5

2011-08-05T23:47:00.001+01:00

Home for the weekend

August Break day 4

2011-08-04T22:08:00.002+01:00

Waiting for the train.

August Break day 3

2011-08-03T22:29:00.002+01:00

Very hot.

August Break day 2

2011-08-02T20:15:00.004+01:00

Going to work in Holborn Central London. The sound of my Brompton.

August Break day 1

2011-08-01T21:58:00.008+01:00

I am taking a break from writing on the blog this month. This is an idea from writer/photographer Susannah Conway. My posts will just be photos or videos taken while I am out on the Brompton (or Trek) over the next 31 days.

It’s too hot to think!

Brompton & shoes on 8mm

2011-07-25T22:12:00.003+01:00

The short films are of me in my summer Clarks sandals at Willesden Junction station and on the Bakerloo train last week.

I am having a lot of fun with my new iPhone 4 since I upgraded recently. I had the second generation of iPhone that had with a limited focus, no ability to take video and limited zoom. But I was still impressed with the basic phone and simply made the poor photo quality a feature by using the Hipstamatic photo app which create fantastic retro type photos.

I didn’t expect the new iPhone to have a good camera either. I have the phone mainly because I need access to internet and email when I travel. But I have been surprised by the new features and I have been looking at lots of camera apps but my favourite at the moment is 8mm video camera which creates retro 8mm type films.

Now I don’t have to carry my Samsung camera anymore which means a little bit more room in the Brompton pannier.

Time to get the Brompton serviced

2011-07-19T12:54:00.001+01:00

I usually get a full service of the Brompton in August but I have recently found that the seat post is sticking instead of sliding smoothly and not going all the way down without a push. I also have also noticed that the gear switch on the left handle bar has moved slowly down and I have to move my hand further to reach the bell and switch gears. Speaking of gears, the change is now a bit sluggish.

So do I take the bike to Compton Cycles or should I give Brixton Cycles a go this year?

Suede Clogs by Clarks

2011-07-17T22:45:00.002+01:00

I got these suede clogs in the Clarks sale. Heels with a platform means that you get the height without the pain. They come with a soft suede insole too. A good addition to the summer shoe collection.

However I am not sure if they will make good cycle shoes. Of course cycling in clogs in tricky but I had no problem with my last pair by El Naturalista. I have even cycled in flip flops so I was caught by surprise when I found that these clogs just slip off the pedals if you are not careful. I can see that although Clarks have put on a rubber section on the sole and the heel the rest of the shoe is a smooth varnish wood which doesn’t grip at all on a bike pedal.

I took sandpaper to the wooden sections of the sole but I am thinking of putting on thin strips of gaffer tape just to make sure.

18.7.11. Opps. Forgot to upload this photo.

My first bike was a Bickerton

2011-07-15T15:33:00.001+01:00

I was recently cycling through New Cross when I saw these bikes chained up outside a second hand furniture shop. Of course I jumped off to look closer because one of them was a Bickerton folding bike, the precursor to the Brompton.

My first bike was a Bickerton and I learned to cycle on it. I previously had a kids bike with stabilisers and I really believed that I could just get on any bike so I was surprised to discover when I got the Bickerton that I couldn’t cycle at all. I was too embarrassed to get training and I just taught myself by getting on and falling off lots of times. My Bickerton had a large blue canvas bag that acted as a pannier on the front of the bike and a storage bag for the bike when it was folded. Bickertons were very light and I was able to carry my bike. However I rarely did this as I had learned to cycle and I was happy to cycle from South London into the West End and back again. I didn’t like cycling over large bridges so I went over Lambeth bridge. But strangely I was comfortable cycling up Park Lane and around Marble Arch, something I wouldn’t do now unless I really had to.

Just seeing this bike took me back to that first experience of being a cyclist.

Unfortunately I could get better photos of this Bickerton. It was parked right by the main road and I would have had to step into the bus lane to get a better shot.

I wonder who owned this bike. I eventually got fed up with the punctures I had on my Bickerton and I moved on to a sturdy Raleigh Cameo bike. I am not sure if I sold it or left it in someone’s basement and didn’t go back. It was because of the Bickerton that I felt comfortable getting a Brompton so I am grateful for that experience.

The only time I had a serious fall from a bike was on the Bickerton when I braked and went over the handlebars and cut my left knee. I still have the scar.

I have just found the original 1980s advert for the Bickerton where you can see the it in all it’s glory and the similarities to the Brompton.

Bike Club

2011-07-11T21:39:00.002+01:00

Extreme weather has mainly kept me off the Brompton over the past couple weeks. First it was too hot to cycle and then we had heavy rain. My Tuesday bike ride to my life drawing class was the exception to my cycling hiatus. Cycling in rush hour through the City is great as I feel part of a big mobile club. There are now many more Londoners on their bikes and I am not including those on the hire bikes. Makes me want to join Critical Mass.

Brompton goes electric?

2011-06-18T17:49:00.001+01:00

On Thursday I caught by chance the BBC Radio 4 business programme The Bottom Line. This is a programme of interviews of a small group of people in finance or business about their personal business practices. I normally switch off but this week one of the interviewees was Will Butler Adams managing director of Brompton.

At the beginning of the programme in his introduction Will Butler Adams said that Brompton are currently developing an electric propelled bike! He didn’t give details because this wasn’t the point of the programme but he did describe how the power would be linked to the pedals.

If you want to hear the interview here is the link to this weeks programme. It is available on BBCiPlayer. I can’t promise how long the link will last. The BBC keeps programmes for at least a week and sometimes longer.

I have looked on the Brompton website and there is no mention of the interview or this development.

Is this the new Big Idea?

Ballet flats by George

2011-06-11T06:08:00.001+01:00

I got these black cloth ballet flats in Asda supermarket in April or maybe late March. They are by ‘George’ which is the clothing range that Asda stock.

I have an ambivalent relationship with ballet flats or pumps. I have four ballet pump shoes that I keep as backup for when I am wearing heels. I have them but I often don’t use them. I can fall out of love very quickly with ballet pumps. I discover that some how they are not quite right after a few times of wearing them or I don’t like their shape anymore. I rarely choose to wear them as everyday shoes. I find wearing shoes without heels can be just as painful as wearing extreme heels.

Because these are cloth shoes they are not sturdy and so will only be good to use on dry days. Surprisingly I still like these even after two months and teamed up with black tights they have worked very well. They are robust to use with the Brompton and small and light enough to carry in the pannier or messenger bag.

I like them so much I will get another pair as they were £6.

I have finally accepted my Brompton pannier

2011-06-05T19:05:00.010+01:00

I have been using my three year old Brompton pannier for the last two weeks. While I love my messenger bags I have not been able to carry stuff on my back recently and as I still need to get around I got out the pannier

This bag is the Touring Pannier but it was redesigned for 2010 and it is now called the T bag. My bag has approximately an internal 28 litre capacity and the new bag is approximately 31 litre. On the recent Brompton bike ride another rider showed me their new pannier. Brompton have finally addressed the need of having a light colour as an internal lining in a large bag and the T bag I saw is bright yellow inside.

What I have done with my pannier is to put in my own internal lining by using another bag to keep my small items in so I can find it everything I need.

I like the improvements on the T bag except for the lack of a padded strap for the bag. The Pannier and the T bag are built to carry lots of stuff so why not provide a proper wide padded strap. This can be easily fixed by producing a separate pad for the strap. I use one by Ortileb and it is vital for those moments when I need both hands to carry the bike when using stairs.

What I like best about using the Brompton pannier is that I can peddle faster. Of course it makes sense that if I am not carrying a load on my back I am more flexible but I didn’t see any difference when I first got the bag as everything was still new to me and I still learning to ride in traffic and negotiate getting around stations.

I also like the mesh pockets in which I can carry my phone, ticket, change purse and camera.

The pannier is also good to carry extra shoes and d-lock.

Back in heels

2011-05-27T17:52:00.001+01:00

Glad to be back on my Brompton today and wearing for the second time my new Office shoes that I got in the sale a few months ago.

As for yesterday. I had to take the car to get the MOT and service done. I sat in rush hour traffic for an hour reliving the days when I used to sit in the car in traffic everyday!

I am so very very grateful for my Brompton and my shoes, and my boots, and my flats and my sandals.

Taking the Brompton to the Apple Store

2011-05-18T10:51:00.002+01:00

I am considering buying an iPad2. I have been thinking about it for ages but other priorities have come up. I went to look again to have a look. I am mainly worried about the word processing apps that I can use on the iPad. If I can’t get acceptable word processing then I might as well stick with my iPhone and get a notebook. (When will Microsoft just ‘get over it’ and produce Office apps for the iPad?)

I usually go to the Apple Store on Regents Street but the area is so crowded and I remembered a new Apple Store is now open in Covent Garden. Much more space to just sit down and look at the products without someone looking over your shoulder. Plus the lift works. (The lift at Regents Street is often out of order when I visit and I have to carry the Brompton up and down busy stairs.)

The photos above are of the Brompton in the glass lift of the Apple Store and on the third floor by the iPad accessories.

I have decided that I will get an iPad2, but not just yet. I can’t get one anyway. Everyone is out of stock.

Blogger has still got problems with blogs and comments

2011-05-16T00:04:00.001+01:00

From what I can see anyone who posted a comment or wanted to post a comment on a blog after Wednesday 11th May has not been able to or the comment has been removed.

The information Blogger has given to us is it that they are in the process of putting back the missing comments.

At this point I can only hope that my posts are still all there but apart from a couple posts I have all my work backed up on my MacJournal where I write them and then send them to Blogger. Unfortunately I don’t have access to Comments and if any are lost by Blogger they are gone for good.

I am also having trouble getting in an out of my blog but this could also be a problem with Firefox which I upgraded this week and seems a bit buggy.

Update: Monday 16th at 18.34hrs. Comments are working again but I think some have been lost.

Brompton Launch Ride and Factory Visit

2011-05-15T20:11:00.005+01:00

A bundle of Brompton riders

Break at The Brompton Cemetry

Our Bromptons all parked while we had lunch

The only silver Brompton in the world?

This bag I like and want.

All boxed with their address labels and ready to go.

Final stages in the factory

Interesting sport shoes for summer

Bromptons with Brooks, a good combination

Yesterday I took up my invitation to take part in the 2011 BWC Launch Ride and visit to the Brompton factory. It was a great day out.

We had a group ride starting from the Mall outside Buckingham Palace. There were about 100 riders and we were escorted by Brompton staff through South West London, (Kensington and Chelsea). The route took us past ‘Brompton’ landmarks, The Brompton Oratory, The Brompton Hospital and The Brompton Cemetery were we stopped for a short break. (None of the landmarks are connected to the Brompton bike factory.

We had a final ride along the river to Kew, home of the Brompton factory. Our Bromptons were tagged and parked and we were given drink and a hot lunch. After the 14 mile ride the wine gave me wobbly legs.

Then came the tour around the factory.

Some facts I can recall:
The factory is operational at the weekends.
To keep up with the demand they have moved to assembly line production.
The turn around for an order is now three weeks.
70 percent of the bikes made at the factory are for export.
Staff get given a Brompton when they join. This must be returned when they leave, but they get a discount to buy one.
The quality control is extremely high. Every aspect of assembly is tracked.
Different countries have different demands for the colours.
Sales of Bromptons are on the rise in Holland.
They still use the old style saddles but only as a marker that the bike will receive a custom saddle.
The steel joints are built to withstand knocks and falls.
The bike is tested to it’s breaking point to ensure it can withstand knocks and falls
There are only two matt Raw lacquer (The Bronze colour) Bromptons in the world.
There is only one Nickel (Silver) Brompton.
Brompton are open to regular colour changes and additions.
Black it still the most popular colour.
It is cheaper to buy a new Brompton than get your old one re-sprayed a new colour.
The Brompton Pods (the cases that allow you to safely pack the bike for long distance travel) will be back in production in the new year.
They don’t give away bikes to celebrities. Everyone must buy their bike.

While I loved the ride and trip around the factory. (Think Willy Wonker Chocolate Factory but without Johnny Depp.) The really best part was meeting other Brompton owners and swapping information and stories. Loved it!

Lots of interesting talk about the Brompton bags. I will look again at the C bag but while they have improved the T bag (the Touring Pannier by giving it a yellow lining they have not changed the carry strap. It is still too thin and with no padding.

Roll call
Ed, with the S Type Brompton with very stylish Brooks handles and Brooks saddle. Ed told me that the London School of Economics has secure bike parking for students that requires access through three swipe card doors.
Adrian, with his 2 speed M Type Brompton that gets him through traffic from Liverpool Street Station to The Strand each day.
Jane who had rented two tone (Aqua and Yellow) Brompton for the day for £20. She had her own much loved 6 year old Brompton stolen a week ago. She is upset about the loss but looking forward to choosing a new Brompton.
Sun, with a her very new one month old red M Type Brompton that she got from Evans after a short delay.
Ms ‘Stylish Hat over a Helmet’. Brought her hat from Bobbins with her Titanium Brompton. She said she had no regrets about spending the extra money to get a lighter bike.
Mr ‘Interesting Sport Shoes.’ He got his shoes from a recent seasonal sale at ~~Lidals~~ Lidl supermaket for £3.

I was so inspired by the ride and the day out that I said I would sign up for the BWC in August. (It may have been the wine talking.)

It was also so nice to meet people who had read this blog and I am very glad to have helped in any bike related decision.

Oh yes. Big big thank you to Brompton staff.

~~NB. Still some problems with Blogger. Not sure if this post and access to comments will go live as planned.~~

Meet Stanley

2011-05-14T07:13:00.001+01:00

This is Stanley. This Brompton is the staff bike of The Princes Drawing School in Shoreditch London. I have just started life drawing class and I was taking the stairs instead of the lift when I saw Stanley tucked in this alcove. My class is in the evenings so there were no day staff around to ask how often Stanley is used and for kind of journeys. From the style of the seat and colour and gloss of the paint I would guess that Stanley is about three years old.

My own Brompton was downstairs tucked away behind the reception desk.

Problems with Blogger

2011-05-13T21:29:00.001+01:00

There has been a system failure at Blogger which stopped anyone trying to access their account for the last 24 hours or anyone attempting to leave a comment on any blog.

It seems everything has been fixed and sorry if you have not been able to access this blog.

I have just noticed that today is Friday the 13th!!

Update: Saturday 14th May. I am still having some problems with the blog and Blogger have posted that they are still sorting out the system.

Brompton World Championship 2011 launch

2011-05-11T22:39:00.001+01:00

I got an email from Brompton today. It was remind me that registration for the 2011 Brompton World Championship opens on Monday 16th May 2011 and they have also produced this video to launch registration. I like the music. I want to go see the BWC but not do the race.

I also got invited to the BWC 2011 launch ride in London this weekend.

Those of you with strong thighs and fast folding skills, get on line on Monday.

Warm enough for flipflops?

2011-05-10T22:58:00.002+01:00

We are still enjoying the early warm weather in London. I am sticking with my Clarks originals for now but as I was cycling this evening through the city I saw a cyclist in flip flops. I usually don’t see these shoes until July.

Bagaboo

2011-05-09T17:46:00.005+01:00

I have got a new bike messenger bag. I have been testing it for a few months before doing this post.

It is made by a company called Bagaboo and it replaces my now three year old Timbuk2 messenger bag.It is strong and carries everything I need. It is a little bit larger than my old medium size Timbuk2. It has enough pockets. I would have preferred a key holder but I now just stick my keys in the smallest front pocket.

Above is a photo of the stuff I usually carry in my bag including a lock for the Brompton. No problem finding anything against the bright orange lining.

The strap has a generous pad that sits on the shoulder. I like the pulley system that enables you to adjust the strap while the bag sits across your back so you can get it just right.

Problem. The pulley system does slip and I have found the bag slipping down by my side when it is just hanging off my shoulder. However this only occurs when I the bag is not across my body. I have also found that somehow the shoulder strap can also get twisted and this requires me to straighten it out again. But this doesn’t happen that often.

I am not sure if I will keep it as long as my Timbuk2 but it is good for now.

Why didn’t I get another Timbuk2? For some time the supplies of Timbuk2s messenger bags in London have been very low up until the end of last year when a new range and supply arrived. But the colours of the bags I like all have a dark blue or black linings. Crazy. Previously all linings were white. As I have said previously, having a dark lining within a deep bag is useless when you need to find something in a hurry or find something period. I lost my first iPhone two years ago when I had to take everything out of my Brompton front pannier with the black lining because I was looking for my camera. I didn’t pick up the iPhone and by the time I went back to the shop it had been stolen. (They had left the bag the phone was in.) I could get a Timbuk2 custom made for me, but I don’t see why I should at this point and I thought I would have a change after having used one for three years.

I have found a video by a cyclist who has worked out how to use the strap system. Once you get it, it is simple. But I am not sure if I get it yet. The link to the video is here.

Thanks to Mary at Velorution who went out of her way to help me with the Bagaboo.

Nearly forgot. Cost £130 approx. I think it is more now. Oh yes. It is waterproof, the bag, not the price.

Here are the links to other bags I have brought for cycling and my views on buying bags.

When choosing a bag.

Brompton bag vs Timbuk2

Ortlieb zip city

Update: Saturday 14th May. I have discovered what I was doing wrong with the adjustable strap. I wasn't securing it and this is why it was sliding down.

Work bikes - The bikes of West Dean Gardens

2011-04-20T09:45:00.001+01:00

I was on a painting course at the weekend at West Dean College and Gardens. On Sunday we were taken to the walled garden, and green houses where they propagate the plants that go out into the gardens. I saw the baskets first and they are fabulous. The gardeners use them to transports plants to the flower beds. These are the largest bike baskets I have seen. I know historically there were more working bikes but I wonder how many are still around.

Note the small front wheel under the basket which seems to be a similar system to the Brompton which can also carry a large load on the front in a the pannier.

Now if we could just get van drivers to move over to work bikes like these in London again. Bliss.

I am also going to get out my Brompton basket for this Easter weekend. I got mine basket three years ago at Velorution, but you can order them direct from the basket maker, David Hembrow.

Spring has arrived, time to get out the sandals

2011-04-10T23:51:00.001+01:00

The last few days has seen the arrival of Spring in London. I have used both of my bikes over the weekend. I am back in my Clarks sandals of course but it’s not warm enough to get out the dresses yet.

My shoes were recognised!

2011-03-28T22:38:00.003+01:00

This evening I was wheeling the Brompton past Oxford Circus tube station when I was recognised. Well not me, my Camper shoes. I was stopped by A who is a reader of this blog because he remembered seeing my shoes on a previous blog post.

It was lovely to meet you A and I so enjoyed our chat. I will be looking out for your Racing Green Brompton with the leather saddle in South London.

NB: I am not an illustrator but thanks for the compliment.

Elegant but painful

2011-03-27T20:04:00.002+01:00

I tried these on but only to discover how painful they were. The size was right but they were not made of leather and consequently difficult to wear because of the ‘lack of give’ in the shoe.

I did not buy and they will not be on my ‘shoe watch list’. I do like how they look though.

Shoes by New Look

Good idea but..

2011-03-23T23:08:00.001Z

I caught sight of these tags while in Angel, Islington recently. At first I thought how helpful to remind us to take care when we alongside large vehicles. But then I thought, why it is always down to the cyclist to take full responsibility for road safety and where are the tags that can go on the door handles of lorries and white vans! I know enough not to take risks going down the side of a large vehicles at the lights just before a left turn but I cannot stop the driver of a large vehicle who comes from behind at speed and then decides to turn or just wants to overtake at a narrow point because they think waiting 10 seconds for a a safer space or for me to pass the junction is too long.

Just don’t get me started.

The tags are by Transport for London TFL and they have produced advice and a little video for cyclists on lorry blind spots.

Shoe Boots by Office

2011-03-19T10:26:00.001Z

I just had to try these on when I saw them. They are by Office and are suede! My eye was immediately drawn to the soft grey, but they are not very practical for cycling. I can see them getting scuffed by pedalling on the first trip. But they also come in a dark blue, tan and black.

Shoes to think about for when the sales come around.

Missed the last train home.

2011-03-16T20:00:00.001Z

I usually drive when I go out at night and of course this means no alcohol. Last Friday I took the Brompton to Walthamstow for a girls night in. I also couldn’t take the car because one of the Blackwall Tunnel links closes after 9pm which means no south bound traffic until morning when it reopens.

I had such a good time on my one large glass of wine that I missed the last rail train from London Bridge back to Greenwich. I admit I was a little wobbly cycling back to the to Walthamstow Centre tube station. I had to catch the underground train all the way back to North Greenwich. For once the Jubilee Line was open. In my head I was talking to our Mayor Boris Johnson and asking why we still don’t have a 24 hours underground service in London at the weekends and what will happen when the 2012 Olympics opens

I got the last tube south and then it took me nearly an hour to cycle home. I haven’t been night cycling since last summer.

Look Mum No Hands

2011-03-03T00:27:00.002Z

I finally got to the bike cafe ‘Look Mum No Hands’. It is is a cafe and bike workshop on Old Street, EC1. Officially it is in Islington but I think it is right on the boundaries of Hackney, City and the Barbican areas.

I stopped by after my appointment for a hot chocolate. The place was busy but not packed. I brought the Brompton in with me but there is a bike park outside. There is an area in the corner which is the bike workshop and a woman was working on a bike. The booking system information is on the website, but my impression is in a fix you could ask for help and tools if you know what you are doing.

The cafe has free wi-fi so a number of people were working on their lap tops and a couple informal work meetings were taking place. As I was leaving at around 5.30pm it started to get busy with the after work crowd.

Not sure about the food. I had to wait a long time for a luke warm hot chocolate and an overheated mini olive ciabatta roll which was chewy. But the staff are very friendly. I will go again when I am hungry and give the menu another try. The idea of a cafe and bike workshop is a good one to raise the profile of cycling and as an alternative to the Starbucks and Costa chains. I would love for one to open up in Greenwich.

Sleeping on trains

2011-02-27T16:01:00.002Z

My heart went out to these two sleepers this week. I have been very tired myself recently but a couple early nights; no early morning running sessions and I am revived and back on the bike.

I also think I miss the sun which adds to my fatigue. Thank goodness March will be here in two days.

Photos taken with my iPhone using the Hipstamatic app (love it.)

Interesting but not quite right

2011-02-15T19:32:00.001Z

These T-bar shoes are by Marks & Spencer and I almost like them. I think the heels are a little too high and the leather not soft enough. I could wear them only for a few hours and I prefer shoes that I can walk and cycle in for most of the day. I like the dark red colour but not enough to buy.

Third Birthday for My Brompton

2011-02-09T22:00:00.001Z

Yesterday was three years since I became a Brompton owner. Three years of pedalling around the streets of London, north and south. Three years of taking the Brompton on public transport. I cannot think why I didn’t go back to cycling sooner. I love it. Once I got cycle training I got over my fear of cycling in traffic and I can and do cycle in heavy traffic, but I now feel that there should be more designated cycle paths. I want more people to get on bikes and this is unlikely to happen without the structure.

No problems with the Brompton, one flat tyre in three years is very good too. It is a well made and beautifully designed bike that will be around forever!

The photo above is of The Brompton with my three sets of flashing lights. I look like a Christmas Tree at night.

Parking at the station when you have to go.

2011-02-04T20:48:00.002Z

I needed to use the Ladies at Charing Cross Station this week and this station is one of the few where there are no bike parking facilities inside or outside the station. The last time I attempted to park my Brompton on a luggage rack at Charing Cross I came back after five minutes to find it padlocked and I had to charm my way out of it in time to catch my train. This time I carried my bike up and down the stairs to the Ladies. The attendant offered to watch the bike but wanted me to leave it outside which I wasn’t happy about so I took it with me.

The London Cycling Campaign have produced an article in the latest issue of the London Cyclist on bike parking at main stations in London and it seems that National Rail are committed to providing more parking spaces. I have used the trolley system at Liverpool Street Station to park the Trek. You pull the bike park trolley down slide your bike on and lock it and then push the bike up. Not as easy as it looks and someone had to help me. As a Brompton user we don’t have to park we carry but I still value lots of bike parking particularly outside stations because it can be a tipping point to get someone on their bike again. A quick ride to the station and then jump on the train. Unless it is raining or I am using the Brompton I always cycle on my Trek to the station, park and get on the train. I am embarrassed to admit that I used to do this journey by car and sit in traffic and then hunt for a parking space in an adjacent road because you can’t park out side the station. Once I cursed at the reduction of decent car parking outside a rail station and now I see it as blessing because you either walk or get on your bike.

Photos
Brompton at Charing Cross Station Ladies
The Trek (the one with wicker basket) at Liverpool Street Station Cycle Park

Dream bikes & cycling dreams

2011-01-31T16:40:00.003Z

I have written about this before but last night I again watched the BBC4 doc by Rob Penn ‘The ride of my life’ about his journey to create the bike of his dreams. It reminds me of why cycling is a joy and obsession. But still a long way to go until it safe for everyone to ride everywhere.

I saw this Brompton a couple weeks ago. Bronze metal is currently my favourite colour for my next Brompton. This Brompton has a Brooks saddle and an impressive lock. I want one too.

NB. The link to the see the documentary will only last until Sunday 6 February 2011.

Travelling in rush hour

2011-01-09T15:48:00.002Z

I was recently asked a question on how I managed to get on a tube train with the Brompton in rush hour. This is my response.

I have learned to repeatedly say ‘excuse me’ and ‘sorry’ even if I haven’t bumped into anyone. I find that it is better to be polite and gently assertive and people will make room if only to stare at someone travelling with a very small bike. I used to get offers from people helping me take the bike up and down stairs which I accepted. I looked and felt very tired in the early days when I was re-learning how to ride. Now I can carry the bike walking up and down escalators but I don’t because of safety issues.

My work takes me across London but luckily most appointments are after the morning rush hour and I don’t have to travel every day. Still there are lots of times when I have to use the tube train at rush hour but the recent fare rises means that I will probably reduce my use of the over ground train which is more expensive.

When I get on a crowded tube train I will use the large centre doors as there is less chance of me knocking anyone with the bike. I will also make a swift move to any corner so that I can park the bike and stand beside it. The newer trains have space for luggage with fold up seats which means if I get one the bike can sit out of the way. If I have to stand in the centre area standing with the bike between my legs is best to avoid the bike falling over onto anyone’s foot.

I can also make use of the ledge seats that some trains have. I did this in the photo above this week. I am sitting on a little ledge but with my feet on top of the frame of the Brompton I have made myself a proper seat.

If I can I tend to avoid changing trains and try to get a close as possible to my destination on one route and then cycle the rest of the way. But this also depends on the weather and traffic. (Do I want to cycle in the rain or heavy traffic? Or do I want to push the bike through a busy interchange?) It isn’t easy but at least I am not one of those poor travellers I see with very large set of suitcases trying to navigate stairs and escalators.

Cycling on a folding bike is not for the nervous.

For those who are interested. I am wearing my new Camper shoes with thick wool & Lycra grey tights from last years H&M collection.

Amendment made on 11.1.10

Shopping at the sales

2011-01-05T23:30:00.015Z

I have picked up two pairs of shoes in the sales. The strappy shoes are by Office and I have had my eye on them since I brought my winter boots back in October. They were reduced to half price and I got them for the spring when it finally arrives. The shoe boots are by Camper and I love them. They have the soft springy soles that Camper uses and the heels are not high which means they are comfortable. The words ‘Heels for Beginners’ are cut into the soles.

Back in the saddle

2011-01-03T20:40:00.001Z

The cost of fuel has gone up by 5 pence since I last filled up my car before the snow hit in December. Train fares, bus and tube fares will reach eye watering prices this week too. Government policy on getting us out of our cars and onto public transport seems to be crazy. The idea is to increase the cost to the fare paying public and reduce the cost to the tax payer which is why government subsidies to public transport is on the decline. But the last time I checked I was a tax payer as well as a user of public transport and having decent public transport is a fundamental as the health service. I want to use my car even less this year but high fares and reduced government interest in a good cycling infrastructure means that this will be an ongoing battle for those of us who love our bikes and just want to get from A to B safely. Still I am up for the challenge and I will be registering for the TFL hire bike scheme as soon as I am properly back on line.

It was good to get back on the bike today; very little traffic on the roads because it was a Bank Holiday and the snow has finally cleared. Cycle lanes are full of tiny holes, grit and debris so it will be tricky going until street cleaning starts up again.

Brilliant Brixton Cycles

2011-01-01T13:07:00.001Z

The Brompton is now repaired and the job was done by the wonderful cycle collective, Brixton Cycles in Lambeth. Surprisingly I was let down by Compton Cycles who were not open despite the notice on their website saying they would be. I gave a quick call to BC and then I drove over with the Brompton in the boot. It was done inside an hour. Unfortunately the tyre had split so it had to be replaced as well as the inner tube. Total cost £39 including service. I am not sure how I split the tyre but there was a lot of salt and grit on the roads because of the snow and I guess it was something that was going to happen at some point.

Sorry no photos at present. The broadband is down because the box needs replacing and Virgin Media cannot come until Thursday. My back up dial up connection is not strong and often cuts out so I can barely get email. At least my bikes are ok.

Happy New Year!

Blow out on the Brompton

2010-12-29T07:24:00.000Z

I got my first burst tyre on the Brompton on Christmas Day of all days. I went for my usual Christmas bike run taken first thing in the morning to offset the feeding frenzy of the day. It was very cold and still icy in the park so I stuck to the main road. In truth I did have the sense that the rear tyre was suddenly not a firm as when I had started, and I made a mental note to pump up tyres. On the second leg of my journey I heard a balloon like pop and knew it was the tyre so I immediately jumped off to stop any wheel rim damage.

The first time I get a flat tyre is on the one day of the year there is no public transport anywhere in London! Any other day I could have used my trusty Oyster travel card and got back to where I was staying. So I had a 45 minute walk back in the freezing cold.

Hopefully I can get to the bike shop either today or tomorrow. Some shops were closed due to the extra Bank Holidays we have this year.

I am still surprised about getting a puncture. Never happened before and I have cycled over some very dodgy roads in London for nearly three years.

Snow basket

2010-12-22T23:26:00.001Z

Last Friday I did the rest of the Christmas shopping before the second wave of snow hit London. Because I was going to be carrying so many packages and going in and out of shops I opted to leave the Brompton at home and just use the Trek to get to the train station where I locked it. I returned in the evening to discover that it had been snowing in Greenwich and the bike had been decorated in white ice. Luckily it was still clear enough to cycle home but that was the last time I was able to get on a bike until today. We got six inches of snow in an hour on Saturday.

My last working day is tomorrow. The holidays are here. Merry Christmas.

Bags made for the Brompton - Cyclodelic

2010-12-19T20:05:00.002Z

I saw this Brompton bag back in late October in the bike shop Velorution. It is made by Cyclodelic a site which produces cycling clothing and accessories for women. This bag is a one off and uses the pattern of the old style clip on front bag that Brompton used to make. I brought one in black two years ago but rarely use it because it doesn’t hold a lot of stuff, has a black interior and I can’t find anything in it. But looking again at the same bag in red you can appreciate that the basic design was a good one. I love the colour combo on this bag. Red and vivid purple. I would happily keep opening the bag just to look inside.

Downside is that these are now only available to order but it means you can choose your own colour combination. The one in Velorution was £180.00 but I think if you order it will cost more.

I have checked on the Cyclodelic site and there is no mention of the bag. I was informed by Mary at Velorution that you need to send a email to Cyclodelic to place an order for your bag and agree a price.

(Yes I noticed the two tone yellow and green Brompton!)

NB. Sorry about the fuzzy photos.

Bromptons everywhere

2010-12-17T23:59:00.001Z

The bad weather continues across the UK. We have suffered less in London but if like me you rely on trains to get around as well as cycling it has been tough. I have seen so many Bromptons over the past couple weeks as Brompton owners can and do use what ever part of the transport network we can and then cycle the rest of the way. While I think about it I have seen so many other folding bikes, like Dahon too. The Brompton is holding up and the only thing I am doing is ensuring that I get the worst of any salt grit off the chain and the bike. I can see tiny signs of rust.

I don’t know how I will manage next week as I have to work up to Christmas Eve which includes a train journey to Southampton on Tuesday.

Most of the shopping has been done on line but if the presents do not arrive I will have to get some small back up gifts.

We rarely get snow at Christmas. Last year was the first time I can recall and it was gone by Christmas Eve. The romantic fantasy of having a ‘White Christmas’ turns out to be a nightmare in reality.

This snow is deep

2010-12-02T23:08:00.001Z

I have never seen snow this deep in London. I had to push the Brompton through thick snow down the hill and walk to the main road where the it was clear because the council had been gritting the road. Previously they would also salt the side roads, particularly those roads like mine which are hills. I will be sending an email to Greenwich Council tomorrow.

I can’t use the Trek bike because I just can’t get it down the stairs outside my house. Too much snow. Even if you clear it it just comes back.

There wasn’t much traffic because people can’t move their cars. I managed to get to north London and back with the help of the Docklands Light Railway and the Jubilee Line. I am getting used to it. But the worry is that the slush will turn to ice on the ground.

I am very grateful for the Brompton. I can still get around to work and get things done. I will be getting out the pannier tomorrow so I can do my supermarket shopping. I will be crossing my (sore) fingers for Saturday as I have a drawing class at the British Museum to get to.

It's winter

2010-12-01T22:44:00.001Z

It’s snowing again! And once again the country is undercover of lots of snow and complaints about how terrible everything is. (We love to complain about the weather). Only a few weeks ago it was very warm. Some of the bulbs I had planted in October were beginning to push through having been fooled by the higher than average temperature for early November. Now we are told we have just had the coldest temperatures since records began.

There is snow in my area but in central London it is clear. Very few trains running in the South East. I was in central London yesterday and there were a high number of Brompton users and I wished I had mine when I found out there were no trains I could get home.. I got the Brompton out today and wheeled it down to the main road which is clear and pedalled off to the Dockland Light Railway which is running as are all the underground trains.

I am off to Brent tomorrow and I will be wrapping up and wearing my sturdy boots from Office. I have got my eye on some shiny black wellingtons but not sure if I can manage being on the bike with them.

(Sorry for being so quiet. Some nerve damage in the fingers of my right hand slowed me down last month.)

It's autumn

2010-11-03T19:57:00.003Z

Despite the fact it is November it has been fairly warm in London this week so I am enjoying biking while it lasts. The clocks went back at the weekend so it means I don’t leave home without my lights. There will be another vote in Parliament this winter to decide whether the UK clocks should continue to go back an hour. Once upon a time I said that they shouldn’t but now I am a morning person and I don’t like it being so dark until after 7.30 am.

I have not forgotten about the posts on bike bags, but I am not happy with the photos I have taken so I may do a re-shoot if I can.

Wish list - Ankle strap shoes by Office

2010-10-23T00:31:00.002+01:00

I tried on these shoes by Office when I was searching for boots. I want them but I have decided to wait until I have saved up for them or I get a discount voucher.

When choosing a bag, style matters

2010-10-21T23:47:00.002+01:00

I realise from a comment that I got on the O bag that my views on Brompton bags may be considered as a consumer test on which bag to buy and which bag is best. They are not. They are my views based on what I like and whether I would buy and use a bag. Whether it is in shoes or bags, style matters to me just as much as how practical or efficient a bag or shoe is.

I know that using a bag on the front block is more efficient and better for my back. But I don’t like the look of the bag in the front. The exception to this is the Brompton wicker basket which I don’t use so much now that I can get a ‘basket fix’ from riding the Trek.

Brompton provides a range of bags for the front and back for the bike. I feel that until recently the design of these bags never received the same attention as the design and look of the bike. The bags that were available two years ago also had drawbacks, 1. Narrow shoulder straps. The pannier is impossible to carry when commuting because of narrow straps. I had to buy an additional shoulder strap pad. This is an obvious and simple design feature that could have been incorporated at the beginning. 2. Black interior lining. The endless frustration of finding anything in a deep bag with a dark lining was too much for me.

I get asked questions about what bag to buy for the Brompton from those in the process of buying. My advice on this is to go without buying a ‘special bag’ until you get to know your Brompton and your way of riding and using it. This will probably take a couple weeks and not more than a month. Oh yes, get a bag block fitted so that you still have the option.

Here is a rough guide on how I use my Brompton when I am working:

Cycle to station. Fold bike and get on the train.
On arrival in central London wheel bike through interchange to another platform. This will involve carrying bike up and down stairs.
Or on arrival wheel bike through to the underground station to get tube using escalators.
Get on second train or underground train with the Brompton. If on underground, change trains and wheel the Brompton through the station and carry up and down stairs. Get on another train.
On arrival cycle to destination.

Note: All the various interchanges and tube journeys often require me to have the bag on my back.

I try to minimise as far as I can the number of changes I do or trains I have to use. I work across London and I cannot predict where I will be from one month to the next. My first Brompton bag was the pannier, but I soon discovered that I could not carry it comfortably when going through the various interchanges I had to make between the train to underground tube. I also discovered that I didn’t need such a large bag for my work journeys. But too late I had already parted with £70. I got the zip around bag (now discontinued) and found this was too small for my needs and it was still uncomfortable to carry because of the narrow straps and the hard frame on my back.

I did try wheeling the bike when partially folded with the pannier fixed to the front block. This only works until you have to use stairs and then you have to clip the bag off and on or risk falling over if you loose balance.

Two years ago I considered whether to make my third investment in another Brompton bag, this time the messenger type bag that was available. These came with wider straps but in dark grey with a Brompton logo on the front. I didn’t want to give Brompton any more money for a bag I really didn’t like the look of and given that I needed a bag I could carry on my back I then opted for a non-Brompton bag by a company (Timbuk2) that specialises in bags for people who cycle.

Personally I like riding with a bag on my back and this works for me because of the various changes and folding I have to do. I can fold and unfold and just get going. However if I just had a simple commute, for example, cycle to station get on train arrive and then cycle to destination then maybe I would have just stuck with the pannier. Or if I didn’t have to use the train and I had to cycle all the way and this journey took longer than 40 minutes then carrying a bag on the front or the back rack would be cooler.

Which is why I advise new users to get to know your travel style before parting with more money so you can be sure you have the right bag for your needs and quirks. I like to use a bag that I can carry on my back because of the numerous changes I make in the course of a journey. I now know that I like to ride in this way and as I said, I prefer the look of a bag on the back rather than the front. I also want a bag that is soft against my back, with wide straps and a light coloured lining and works well as a bag when I am not cycling.

I do what works for me and this may not be the best way but it’s my style.

O Bag for the Brompton

2010-10-20T22:48:00.002+01:00

While in the Cycle Surgery bike shop on Tuesday I saw this pink O bag designed by Ortlieb for Brompton, price £169.00.

The O bag comes in pink & black and black. I usually like vivid colours and I like the shiny surface of this bag but I personally would opt for the black. This bag is designed to go on the front of your Brompton and I am not sure if I would feel comfortable with a big pink bag in this position. Matching the colour of your Brompton to this bag will be tricky for those who do not have a Black Brompton which would be a good contrast.

I liked that Ortlieb provided inner pockets and a key holder and importantly a light coloured contrasting lining so that you can find your stuff in what is a deep bag. It is waterproof. Ortlieb has a good reputation in providing waterproof bags.

I liked the option of the handle on the top as well as a shoulder strap. There were additional pockets that came with the bag that if you wished you could put on the back. Ortlieb has provided a shoulder strap pad which is handy given that this bag is not light. However if you are a stripped down to the basics Brompton user possibly on a titanium bike you are not likely to opt for this bulky bag.

If I was a first time buyer of a Brompton and I wasn’t too bothered about the weight I would consider getting the O Bag in black. The big draw back is the price. You would add another £200 to the cost of buying a Brompton. If money is tight, I would choose a cheaper bag. I love accessories but even I would not part with this much money for a bike bag that can really only be used on the Brompton unless I really really really loved it.

The key question is, does this bag work on and off the bike? When I think of the various things I do and places I go to, this bag would not fit in some of those areas. It is not a bag that I can use with my Trek bike either as I can with my Timbuk2 messenger bag. The all black O bag would work better for me on and off the bike. But I also like to wear my bag across my shoulder and this bag with the frame is not built for this.

Again it is the price of the bag that puts me off. I would consider buying one if it was around the £100 mark. I don’t mean to sound that this bag is not well made or strong. It is and appears to meet Ortleib’s usual high standards. It’s just I like variety in my bags and I swap them around on a regular basis so I would be unhappy to spend so much money on a bag that I am unlikely to use that often.

The O bag is an investment piece for a Brompton user who likes the attention (get it in Pink) and just wants to stick to one bag.

Bags galore. I have been looking at lots of bags this week and I will be uploading posts on my discoveries as soon as I can.

Red, yellow and Navy Blue

2010-10-19T22:20:00.001+01:00

Three Bromptons ready for sale in the Cycle Surgery bike shop in Spitalfields, London E2.

Blue Flowers on a bike

2010-10-14T01:17:00.001+01:00

I saw this bike parked outside New Cross Gate station this week. The owner has done a good job of beautifying a metal bike basket. I have been on the lookout for plastic flowers for the bike. Fabric flowers are easy to find but those kitsch plastic flowers are rare.

New winter boots

2010-10-10T11:58:00.005+01:00

My M&S boots are now worn out. They lasted the year and I worn them constantly when out cycling, particularly when we had bad weather. I caught one of the ankle straps on the Brompton a few months ago which ripped it away from the seam and I have had to stick it back ever since. It lasts for a little time but then I have to re-stick it. The soft rubber sole meant that I could not get the shoe re-heeled. So I began the search for a replacement. Not easy this year despite the huge range of boots out there.

After a false start I have now brought these boots from Office. They are very close in style to my old boots and just as comfortable and weatherproof. I have used them on the Brompton and the Trek, particularly in the rain we have had recently.

I wish the Cycle Show would leave me alone

2010-10-09T08:56:00.000+01:00

I am annoyed because I keep getting emails from the organisers of this years Cycle Show.

I went two years ago on a discount ticket because I was a London Cycling Campaign member. It was ok but I didn’t feel it was an event that required an annual trip. Of course I got emails last year notifying me of the event but I didn’t go. This year the email traffic first notifying and then reminding me of the event significantly increased. In the end I asked to be unsubscribed but discovered that I still am getting email direct from the organisers without an unsubscribe button. I then sent a reply email asking to be removed from their list completely for this and all future events.

So I was not happy to get another email asking me to buy a ticket. (Are ticket sales down? )

I do not want to go and I want them to stop sending me emails.

Here is why I don’t want to go.

The Cycle Show is a shrine for all things connected to Sport cycling. Yes, I know Brompton is one of the sponsors but they are there to expand sales to those who would consider a Brompton a gimmick. The show gives a passing nod to ‘Cycle Chic’ because if they can find things to sell to this cycle group it will increase business, but it is not easy to sell to people who like to wear their own clothes, I don’t care to meet cycling sport stars because I don’t consider cycling to work a sport and I don’t want to watch people throw themselves around on BMX bikes. In short I think the Cycle Show makes a brave attempt to be all things to all groups of cyclists but it was not worth the price of ticket given I am not interested in most of what was on offer.

The show is there for businesses to sell more stuff to the cyclist. Fine. But I am lucky to live in London where if I wanted to watch BMX racing I can pop down to Brockwell Park for free, I am surrounded by very good cycle shops where I can also visit for free. I love my bikes and going to the show is not going to increase my affection or commitment to cycling.

I am not saying I will never go back to the Cycle Show, but it will be a very very very long time. Unless of course, Clark Shoes take up a stand at the show.

Rain

2010-10-04T14:12:00.001+01:00

Over the past two weeks it has rained just about every day so I have either been a little wet or very wet while out cycling. The new boots from Office are holding up very well.

Pedalling with posies

2010-09-29T00:29:00.002+01:00

I saw this bike in Covent Garden this week. It looked familiar and I went back through my photo collection to find I had already taken a photo (top image) on my iPhone of this same bike in Spittlefields in August this year.

Now that summer is fading I keep thinking of flowers on bikes. I have seen flowers on the bike of Naturally Cycling Manchester and on the blog of Riding Pretty.

I wonder if this trend is about to go viral.

Folding bag for a folding bike.

2010-09-24T19:41:00.002+01:00

I have been cycling around London with two bags because I have been shopping. The bag hanging from the handle bar is a folding shoulder bag by Muji. When folded it goes into a pouch which I pop into my main bag. In the photo above the bag is carrying a pair of ankle boots which I got from Office this week. I am not keeping them because they are too big. I find it easy to sling both bags over my back when changing trains but when I am cycling I strap the Timbuk 2 bag on the rack and carry the Muji bag on my back.

Red roses

2010-09-18T07:31:00.002+01:00

I saw this bike parked in Oxford Street W1 on Monday. Now I like to see flowers on bike baskets but the owner of this bike takes this idea to new level.

Brompton on film

2010-09-10T08:52:00.003+01:00

I just love the look of this Brompton in this film by Transport for London. It is part of their series of films for the Catch Up with the Bicycle campaign using famous people and everyday folk talking about why they love cycling. I notice that there is no actual mention of the name Brompton but I guess this is not to give Brompton an advantage over other folding bikes.

But I’m saying it. IT’S A BROMPTON!

The best laid plans - London tube strike

2010-09-07T21:12:00.001+01:00

Today the tube strike went ahead and I was ready for my trip to Finchley in North London. I usually go by tube (subway) and the closest mainline (overground) station was Hendon which meant a 30 minute cycle uphill to Finchley.

Step one: Get the map of the route. While Google Maps are handy they are sometimes not very accurate. I checked the Transport For London TFL cycle route, Google and Multimap. After this I just photocopied the relevant pages in my A-Z. I tapped in the destination into my iPhone Google map for backup should I get lost.

Step two: Work out how I get to Hendon. I went to the National Rail website. I discovered that once I got the overground train into London Bridge I could cycle to Blackfrairs Station and then get the overground train to Hendon and then cycle up to Finchley.

Step three: Check the bike and pump the tyres. My checking just involves looking (very technical), but I did pump the tyres.

Step four: Decide what to wear. The meeting in North London was formal so no jeans. I wore a dress which was cool and my purple rain coat as rain was expected. I packed a hat.

Step five: Choose shoes. I considered wearing my tan Office brogues which are my formal work staple at the moment but in the end I wore my flat suede boots. Comfortable but appropriate for the meeting and rain should I get caught. (These boots are waterproofed and have kept me dry in a heavy rain fall.)

Step six: Pack bag. Of course I used my Timbuk2.

What happened?
I got to London Bridge and discovered that the Northern Line t tube line was running with a reduced service. So I jumped on the train. I think if I hadn’t been worried about the work meeting I would have done the trip but I just wanted to get there on time. By the time the meeting was over I had a headache so it was back on the tube to London Bridge. I actually did less cycling today than I would normally do when I use my Brompton. Still flexibility is the beauty of having a Brompton.

What colour is your Brompton?

2010-09-05T09:31:00.002+01:00

I got this comment from Richard and I decided to answer it in a post.

'Found your site after searching for 'yellow Brompton' (even if yours aint)
So what do you think - if you did it all again would you still get a black model?
Just about to cyclescheme one and am choosing between red, black and yellow ....'

What to do what to do. If I was doing it again I would go for another colour but don’t ask me what colour as everytime I see a Brompton that becomes my favourite colour. I saw a red one last week and I wanted a red one until I saw this soft cream colour this afternoon.

Yellow is a rare colour in London and I am always on the look out for Brompton riders on yellow bikes. The last time I saw one was outside Waterstones in Garrick Street on a rainy day over a year ago and it stood out like a ray of sunshine. The paint work was gloss and as you know the paint work on new Bromptons is now matt.

I think you go with your heart but more important is make sure you have the right model for your needs.

Photos

Apart from the woman on the cream Brompton these pictures were taken over a year ago and so the colours may not be available anymore.
I loved the combination of the leopard print flats and the cream of the bike. Style in motion.

It wouldn't be summer if we didn't have a strike

2010-09-03T22:33:00.002+01:00

I have been cycling in town on the Brompton and enjoying the last days of summer. The number of Bromptons around seem to be on the increase but that could be me looking out for other Brompton riders. It is hard to get a snap of Brompton cyclists because we are fast movers, unlike these two cycle hire cyclists that I caught on camera at the lights in Covent Garden.

I have received an email from Transport for London informing me of the underground strike due to start on Monday evening and last through to Wednesday. If it goes ahead central London will see an increase of cyclists and it will be a good test for the Cycle Hire scheme which should now be available to the casual user. I have an appointment in North London on Tuesday and I had better get the tires pumped up and plan my route.

Last chance to wear another pair of Clarks shoes from my collection. They come with air holes so they are cool in the heat. I found them about 4 years ago in the mens section at Clarks but to me they are clogs and clogs are unisex so I brought them.

Orla Kiely bags

2010-08-30T23:57:00.002+01:00

This summer I have not been using the Timbuk2 messenger bag unless it was raining or I had a lot of stuff to carry.

I have been using my Orla Kiely bags and I felt they should get a mention on the blog before I retire them for the winter.

I was lucky enough to get notified of an end of season sale and I got the tan leather bag at a reduced price at the start of the summer and then I got the tote in July, also at and end of season sale. If you go to the Orla Kiely website you can leave your email address and they will send you notice of the next sale and where it is taking place.

Neither bag is completely cycle friendly but the tan bag has a wide adjustable strap and is completely comfortable across my back. It is deep enough to carry my D-lock and all my stuff and there are four handy pockets outside to carry keys, phone, travel card, cash, or ipod. This bag is for those times when I don’t want to use a bike messenger bag but I still need a deep bag to use on my bike.

The tote bag is a little cutie. It is great for a trip where I don’t need to carry anything at all. It just pops over the handle bar and doesn’t get in the way.

Note. OK bags are not cheap and unless I get a lot of cash or loose my mind I would not pay full price as fabulous as they are. My tote was only £30 in the sale which is a substantial reduction. But a well made cycle bag is also very expensive. The Barbican leather bag on the Brooks website is priced at £587.

I am wearing my old Clarks Originals summer Mary Jane shoes. They also will soon be put into storage.

No room at Craven Street

2010-08-28T08:14:00.001+01:00

I was on my way home with the Brompton yesterday when I passed the Bike Hire Stand in Craven Street W1. This is the closest docking station to Charing Cross Station and would be the one I would use if I manage to sort out the hire bike registration.

I was taking photographs and other people like me were looking at the bikes. Three cyclist on hire bikes arrived and started to wait. At first I thought they were waiting for friends and then I realised there was no spaces to dock the bikes. I asked one of the waiting cyclists and he confirmed he was waiting for someone to take a bike so he could park his bike. By this time another cyclist was looking on the map for the next docking station. (I think the next station is down on The Strand and is about a 10 minute walk back to Charing Cross.)

This is something else to consider. I catch my train from Charing Cross Station and if I got to Craven Street and found I could not park and go get my train I would be a little stressed.

This is also another reminder of how wonderful and portable the Brompton is. Yesterday I took the bike from South London via train and tube to Seven Sisters in North London, (there are no hire bikes outside central London). Cycled to my meeting. I then took the tube back to Oxford Street to do some window shopping for winter boots. As traffic seemed a little crazy with Bank Holiday shoppers I took the tube back to Charing Cross and parked the Brompton next to another black (matt) Brompton outside Waterstones book shop at Trafalgar Square where I stopped to look at books before going to catch my train. It was on this short walk back to Charing Cross that I passed the full docking station at Craven Street.

As for the hire bikes they are getting popular as I see more people use them.

Converse high top plimsoles

2010-08-23T23:04:00.001+01:00

I had completely forgotten I had these shoes. I got them in 2006 just before I went on holiday to New York. They are shoes that are good for the transition from summer to autumn, when it’s not hot enough for open toe sandals and not cold enough for shoes or boots. Although there are still a lot of Converse shoes around I have only recently seen full colour ones in black and mine are dark chocolate.

They are comfortable when riding the Brompton despite the fact there is no heel. Converse still have the non-slip soles that were needed for sports and games.

They are not cheap but they are a good unisex classic. I plan on keeping these. Office Shoes stores seems to have a good range of colours.

A short but lovely story

2010-08-21T17:57:00.002+01:00

Yesterday I had to take the Brompton to the Borough of Merton. This involved taking the bike to East Croydon station and then catching the tram out to Merton. Two stops into the trip all passengers were asked to get off because of vandalism (egg throwing) on the tram which now had to be clean. This incident happened before I got on but no one had told the driver. While we all waiting on the platform for the next tram, an elderly man called out ‘that’s a Brompton’. He then proceeded to tell me and the other waiting passengers about the Brompton and his memories of the first model. He said it was called a Brompton Superior, because it was a superior ride. (I have tried to find out any early names for Bromptons, but no luck so far.)

On the tram he told me that he was 87 years old and that he still used a bike when he could. He said that he had been cycling for 80 years and had two custom bikes (one racing and one for training) that were now over 20 years old. He said that he kept cycling because of his legs and his theory that if he ‘didn’t use them he would loose them’. The only thing he didn’t do was cycle in the rain because of the quality of the road surfaces and not having any mudguards.

I was impressed.

The squeek has gone

2010-08-19T07:35:00.001+01:00

The squeek that came back with the Brompton after the service has gone. Turns out it was just ‘stuff’ on the rims. I didn’t even have to clean it as when I went out cycling after the rain the surface water on the road did the job for me.

London Cycle Hire - Review by Sheffield Cycle Chic

2010-08-17T19:10:00.002+01:00

I have just read a great review of the London Cycle Hire scheme on the Sheffield Cycle Chic blog. (Here is the link.)

It does seem to have problems (registration, key activation, getting through to the helpline) which hopefully will be resolved. However if you have planned to use the bike for only one day you appear to need an alternative plan to get around.

More importantly in her review SCC points out the poor cycle infrastructure, poor street signs and aggressive driving that we who cycle in London tend to accept as our lot. I completely agree with the need to reduce the speed limit in congested areas. I also don’t understand the various no cycle signs that seem to be springing up.

I nearly registered with the cycle hire scheme at the weekend but I couldn’t get through the registration process. I will try again. I have seen quite a few cyclists in Central London using them, but they appear to me to be people who work in the area and jumping on a bike is a quick way to get around, especially on a sunny day in August.

The photo was of the actor & bike I saw on the launch day of the scheme. The fade effects are courtesy of my iPhone using the Hipstamatic Photo app.

Green Brompton locked outside John Lewis

2010-08-12T06:21:00.001+01:00

I am not the only Brompton user who locks their bike up with a strong D lock and goes to the shops on Oxford Street in the West End. I saw this Brompton on Monday locked up on the bike racks that are by the side of John Lewis department store. I usually leave my Brompton fully opened so that I can just get on and ride, but I can see that folded takes up no space at all. My only worry with this is that another bike rider may just lock their bike on top of the Brompton and make it very difficult for you to get your bike out. Just like when you are blocked in with your car.

Nice green colour. Reminds me of deep sap green oil paint.

Last month I caught a Brompton owner locking his bike outside Cannon Street Station with one of those long but thin cable locks. I just went up to him and told him he was mad and the bike was too expensive to be left with this type of lock. He laughed and asked me if I was going to take it. I said No, I have one at home. I was parking my Trek bike at the time. The Brompton wasn’t there when I returned so I hope I scared him into taking it with him.

Squeeky clean

2010-08-06T06:42:00.002+01:00

I took the Brompton on a trip to the shops to check all the gears were ok following the service. The cable was initially stiff but that is to be expected because it is new. All the dirt has been removed too but of course will be replaced this winter with the rain and snow. All of the six gears are fine.

The only difference is that the Brompton squeeks. This is quite loud as I break. I am assuming this is a combination of the wheel rims and break-pads being cleaned and will therefore eventually disappear. But I don’t recall it squeeking like this when I first got the bike and I don’t recall it this being like this after the service last year.

On the plus side is pedestrians can hear me and so stay out of the road.

I have gone back to wearing my old Topshop fabric flats as it has not been warm enough for sandals this week.

The Brompton and I are reunited

2010-08-04T20:44:00.002+01:00

The Brompton is back all clean and shiny from its service at Compton Cycles. The cost for a service, clean-up and new cable was £78. I will go for a proper ride tomorrow to check the feel of the cable and gears. While I was at Comptons I was invited to check out the range of new colours of the new Bromptons. I saw a juicy red titanium one, but when I picked it up it didn’t feel any lighter to my steel frame bike. I had a look at the Brooks saddles and I will need about £100. But I will do more research on this. I carry my Brompton by the saddle quite a lot and I want something that will be strong enough.

Oh yes, the photo is of me taken today by M in my green wool beret by Kangol, purple rain coat by Marks and Spencer, black leather bucket bag by the Moroccan leather company, berry and red Spanish shoes by Art. I think a crazy colour combination gets you noticed by drivers and can in my opinion do a better job than a fluorescent tabard.

Many thanks to ‘That’s not my age’ for the link and introducing me to her fabulous blog which is the reason why I posted this photo.

Thank you M for the photo.