Brompton Electric G Line Review: The Folding Bike Revolution

The Brompton Electric G Line is a significant leap forward in the world of folding electric bikes, blending urban practicality with off-road versatility. Here’s a detailed review to help you understand why this bike stands out among other e-bike options.

Design and Build

The Brompton Electric G Line represents the company’s first foray into combining their iconic folding technology with features geared for adventure. The bike’s major upgrade includes larger 20-inch wheels, which give it a smooth ride across diverse terrains, from city streets to gravel paths. The wider, tubeless tires increase stability, making it ideal for those looking to take their Brompton beyond the city limits. The bike’s build is noticeably chunkier than traditional Brompton models, yet the folding mechanism remains unchanged, making it just as compact when stored.

The frame, available in small, medium, and large, caters to different rider preferences. While the new model is heavier—at around 42.9 pounds (19.5 kg) including the battery—it compensates with an even distribution of weight, making it more comfortable to push using redesigned rolling wheels with bearings.

Features and Technology

The G Line brings a host of new features that make it a compelling choice for both city commuting and off-road adventures. Hydraulic disc brakes come as standard, offering improved stopping power compared to earlier models, which is especially useful on uneven or slippery surfaces. The wider handlebar and ergonomic grips provide better control and added comfort, especially on longer rides.

The electric version of the G Line is powered by a 250-watt rear-mounted hub motor, capable of pushing the bike to speeds of up to 15.5 mph. The motor and the new 345-watt-hour battery, which is positioned at the front of the frame, offer a range of 20 to 40 miles, depending on power mode and terrain. This battery is easy to detach and takes roughly four hours for a complete charge.

The Brompton Advance 4-speed system works alongside three power assistance modes, which are useful for tailoring the ride according to the terrain. This combination of gears and electric assistance makes for a flexible ride that is equally at home in a hilly area or on flat urban streets.

Performance and Comfort

The larger wheels and upgraded suspension make the G Line ride more like a full-sized bike while retaining its folding bike convenience. On-road, the G Line feels agile and responsive, much like its smaller-wheeled siblings, and the enhanced wheel size ensures better rollover capabilities on rough terrain. Off-road, the Electric G Line provides a balanced and enjoyable experience, a testament to its new frame design and upgraded gearing system.

The G Line also includes hydraulic disc brakes and wide Schwalbe G-One tires, which provide better braking performance and additional comfort on rough surfaces. Despite the larger frame and wider tires, the G Line still folds efficiently and can be packed away quickly. When folded, it can easily be stored under a bed or behind a door, making it ideal for city dwellers with limited space.

However, the bike’s extra weight does affect portability, especially when carrying it up stairs or lifting it for storage. Despite the extra pounds, the bike’s compact folding mechanism makes it ideal for transport in cars or on public transit, as it fits neatly into small spaces like car boots or train luggage compartments.

Practical Considerations

The G Line comes equipped with mudguards and a rear rack, making it practical for both daily commuting and weekend bikepacking trips. The lack of a kickstand, however, is noticeable, particularly when stopping frequently during a ride. One of the standout elements of the G Line is its integration of lights—9 watts in the front and 1 watt in the rear—which provides ample illumination for night-time city rides and early morning adventures.

Another practical touch is the range of luggage options available, including satchels that can store the battery. The bike also has mounting points for bottles and packs, enhancing its utility for longer tours.

Folding Bike Conversion Kit vs. Brompton G Line

Folding bike conversion kits such as Swytch, Cytronex, Byqee or ARCC offer a cost-effective way to electrify a traditional Brompton, adding 4-6 kg and allowing for customization. While they’re cheaper, they may affect balance and handling, and installation can require technical skills. Additionally, warranties may be voided by retrofitting a kit.

The Brompton G Line, however, integrates electric components seamlessly into the bike’s design, offering superior balance, reliability, and factory-installed safety features. It’s heavier at 19.5 kg but delivers a more cohesive, reliable riding experience, optimized for both urban and off-road use.

Overall Recommendation

The Brompton Electric G Line is an excellent evolution of Brompton’s signature folding bike, combining compactness with off-road versatility. Its larger wheels, hydraulic disc brakes, and powerful motor make it ideal for varied terrain, whether in the city or on rougher paths. While heavier and lacking a kickstand, it provides excellent reliability and comfort with features like a high-capacity battery and ergonomic grips.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, a conversion kit like Swytch can electrify your existing Brompton and is worth considering. Conversion kits can be lighter and more affordable, but they add weight, may affect balance, and require installation. Investing in a good foldable bike lock is also advisable to secure your ride when on the move.

For those who prioritize ease, reliability, and a well-integrated design, the Brompton Electric G Line stands out as the better option, offering a polished riding experience that’s ideal for both urban commutes and off-road adventures.

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