Folding Bike

180px-brompton1 A folding bicycle or folder is a type of bicycle that incorporates hinges or joints in the frame and handlebar stem that permit it to be broken down into a more compact size. As well, most 180px-brompton71 folders have wheels of 20 inch (51 cm) diameter or less. Folding bikes can be taken on public transport and into apartment buildings or workplaces where conventional bicycles are not allowed. This facilitates mixed-mode commuting, because a folding bike need not be parked in the street or train station. Folding also makes it easier to transport a bicycle in an automobile.

Folding bikes are often associated with urban commuters. Multi-method commuters, who fold and unfold cycles several times per day, and then carry them in cramped public transport, typically want a bike that is easy and quick to fold. Marine users, such as sailboaters who use them to scoot around on land when they dock, more often prefer a bike that folds into a compact package that fits easily into the hold of their boat. Some folder riders use their bikes for recreation, and may only unfold the bike several times a month for a jaunt in the park, so they are more often willing to compromise ease and speed of foldability to get better riding speed and comfort.

While folding bikes have a reputation as slow-moving vehicles, in an urban street setting, high-end folding bikes can go at good speeds.