[Yak] A little Nervous

[Andy Heath]

Hi David,

Welcome.

What country are you in ?  My guess from your style
would be UK.  I am in the UK and I use a BF (NWT)
for commuting here, trips to business meetings in
other parts of the world and for touring.  I chose
it precisely because other folders are not so rideable.
Folding and carrying is a pig compared with say a Brompton but you
do get slick with doing it and can do it every day as I do.
Its worth it for the rideability and the ability to
take it in buildings with you.  I've edited in more
comments below.

> Folks,
> 
> My name is David Samuels and I am new to this list.  I joined the
> list because I am trying to decide if a Bike Friday is right for me.
> 
> I currently have a road touring bike (IF custom).  I like to commute
> to work by bicycle but because I end of working late into the night,
> I can not commute by bike as much because the commute home is to long
> to do when I leave late at night. We have train service, however, the
> train only allows a folding bike.
> 
> This plus the fact that I often ship the bike when I do extended
> unsupported tours has me thinking that the bike Friday could be a
> great bike.  BUT, I do have some concerns.  I am sure that you have
> addressed these issues before but they are new for me so any advice
> is greatly appreciated.
> 
> 1. I typically ride with family members who have 700c road bikes and
> we move at a moderate speed. Will the Bike Friday, because of the 20"
> wheels be a problem keeping up with the others in my family (The
> folks at the company said no, but I would like to hear about what
> others think)

Everyone on here says no. I'm unsure but I am sure that if there
is any difference at all then its very small and can be overcome
easily - you will keep up.  I can keep up with my cycling friends on
their full-size bikes and they are 15 years younger than me.  Gearing
is vital - take some care selecting ratios and components.
Acceleration from standstill is even easier with the smaller wheels
(less inertia).

  > 2. Is the bike as comfortable and stable as a non-folding upright for
> long distance touring?  Or, is it truly a compromise so that you have
> the flexibility of a folding bike? I really do not want to compromise
> the ride.

Its totally stable and a really good workhorse.  The ride is
wonderful, no compromise at all.  This is why I chose it and
I haven't been disappointed.

  > 3.  How is the long term durability of the frames and components,
> particularly the frame and rims?

I think I've had mine around six years and had no problems.
Components of course depends on what you choose.

> 
> 4. I am looking at the New World Tourist 2.0 with Shimano 105 rear
> derailleur and 105 cranks and BB, capreo cassette, drop bars, dura
> ace bar con shifters, Marathon slick tires,
> 
> 5. Do you have any thoughts about this set up - both good and bad?
> How is it for daily commuting and supported and unsupported tours?
> Are there any issues with these bikes that I should know about?
> Should I look at another BF model?

I leave the experts to comment on the components but the choice
of NWT is a good one.  I have carried more weight on this bike than
my 26 inch wheel bike.  Its a great bike.

Finally, I want to add that the support is great.  People on this
list are a big help and Green Gear always respond promptly
and well in my experience.  Things get shipped very quickly.
What is a complete pain is paying import taxes and VAT on
the bike and parts when you order them (though most things you
can get here).  If you go for a new NWT you might want to
fly to the US and bring it over yourself because it may be
cheaper to do so.

andy

> 
> Thanks in advance for any and all input. As you can tell, I am
> somewhat nervous.
> 
> Dave Samuels dssamuels at juno.com
> 
> 
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-- 
andy
___________________
Andy Heath
AndyHeath at axelrod.plus.com