HONESTLY…I Don’t Know What I’m Doing - Brompton Bike-packing
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 11 ก.ย. 2024
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@@PaulMessner OK THANKS PAUL, I LOVE THE THINGS YOU DOING
@@PaulMessner IM ALSO A CYCLIST,, YOUR VIDEO ARE GREAT COMBINATION OF BIKE CAMPING, NICE ONE
Best tips I'd pass on are:
* Use some form of 'undercarriage' cream.
eg. Boots nappy rash cream, Sudocreme, etc.
* Take off your shoes and socks at every stopping opportunity on a summer ride.
It's like having a foot massage.
Enjoy 👍
Hello!! aw so GREAT you decided to try a Brompton. Haha of course I think that. I toured a lot on "big" bikes over the years and was all sniffy about folding bikes originally, or well didnt even think about them basically, but once I tried it I found a dinky Brompton set up is great. About the rear rack luggage thing, yeah I spent a few years thinking about this, and trying out different ideas. I wanted to have the load low down, I wanted the bag istelf to be light, that I am not using up the weight allowance just on the bag, and I wanted 100% waterproof bag cos I am always sloshing through rain and things. My first attempt was just to strap on a holdall, which did kind of work once I jammed a wooden spoon underneath - I was a in rush trying to jam my tent and everything on the bike, heading to a birthday party in Holland. I did get to Holland OK but the floppy holdall was not a great solution. Then for a year or so I used a small suitcase, haha, which solved the issue of needing a rigid base - and it was kind of free cos I already had the suitcase, which was good. It worked pretty well. I used it for a year or so all over the place, wild camps in Scotland and all sorts. But not a good look! haha. And not waterproof. What I really wanted to do was use an Ortlieb roll top pannier, cos they are lightweight, robust dont rip etc, and are 100% waterproof (and I'd already got Ortliebs for other bikes). The thing was how to fix one on the Brompton... I puzzeld about this for a long time then a few years ago during lockdown I saw a great idea by a guy called Shane www.shanecycles.com/carrying-luggage-on-a-brompton-folding-bike/ (you need to scroll right to the bottom on the page till you see the idea I am talking about, or see how I recreated what he did here th-cam.com/video/ar8D-TVgdxg/w-d-xo.html ) - basically you put a bar between the easywheels to clip the pannier onto.. When i tried to do this, I discovered my Brompton rack was not quite the same as Shane's - they change the rack design over the years and mine was different from his, and the easywheels have been different sizes at different periods, and the clearances are tight, so it needs a bit of creativity but I managed to jig up a similar set up on my Brompton in a few hours of trial and error using a sawn-off bit of wooden dowel rod and some clips I robbed from an old pannier rack. The main thing is you need to get the bag sitting far enough back so that your heels dont bump into the bag when you pedal. Once I got that sorted, I just lashed the bag down with a cam buckle, really tight, cos I want the load stable - bungies no good, cos elastic. And I put the tent on top! And yay!! It worked brilliantly. I've used that set up for a few years now. These days my helinox chair goes under the strap too, alongside my tent, ready to pull out and use at coffee stops. I love it. A few weeks ago, I rigged the same set up on another Brompton for a friend, using a length of stainless steel threaded bar this time, that I bought from a DIY shop for a quid. That worked really well too. Took me a bit longer as I had to saw metal, but easy really, and costs kind of nothing. Anyway! there you go! wishing you miles and miles of happy cycling and camping 😎🚲
That’s a big read what’s the short version
Was about to recommend your excellent channel for Brompton bikepacking, all good advice for Paul!
Susanna Thornton backpacking on a brompton bike
Exactly - England to Sweden trip
She has got her set up really dialed
I was going to say the same thing: @susannathornton
Susanna mentions Bus Atlas in her latest video for planning Brompton trips, if it's of any interest?
She does great
Miriam Kennedy.. if you know you know
Second that
Watch Susanna Thornton, see knows how to bike pack using a Brompton 😂
And Brompton Traveler.is really good, he shows how to pack a Brompton and kit into a bag and fly with it. As well as how you can fit a rucksack to the rear rack.
I found her channel only recently and enjoy it very much!
Found on of her videos a few months back. Her three part cycle from London to Sweden is worth a watch just for the enjoyment alone
I agree - she did a video explaining exactly h0w she carries her gear. Her husband made a fitting (or two) so she can do her trips
Susanna rides a three-speed Brompton on her adventures.
Part way through the vid - just wanted to say that your saddle looks a little high. Your legs shouldn't fully straighten out at the bottom of the pedal stroke and you'll find this causes you to rock around on the saddle, adding to chaffing and soreness. Just a small tweak which will hopefully increase comfort and reduce pain 😊
Thanks James. I've ordered a seat height insert and will set up properly once that arrives.
@@PaulMessner Sounds good! And people are right - bib shorts are the best way to go really. You can always have a normal T-shirt over the top of them, and could experiment with different shorts and trousers over the top of them too. They're designed to be worn alone, but not everyone wants to go down that route for their own reasons. At the risk of trying and failing, you could try some cycling shorts without the shoulder straps. They don't stay in place quite as well, but would still be streets ahead of not wearing padded cycling shorts. Looking forward to your adventures on your new steed! 😁
Thanks for the great info. I think I'll have to give them a go
Keep that bum comfy!
@PaulMessner Check out an online guide to correct saddle height. As for saddles, have a look at Brooks saddles, these cured all saddle pain and chafing and can finally ride in shorts/jeans/whatever without issues. They are a bit costly but definitely worth it in my opinion 😊 as for breaking in, mine was about perfect immediately but your mileage may vary so yeah.
When I tour on my Brompton, I use a backpack that sits on the rear rack and the shoulder straps go over a bar under the seat. Its very stable and you can use the bungees too to go around the waist strap. Best thing with a rucksack is when multi model getting on trains etc you can have it on your back with Brompton in one hand and front bag in the other. Ive toured Peak District, Netherlands and recently Outer Hebrides and wouldn't do it on any other bike
Also, being ~100kg, a big upgrade I've made was to replace the suspension block with a Joseph Kuosac super firm one. I now get a lot more power from each rotation
I had a Brooks leather saddle but I couldn’t take the pain to break it in. But I bought the Brooks All Weather Cambium C17 saddle which is an alternative to the leather and no breaking in time needed. Looking at it you wouldn’t think it would be comfortable but it is. Also it is carved whole so no pressure there.
A rucksack on the back rack works very well for all your bulky but relatively light weight gear like sleep pad, bag, tent etc. Because the weight is still distributed low down on the bike. Just make sure it’s secured well back on the rack so that your heels don’t catch it when peddling. That way you can get over 60litres of storage capacity. ( 40+ on the back and 25+ via Brompton bag on the front. This is my set up and have been touring really solidly with it. Very stable and even take it off road too.
See Susannah Thornton's comment - she is brilliant and a fabulous watch. Nothing seems to stop her bike-packing on her Brommie all over the place.
I have had a Brommie for some years now and while I don't do mega distances, I have never felt the need to change the saddle. I find it perfectly comfortable on or off road (Gravel/woodland trails like you rode in this video).
If you wanted some padding which I would use on a longer ride, just get padded underwear and wear under your preferred clothes.
I think people can make it all a bit complicated when it doesn't need to be. Don't waste money on bib-shorts if they will only be used underneath. Just get padded cycling underclothes.
Looking forward to your adventures.
Another vote for Susanna Thornton, Miriam Kennedy 2bikes4adventure, they're all fantastic. For me A Saddle is very much trial and error. I tried a lot of different ones on Amazon Prime and returned all but one. I learnt a lot! You can't beat trying them out. Vincita have some excellent rack bag options, but you can also rig on any old rucksack or duffle like you mentioned. You might also want a kick stand as you can't fold the back wheel under when rack is loaded. I'd recommend just getting out it with whatever you have and evolve the set up over time - like most things really! What I love about Brompton is the low centre of gravity especially when loaded, it's much easier for me to handle than a 'big' bike loaded and feels more nimble. I prefer it and will happily live within its limitations for the comfort and freedom it allows. have fun exploring! 😊looking forward to your Brompton videos!!
Ortlieb FRONT pannier bags will fit the back of a Brompton nicely (the back ones will drag on the floor). Basically a marine dry bag with hangers. You then get a wide platform to strap something else across on top for big trips. (I have a Mezzo - like a Brompton but sillier fold).
Front panniers on the back of a smaller bike is a great tip - thanks!
Endura Hummvees (with detachable liners). Better than bib shorts for touring IMHO. I wear mine all the time on and off the bike.
Add 2Bikes4Adventure to the channels to watch as just posted. They discuss technical aspects.
Also, as an Aussie owner of 2 Bromptons, one just like yours, same colour, and a blue Electric Brompton, I would recommend a little protection for your paint job generally any places where the cables touch the frame. They can rub away the paint job. I use clear stickers from bike stores and/or small Velcro straps (around the main frame immediately behind the hinge clamp where all those cables touch).
I have two Brooks saddles and the first one identical to the pic you showed was comfy from first ride. The second a little stiffer to begin. Both wonderful to use and never used padding.
Lastly, at 66 I always use a mirror attached to my glasses. I want no surprises from behind and don’t care what I look like!
Enjoy our secret world!
I second the little mirror on the glasses or helmet. It's been a wonderful thing both on the road and on trails.
Get a pair of padded cycling underpants. You can wear them under your own shorts or trousers
Yes, just be sure the pad is good. The only liner shorts I've tried had a pad that was hopeless compared with the bib-short pad from the same brand (Altura)
Brooks Cambrium. The C-19 carved. Nice and wide for upright riding position. Weather proof. With the cut out, it is great for long rides. Made in England.
well said that gets my vote too, have the exact saddle on my S6L
Can certainly recommend Brooks saddles, I've just got a B17 and after about 500km it feels broken in, massively less numb bum syndrome!
Upgrades: Get front and rear rechargeable lights. Quadlock for attaching the phone for navigation uses. Change the pedals. The stock pedals are very inefficient. Get double sided lower end Shimano pedals. They have flat on one side and SPD cleats on the other. The flat side is more grippy then stock pedals and bearings are much better in them causing much less energy loss.
Plenty of excellent Brompton bikepacking channels, most already mentioned: Susanna Thornton, Miriam Kennedy, Brompton Traveller. There's also technical advice from The Brompton Guy, brilliantbikes, etc
Brompton Traveler is a good channel to follow, been all over.. really like your dailys. Would love a brommy!
With regard to the Brompton as a touring bike, the great Heinz Stücke used one towards the end of his world record setting career.
He might not have gone fast but he went further than anyone else.
If it was good enough for him then it's good enough for the rest of us! :D
Check out Wiltshire man sandy did a lot on the Brompton how to set it up for bike packing and then he took his Brompton on the coast to coast doing wild camping
Hi Paul, I have been a follower for years now and it is delightful to see that you are moving into the world of cycling and bromptons! I did way of the roses (morecambe to bridlington) on my brompton recently over 4 days, carrying all of my camping gear with me and the bike behaved like a champ. I had to walk one or two hills but there is no shame in that! 😅😂 For luggage on the rear of the bike, a 20-40l dry bag secured parallel to the rack with Voile straps (these are absolutely amazing, not just for cycling!) and a shoelace or cord to hold it in place around the seatpost = an economical and practical way to carry kit that does not result in heel strike. Looking forward to seeing more videos!
I think the Brompton toolkit is worth it. It fits nicely into the front of the frame tube and you can fold a spare innertube and slide it into the longer frame tube. No need to carry anything and you can't accidentally forget it. That's everything you need to fix a puncture (plus a frame pump) and for those little adjustments. The only thing it's lacking is a chain link removal tool.
I have the Brooks Cambium C19 saddle. It's nice and wide, more comfortable than the Brompton offering, but as it's a rubber composite there's no breaking in for that perfect fit, so it can take some tweaking to get just right. The leather B17 saddle are excellent, but the downsides are that perfect fit can take a lot of rides to bed in, and it can all be ruined by a bit of rain.
Ah Paul, I really miss bike packing. MS has totally taken my balance and strength. Still car camp though.
Another great video Paul. Saddles are a bit like shoes, not everyone will find the same saddle comfortable due to different body shapes. I had a very expensive brand of saddle on my Mtb and it was like sitting on a knife edge. Yes definitely avoid becoming a M.A.M.I.L 😂. Take a look at the mountain bike casual longer shorts. I think it might be endura who make them and you could walk into the pub with them on .
Looks like the embryo of lots of fun. I cycled toured for around 20 years before it lost it's sparkle. A lot of this was on a tandem where pannier space is at a premium, so we had 65 litres of space between the two of us. Tips I would give you would be (i) Don't carry a rucksack on your back, you will get way too hot, but since you have that big front bag blocking the front bars, consider a bum bag for the valuables you want to keep with you when you walk away from the bike (phone, camera, cash etc). Keep the centre of gravity low. Bags should be simple and free of extra straps which will likely get caught in a wheel or in the chain. Looking at other peoples options out there I would seriously consider something as simple as a heavy duty dry bag of 30 L capacity (if this is not too long for that rack, smaller if it is too long. You want to be careful to avoid something that will strike your heels. Your tent can go on separately. It would be tricky to get two cylinders to sit nicely on a back rack, so I'd try and find a tent (and I know you have plenty to choose from!) that would strap to the seat post which is so very very long on a Brompton.
The small wheels of a Brompton will always make it harder to peddle long distances than a 28" wheeled bike, but getting it on and off trains or into a taxi will be so much easier that it opens up one way routes that could be real hassle any other way. With a good rail line thru' the Peak district I can see this working well for you. Consider also looking at the ex rail beds turned into cycle tracks in the White Peak area.
Your choice of tyres is spot on. Even regular Marathon tyres and much more puncture resistance than any other brand we tried (and we tried many) and they last so many more miles than others. We ran a Marathon rear tyre down to the canvas on a tour of France with no problem.
Hi Paul, greetings from another Sheffield explorer! I've done a fair amount of bike touring in the UK and Europe, it's great fun. Enjoy! My advice with the Brompton would be to keep as much weight off that rear tyre as possible to help avoid punctures (worst thing about the Brompton is taking the rear wheel off!). I wouldn't bother with panniers. Firstly, they're just more gear to lug around off the bike and secondly you'll reduce clearance. You'll be far more likely to hit curbs, rocks etc. and the road, when you turn. I would recommend looking at the Cyclone IV Chubby Bicycle Trailer by Radical Design. It has a Brompton specific fixing, you can fit a Brompton inside it for travel on planes etc. and the trailer packs away.
Have a look at Susannah Thornton, she has a Brompton and cycles out wild camping, and seems very well set up. She goes into her kit and travelling about on her many vlogs, nice to watch as well. Also Miriam Kennedy has a Brompton and does shorter rides with a couple of nights wild camping, you might be able to get a few pointers. Enjoyed your vlog today and have subscribed 👍🙂
For rear side storage check Vincita Voyager bag. Doubles as a backpack and has a solid connection to the rack so more stable on the bike compared with a regular backpack.
Saddle wise, check out the Selle SMP TRK... After trying 5 saddles & riding a lot of uncomfortable miles...this is the one I went for. Very comfortable... Not as expensive as the brooks & no break in time.
I do a lot of cycling & some audax rides (200km +)... The Selle SMP TRK has been an absolute game changer. They have an app to help you choose the correct size for you..BUT... don't be immediately tempted to get the gel version. In my experience, gel saddles can be as uncomfortable as anything else.
Best of luck 👍
Im female and never ever wear bibs, but i do se a gel seat cover and also padded shorts. Aldiand lidl do great ines at certain rimes of the year as do decathlon all year. I coninced my husband to get a bib years ago as he said his belly kept hanging out (his words), and just put a top over it so no one knew he was wearing a bib, and honestly, now he'll wear nothing else 😂. You can also get mountain biking shorts. They just look like normal shorts but have the padding inside so more discreet as they just look like normal shorts. Trust me i really don't go about all lycra clad and skin tight ut have never once had a saddle sore or chaffing or needed to use any sort of cream either using a gel seat cover and / or padded shorts. One thing to make sure, well two actually, is, make sure you have shorts that don't slide up when you cycle, usually they have like a silicone type line round the bttom of each leg, same with cycling tops so they don't slide up when you cycle, or blow up in the wind if they're baggy (me😅), and if you do buy a seat cover, don't think the widest one is the most comfortable, cos tryst me it won't be. Co fir one that fits yous saddle. A guess looking at yours, im guessing a medium, but you can measure your saddle and measure the one you want to buy as they have different widths. Your bum will get used to going out often as i go to and from work every day, yet some folk ask ow i can just get up every morning and go, then sometimes a bikepack, but yoir bum soon mans up to it, jist a short cycle each day or two to get your bum used to it and then with loaded bags just to get used to the weight too. Hope this helps.
Learning through doing is the best way to go! You’re an inspiration Paul.
I bought a Burley Travoy cycle trailer to carry camping gear. It attaches to the seat post and I can can fit an Ortlieb 100 litre roll top waterproof bag on it. The trailer has 12.5 inch inflatable wheels and folds down for storage. I didn't want to overload the Brompton.
I think the first thing is you need to differentiate bikepacking with touring. Bikepacking typically uses multiple small bags so the load is distributed around the bike giving you better mobility and ability to cover rough terrain. Touring is typically done on road or smoother paths and would allow for larger bags and a bigger load since the path is easier to ride. I would suggest getting your load on the back of the bike to make the handlebars a little easier to move as well as lowering your center of gravity. You can easily strap drybags to the bike in multiple places to distribute the load, often bikepackers use voile ski straps for this.
Bromptons ride much better with some weight on the front. They are twitchy little beasts when naked. They are also quite capable on dry trails and gravel where necessary. The only thing that stops them is mud and slimy roots.
(oh, and tramlines). Some brave souls even ride them over cattle grids but I am not among them. For travelling by air or bus and train for a trip on the back roads and trails they cannot be beaten. For hard core bike packing over moors, bogs and wet woodland, a mountain bike obviously does a much better job. Horses for courses. You can't put a mountain bike on a bus or in a passing car.
@@s.richards6552hey that’s fair! I have a few different bikes myself that I bikepack with and a folding bike that I take car camping (not as nice as a brompton unfortunately) but I am in a completely different type of terrain. (Nova Scotia, Canada) My preference for bikepacking is actually a trek stache, I love gigantic wheels for rollover and comfort as well as it’s gearing, the thing climbs! Like you said horses for courses haha
I have a non Brompton folding bike. Good fun and can imagine travelling longer distances fun by just folding it up and jumping on a train.
On the down side is weight carrying capacity and speed of travel and distance.
So, if I travel ultra light for short distances and am in no rust, I'm good to go.
For saddles, try Brooks Leather. Breaking in of leather Brooks is quite personal. I was quite worried about that before I got mine, but I was comfortable on it from day one.
So happy to see you exploring with the Brompton! Some youtubers to checkout: BromptonTraveler, Susanna Thornton, and Miriam Kennedy. I have a Brooks B17, and it took a couple hundred miles to break in, but is very comfortable now.
Hello Mr M - Welcome to The Fold!! As a long time Brompton aficionado I am delighted to see that you have embraced the beast! Where to start with suggestions..?🤔 The Brompton Traveller (Gianni I think) wrote the book on bikepacking with his Brompton (literally) and offers excellent advice in his back catalogue… Rizi Sapai (I think - my spelling skills are lacking!) uses cracking panniers to great effect and camps and cooks with his Brompton… Vincita offer excellent expandable Brompton luggage - there’s oodles out there and it’s very much personal preference. You will find what you need I’m sure. Really enjoy your channel anyway but you have just upped the attraction! Hope you come to love and appreciate the versatile little beast the Brompton really is! Happy Trails Sir! 🙌😁
Rizalsapi007 is the channel
Terry’s All Bikes is a good channel for Brompton and camping/bikepacking.
It’s the best folder. I had one for ten years. I did find the seat post kept slipping down. I gave mine up because it was a b**** ache re indexing the gears after fixing the puncture. May maybe the tire technology is better these days. The other thing you’ll have to get to the many idiots who cut you up when overtaking and complain that your in the middle of the roads. You have to ride a metre or so out to avoid grids and debris. You also need space to take evasive action when they cut you up. And they will! Too dangerous on the roads these days for me. Also wear hi vis at all times. None of this stupid Inios black!
The Brooks B17 is definitely the saddle of choice. Saddles are like walking boots - the soft Gore-Tex type feel initially very comfortable but don’t always give the support you need for long distances. A properly broken-in leather saddle is fantastic. I first used mine on a multi-day cycling holiday and it felt uncomfortable for several days. We then had a lot of rain and it seemed to soften and condition with the damp, suddenly becoming very comfortable. You can get anti-chafe underwear and various creams to protect the nethers, so the choice is yours Paul!
Each to their own, Paul, but I really don’t get the Brompton thing. Fine if you want to pack them into the boot of a car or put them on a train but if you are going out from home, surely a full sized bike is best.
Bib or liner shorts (good ones) make a massive difference to comfort and to the amount of effort expended. Jeans are really hard work to ride in, in comparison. I just bought Altura Endurance bib shorts, they are excellent. Wear some mtb shorts over the top if you don't like the look.
Saddle: Charge Spoon seems to fit many people and is cheap as - and needs no breaking in. And they IMO deserve a sale for making rhe women's version, called the Ladle.
You can fit an inner tube in the main part of the frame. It folds to the right shape to fit perfectly. I wrap mine in clingfilm for a bit of protection, with some string attached for extraction. It happily slides about in there, so the string is probably overkill. If you are planning longer trips, a few spokes fit into the hollow rod that holds a backpack on the rack {I use a piece of plastic pipe}. Most bike shops won't carry a Brompton spoke, but they can easily fit your own. Saves hanging around somewhere for an extra couple of days waiting for the post to arrive. Most people also get a better pump than Brompton's own supplied version. It is very much a get you home emergency measure and impossible to pump the tyres to full pressure.
Paul let me tell you as a fellow Bromptonian: you run trhe risk of getting addicted to bikepacking with your Brommie....Brompton touring is also therapy 😊
I am already starting to feel the effects 😂
@@PaulMessner WOW.. THATS GREAT👍
Marathon plus are bulletproof 👌🏻👍🏻
I can suggest some "bib" or "cycling" shorts (especially the longer leg ones) and wear them under your normal clothes. I wear mine under some cheap MTB shorts.
You dont need to wear all cycling gear and look like a roadie at all. but it does help with miles and comfort.
I love the variety of subjects you pop out of nowhere,😊 you do know how to renew your channel !👍🏻
I’d love to do JOGLE on a Brompton.. Brookes saddle all the way. If you’re wearing Lycra on a Brompton - ur doing it wrong! 😅
I tour on my Brompton and use a front bag like yours together with a Carradice saddle bag attached to the saddle rails with a bagman quick release. This allows me to detach it in seconds which is useful when folding.
It’s waterproof and big enough for a tent or sleeping bag and mat. There are also side pockets which I use for spare tubes and tools. ( I take separate Allen keys etc because some multi tools are too compact and can’t undo all of the Brompton bolts, some of which are awkward to get at!)
I haven’t got a rack, but if I did have one I would just strap a dry bag to it with voile straps or similar. A 22 litre exped is only about 12 quid!
Great to see you getting out on a Brompton…have fun!
Regards rear storage. If you want and can afford it, I can recommend a eerder metaal seatpost hugger. It adds a brompton luggage block to the seatpost so you can use a second brompton bag and retain the kickstand mode
Definitely get a Brookes saddle you won't regret it.
Get the Swift or the B17, the Swift will break in a but quicker, you can also get Brookes leather treatment to speed up the process.👍.
As for saddles, just find whats comfy, expensive does'nt neccersarily mean better. I also wouldnt strap anything too heavy to the saddle stem. Just a toolkit and spare tube just in case. As for the rear carrier, panniers catch my feet when pedalling so i just strap a bag on the rack so its out the way . You can get gel inserts for your nether regions, i just wear padded lycra shorts under my trousers.
Big plus one for your saddle comment. I just do not get on with leather saddles and am quite happy with the stock Brompton. Of course its personal choice but......
Get yourself a nice (e-)touring bike with wider and larger tires instead, Paul. Something like my Cube Touring One e-bike with Schwalbe 622x55 tires; it is simply excellent for bike-packing out in the wild.
Really easy to use a ruck sck on the back of the Brompton. See path less pedalled Brompton episodes on how to rig up.
Wear whatever You care comfy in. I do thousands of miles each year on mybike, including touring. Just wear what you're comfortable in.
I would recommend a Brooks ONLY if your plans will involve multiple long trips each year.
Cycling can get damn dear if you let it.
Just ride your bike.
Hi Paul. I bought a memory foam cover for my (mountain) bike saddle. I actually got it in lidl for cheap.its really comfortable. I do 10k most days and it's a breeze.
Hi Paul, is your Brompton a C-Line 6 speed with the medium handle bar setup? Just getting a Brompton myself so enjoying your journey too. I don’t know if you have seen any of Susanna Thornton’s TH-cam videos but I’ve found them very useful. All the best and thanks for the video.
I just got back from cycling from Finland through to Lithuania on my 3-speed Brompton - wild camping all the way. Great fun! Struggles on the big hills and completely useless on Sandy tracks, but surprisingly capable on gravel if you put some power in! I use a cheap 30L dry back (a heavy duty one, not a camping type one) on the rear rack (and clip the toll-top opening around the seat post for extra peace of mind) and can fit tent and sleep system in it no bother. Works a charm!
Love the fact you've got a Brompton now. Yes, they're so versatile and great for travelling, as I tend to show in my channel. I've recently splintered away from a campervan self build type channel to focus on my Brompton vlogs so I hope I'm attracting dedicated fans and spreading the word to the less informed about for these tiny bikes. Best of luck.
I have the same model and color! No need to prop up on the pedal. Just flip the back wheel. Anywhere stand. Bike shorts increase comfort, easy to wear under shorts etc. I do the same on MTB and Brompton commute.
Its just a thought, but I am trying to get back to a bit of camping but with heart and Arthritis it's getting harder. However I just bought an Exped Plus foam mat to go under by S to S inflatable insulated mat. Being a lot thicker it makes it much better as I am a side sleeper. Now you are Brompton camping it may make sense. It's not twice as big folded so should be OK on a Brompton. Might be worth a review.
On the Jet boil one big issue is the much lower fuel consumption is. If like me you use it 2 or 3 times a week typically, 2 day rides and often one trip out with SWMBO its significant as gas is no longer cheap and it uses half of a convectional stove (mines a Flash 1 with a Flash 2 burner) the first burner literally wore out the canister screw after about 8 years of heavy use.
I’m not a fan of bib shorts either, especially in hot weather. I’ve always used padded mountain bike shorts just to take the edge off. They fit under your outdoor gear and help with chaffing 👍🏻
Padded under shorts definitely the way to go. Soft saddles are often worse for saddle sores. Make sure your clothing doesn't move against your skin.
I always feel like it may look like I have nappies on tho when I’m getting off to have a pint I think the seat pad works better lol
@@Billybob-xo5df The pad doesn't need to be massive. It's a recent trend, and actually a "cheap" bib short trend to have fat pads in them. Look at Italian fit, with a nice chamois, thin but works.
I am using a Brooks saddle. I have it on a mountain bike (which looks wrong, but also right..) I must have done 200 miles on it now and it's only just fully breaking in. The first time I sat on it, it was vey uncomfortable! I treated it with Proofide and it felt instantly better, not great, but better. It was quite slippy at first also. I have a TH-cam channel, but it's just me riding around chatting rubbish to myself 😂 not much said about the saddle.
Have a look at SJS Cycles, definitely a go to for all things Brompton and the mail order. Have a look at Joseph Kuosak handlebars.they are slightly wider and make a massive difference to handling and you don’t have to move brake levers inwards. Brooks b17 or flyer saddle and finally have a look a Carradice bags or Demano of Barcelona. Panniers won’t fit on rear and most people use a ortlieb tote. Ights I got the Cateye bracket and light light for Brompton and one on rear of my Carradice bag on back. Finally, better pedals make a huge difference and just get a low geared chainring, you will probably never use the higher range on your current set up and it’s lighter.. Mwynha as we say in Wales! Rich
For the rack - dry bak and some voile straps will take your tent, sleep kit amd clothes leavig your front bag for the stuff you need to access.
Doesnt matter what you ride as long as you have fun. Same with clothing though padded pants will save your arse some grief.
Have fun!
Nice going Paul, well done. For the back - I don't think many types of available panniers will work because of the height. I've seen people that use the Rhinowalk Bike Pannier Bag 7L, but these are quite small. The Vincita rear rack bags look good, and are specifically designed for Bromptons, but are not widely available in the UK. But most Brompton travellers seem to go with a backpack on the rear that is held in place by a bar (like cut-off handlebar) attached some way under the seat.
P.S. The 7L panniers do knock into the hub gear mechanism on the 'starboard' side. May be a way to protect the mechanism, but the person I saw using them and asked about it (Rizal Sapi) said they 'just accept it', and they do a lot of youtube vids and keep using them (
Brompton traveler uses a backpack on the back of the brompton. have a look at his world travels. Susan Thornton and Meriam Kennedy from Ireland bike camp on their Brompton's as well.
Hi Paul
It is possible to fit a brompton bag to the rear if you fit a adapted/shortened seat post behind your present seat post,then add a carrier block like the front carrier block.Done it with mine,adds a bit of weight but makes life much easier carrying stuff front and back or whatever set up you need.
I found the backpack suspended from the seat and tethered to the rack works well and the weight is balanced very well. I use a Brooks saddle. It was very stiff to start with but also comfortable; I commented that it felt a bit hard when I set of and felt the same at the end of the ride - but the bum was OK.
The IkEa diplo bag is a good value option to cover the bike. Even for travel.
On the back of mine I use a carradice junior saddlebag attached with the bagman quick release system. It can detach easily and be carried using a shoulder strap. My Cloudup 2 tent fits in it pretty well along with a micro stool and a sitpad. I don't use the wire loop support they also sell. Can also stuff a jacket and some other stuff on top. Then I keep my sleep system, stove, tools etc up front. I got one of those tiny backpacks that folds down into it's own stuff sack. That's super handy for buying food etc along the way. Seems to work pretty well for overnighters.
I love my Brompton for camping trips. I would not travel as light as you which will give you more lee-way for packing. . I use the borough bag on the front for trangia 27 +fuel, chair, camp utensils, food (snacks and first meal at least) and a jacket or clothes I might need to get easy access to. On the back I have a large basic drybag with rucksack straps with sleeping bag, mat, and various extra sleeping equipment to keep me warm (I get cold easily in the evenings) and then my change of basic clothing (if away for a few nights I wash out items daily. I do not use the padded bike shorts as bulkier to pack) I also try and put tent poles and if the fly is wet also the inner tent. My tent is large and bulky (but I love it) . I strap the tent with bungees to this bag. I theory I could carry this on my back, the front bag on one shoulder and folded bike in other hand. In practice this would be too heavy to move more than a few steps especially since I added an electric assist system to the bike. I have straps at the back of the rack to attach to the base of the straps of the rucksack , then I slide a short pole at the back of the saddle and the straps go over. I use the draw cord and a strap on the tent back to tie onto the saddle to lift and stop wobble. When I get it right it does not wobble at all. It is hard to describe Tools are in a separate bag so are accessible if i need something without having to unload and partially fold bike. I always have a tiny mini backpack bag hooked on the luggage so I carry food for camp I shop for on the way. I have a brooks saddle and a monkii cage for water bottle. I never mind 'you forgot the kitchen sink' or 'are you moving house?' comments. I try to pack as light as I can without compromising what I enjoy about cycling and camping.
The Ergon grips and a B17 saddle are a great improvement for comfort. I am experimenting with Brooks cambium saddles on a couple of bikes and seem comfortable but have only covered a couple of hundred miles on these. The Brompton tool kit is great and as it lives in the frame you do not forget taking it. For luggage I mostly use Brompton racksack and Carradice folder front bag. Shimano pedals -one side for clip on MTB shoes- I have fitted to one of my Bromptons- help me and do not add much width when bike folded.
I don't think I could be doing with those tiny tyres, I love my 29"'s.. brilliant that these bikes are compact though..
It's surprisingly complementary. I used to tour on a Dawes Super Galaxy but I found once I got a Brompton I did more bike-camping as I could mix up bike+bus+train, you can fit it practically anywhere including inside most tent vestibules.
I did LEJoG twice on a touring bike and often had issues with storage, and once my bike got damaged and I had to thumb a lift of a passing truck.
The weakest part of the Brompton are it's brakes so the only main difference is you walk or frequently stop on long steep descents, which isn't often.
@@GeekfromYorkshire Yeah, I think that is where they score so well. You can mix up a tour with trains, buses far easier.
@@Andy_ATB one bike-camp trip it rained so much day-after-day one night I retreated a B&B to primarily dry my kit. Another I just got kmackered and gave up early. This bike forgives more, give more flexibility, you get more places easier. Obviously they stop you going off-road for far, and you're tied to being near roads so less of a willd-camping solution. My most used campsites have been Braithwaite, Wasdale head NT, Langdale NT and I used to be using one near Kirkstone pass til it went too-campervan. Had a good trip once Wensleydale - Teesdale and camped near pub in Alston.
Love a Brompton adventure! Any route that uses trains really complements the Brommie's foldability - no need to book a space for your bike on a specific train so you've got oodles of flexibility.
Looks like a nice bike. Your seat seems a bit high. Flat feet and just under stretching your knee completly is a proper hight
It's funny I bought myself a mountain bike last year and my wife decided she wanted a bike to keep in the back of her Bronco Sport so she could use it at work during lunch breaks. When I saw the bike she got I laughed because I thought it looked ridiculous. Now I'm watching you sing the praises of the same bike and I'm thinking a Brompton might be the perfect bike for me to stick in the micro camper van I am building for my weekend photography trips up in the mountains of New Hampshire! 😂
When I used to go bike touring I always packed a couple of spare inner tubes and some light plastic tyre leavers. A puncture in the rain at the end of a long day is miserable enough without having to faff around trying to patch it.
I’ve got a Brooks b17 saddle and a carradice zipped roll saddle bag on my Brompton also a small mirror from bike parts uk all work very well.
B17 is perfect for Brompton in my experience. Never had a moment’s discomfort, and they add even more charm/character.
Saddles are personal. A good middle-ground is a Specialized Body Geometry such as a Phenom but if you like Brooks think about a more weatherproof one with pressure relief such as the Cambium C15 Carved?
For longer rides stretchy shorts or trews with a chamois insert is a lifesaver and increases comfort by a ton. Another option especially in colder weather is to wear loose light clothing and padded bib shorts underneath.
Please return that bicycle to the little girl you stole it from, Mate!😂😂😂
The Brooks saddles are very nice and comfortable.
Being that they are leather I covered mine over with a waterproof cover to protect it from the rain when I park the bike.
I agree with the pack weight on the front seeming odd. I would prefer to put it on your rack at the back, so the weight is above the rear wheel along with your body weight.
If the weight is at the front and you have to brake urgently, you may go flying over the handlebars and use your chin for a brake.
Don't forget to put lights and a bell on the bike. Or mount lights on your helmet.
A fluorescent bib or jacket would stand out better when you are on the road and should help prevent some Clampett running over you in their car.
The padded clothing also helps.
Carry a water or juice bottle, peddling can be thirsty work.
I haven't been on my bike in ages. I was wearing my bag on my back and it made me top heavy. Waiting to cross to an underpass at some lights, I was holding on to the traffic light when the front wheel started to roll forward, down the sloping curve.
Next thing I knew I was lying on my back in the road like a stranded turtle.
I fractured my elbow and wrist.
The elbow healed up but I had to get cortisone injections into my wrist. It still gives me bother and my handwriting is even worse than my doctors.
Be seen, be safe, don't worry about the fashion statement.
Im glad you are enjoying your new Brompton Paul. I've owed one for about 5 years now and have done many trips abroad with the mighty little bike. I would recommend getting a carradice saddlebag with bagman quick release. the brooks saddles are fantastic but the brake in time can be fustrating
The Brompton rear rack bag is the way to go, it's wedge shaped so fits well. Carradice do some very big saddle bags that clip on and off. I'd avoid panniers, they really make the brommie wobble. I had a handlebar bag (huge) and strapped my tent above it, but that was with the straight bars.
Avoid saddlebags they increase seatpost slippage. I have the Carradice Rackbox, I think discontinued, Brompton did make their own which was more practical.
I use the official Brompton saddle pouch with the cover, certain places/journeys ask you to bag it, for the first time ever recently a bus driver said I needed to bag the bike, I challenged it and told people have been bringing e-scooters on and causing trouble.
@@GeekfromYorkshire they can increase slippage yes, but it's easy to reset the height every now and again. I found it was the only way to get my camping gear on, and they have the added advantage of stopping rain splatter. It's also so easy with the carradice to unclip it.
@@GeekfromYorkshire pretty sure we used to chat before Nigel, how are you mate?
@@PhilWaud Possibly in BromptonTalk?
@@GeekfromYorkshire yes, think so. Brings back memories!
You won’t go wrong with those tires trust me. I have had those tires on my bike for three years and received two flats…that’s it. Also, consider the thick Schwalbe tubes, they won’t prevent punctures but will tremendously slow down natural air escape overtime. I rarely have to air up the tires. Also, someone mentioned your seat is too high, what I noticed you have the seat rail on the high end (top) of the Pentaclip. Place the rail on the lower end of the Pentaclip will help
Brilliant! If you don't get a sore bum, that's great. If you do you can get "liner shorts" with a chamois that are designed to go under normal shorts. Very popular in the MTB world.
I'm sure you have lots of folks who can help but I'm a bike mechanic so if you wanted any tech advice just give me a shout!
Ride safe
Ive got a 16 imch wheel Dahon folder and theres just not enough space to fit panniers to the rear rack. Your heels will clip them on the back pedal stroke. Any luggage has to be carried on top of the rack.
Hello Paul, I have just watched all three of your vlogs on the Brompton cycles which you have become interested in. I did wonder if this is an attempt to improve your fitness or just another side to your camping you wish to try. I can see the advantage of these bikes when travelling on public transport but will this bike suffice for bike camping, perhaps only time will tell. My Raleigh has 26" heavy treaded tyres, sprung seat post, a leather Brookes sprung saddle and front suspension. It is a heavy bike but handles bad roads and rough tracks with ease. I look at the Brompton which has no sprung saddle or suspension and those small wheels which I would assume gives a hard ride. I can imagine riding this bike on todays roads and tracks can play havoc with your wrists. I look forward to see how you progress with the Brompton and all the improvements you make to the bike. All the best John👍
Would defo recommend Slipstream anti chaffing cream Paul. Only need a little bit wiped around saddle contact points on your butt etc and it makes the ride so much more comfortable. Chuffed your getting into the Bikepacking. Another great direction for the channel. All the best mate 🚴🚴🚴
Best saddles to get are ones with a centre cutout for pressure relief. Keep up the great work, Paul
Totally agree. Brooks b17 imperial iirc. On mine. Don't even need cycle shorts. Did 100>miles couple of weeks ago with it on a different bike. No soreness at all and not anti-chaffing measures needed.
I had a Brooks B17 saddle on my first Brompton, which also had the rear rack. The Brooks saddle was ok, comfort wise, but not worth the additional weight, and was uncomfortable to carry the Brompton with. The rear rack I found to be useless, unless you have the Brompton rear rack back, which is pretty small - again, it wasn't worth the weight penalty.
The Brompton I have now replaced the first one. The weight saving of having a C17 saddle, instead of a B17 is totally worth the minor difference in comfort, not to mention that it's much better to carry the Brompton by. And I don't miss the rack one bit, only its weight (in a good way).
What I've found works well, in terms of packing, is putting all the heavy items in the T-Bag, and the lightweight things in a small, close-fitting backpack, and wearing that.
Seen your videos for years now. Good work! Thank you for the tips and inspiration. I have a bike touring channel. I'm doing adventures with my bike and wild camp for 50 days in a row.
I see a whole new field of adventures ahead for you Paul. I've just been watching some of Susanna Thornton's videos and am amazed at how organized she has become. Mind you she HAS been bikepacking for pretty much a lifetime. I haven't bikepacked since my kids were young and my eldest hit 50 this year! 🙂
I have a Specialized Turbo Vado 5.0 IGH and I went with their waterproof streamline panniers 17L each and as it has MIK HD I bought the adaptor plate and attached a Basil crate that’s a perfect fit for my Karrimor Sabre 45 SF with side pouches so I get that plus the extra 34L from the panniers, those carry the luxuries and bushcraft tools like my axe and Boreal saw.
I can’t be doing with large bags on the front of the bike, I have a small one that attaches to the handlebars for quick access things but that’s it.
Padded shorts are highly recommended to prevent chaffing. You can wear shorts/trousers over the top. Don't wear them with underwear though.
The more you ride the less discomfort you'll feel.
Great to see you exploring by bike. Can't wait to see your first proper camp.
Oooof recognise that one! Used to cycle that route regular
I agree - forget the bib shorts / padding. My stock saddle is fine, and more comfortable than my mountain bike - but a lot of people recommend the Brooks saddles, although they are priced at a premium.
I am dreaming about owning a Brompton for several years, but just cannot afford it. Nice to see you on it!
Recently bought myself a tiny tent (ferrino sling 1) for bike packing and so on, would definetly recommend it and would love to see a review by you on the ferrino sling 1.