Brompton introduces 12-speed gearing to their folding bikes

Brompton has released a new 12-speed drivetrain for its iconic folding bikes. The new gearing uses a four-speed cassette and derailleur, paired with a three-speed Sturmey Archer geared hub, to create 12 unique gear combinations.

In reality, this is simply a combination of existing Brompton options; the brand already offers the three-speed Sturmey Archer hub for their Explore line, where it came paired with a two-speed cassette and derailleur.

© Brompton

The new drivetrain combines a three-speed hub and four-speed derailleur

Its four-speed cassette and derailleur option was first designed for its P Line urban bikes. It uses a proprietary derailleur that is smaller and less susceptible to damage than a typical derailleur.

It might only be combining existing technology, but this update is a brand-new option for Brompton customers. The new combination offers twice as many gears as Brompton's previous 'wide range' drivetrain, namely, the six-speed used on the Explorer bikes.

To change gears on the bike, there are two mountain bike-style shifters on the handlebars. On the left, a shifter changes the derailleur. On the right, another shifter changes the hub gear.

How much does a 12-speed Brompton weigh?

Brompton are offering a number of their existing models with the new drivetrain, and the weight depends on the material of the bike, the quality of the components, and the question of whether it's an electric assist Brompton or a normal 'acoustic' bike.

The lightest option is the T Line Explore 12-speed, a titanium bike that weighs just 8.8kg. The lower spec P Line Explore is made from steel and titanium, and weighs 10.5kg.

12-speed is also available on Brompton's e-bikes. The Electric P Line Explore, also made from a mix of steel and titanium components, weighs 16.3kg. The lower-spec Electric C Line Explore is made from steel and weighs 17.3kg.

How much does a 12-speed Brompton cost?

The most affordable is the P Line Explore, which costs £2,450. Surprisingly, the most expensive option is not electric. The all-titanium T Line Explore costs £4,725.

As for the e-bike options, the Electric C Line Explore costs £3,150 and the Electric P Line Explore costs £3,895.

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Brompton

Brompton is a British bike manufacturer based out of London that creates folding bikes and is currently the largest bicycle manufacturer in the UK by volume.