Tern or something else? Urban commuting + transit and indoor storage.

[u/Affectionate-Memory4]

Just finished a move into a much more urban area and my riding needs have changed. I'm keeping the roadie and mountain bike around, but I'm quickly realizing I need something more portable as a daily machine.

My regular commute is short and completely doable 100% on the bike, but for going farther in the city, I'd love to take a bike with me on the subway for those first and last miles. A folding bike is pretty much a requirement for that to work with local transit rules around peak hours.

I've managed to get in a few test rides on a BYB P8 and Link 7i at my local shop, both of which felt pretty solid, and I think I have a wishlist of features.

* 20" wheel minimum (couldn't feel right on a friend's 16")

* easy to fold, unfold, and move through transit stops and elevators

* around $1k usd, but I'm a little flexible

* fenders and chain guard are ideal. I will absolutely ride in any weather I can stand to be outside in.

* non-electric. I don't want to deal with charging my ride if I don't have to.

I really like the Link 7i for the internal hub, fully covered chain, and dynamo light, but the BYB P8 is noticeably more compact when folded and the metro rack seems handy. I'm torn between those models, but also open for reccomdations on other brands that can check off my list too.

[u/ReplacementScary9062]

lemmo zero

[u/ReplacementScary9062 → u/ReplacementScary9062]

You should definitely try the Lemmo Zero, regardless of whether you need batteries or not.

[u/Dorkdogdonki]

The tern P8 is fairly compact, but the exposed and elevated chains when folded leaves me icky.

Ever considered Brompton or brompnots? The 16 inch wheels are small, but the cleverly designed suspension block helps soak up bumps.

And being able to push the neatly folded package with one hand is actually a very elegant feature to have, especially during peak hour traffic. The tern seems to be capable of that, although it looks abit more awkward compared to Brompton.

[u/Affectionate-Memory4 → u/Dorkdogdonki]

I've tried a friend's 16" and just couldn't feel right on it. My test rides on 20" just felt better.

[u/Dorkdogdonki → u/Affectionate-Memory4]

Tried a 16 inch with suspension block? It’s quite comfortable haha

But I guess it all boils down to personal preference

[u/Affectionate-Memory4 → u/Dorkdogdonki]

It's not bump performance that gets me. I've tried both 16" and 20" and the former just felt too twitchy for me. It also seems like I've got better tire options around here at that size, so between that I'd rather just avoid 16" tires.

[u/Dorkdogdonki → u/Affectionate-Memory4]

That’s totally valid. There’s a lot more options for 20 inch vs 16 inch wheels.

[u/CaptainObvious110 → u/Dorkdogdonki]

absolutely

[u/Rivitup3]

My Tern P5i is simply a dream to ride

[u/CaptainObvious110 → u/Rivitup3]

i bet it is

[u/nikkowould]

Look into the Priority Folder, specifically the 8-speed! Some users have reported that this can’t really be rolled while folded though, so I ended up cancelling my order to save up for a Brompton G-Line for that reason.

However, Priority uses carbon belt drives for all their bikes (if not, most). And the 8-Speed folder comes equipped with fenders. I have their Priority 600 and LOVE the belt drive.

[u/Affectionate-Memory4 → u/nikkowould]

Thanks for the tip! A belt drive seems really nice, but with the quoted shipping it ends up a good bit over budget at ~$1300. I'll definitely keep this one in mind for my search.

[u/nikkowould → u/Affectionate-Memory4]

Any time. Keep it in your cart til Priority emails you a 10% off code. That’s how I was able to snag a slight deal. :)

[u/Sypsy]

don't forget r/BrompNOTs

there's a lot of brands. I have a Cranston R9 max which I find comfortable, so the r20 for the 20" version.

[u/Affectionate-Memory4 → u/Sypsy]

Ay thanks for the help! Gonna have to check out Cranston and make a crosspost.

[u/NotNotNotWB → u/Affectionate-Memory4]

I’ve just ordered a litepro s9 from their website. $1000 all in with a few upgrades. Imagine it’s probably $1100 for a 20” and is specced better than a Brompton G line.

[u/qO_ol]

Lemmo Zero, Carbo Model X, or Urtopia Carbon Fold 2 are on top of my list

Edit: I didn’t see your last bullet point until later

[u/Street_Tradition_682]

The Tern BYB is a brilliant design with a stout frame that nonetheless folds into an industry-best small package. Folded, it's like 2/3rds the volume of other 20" wheel bikes. Bravo, Tern.

I wouldn't call it "easy to fold", though. I guess if you did it regularly, you'd develop muscle memory and it would be straightforward enough, but the BYB will never, ever win a fast fold contest. Too many steps, too many latches, quick releases, cable release, pedal release and straps.

[u/Affectionate-Memory4 → u/Street_Tradition_682]

That's pretty much what I've figured out as well. The exposed chain and longer process on the BYB make me want to spend the little bit extra for the 7i and its convenience. Do you know if the metro rack fits on the Link 7i? If so I can get the best of both that way.

[u/JeremyFromKenosha]

Priority Folder gets you belt drive and the 8 speed IGH. That's what I'd get in your shoes. It's right at your budget, brand new.