Brompton C line 4 Speed Plum Red Mid - M4L - RRP £1399 - World Delivery

The Brompton C Line 4-speed is a British-made steel folding bike designed for commuters and urban riders who need to combine cycling with public transport or tight storage. This plum red model uses Brompton's characteristic lateral fold to compress down to 585mm wide by 565mm tall by 270mm deep, small enough to carry onto trains, buses, or fit under a desk. The all-steel frame, forks, and the newly introduced advance rear triangle give the bike a solid, durable feel that's built to last, whilst the advance suspension block helps smooth out the vibrations from rough urban pavements and cobbles.

The 4-speed derailleur setup offers more range than a hub gear, making it easier to tackle hills without the added weight or maintenance demands of more complex systems. The integrated gear shifter sits on the left side of the bars for straightforward operation, whilst the derailleur chain tensioner keeps things tidy when the bike is folded. Schwalbe Marathon Racer tyres come fitted as standard, offering low rolling resistance and decent puncture protection for typical city commuting without being overly heavy. The 16-inch wheels with double-wall rims are standard Brompton size, and the bolt-through hubs add stiffness to the ride.

Everyday practicality is built in. The black advance mudguards keep spray off your legs and clothes, and the C Line frame comes with a front carrier block already fitted, so you can add Brompton's purpose-designed luggage bags when you need them. The mid-rise handlebars (the classic M type) give a natural, upright riding position that works well for visibility in traffic, and the Brompton standard saddle is adjustable via the Pentaclip. A standard seatpost suits riders with an inside leg of up to 33 inches, and a saddle height insert is included if you want to adjust things once you've got used to the bike. Front and rear reflectors are included for visibility, and the saddle has a fixing point if you want to add a rear light later.

The new advance roller wheels help keep the bike stable when folded and being wheeled along, which matters if you're regularly moving it through stations or offices. The fold itself becomes intuitive after a few goes, and the bike maintains reasonable stiffness when opened up, so there's no flex or clatter to contend with. At this price point, it sits at the top of the Brompton range, reflecting the quality of the steel construction and the refinements built into the newer models.