Brompton L3, 1997, Folding Bike, Excellent Condition, Red, Sturmey Archer

This is a 1997 Brompton L3 folding bike in red, a British-made steel-framed machine that's been sitting in a loft for decades but rides as well as it should. The bike is a 5-speed model with a Sturmey Archer hub gear, 16-inch wheels, and rim brakes—all the core components you'd expect from a Brompton of that era. Apart from some scuffs to the stickers and paintwork, it's in genuinely good condition for its age, and the gears and brakes work properly.

The bike has had recent work done to it. As an experienced mechanic, the seller has serviced it and fitted a brand new chain tensioner. More importantly, the seatpost plastic sleeve has been replaced by a bike shop after the original wore and made the post wobble when extended—it's now secure and like new again. This kind of attention to detail matters on a vintage bike, since these small issues can make the difference between a smooth ride and an annoying one.

Worth knowing: at 12kg, these older Bromptons are noticeably heavier than current models, so they're not featherweight machines. That said, the steel frame is robust, and the fold remains as compact as it always was, making it practical for commuting or carrying onto trains and buses. The 5-speed Sturmey Archer handles everyday urban riding comfortably, and there's no fiddling with derailleurs to maintain.

Collection only from North London, N4, just north of Finsbury Park tube station.