The Clever Cycles Brompton Buying Guide
Compare Brompton’s lines — C, P, T, and G — plus all the electric options.
Compact. Capable. Made for Real Life.
The Brompton Difference
The 16" wheeled Brompton delivers the smallest practical fold—about 23" × 25" × 12"—with the greasy parts tucked neatly inside. It rolls on EZ wheels so you glide it instead of lugging it. And beyond the ride, Brompton offers an unmatched ecosystem of bags, lights, and upgrades, all designed to make daily life on two wheels effortless. Hand-built in London since the 1970s, it’s the folding bike that gets every detail right and the only one that is actually fun to fold and unfold.
Brompton's secret sauce
The Fold
In less than 20 seconds you can go from road-ready to suitcase-sized. The bike locks itself into a compact, tidy package, with chain and gears safely tucked inside. It’s the gold standard for commuters, travelers, and anyone who needs a bike that fits where others can’t. Each year, we hold a Brompton Folding Challenge. Your Brompton could be free.
The Classic Brompton
Brompton C Line
Durable, dependable, and timeless. The all-steel C Line is the Brompton most people recognize. Available with a 4- or 12-speed drivetrain.
The C Line is your choice if you want a durable, do-everything bike with that classic Brompton feel.
Performance Brompton
Brompton P Line
The P Line trims weight with a clever titanium/steel mix, making it easier to carry upstairs or onto transit. Quick handling, premium components. The new 4- and 12-speed gearing give it an edge for riders who want Brompton practicality with a livelier feel. A great choice for mixed-mode commuters and those who want less weight without going full titanium.
Ultra-Light Titanium
Brompton T Line
The T Line is Brompton’s titanium marvel: lighter, stiffer, and stronger than anything before. Weighing as little as 16 lbs, it feels like picking up a road bike that happens to fold. Now available in both 4- and 12-speed drivetrains, it’s a true premium machine for riders who want the lightest, most refined folding bike in the world.
The Adventure Brompton
Brompton G Line
A Brompton built for gravel, trails, and big days out. The G Line rolls on 20” wheels with wide tires, disc brakes, and mounts for bottles and cargo. It’s rugged, stable, and adventure-ready — while still folding down smaller than you’d expect. The standard G comes with a robust 8-speed hub designed for rough conditions, while the Electric G adds assist for hills and long rides.
Brompton Electric Models
Here’s how they stack up.
Brompton C Line Electric
Brompton ELECTRIFIED
Electric C Line — The classic steel frame Brompton with pedal assist. Removable battery bag makes charging easy. Offered in 4- or 12-speed.
Lightweight. Electric.
Brompton P Line Electric
20% lighter than the C Line Electric. Titanium strength. Electric power. The P Line is built to take you further with less effort, from quick city rides to rolling hills.
The Adventure Brompton Electrified
Brompton G Line Electric
Adventure-ready performance. Larger 20” wheels plus pedal assist mean smoother rides on hills, gravel, and heavy loads, with only a modest trade-off in folded size.
Brompton Gearing Explained
Brompton Gearing
12 Speed
Brompton’s 12-speed gearing system delivers the widest range ever on a Brompton. Compact and lightweight, it combines a 3-speed internal hub with a 4-speed derailleur to give you all the gears you need for city streets, long rides, and steep climbs.
Brompton Gearing
4 Speed
The Brompton 4-speed uses a simple derailleur system to give a useful range of gears for everyday riding, while keeping the bike light and compact.
Available on C, P, T, and Electric G Line
Brompton Gearing
8 Speed
G Line (non-electric) only. Dedicated 8-speed Shimano Internal Gear Hub.
Brompton Sizing Explained
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Low
Sportiest feel. Closest to a road-bike position, with a forward lean and quicker handling.
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Mid
Balanced and versatile. The most popular choice for city riding, giving a clear view and comfortable posture.
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High
Tallest option. Upright comfort with light steering. Great for taller riders or anyone who prefers not to lean forward.
Little Things... Big Difference
Brompton Accessory
Brompton Rear Rack
When you can’t ride, roll. Four little roller wheels keep your folded Brompton upright and easy to wheel along—no lugging required. Add a bag on top for extra carrying space. The rack can be fitted at any time, even after purchase.
Next Steps & Resources
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Still deciding? The best way to choose is to fold and ride one. Visit Clever Cycles in Portland, Oregon, where we’ve been selling and servicing Bromptons since 2007. Not near Portland? Send us a message or give us a call and we'll discuss which Brompton is right for you.
Explore more resources:- Brompton Model Comparison Chart
- Brompton Tire Guide
- Brompton Grips Upgrade
- How to Fly with a Brompton
- Visit our Brompton Design Studio