FOR THE DIRT
The SwissBike X50 from Montague is a multi-use folding bike,
rugged enough to handle dirt roads in the islands while still being
compact and easy to stow. The bike uses standard 26in mountain
bike tires and standard wheels and components, so it is serviceable
at your average bike shop. The 18-speed X50 uses Montague’s
patented Folding Integrated Technology, which allows the user to
fold the bike easily and quickly. The company claims it folds up in
20 seconds, without needing any tools. Thanks to the SwissBike’s
aluminum frame and alloy fork, the bike weighs in at only 32lb.
$629.95. Montague, montaguebikes.com
STOW AND GO
The GOTHAM1 from Citizen Bike is a lightweight, no-frills ride that is easy
to use and easy to stow. This is a one-speed bike that rides on 20in tires
and is designed to get you where you need to go (within reason—
this bike is not for mountain bike trails). The alloy frame and high-
end, alloy components keep the bike to a featherweight 26lb.
Folded up, it measures just 33.5in by 25in by 13.5in.
$299. Citizen Bike, citizenbike.com
THE GENTLEMAN’S RIDE
If you like making things
your own, then you’ll want to
check out the offerings from
the folks at British bike builder
Brompton. These guys make the cycle
version of a bespoke Saville Row suit.
What type of handlebars do you want? How many
speeds? What would you like the gear ratio to
be? When it comes to the bikes from Brompton,
basically everything is up to you. We’re fans of
the lightweight Brompton S2L-X with the Mini O
bag (bag not shown). The bike sports front and
rear fenders for keeping you clean and dry and
has a handlebar-mounted light and a forward
mount for a bag to store your gear while you ride.
$2,621. Brompton, brompton.comNEW GEAR
By Christopher White
One of the best parts of arriving in a new port of call is the
opportunity to go exploring—whether you’re looking for a place to
get some food and drink, a secluded beach where you can kick back
or somewhere to provision for the next leg of your journey. And
what better way to do all that than by bicycle? But bikes are big, and
space onboard is limited. Enter the folding bike—the cruiser’s best
friend. Here is a selection of functional folding bikes. Grab one and
stow it onboard for your next cruise. You’ll be glad you did.
BIKES ONBOARD
32APRIL 2015