Small non-folding bike

Question

Are there any small non-folding bikes, of relatively good quality?

From what I see around, Brompton/Dahon produce only folding ones.

Ideally, should be under 10 kg, and have a few gears (but single gear is fine as well). I don't care so much about the structure (frame type/wheel size), as long as I can use it comfortably for short city distances.

I don't entirely exclude folding ones - but the folding mechanism clearly has a cost, and it's something I don't really need. The target is more a bike with small frame/wheels, and longer saddle/handlebar supports.

I've seen an unbranded 8" bike on amazon.co.uk (http://j.mp/TNlkFm), but it looks it's going to fall to pieces after a couple of rides. As seen in a response, the Big Shot Mini Polo is viable, so I was looking for a few other options.

I'm a ~70/75kg 5'10" person.

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Post edit - I've come across the fact that the original version of the "unbranded 8" bike" is called A-Bike, and it's arguably a qualitative-enough bike.

Answer 1

When I was thinking about buying a new bike I did a lot of research, and I realized you don’t have to choose between a folding bike and one more practical: you can have both in one! I got my folder from Montague and it was a great purchase! I ride it every day and if it has to be folded, it takes under 20 seconds.

Answer 2

I thought of the mini-velos immediately as well. BikesDirect has some Mercier minis that seem affordable, but they're U.S.

http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/mercier/nano.htm

I read a review of the Soma mini awhile back that called it "a lot of fun while being surprisingly easy to live with." Not sure if the cheaper minis will deliver the same sort of ride at all.

There are a few Alton minis that are even cheaper than those Merciers on Amazon, but again, it's the U.S. site.

Here's a bikeforums thread comparing the Merciers to the Somas. http://www.bikeforums.net/archive/index.php/t-823750.html

Answer 3

Big Shot Bikes Polo Bikes are interesting and rather small. It does appear these are discontinued now.

However, Mixie bikes and the Salsa Mini-Velo are other small bike alternatives.

Answer 4

Marcus, going by your comment is it fair to say that cost is the issue rather than "foldability"?

Also since you mention amazon.co.uk I'm going to assume you're in the UK. In that case, check out Decathlon. These bikes are far cheaper than, say, a Brompton. I have bought lots from Decathlon over the years and consider them superb value for money. But I don't consider then to be the best out there in terms of quality.

If you have a store nearby I'd suggest a visit - lots of people test ride their bikes, normally up and down the aisles!!

Answer 5

There's the Bicymple, but it costs quite a bit more than it should, possibly because of the non-standard design. It's on Kickstarter right now, and the smallest "pledge" that will get you a bike is $800. It achieves a smaller size, while still having standard size wheels. The pedals are direct drive on the rear hub which limits your top speed, but they plan to put gears in there somehow at a later date. It's already met its funding goal, so it may be something to watch for in the future to see if they can bring the cost down.