A bicycle that I feel no inconvenience in riding.
I think the best feature of the Brompton is that it can be folded and unfolded, and I was impressed by the fact that it can be done in a few steps. I was impressed by the fact that it could be done in a few simple steps.
Kaneko: If you get used to it, you can fold it in 15 seconds with plenty of time to spare (laughs). (Laughs) It is even easier to unfold it. The structure of this product is very well thought out, and it can be folded and unfolded simply within the movements that a human being can make with both hands. It's almost like folding clothes. Once you get used to it, you can do it quickly and rhythmically.
I think that's why they are so popular.
Kaneko: I think so. I also like the square shape of the folded bicycle. When I go to London, I realize that bicycles are made to fit the local conditions. The roads are very compact, and so are the buildings, so it makes perfect sense that they are small enough not to get in the way.
How is the ride actually comfortable?
Kaneko: The model I am riding is called "P-Line," a slightly lighter model made of titanium. It has 6 gears (3 inner and 2 outer) to allow for fine shifting. However, it is somewhat heavier because of the additional gears, and it uses sturdier tires, so its weight is slightly heavier than the normal model. However, it weighs about 10 kg, so it can be easily lifted with one hand.
You chose 6 gears because you want to shift finely?
Kaneko: That's right. There are many hills in Tokyo, especially in the Shibuya area. I am the type of person who wants to pedal up hills as much as possible, so I change gears quite often. I change gears quickly, even for slight ups and downs (laughs).
That's how much you want to get on properly, isn't it?
Kaneko: That's right. I used to compete and so on, so that way of riding is ingrained in my body. Also, I don't get tired easily when I ride that way. It is the same with cars, but it is better to drive at a constant speed all the time. It is easier to pedal at the same speed on both flat and uphill roads, so I shift gears frequently.
The speed was also very good.
Kaneko: That's right. People have the image that because it is a small-diameter bicycle, it is not fast, but that is a wrong perception. Because they are well geared, they are very maneuverable and go very fast. In addition, the small size of the tires makes it easy to maneuver, and it is very maneuverable.
He said it is suitable for detailed paths.
Kaneko: There is nothing wrong with riding it. However, because the tires are small, it is easy to get caught by the steering wheel. So, naturally, I have to drive carefully. In my case, that's just fine (laughs).
The more I listen to what you say, the more I think that this bicycle is just like Kaneko-san's.
Kaneko: I like classic clothes, and when I ride a bicycle, I feel that it fits my style. It is important to find a bicycle attractive as a product, but it is also very important to find a bicycle that fits you.
Kaneko: Today's bicycles are increasingly high-spec, and while they are easy to ride and convenient, I think there are many cases where they don't match your style. However, I don't feel that with Brompton. As I mentioned earlier, the structure of a Brompton has already been perfected, so it maintains its classic appearance without making unnecessary additions.
Of course, there are minor changes in quality, but the taste is well preserved. That's what I find attractive.
