r/foldingbikes

I live in NYC and am looking for a micromobility option for getting to and from the subway and making quick grocery/takeout runs around the city. I already have a full-size commuter bike and am looking to supplement that, not replace it. I’ve ruled out e-scooters because of the fire risk. Bromptons are appealing, but also pricy and a bit bulkier when folded than what I’m really looking for. My rabbit hole finally led me to the Kwiggle.

In a lot of ways the Kwiggle appears to be exactly what I’m looking for, but man is it bizarre looking. I’m wondering how the extremely upright seat position would handle and whether the it’s durable over time. It also looks like they’re not actually available for purchase right now, but that the brand is relaunching under new ownership and might be offering sales soon. Anyone actually used one and have advice? Particularly interested in hearing from U.S.-based users about the ordering experience and if you had issues getting it serviced.

Hi all

I know sod all about bikes (blasphemy I know).

Just looking for a solid folding bike to commute to work (probs 30 mins there and back) might do the odd bit of uber on the side. Gotta be folding bike to keep missus happy.

Just after something durable - ideally not over £500 (if that exists).

Heard both the Tern Link D8 and Dahron Mariner D8 are decent.

Had a mate recommend a Brompton thought solid yeah I’ll go for that until I saw the price.

Appreciate any advice
Cheers 👍

Basically asking the subject line. I bought a tern (Link d7) a few months back, and didnt get to really use it until recently.

Thinking about potential issues etc, so wanted to check if others used standard alley keys etc, or just bought the Tern specific alley keys, as they are quite expensive, and not sure if i would need it anyway with an issue

(Description of tool - "The Tern Tool ensures you stay on your bike, and don’t get stuck roadside. Specially designed for Tern bikes, the multi-tool boasts 19 must-have tools, including a 15mm wrench for tightening axle nuts and pedals and a 6mm wrench for adjusting Tern joint levers.")

thanks

Two weeks ago I was about to take my second ride that day. In mounting my trusted Brom I suddenly found myself on the floor. When checking the cause I found the following:

https://preview.redd.it/r994ay7vr2bh1.jpg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3c9ad0ce27b9d9cc62bdcd51a3b0d3ee2dafb20b

https://preview.redd.it/0yxecy7vr2bh1.jpg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=90d0e1ad62c7f700f93f4edc96377b5515f2954b

https://preview.redd.it/44m6ey7vr2bh1.jpg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6a4f43355b20aa24968eefdd70980130cc7d5830

https://preview.redd.it/gsn89z7vr2bh1.jpg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=790ef65d83325c7692044affa606f541f3d3a678

https://preview.redd.it/vxppty7vr2bh1.jpg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6d93eae422d32848adc18775648c0d629f2b4fc4

https://preview.redd.it/g8pukz7vr2bh1.jpg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=64c0d9695cad1d8d69dedba4b5b7937953e78f07

Got in contact w/ Brompton on warranty. On June 22nd they wrote "we aim to send you a full response within the next 3 working days." Never heard from them since...

Sorry if this is a stupid question I picked up a folding bike for my first bike, I've been using local ebikes that you can just rent, anyways even compared to a full sized bike (not electric) I notice it's a lot harder

Is this my particular bike or do you notice it too ? I have an apolo folder I picked up for £50 so I can't complain but slowly trying to improve it and also enjoy it when the weather permits

https://preview.redd.it/ja84fbj1prah1.png?width=1304&format=png&auto=webp&s=18dae980d52b22e9f788c48c5080887602a2c222

https://preview.redd.it/gs4ocln7prah1.jpg?width=955&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f7dfe7bca3292bde90900ae88167a669474fa0ba

Hi Reddit,

I’m the creator of Tetra, a folding bicycle that launched on Kickstarter yesterday.

I already know what some of you are going to say. "Why a Tubular Space Frame? Why place two hinges on the top tube? That's over-engineered and not the most optimal way for mass production."

You’re 100% right. From a pure, sterile engineering standpoint, there’s plenty to criticize here.

But let's be honest—sometimes we don’t want just 'efficient.' We want a folding bike that looks absolutely badass and makes people stop and stare when we ride it.

To achieve that striking, straight-lined, and aggressive geometric aesthetic inspired by a tetrahedron, a Tubular Space Frame was the only answer. And to keep those gorgeous lines while fitting 20-inch wheels into a tight fold, I spent countless sleepless nights obsessing over how to layout those two hinges beautifully.

I’ve always been obsessed with this raw, mechanical beauty. In fact, when I won the Red Dot Design Award for a previous concept, I finished it in full chrome plating, and the response was overwhelming—people were just stunned by how the light hit the structure. I wanted to bring that exact same jaw-dropping, premium emotion to Tetra.

Because of this complex space-frame construction and the craftsmanship required, it’s honestly expensive. Factory located in Korea not China, It’s not a cheap commuter tool; it’s a statement piece that I poured my engineering soul into.

As an independent developer, the first 48 hours are brutal. I’m not here to just drop a link—I genuinely want to spark a discussion. To my fellow engineers and riders: Does this unapologetic focus on aesthetic and form resonate with you, or do you think I'm crazy?

Thank you so much for reading my story, and I’ll be right here in the comments to answer any technical or design questions!

P.S. I deeply apologize, but due to community rules regarding promotional links, I cannot post the direct Kickstarter link here. If you're curious to see the video and the full design, please search "Tetra" on Kickstarter. I’d really appreciate your support and feedback!