The advent of the Silver Line Metrorail service to Tysons brings with it a new array of transportation choices for Northern Virginia area residents. As we eagerly await the arrival of the first passenger trains, I’d like to share with you one option I’ve come to really appreciate – the folding bicycle! You may have seen these bikes and wondered what they were, or not even realized they were folders. You may have simply assumed they weren’t “real” bicycles or suitable for anything other than very short trips. If this is so, you’ve been underestimating how convenient, lightweight, and fun these bikes can be.
Combining cycling with Metro is a great way to get around. Metro, however, forbids carrying conventional bikes on trains during rush hour (7 – 10am, 4 – 7pm). This restriction means you have to rent a locker or leave your bike locked to a rack outside. Folding bicycles, however, are allowed on the rail cars at all times, which makes them much more convenient. Simply fold the bike up and take it through the gate, onto the escalator, to the platform, and onto the train. When you arrive at your destination, carry the bike through the station and unfold it as you exit. Depending on where you work, there’s a good chance you can take a folding bike inside with you and keep it safe and secure. You can even bring your folding bike on the bus. Suddenly you no longer have to worry about whether or not you can find parking at Metro or at work.
Owning a folding bike isn’t just about getting to work. I’ve owned folders since 2005 and have found many advantages a folding bike has compared to a conventional bike. Did you know that many museums will allow you to check your folding bike in the coat room? Greyhound and other interstate buses allow folding bikes in their cargo area, so why not catch the bus to NYC and ride around Central Park or explore Manhattan? Similarly, while Amtrak has yet to make widespread access to conventional bikes available, a folding bike can be brought on any Amtrak train and conveniently tucked into the baggage area at the end of each car. Many airlines allow a folding bike as a standard piece of luggage at no additional cost—check the airline’s rules before booking your flight. I’ve even taken my Brompton folding bike with me on two different cruises, keeping it in my stateroom until ready for adventures in port on arrival. Once you own a folder, you’ll be amazed how
versatile it is.
The bikes fold into a compact, lightweight package. When unfolded, they ride just like any other bike, without breaking the bank. Don’t let the small wheels of many folding bikes mislead you. The gearing on these bikes is engineered so you can travel the same distance per pedal stroke as you would on a conventional bike. Small wheels provide quicker acceleration and better maneuverability, both ideal in urban or semi-urban conditions. Folding bikes are available with full-size wheels, but the best bet for multi-modal use is the 16’’ or 20’’ bikes from Brompton, Dahon, and Tern. These fold quickly and easily in less than a minute, and the ride quality is excellent. The best way to ensure you get a good quality bike is to visit a brick and mortar store that has a number of them in stock. Expect to pay about $450 or more for a bike that you can depend on day in and day out. Spending more will get you additional features, such as lighter weight and smaller folded size. Many folks start out with an entry-level bike and move up to a higher-end folder as they discover how much they ride it. The important thing is to give them a try. You’ll be very surprised just how great folding bikes are!
