Folding Bikes in the ÖAMTC Test: No Model "Very Good"
Bicycles are one of the most popular ways to travel environmentally friendly while also doing something for your own health. However, they have one disadvantage: they are bulky, which can make transportation difficult. Folding or collapsible bikes provide a solution, as they require significantly less space. The ÖAMTC tested eight models - and did not award a single "Very Good" rating.
Four models were rated "good", three "satisfactory", and one "sufficient". "We subjected all bikes to a riding test, checked their handling, and looked at their safety and durability. Because even if a folding bike is very practical in terms of transport, there should be no compromises, especially in terms of safety," said ÖAMTC technician Dominik Darnhofer on Thursday in a press release. A pollutant test was also conducted, with no complaints in this category.
Folding Bikes: It Depends on the Usage Profile
Which of the tested models one should choose depends, among other things, on how it is primarily intended to be used. Darnhofer explains: "If you commute daily and need to use a car or train in addition to the bike, you should opt for a compact and easily foldable or collapsible model. This applies, for example, to the models rated 'good' from Riese and Müller or Dahon."
However, if you want to use the folding or collapsible bike like a normal bicycle and occasionally go off-road, the test winner, also rated "good", the Brompton G Line, is a better choice: This model is also suitable for continuous use and longer distances and performs well both on the road and on forest paths. However, with a price of nearly 3,000 euros, it is comparatively high. For those who do not want to spend as much, according to ÖAMTC, the Hightide No. 03 from Coast-bikes offers an alternative that is also versatile and well-equipped.
(APA/Red)
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