The truth can hurt. In the case of the Birdy, this painful truth is obviously the price: acquaintances are immediately taken with the design of the bright blue speedster, but the announcement "2400 euros" causes the facial features of prospective buyers to stiffen. Yes, 2400 euros for our test bike (the "Speed" version with high-quality dynamo lighting, side stand and mudguards) is respectable. But Riese + Müller has done a lot to adapt this unconventional folding bike to the state of the art. As with almost all folding bikes, this requires many special parts, which then have to be produced in small quantities at high cost.
20 years of Birdy: facelift for the classic
The "update" of the Birdy addresses precisely these expensive details. In addition to the striking main frame from the previous revision, many parts of the in-house suspension fork and the rear frame rocker are now forged or hydroformed, which should make them lighter, more attractive and stiffer. Inconspicuous details such as scratch protection for the fork, which is at risk when folding, or improved cable routing with a lower risk of kinking are evidence that the designers are open to practical experience - and they require a certain amount of effort.
But enough theory, the bike has to get on the road. Here it quickly becomes clear why many everyday commuters choose the expensive Birdy: Even riders over 1.80 metres will find a rather sporty riding position, and the relatively stiff overall construction allows for a brisk pace despite the particularly small 18-inch wheels. The full suspension with elastomer buffers more than makes up for the comfort disadvantage of the small wheels, even if the suspension function deteriorates in the cold. With its derailleur gears, the bike is also well sorted in the speed range up to 40 kilometres per hour.
The folding process avoids dirty hands and is quick with a little practice (pedal position and handlebar position must be observed). The folding technique and packing size are somewhat bulkier than the equally expensive classic Brompton, but in terms of riding dynamics, the Birdy currently beats all folding bikes known to us with tyre sizes from 20 inches downwards.
Plus:
- Excellent riding characteristics given the wheel size
- Sophisticated detailed solutions
Minus:
- Expensive
- Does not fold easily in every handlebar position
The article was published in Trekkingbike issue 4/2016.
You can download the individual articles as PDF files here.
