Brompton has released a new version of its popular C Line model, which has 12 gears thanks to a peculiar derailleur and hub gear.
The bike kicks off Brompton’s 50th-anniversary year. The C Line was Brompton’s original model, invented by Andrew Ritchie in 1975, and has undergone “continuous improvement”.
The C Line is already available with either 2 or 6 speeds. But this new version adopts Brompton’s unique 12-speed system that first debuted on the P Line back in 2021.
Combining a hub gear and derailleur
The system combines a 3-speed Sturmy Archer hub gear with a 4-speed cassette. This is operated by Brompton’s own derailleur.
Brompton says this hybrid drivetrain gives its bikes the widest gear range available on its folding bikes at 402 per cent. This is 60 per cent larger than its 2-speed system, and should aid anyone looking to climb steep hills.
Brompton’s proprietary derailleur weighs 60g and fits inside the compact fold of the bike.
The new C Line also comes fitted with mudguards. The rear mudguard has a wheel built into it to help you push the bike when it’s folded up.
Fresh colours
Alongside a new drivetrain, the C Line has also been treated to some fresh colours.
The C Line 12-speed comes in three exclusive colours: Flamingo Pink, Amethyst Lacquer, and Turkish Green.
Brompton describes the Flamingo Pink as an eccentric crowd stopper, while the Amethyst Lacquer is said to show off the craftsmanship. Turkish Green is a Brompton classic, said to be back by popular demand.
In its 50th anniversary year, Brompton says the C Line “has been the catalyst and inspiration for Brompton’s entire range. Sparking imagination, innovation, and the need to always improve. Today, it brings the same joy it always has, but better than ever.”
The London-based company produces over 100,000 bikes a year and over 1,000,000 Bromptons have hit the road since its beginnings back in 1975.
The refreshed C Line follows a more radical move from Brompton last year, where it released its first off-road model, the Brompton G Line.
It was revealed in January this year that Brompton’s profits had fallen by 99 per cent due to a “challenging year” for an “industry in turmoil”.
