The heretics guide to Brompton use - Part two - it is not a premium product!

[wafter]

That's odd, when I can get it from the wholesaler for a customer in Germany.

It is, I suspect it's either because dealers over here can't be arsed or more likely perhaps are under some sort of embargo from Brompton (I see a lot of disclaimers about supply to certain markets on some websites flogging Brompton stuff).

It may be that in foreign markets it makes more sense to service rather than replace, or perhaps they're bound to do so by the laws of those countries - mainland Europe has always been more sensible in such regards than our greasy, exploititive little island..

So anyway, when are you next in the UK and how large are your suitcases?

 

[Gunk]

It is, I suspect it's either because dealers over here can't be arsed or more likely perhaps are under some sort of embargo from Brompton (I see a lot of disclaimers about supply to certain markets on some websites flogging Brompton stuff).

It may be that in foreign markets it makes more sense to service rather than replace, or perhaps they're bound to do so by the laws of those countries - mainland Europe has always been more sensible in such regards than our greasy, exploititive little island..

So anyway, when are you next in the UK and how large are your suitcases?

Have you given Brilliant Bikes a call? they are super helpful, however I am probably their best customer!

 

[Andy in Germany]

I'm sure a lot of repair parts (for all goods, not just bikes) are withheld from the 'general public'. Can someone explain to me how a friend (despite searching all the 'net and suppliers) was unable to source a brake master cylinder or partial repair kit to fix his car, but when he paid top dollar to a main dealer it is miraculously fixed? Or is it just careful use of sawdust (some her should understand that pun )

Possibly because for most shops it's a lot of effort for not a great return? It took me several minutes to find the part I needed, order it, and I'll have to unpack and log it when it gets here; the price markup on a set of bearings isn't as high as, say, a flashy set of handlebars or a whole wheel. When we calculate 5,40€ for six minutes work, the markup barely covers our costs placing the order, logging it in, calling the customer et c.

Financially, I can see why some shops would tell the customer to order a new wheel; that way they make a higher markup and can charge more for the work of fitting it.

 

[Gunk]

Front wheel axles are readily available

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/16653075...HQw_5aGRFG&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY

 

[wafter]

Have you given Brilliant Bikes a call? they are super helpful, however I am probably their best customer!

I've not - I always feel a bit guilty when ordering Brompton bits as I love Brilliant Bikes' enhtusiasm and content but always end up ordering from elsewhere as I try to consoledate orders and BB usually don't have everything I need..

 

[wafter]

Front wheel axles are readily available

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/16653075...HQw_5aGRFG&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY

Thanks - was aware of that (and while this will doubtless be the way I end up going) it's not an OEM Brompton part, the axle is longer than standard and tbh all I really need is one bearing cone.

Irritatingly it seems that the cones (5/16" IIRC) used to be a lot more common; however now dinosaurs no longer roam the earth putting one's hands on some seems quite difficult.

 

[Gillstay]

I'm sure a lot of repair parts (for all goods, not just bikes) are withheld from the 'general public'. Can someone explain to me how a friend (despite searching all the 'net and suppliers) was unable to source a brake master cylinder or partial repair kit to fix his car, but when he paid top dollar to a main dealer it is miraculously fixed? Or is it just careful use of sawdust (some her should understand that pun )

I use Big Red in Worcester for some of that stuff, but specialists are hard to find and those in the trade know where they are.

 

[Gunk]

Thanks - was aware of that (and while this will doubtless be the way I end up going) it's not an OEM Brompton part, the axle is longer than standard and tbh all I really need is one bearing cone.

Irritatingly it seems that the cones (5/16" IIRC) used to be a lot more common; however now dinosaurs no longer roam the earth putting one's hands on some seems quite difficult.

Pop in to Warlands, they have boxes of odd bits and are pretty helpful, plus they are a Brompton dealer, I’m sure they would have some spare axle assemblies or cones.

 

[Fastpedaller]

I use Big Red in Worcester for some of that stuff, but specialists are hard to find and those in the trade know where they are.

Thanks for that - now bookmarked to my favourites!

 

[Profpointy]

What is this "work" thing whereof you speak?

I vaguely remember such a thing. To be fair I was lucky and by and large enjoyed my work, but can't envisage going back. To un-retire once is unfortunate, but twice is careless.

 

[wafter]

Pop in to Warlands, they have boxes of odd bits and are pretty helpful, plus they are a Brompton dealer, I’m sure they would have some spare axle assemblies or cones.

Didn't think of that; cheers - might bother them when I'm next in the area