Hi all!
Seriously considering buying a first Brompton. Ideal use case: commute (mostly flat terrain) + having it with me in campervan while travelling (could be flat+hills).
Would want to go for an electric one to have the possibility of assistance/range. But might still cherish the possibility to not use the battery system (e.g. when I’m sightseeing and do not want to carry a battery pack with me).
I’ve looked in this sub, and while I’ve seen comparisons of 4/12 gears, it isn’t in the context of e-Motiq (4) vs Electric Mk.1 (12). Unsure what to go for.
One’s a bit cheaper, but price can be justifiable. Both have their advantages:
2025 e-Motiq C-line (4speed) @€3700
+Newer tech, bigger battery so higher range
+Display + rear motor hub so “propulsion” instead of “pull”
-4 gears instead of 12. Might be enough, might not be.
-No possibility of removing motor wheel and replacing it with ‘offline wheel’
Electric C-line (12 speed) @€3275
+more gears so more versatility (easier on hills, faster on long flats)
+possibility to swap front wheel to convert to “non-electrical”. Then more gears make it more practical.
+With introduction of new line, price is lowered
+Line will be discontinued, so now’s the last chance to buy (?)
-older tech, lower range, no display, pull instead of propulsion
-motor more prone to damage because motor is in front wheel (more shocks)
-internal gear hub more prone to wear and tear, less efficient/throttle when riding (read in this sub)
Main questions:
-People who’ve considered/used/bought these two, what are the reasons you’d pick one over the other?
-Ease of use when not plugged in to battery? Lights still functioning or only on battery? Can I use the connector with a non electric bag?
-Difference of gears: is the 4 gears range of this exact version sufficient, electric and non-electric? Does the internal gear hub on the 12 speed result in a lower efficiency/throttle?
Would really appreciate some input.
Yes I’ll take off the sticker. Thanks!
by Commercial_Nebula702
1 Comment
I’ve had both. Get the new one, loads better. Power delivery better, the screen is useful and I find the 4 speed more than enough. Furthermore, it’s simpler too without the 3 speed gear in the rear wheel that just complicates things further. You won’t regret it.
Source: commute with the emotiq everyday.