DISCLAIMER: this post is for info, I’m not saying you shouldn’t scratch-protect your bikes. I choose not to, but I come from the “every scuff tells a story” side of things. You do you.
Inspired by this post (https://www.reddit.com/r/Brompton/s/q4ePW0nYps) I thought I’d share my experience of the rear tyre “rubbing when folded”.
Pics are from my 2022 electric C line (Turkish Green) and my 2013 M6R. Both owned from new, both been my daily commute ride (ok, the M6R only daily between 2013 and pandemic…!) and each see at least three unfold/fold cycles each day. I ride in all weathers, summer sun, winter snow, and the bikes get cleaned “when I’m getting sick of the noise”!
Tyres are Marathon Plus, so a bit thicker and harder wearing.
Basically – yes, the tyre does, over time, leave a mark. But my personal thought is that the mark is less ugly than a scratched and peeling vinyl “scuff protector”. And it shows how much use my bikes.
I see my bike as a “tool”, not a “toy”. Sure, I could look after them better. But they – generally – get the maintenance they need and my daily ride goes to the LBS for a service every spring.
Anyway. Sharing experience for info. Your mileage may vary.
by purplechemist
1 Comment
Thanks for sharing. I also chose not to protect my frame