Strida Bicycle Review

Increasingly, lovers of cycling choose folding units as two-wheeled vehicles. These are convenient, mobile and easy-to-maintain models for adults, but, of course, the quality of the bike depends on the manufacturer. Perhaps, Strida is a favorite of the majority of cyclists, because it specializes in the production of folding models.

The creator of an unusual vehicle with a frame in the shape of the letter "A" is English engineer and designer Mark Sanders. His plans were to develop a bicycle for people who every day need to drive a rather big route from home to work on public transport.

Cars seemed to him imperfect, oversized, massive, poorly manoeuvrable, because a former student at Imperial College London and thought about creating a vehicle on a muscular traction that would meet the ideas of humanism and looked aesthetically pleasing. Development was carried out as part of a graduation project.

Why did the designer choose a folding bike as an urban vehicle? According to the creator himself, public transport is too vulnerable to city traffic jams, a private car does not allow you to reach your destination door-to-door, and a motorcycle is too dangerous a transport, as the developer personally was convinced by the example of his brother who died in an accident.

The classic bicycle of that time could not allow its owner to move freely, and its maintenance was tiring, because it was necessary not only to drive the bicycle, but also to bring it up onto the park stairs, roll up the subway, try to hide this large-sized tool in the staircase under the stairs during his absence.So the idea of ​​creating a folding lightweight design.

In this regard, all models are quite simple to use and maintain, the folding mechanism allows you to fold the bike for 5 seconds and, if necessary, go into the bus with it. The weight of various specimens varies from 8.8 to 10.2 kg, so it is not difficult to bring the unit up the stairs.

The first model, called Strida 1, was launched in 1987, and exactly 20 years later, the more technologically advanced and modern Strida 5.0 appeared on sale.

All these advantages were highly appreciated by cyclists, and instances of Strida models quickly became popular.

In appearance, the two-wheeled unit is similar at the same time to a bulky scooter and a wheelchair, however it is a full-fledged bike that differs from standard bikes with a triangular frame. An alternative to the chain drive here is the Kevlar drive belt.

Basically, the models have one speed and are equipped with disc brakes. In this way, Strida products are a compact folding version of a familiar bicycle, designed specifically for those who make long trips every day in a large metropolis. Now deliveries are established in stores in Moscow, St. Petersburg and other cities of Russia.

The main goal of the developers was to reduce the size of the bike, as well as to ensure comfort in use.

If the owner has a need for repair, then he can be calm for the search for spare parts and accessories - The company produces for its products footboards, brake calipers, pads, pedals from various materials, drive belts.

We note other advantages of the models.

• Unlike other folding bicycles, the units of the presented brand can be rolled in assembled form, and not carried.
• This bike will not cause difficulties when transporting it by public transport or metro.
• The weight of non-speed models is generally limited to 10 kg, which also ensures ease of maintenance.
• Design features suggest the presence of wings and a mudguard that protect the vehicle during rainfall.
• Convenience during operation creates a belt drive installed instead of the usual chain.
• The type of brakes is disc, that is, they practically do not need maintenance. Disc brakes work without interruption in any weather.
• Models have the ability to adjust the saddle height.
• In comparison with other folding models, a quite reasonable price can be noted.
• The manufacturer offers many additional branded accessories that facilitate the maintenance and use of bicycles.

There are practically no shortcomings in the products. Some owners only note harsh seats. And also according to the reviews of some buyers, miniature forms can not fully provide ride comfort.

Naturally, riding at high speed and honing extreme stunts is not for the Strida bike. Many cyclists, who are used to frequent cycling trips, cannot understand that Strida is a purely city bike, it can be used on an asphalt pavement or on a bicycle path, and then - not for the purpose of walking, but only as a means of transportation. The maximum possible speed that a folding bike can develop is up to 20 km per hour.

To make the right choice, check out the Strida bike overview.Currently, several models are relevant.

It can be said A classic urban compact bike. Like all products, the presented version has a frame in the shape of the letter "A". Unit weight - 9.6 kg. The assembly mechanism is very simple and consists of folding three elements - pedals, frame and steering wheel. It takes about 15-20 seconds. According to the developers, the model is suitable for cyclists up to 192 cm tall, but users are skeptical of this statement. Doubts are associated with complaints of knees touching the steering wheel while driving. The problem can only be solved by increasing the elevation of the steering wheel.

In fact, the design is not particularly different - it's still the same triangular frame, but the model has some distinctive characteristics, namely: 5-spoke original rims and a plastic boot. The most affordable option has an aluminum trunk - This is a reliable and durable element for storing things, although the plastic version is still more practical, in addition, due to the lightness of the material, the weight of the entire bike is noticeably reduced.

This model is characterized by the presence of strong and durable 18-inch wheels, which provides more comfortable conditions while driving. Due to this design feature, as well as the specific configuration of the frame, the mass of the specimen is slightly larger than that of the above options, and is equal to 11.6 kg.

The only high-speed model of the Strida SD brand is no longer available, but it can be bought on hand. It features a special Swiss-made switch. The design is based on an aluminum frame, due to which the bike weighs at least 12 kg. The model has two speeds, unlike other modifications, but otherwise quite similar to the Strida LT, if you do not compare the diameter of the wheels. Naturally, that This is the most expensive model of the manufacturer.

Strida offers parts and accessories for its core products. Additional elements facilitate the use and maintenance of models. The advantage can be called a wide range of products, among which are presented both simple budget and more expensive options. For example, a bicycle branded bell is offered both in a small compact form and in a simple unified design, as well as in a vintage style with crystal clear sound.

The price of the specimens, of course, varies, therefore, each cyclist will be able to choose the most suitable and affordable option for himself.

As a rule, during a bike ride in hot weather you can’t do without a bottle of clean water, the same applies to a hot drink that you need to take with you in cold weather.

For standard bike bottles Strida has prepared a special mount that is mounted on the front pipe and consists of two parts. A simple mechanism allows you to easily unfasten the vessel without stopping movement, and quickly fasten it back. The maximum load is 1.5 kg. Facilitates the transportation of bottles and special branded bag, which is mounted on the steering wheel or front pipe.

The assortment presents a large selection headlights and flashlights. So, for an ordinary city walk, you can purchase a budget classic version of the headlight, or you can become the owner of a new type of headlight or instance with USB charging in two color options.

A daily visit to the work office does not depend on weather conditions, and sometimes you have to ride a bike in the rain. For a cyclist, this is akin to disaster, because it is impossible for him to grab an umbrella. For such cases, the company offers to purchase poncho-shaped Gamp raincoat made of waterproof membrane fabric. The thing can be worn on any clothes, and even the backpack located behind will not become a problem for her. The cloak does not constrain movements, it is light - only 390 g, and when folded it takes up very little space, that is, it can be rolled up and put into a small bag.

Its useful to note good air permeability of the material, the fabric is breathable and has the ability to remove steam from the body. You can use the raincoat not only for cycling, but also when riding a regular bicycle, scooter or while walking with a dog.

Special attention deserves such an accessory as Bicycle computer Sigma Sport BC 7.16 ATS. According to the promises of manufacturers, this is an indispensable travel companion. The technique displays all the necessary data for everyday trips. A large screen is integrated into the sports case. The radius of the computer is up to 70 cm.

An overview of the Strida folding bike can be seen in the next video.