Joining the Fold
We planned to get our Bromptons during the lockdown, but there were not many options in the local market. We got some contacts from the UK, but the prices tended to fluctuate due to the currency exchanges. There was also an issue with importing the e-bike version - called the Brompton Electric - due to shipping restrictions on large batteries.
When we learned that the latest versions were available locally, we started to search around. They cost a fair bit, but in the end, it was below what we budgeted for. If you must know, they were the C-line Explore. They came with a 6-speed configuration and weighed just above 12 kg. And they folded like magic!
We were really impressed with our maiden ride. We parked at Muzium Negara and took it down the hill into Taman Botani Perdana. After a quick ride around the lake, it was clear that we wanted more. We were already familiar with the gearing system and the balance by then. Since it was still early on a Sunday - and KL was on the Car Free event - we ventured off towards Dataran Merdeka.
Getting on and off the bike took some getting used to. The bike lane did not start from where we parked, and we rode on the pavement. We were not yet confident to venture onto the road.
We wanted to have breakfast at makan.buzz, but unfortunately, it was closed. After a quick ride around Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad, we then cycled to Central Market for breakfast.
The ride back from Central Market to Muzium Negara was a lot more pleasant. There was a bike path along the river, and we stopped there for photos. The weather was not the best, threatening to rain. And that helped to make sure that we were not too tired or dehydrated. We were back to our car and all packed up by 9 am, in time for me to hit the showers and start my morning ward round.
The roads in KL were not the smoothest. The degree of shock absorption on the Brompton was not to the level of proper road bikes. Our bums were sore by the time we were done. The Brook C17, which came with our bike, needed some time to mould. It should get better with time. We also discovered that we could do with cycling gloves and a proper cycling bag to store our phones and wallet as we ride.
An impressive first ride nonetheless, and we have already made plans for tomorrow - it will be a public holiday for Deepavali. Anita got herself some new gear for that when we went shopping after lunch. It was not perfect, but it exceeded our expectations.