Is a folding bike truly capable of being a high-performance touring machine? The Bike Friday New World Tourist dares to challenge that notion, carving out a reputation as a top choice for cyclists who crave adventure without sacrificing portability. Praised for its compact size, step-through design, impressive load-carrying capacity, and ingenious ability to fold into standard airline luggage, this bicycle sparks curiosity and excitement among global travelers.
But does the reality match the hype? I embarked on a journey to find out.
My Personal Expedition with a Bike Friday
In the summer of 2008, I acquired a Bike Friday New World Tourist, initially envisioning it for short getaways, like an 8-day cycling trip in Aruba. Little did I know, this compact folding bike would soon become my trusted companion on a much grander scale: a 9-month cycling odyssey across Central and Eastern Europe.
Since that initial purchase, my Bike Friday has been an almost daily fixture in my life. It has accompanied me for over 250 days of riding, endured 4 flights, 35 train journeys, voyages on 2 boats, and countless car and truck rides. From smooth asphalt to rugged volcanic terrain, ice, snow, mud, and cobblestone streets, this bike has seen it all. Loaded with gear or ridden light, with or without its optional suitcase trailer, I’ve pushed this machine to its limits. Now, after extensive real-world testing, I’m ready to deliver a comprehensive review of the Bike Friday New World Tourist.
So, let’s dive in. This is my in-depth assessment of the Bike Friday New World Tourist:
Customizing Your Bike Friday: A Personal Touch
One of the defining characteristics of Bike Friday Bicycles, manufactured by Green Gear Cycling in Eugene, Oregon, is their custom-built nature. These aren’t off-the-shelf bikes; they are meticulously crafted to your specifications. You have the power to tailor almost every aspect, from frame size and geometry to gearing and handlebar style, ensuring a truly personalized riding experience.
This bespoke approach, however, necessitates time. If you’re opting for a custom Bike Friday, it’s crucial to place your order well in advance of your planned cycling tour.
Bike Friday typically quotes a build time of 5 to 9 weeks for their bicycles. Upon ordering, they provide a “promise date,” guaranteeing the delivery of your bike by that specific time.
My advice is to factor in ample time between your bike’s arrival and your tour departure. Adapting to a small-wheeled folding bike, especially when fully loaded, can take time. Bike Friday recommends a few days of familiarization, but some riders might need longer to feel completely comfortable and confident.
In my haste to prepare for my Aruba trip, I opted for a used, stock Bike Friday, sacrificing some customization for speed and a slightly lower price.
side view of loaded Bike Friday New World Tourist folding bicycle
As you can see in the image above, my New World Tourist came with flat handlebars and basic plastic twist shifters. While these shifters might be chosen to minimize bulk when folded, I find them less than ideal for extended, demanding rides.
Ideally, I would have preferred a different color – perhaps black or gunmetal gray – and crucially, a third chainring upfront to conquer steep hills under a heavy touring load, a common challenge for any global cyclist.
This highlights the importance of planning ahead when ordering your Bike Friday. Had I planned my Aruba trip further in advance, I could have ordered a custom bike that perfectly matched my needs and preferences.
Customer Service: A Personal Experience
For companies like Bike Friday (Green Gear Cycling), where customization is key, exceptional customer service is paramount. Unlike mass-market bike brands selling through retailers, Bike Friday has a direct relationship with its customers, creating a unique opportunity to excel in service.
While many online testimonials praise Bike Friday’s customer service, my personal experience was mixed. It’s worth noting that I have close connections with individuals within the company, which might have influenced my perception.
When investing in a custom bike from a smaller company like Bike Friday, I expect to feel valued and supported, with a genuine interest in my cycling adventures and overall satisfaction. However, during my order process, this feeling was somewhat lacking.
Perhaps my experience as a seasoned bicycle traveler and the operator of BicycleTouringPro.com led them to assume I required less attention than a typical customer. Ironically, it should have been the opposite. My platform gives me a voice, and in this review, I must honestly state that their customer service, in my opinion, could be elevated.
While there were no specific negative incidents, I believe a company specializing in custom bikes should strive for customer service that is so outstanding it solidifies the customer’s decision as the best they ever made. Bike Friday has the potential to reach this level, but in my experience, they aren’t quite there yet. Enhancing their customer service could significantly boost customer satisfaction and drive sales.
Pedal Power: Does Size Matter?
riding a bike friday bicycle
One of the most frequent questions I encounter when riding my Bike Friday is, “Do you have to pedal more because of the small wheels?”
The straightforward answer is, “No!”
Despite the smaller wheels, you don’t need to exert extra effort. Bike Friday ingeniously addresses this through gearing. The gear ratios are meticulously calibrated to mimic those of a standard 26-inch or 700c wheeled bike. Therefore, one pedal revolution on a Bike Friday translates to a similar distance covered as on a full-sized bicycle.
So, dispel the myth – riding a Bike Friday is not about pedaling harder, it’s about smart engineering.
Handling and Twitchiness: Addressing the Concerns
Another common question revolves around handling: “Does it feel twitchy due to the smaller wheels?”
The honest answer is, “Slightly, at first.”
Upon my initial rides, the bike did exhibit a degree of twitchiness. It wasn’t alarming, but it felt less stable than a full-sized bike, almost like balancing on a unicycle.
However, this initial twitchiness is fleeting. Within minutes of riding, it diminishes significantly. After about five days of riding, it virtually disappears, becoming imperceptible on smooth, level surfaces.
Now, after over 250 days of touring with my Bike Friday, I experience no twitchiness whatsoever.
The only scenario where the smaller wheels become a factor is navigating rough terrain with large cracks or potholes. Smaller wheels are more susceptible to getting caught in such obstacles compared to larger wheels.
Riding Feel: Surprisingly Familiar
For those unfamiliar with folding bikes, the inevitable question is, “What’s it like to ride?” My usual response is that the Bike Friday New World Tourist, configured with flat handlebars, closely resembles riding a mountain bike.
Once you acclimate to the handling and the occasional curious glances directed at a small-wheeled bicycle (more on that later), you genuinely forget you’re on a folding bike. For me, it’s simply my bike. The riding experience mirrors my mountain bike back home – familiar and natural. It defies easy description; you have to experience it to truly understand.
The Attention Factor: A Unique Bike on the Road
One aspect of riding a folding bike that often surprises people is the attention it attracts, particularly in certain regions.
In countries like Switzerland and Austria, where folding bikes are relatively common, my Bike Friday garnered little notice. However, in places like Montenegro, I became a spectacle. Adults and children would stop and stare, puzzled by this unusual yet swift bicycle.
When you choose a folding bike like a Bike Friday, be prepared for some attention. Curious stares and occasional comments are part of the experience. If you prefer to blend in, a folding bike might not be the ideal choice. However, if you embrace the uniqueness and the conversations it sparks, it can add an interesting dimension to your travels.
Folding Speed and Portability: The Core Advantage
Bike Friday New World Tourist folding packed in suitcase travel case
The undeniable advantage of a folding bike lies in its portability, especially for globetrotting cyclists.
A folding bike opens up seamless travel possibilities via trains, planes, boats, and cars, often circumventing the hefty excess baggage fees associated with full-size bicycles.
The Bike Friday New World Tourist excels in this regard. It’s a fully equipped touring bicycle that ingeniously folds down to fit within a standard airline suitcase.
To date, I’ve flown with my Bike Friday four times without any airport issues. I haven’t incurred extra baggage fees, and airport staff have been accommodating.
However, with airlines increasingly charging for checked baggage, the era of free bicycle transport might be waning. Nonetheless, the cost of transporting a compact folding bike in a suitcase is likely to remain significantly less than shipping a full-size bicycle.
My primary motivation for choosing a folding bike was my frequent air travel with bicycles. I wanted a travel companion that wouldn’t incur exorbitant fees each time I flew. In this aspect, the Bike Friday New World Tourist has exceeded my expectations.
However, the speed of folding and packing the bike into its travel suitcase is not its strongest suit.
Initially, I envisioned a lightning-fast fold, akin to Bike Friday’s Tikit model, known for its rapid 12-second fold. The New World Tourist, however, is not a quick-folding machine.
Disassembling the New World Tourist requires Allen wrenches, approximately 15 minutes, and some practice. It involves not only folding the frame but also removing the front wheel, both racks, fenders, and even unscrewing the water bottle cages.
My first attempt at packing the bike into its case was captured on video. The result was a 90-minute struggle, culminating in removing the water bottle cages just to make it fit.
Subsequent attempts became more efficient. The second time took about 30 minutes, and now, after numerous train and plane trips, I can pack and unpack it in around 15 minutes.
Surprisingly, the bike largely retains its adjustments during transit. Derailleur adjustments are rarely needed after unpacking, a testament to the bike’s robust design.
While not the fastest fold, for a fully equipped touring bike like the New World Tourist, intended for use with racks and fenders, rapid folding might not be the primary concern. Its packability and travel convenience are the true strengths.
The Fold Joint: Strength Under Scrutiny
Bike Friday frame connector
Some reviews of the Bike Friday New World Tourist point to the fold joint (hinge) as a potential weak point. However, based on my experience, I disagree. The hinge itself is remarkably robust.
In my opinion, the less robust element is not the hinge, but the quick-release mechanism that secures the rear half of the bike to the front half (as shown in the image above).
This quick-release point can be finicky. It can feel either too tight or too loose, making it challenging to gauge the correct setting.
With practice, one learns to quickly and confidently secure the quick release and lock the bike frame. However, for new New World Tourist owners, this aspect might initially cause some apprehension.
Gear Carrying Capacity: Small Bike, Big Load
touring bicycle that folds and is small
The idea of hauling camping gear – tent, sleeping bag, clothes, food, computer – on a small folding bike might seem improbable. However, this is another area where the New World Tourist excels.
Just like a standard full-size touring bike, the New World Tourist is designed to accommodate panniers on both the front and rear. Additionally, handlebar bags and trailers can be incorporated for even more carrying capacity.
It features two standard water bottle cage mounts, common on most touring bikes. Opting for the foldable rear rack (as I did) further optimizes space when packing the bike for travel.
If you seek a folding bike capable of handling the demands of a fully loaded bike tour, whether with panniers or a trailer, the New World Tourist is a compelling option.
The Suitcase/Trailer: A Dual-Purpose Design
Bike Friday trailer
Initially, I was hesitant about purchasing the optional suitcase/trailer. However, I eventually acquired a used one, primarily to assess its functionality for this review, as I believed it was a crucial part of the Bike Friday story.
The suitcase and trailer are sold separately and represent a significant additional investment, especially considering they consist of a plastic Samsonite suitcase and a homemade aluminum trailer frame.
I tested the suitcase/trailer during my Aruba trip, and here are my observations:
As a suitcase, the Samsonite case provided by Bike Friday is excellent. The bike fits securely inside, and airport personnel have never questioned its contents.
However, as a trailer, the experience was less positive.
Pulling the trailer in Aruba was unnerving. On narrow, winding roads with heavy traffic and no shoulders, the wide “travel case” (as Bike Friday terms it) was not only cumbersome but also hazardous. Cars would slow down behind me and then swerve into oncoming traffic to overtake, creating dangerous situations.
After just 6 miles from the airport to my hotel, I concluded that extended touring with this trailer was impractical.
Two primary factors contributed to my negative experience with the Bike Friday trailer.
Firstly, its width is a major drawback. It protrudes significantly into the traffic lane. On narrow roads without shoulders, it forces you to ride almost entirely in the lane, compelling cars to nearly stop before passing. This poses a safety risk, unlike riding with panniers or a narrower trailer like a BOB trailer.
Secondly, the trailer’s construction feels flimsy. It’s essentially a suitcase bolted to a basic aluminum frame with wheels, not purpose-built as a robust bike trailer.
It’s a clever concept and might be adequate for short trips on bike paths or roads with wide shoulders. However, if you envision the suitcase/trailer as your primary luggage solution for extensive round-the-world tours, I advise reconsidering.
Travel Versatility: Trains, Planes, Boats, and Automobiles
folded Bike Friday on train
As previously mentioned, the Bike Friday New World Tourist is engineered for global travel. If you frequently travel by plane, train, or boat, this bike could be your ideal companion.
In terms of cost savings on transportation, the Bike Friday has surpassed my expectations. I’ve never been charged extra for flying with it, and train fees in Europe have been minimal (under $50 total for three separate tickets).
On a few occasions in Europe, certain trains and boats prohibited bicycles altogether, regardless of whether they were folding bikes. However, my Bike Friday’s compact folded size allowed me to negotiate my way onto these transports where a full-sized bike would have been denied.
Beyond these minor instances, traveling with the Bike Friday has been remarkably smooth.
The pivotal question remains: “Would I recommend the Bike Friday New World Tourist?”
Before answering, let’s consider what I would change if I were to purchase my Bike Friday again.
Personal Modifications: If I Could Customize Again
If I were to customize my New World Tourist today, I would make these key changes:
- Add a third chainring: A triple chainring upfront would provide a wider gear range, making steep climbs, especially when loaded, significantly easier. Bike Friday offers this option, and I would definitely include it.
- Upgrade handlebars and shifters: I would replace the flat handlebars and twist shifters with STI touring bars and Shimano STI lever shifters, similar to those advertised on the Bike Friday website. This would enhance comfort and shifting performance, particularly for long-distance touring.
Final Verdict: Recommendation
“Yes! I wholeheartedly recommend the Bike Friday New World Tourist.”
It requires a slight adjustment period, and its folding nature might not appeal to everyone.
However, if you are a frequent traveler seeking a bicycle to accompany you on your journeys, this is an exceptional choice. If you desire a bike capable of long-distance touring, performing like any other loaded touring bike, the New World Tourist is an excellent contender. And if you need a bike that can handle diverse conditions, from smooth roads to challenging terrain, the New World Tourist is a fantastic all-around option.
Many have asked me, “If you could own only one bicycle, would it be the New World Tourist?”
My answer: “Probably not.”
For the past year and a half, the Bike Friday New World Tourist has been my sole bicycle. It has served me well through varied weather, diverse terrains, and numerous modes of transport. However, if limited to a single bike for life, I likely wouldn’t choose it.
The New World Tourist is a remarkable bicycle, but full-size bikes still hold their place. For some, the New World Tourist might be the ultimate travel bike. For others, like myself, it’s a valuable addition to a diverse collection of non-motorized transport options.
Photo Gallery: Bike Friday Adventures
Finally, I’m sharing a selection of photos from my travels with the Bike Friday New World Tourist. These are just a glimpse into the thousands of images captured over the past year on my cycling adventures. Enjoy!
red bike friday new world tourist folding bicycle in swiss forest
Cycling through the serene woods of the Swiss countryside.
The bike’s red hue almost mirrors the bench’s paint.
man in ski clothing next to loaded bike friday touring bicycle
Winter travel necessitated face masks and ski gloves for most of the journey.
Bike Friday New World Tourist folding bicycle handlebars in the snow
Navigating ice and snow with my Bike Friday New World Tourist.
Darren Alff sits next to his Bike Friday New World Tourist
My fully-loaded bicycle and I pausing for a break in the woods.
Image: A loaded Bike Friday folding bicycle with panniers, secured on a train during a cycling tour.
Traveling by train with my fully-loaded bike and panniers.
folded Bike Friday New World Tourist on train
The Bike Friday New World Tourist folded and stowed on an Austrian train.
bike-friday-new-world-tourist review
Enjoying a day ride outside the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria.
bike friday folding bicycle inside hotel room
Due to its compact size, my hotel in Salzburg readily allowed me to bring the bike into my room.
red bike friday new world tourist on bridge in austria
Crossing a picturesque bridge in Innsbruck, Austria.
folded bike friday bicycle at train station with four panniers
The New World Tourist folded and awaiting departure on a train to Slovenia.
Bike Friday Darren Alff profile photo
Relaxing on the steps of a Croatian church with my New World Tourist.
light touring with bike friday new world tourist
My Bike Friday in Aruba – 2008, ready for light touring adventures.
If you have any further questions about Bike Friday, the New World Tourist, or anything discussed in this review, please leave a comment below, and I’ll respond promptly.
