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I'm 6'3'' and about 88kg now. No problem with the Brompton for ~1h commutes or even 90km ride with 1500m+ (this link has photos). I think my model is S6L (Flat handlebar & 6 speeds) with some original fenders and the front bag. IMHO the front bag is much better than a rear seatpack... I can reach phone/water really easy while commuting or even "on route".
Price is high, but if you use it everyday it gets amortized. Like you I had many concerns, especially about the gears.. so I found a bikeshop that rented bromptons (and discounted you that amount from the brompton price if you bought one).
bertocq-
Cheers Berto! Looks like we're gonna end up with identical bike collections :)
I'm thinking the S2L with telescopic seatpost, front bag and mudguards is probably the one for me. Looking at 2nd hand prices, there doesn't seem to be much point (or likelihood) of getting a bargain, I think I'd be better off getting a new one via the cycle to work scheme.
My work's got the generic cyclescheme so I don't think I'm tied into using any particular retailer. Any suggestions as to which shop is the best to go for? Is the 2017 model worth going for or am I best off looking for a discounted 2016 or 2015 model?
I'll try to arrange at least a test ride before going for one, but the idea of hiring one for a day could be handy...
TurtleRecall
Well this is all good news! Thanks for the encouraging words @spj7 and @fasih, maybe it would work! I really don't know much about folding bikes, looks like a 2 or 3 speed Brompton would maybe be sufficient for my needs, but are there any particular models of Tern, Dahon or Airnimal that anyone would recommend for a tall person?
To clarify, @umop3pisdn, I'd be riding the train to Tottenham Hale and then cycling between TH and Victoria (where I work) then the reverse in the evening. A beater would mean a walk of a few miles (or driving and paying for parking) from home to the Herts station and back.