images from the Brompton 2013 Catalog

With the arrival of our first 2013 Brompton models to the shop, copies of the all-new Brompton catalog have begun to trickle in to the store. If you've been considering a Brompton for a while now, why not take the leap this year? An extended demo ride is a great way to learn how this little folder from across the pond would fit into your life, and our demo fleet is better than ever. Call the shop at 612-827-8000 to find out more about checking out a demonstrator bike for a 24-hour period. Three demonstrators are available including a superlight M6LX in Apple Green, an H6L in Pink and White, and a brand-new S2LX equipped with a Brooks B17 Special and Eazy wheels, also with Titanium extremities. All three bikes are spec'd with Telescopic Seatposts to allow for the maximum range of fit for riders of all heights.

Below are just a few of the improvements you can expect on a 2013 Brompton bicycle. And, for those of you who've already put in a number of miles on a now well-loved Brommie, we're pleased to say that 2013 replacement parts are beginning to arrive at the shop as well. For those looking to catch a deal, select pre-2013 parts are on sale while supplies last in store and at PerennialCycle.com.

All 2013 bikes will be built with a new double-wall Brompton rim

Brompton's Kevlar tires (I mean tyres...) have changed from black and grey to all-black

A newly designed aluminum brake lever with improved ergonomics, materials, and finishing

Updated, more consistent finishes on a number of parts

An improved Busch and Müller LED headlamp makes for an upgraded Shimano dynamo package

For more information about how these changes add to the Brompton experience, stop in to the shop for a test ride or give us a ring.

p.s. We're excited for 2013 for another great reason: the Brompton US Championship will return to Minneapolis this summer and we are once again the grateful hosts of the event. As for details? Hold tight. We've set the date along with Open Streets Minneapolis—Sunday, June 23 is the date to remember. Shopcast readers, Facebook fans, Twitter followers, and newsletter subscribers will be the first to know when registration opens. Spring is almost here, so in the mean time... get on that Brompton and ride! And, while you're resting from your training regimen, read up on race strategy at the newly launched bromptonuschampionship.com.