Shopcast

  1. Brompton Bag Guide

    When we first started riding and selling Brompton bikes, we ordered them with rear racks because that's how we were used to setting up our commuting bikes. It took us about a day to realize that Brompton's front bag system was far superior. The Front Carrier Block mounts to the frame (not handlebars) of the bike and so the bag attached to the block is not spinning with the front wheel, but is solidly mounted to the frame.
    Another thing we quickly learned was that Bromptons were enormously utilitarian. Their size had us thinking differently, but after living with a Brompton it was clear that they are awesome mini cargo trucks. This is in a large part due to the awesome front bags.

    Index:

    2020 Bags

    Borough Basket Bag L
    Metro Messenger Bag L
    Borough Roll Top Bag L

    Carradice Bags


    Carradice City Folder
    Carradice Stockport Folder
    UPSO Ferrybridge Folder

    Classic Brompton Bags


    Brompton O-Bag
    Brompton S-Bag
    Brompton T-Bag
    Brompton Shoulder Bag
    Brompton Roll-top Bag
    Brompton Tote Bag
    Brompton Mini-O Bag

    We love bags at Perennial Cycle, which is why we are really excited about the upcoming season. 2020 adds three new bags; The Metro Bag L, The Borough Bag L, and the Borough Basket Bag L. One of the first things we noticed is that the 2020 bags are not a drastic re-imagining of their existing lineup. Instead, Brompton has chosen to focus on subtle quality of life improvements and on modernizing the styling.

    Borough Basket Bag L

    DIMENSIONS: 400mm (W) x 300mm (H) x 200mm (D)
    VOLUME: 23L
    MATERIAL: 1000D Cordura Twill
    COMPATIBILITY: [S-Type] [M-Type] [H-Type]

    The Borough Basket Bag L, is the 2020 version of the original Brompton Basket Bag. The original version of this bag has been our favorite utility bag for the Brompton Folding Bike for many years. While it is intended to be a market bag, we find that the uses for it go far beyond groceries. This is the perfect bag for your loose items, odd balls, and literal round objects; toss in your water bottle, your lunch, a lock, your sweater, your phone and pretty much anything else you want to access easily while on the go. Got another bag you love? Awesome! Throw it inside this one!

    Inside the bag you'll find more than enough room to fit the essentials with 23L of volume. The bag tapers from 5 inches at the base to around 7.8 inches at the opening, leaving enough room for two water bottles back to back at the base. The handle pulls the bag closed like a clam shell while under load. The exterior is military grade Cordura 1000D, with a weather-proof coating on the inside. A small zippered pocket is supplied for smaller loose items (such as keys, phone and wallet).

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    The Metro Messenger Bag L

    DIMENSIONS: 400mm (W) x 300mm (H) x 150mm (D)
    VOLUME: 23L
    MATERIAL: 1000D Cordura Twill
    COMPATIBILITY: [S-Type] [M-Type] [H-Type]

    The Metro Messenger Bag L, is designed around the needs of an urban commuter. The new functional features include a redesigned front flap, improved flap coverage, and buckles on the outside for easier access. Also, the interior sections now include a laptop and water bottle sleeve allowing more flexibility in the ways this bag can be used.

    The Metro is similar to the classic Brompton C-Bag, in terms of size and function. While the C-bag was not compatible with the S-Type Brompton, these new 2020 bags are compatible with ALL Brompton handlebar types. Awesome!

    When we look inside The Metro Bag L, it has an ample amount of storage, with ~23L of bag volume. The laptop slot measures 15 inches from end to end, but we would recommend ~14 inches be your maximum actual measured width (This is the width of a 15" MacBook pro). A nice water bottle sleeve on the exterior saves interior space, and gives easy access for that quick stoplight sip. Also, the exterior pocket gives you a little extra room for some small items. Glove friendly zippers make this an all-season winner, and the updated styling makes this bag a welcome accessory even in professional spaces.

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    The Borough Roll Top Bag L

    DIMENSIONS: 400mm (W) x 300mm (H) x 200mm (D)
    VOLUME: 28L
    MATERIAL: 1000D Cordura Twill
    COMPATIBILITY: [S-Type] [M-Type] [H-Type]

    The Borough Roll Top Bag L is the largest of the 2020 bags. This is the perfect bag for those looking to maximize the carrying capacity of their Brompton. Not only is it roomy, it also comes with an assortment of pockets and storage compartments, making organization and space optimization a real breeze. This would be the bag to bring if you are going on a tour, or if you need more room than the Metro offers for your daily routine.

    On the inside, you'll find a laptop sleeve and a zippered pouch where you can store small items like a charger. While the laptop slot measures 15 inches from end to end, we would recommend ~14 inches be your maximum actual measured width (This is the width of a 15" MacBook pro). The Borough Roll Top has all the same quality of life add-ons as the Metro: Glove friendly zippers, bottle sleeve, and exterior storage pockets.

    While the Borough may look very similar to Metro Messenger in size & volume, they are actually very different bags. The Borough's Roll Top greatly expands the capacity. Additionally, the Borough Roll Top has a set of exterior straps, which make a nice home for a yoga mat, helmet, or other odd shape object.

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    Carradice has been making beautiful cycling bags in England for over 80 years. The materials and construction of these bags is all about being durable and weatherproof. The waxed cotton duck fabric is long wearing as well as having a lovely, distinctive look. Since the Brompton and Carradice bags are both made in England, you may notice that the aesthetics and design match well with the Brompton Folding Bicycle; we feel that they are the ideal British pairing.

    Carradice City Folder Bag

    DIMENSIONS: 400mm (W) x 330mm (H) x 135mm (D)
    VOLUME: 25L
    MATERIAL: Waxed Cotton Duck
    COMPATIBILITY: [S-Type] [M-Type] [H-Type]

    Perennial Cycle has been importing Carradice from England for nearly 20 years and we were the first shop in North America to import the Brompton specific Carradice City Folder. It is hard work to get all of our grey-ducks in a row to get these into the shop, but we feel that effort is worth it for our customers. If you are looking for a large capacity bag that will look good in the office and is still capable of handling a weekend trip, the Carradice City Folder is for you.

    Not only is The City Folder an attractive bag, it is a functional one as well. It features an internal divider with a phone pocket and a removable laptop pouch. Additionally, the City Folder has a carry handle on lid and comes with a nice quality shoulder strap. With ~25L of volume, there is ample storage. Organization and space management are no problem because the City Folders comes with two saddlebag style pockets on the rear and an external zipped compartment on the front.

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    Carradice Stockport Bag

    DIMENSIONS: 390mm (W) x 320mm (H) x 120mm (D)
    VOLUME: 16L
    MATERIAL: Waxed Cotton Duck
    COMPATIBILITY: [S-Type] [M-Type] [H-Type]

    The Carradice Stockport provides a stylish city commuter bag for the Brompton Folding Bicycle. It isn't as large as the City Folder, but still has all the essentials you'll need to enable your day, such as a laptop sleeve and shoulder strap. The Stockport uses the same Long-wearing Cotton Duck material as their other classic bags, making this bike bag a timeless accessory for your Brompton.

    Inside the bag you'll find a padded laptop pouch and 16L of space for your essentials. Thick leather straps are used for the closure and gives the bag that classic feel. A cotton webbing shoulder strap is supplied with the bag, and while loaded, it is wide enough that it won't dig into your shoulder as you carry on with your day.

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    UPSO is a fun company to work with. We like their message of seeking out ways to maximize the use of resources as well as minimize trash. UPSO meets this goal by up-cycling material, and then using those resources to create an individual product that matches both the aesthetics and the values of their users. The fabrics used to make these bags come from discarded lorry tarps (Truck Covers).

    UPSO Ferrybridge Folder

    DIMENSIONS: 390mm (W) x 320mm (H) x 120mm (D)
    VOLUME: 16L
    MATERIAL: Upcycled Lorry tarps, firehoses, and Seatbelts
    COMPATIBILITY: [S-Type] [M-Type] [H-Type]

    UPSO Ferrybridge Folder bags each have a unique design and are hand-cut and sewn at their factory in the UK, making each bag a true original. These robust waterproof bags are great for carrying your files, laptops and cycling gear. Bag Frames are included, and work well with the Brompton Carrier Block (sold separately).

    Inside the Ferrybridge you'll find an inner divider for keeping your laptop secure, 16L of storage for your essentials, and a zipped pocket for small items, cords and chargers. Also, if you live in the colder climates, like us, you'll appreciate the glove friendly zippers, waterproof materials, and LED light loop on the lid. We feel this is an exceptional bag for the city commuter. These are truly one-of-a-kind bags, with no two being the same; perfect for the independently spirited individuals among us.

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    These Classic Brompton Bags are the most popular bags for the Brompton Folding Bike. Perennial Cycle has one of the most diverse collections of Brompton Bags on the planet. From going on Tour, to shuttling around town, we have a bag for that!

    Brompton O Bag

    DIMENSIONS: 360mm (W) x 330mm (H) x 170mm (D)
    VOLUME: 20L
    MATERIAL: Coated Polyester
    COMPATIBILITY: [S-Type] [M-Type] [H-Type]

    The Brompton O bag is the colorful luggage option for your Brompton. These special bags were designed specifically for Brompton Folding Bicycle, and are made so that they can handle any weather conditions. Ortlieb has been one of our favorite manufacturers for years, and in the cycling community, Ortlieb bags are seen as the gold standard for quality and function.

    Inside the O bag you'll find many features that are attractive to commuters such as us; Integrated laptop sleeve, two removable dry-bag style pockets, key clip and shoulder strap. There is plenty of room for essentials with ~20L of storage; a great medium sized bag. Wet weather is no worry for this bag as it is 100% waterproof and does not require an additional rain cover to be used.

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    Brompton S Bag

    Brompton's S-Bag is designed for use with all handlebar types. It is a large capacity messenger bag ideal for everything from the daily commute to weekend escapes. The removable front flap is great for when you want to change up the look of the bag, or to run it as a basket bag instead.

    DIMENSIONS: 420mm (W) x 260mm (H) x 170mm (D)
    VOLUME: 20L
    MATERIAL: 1000D Cordura
    COMPATIBILITY: [S-Type] [M-Type] [H-Type]

    The main compartment, containing a suspended laptop holder, is joined by a large front pocket with a water-resistant zip and two improved rear pockets for easy access to a water bottle, your phone or any other essentials. The S-Bag is constructed from a durable, hard-wearing 1000D Cordura fabric and has a padded shoulder strap.

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    Brompton C Bag

    Brompton's C Bag has been one of their top-selling bags for a number of years now. It has better flap coverage than the S-Bag, as well as more overall storage volume. The C Bag is constructed from military grade 1000D Cordura fabric and has a padded, quick-release shoulder strap that tucks away in a dedicated side pocket while you’re riding. There’s even an integrated high-visibility rain cover for unexpected showers.

    DIMENSIONS: 420mm (W) x 300mm (H) x 170mm (D)
    VOLUME: 25L
    MATERIAL: 1000D Cordura
    COMPATIBILITY: [S-Type] [M-Type] [H-Type]

    Inside the main compartment, there is a suspended laptop holder, joined by a large front pocket with a water-resistant zip. Also there are two large rear pockets for easy access to a water bottle, your phone or any other essentials.

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    Brompton T Bag

    Brompton's T-Bag is the largest of Brompton's bags. This is the bag to bring with you if you are looking to go out on a longer tour, or need to really maximize the storage on your Brompton. It comes with a rain cover for those unexpected rain showers, along with a shoulder strap so that it can be used off the bike just as easily.

    DIMENSIONS: 420mm (W) x 300mm (H) x 270mm (D)
    VOLUME: 31L
    MATERIAL: 1000D Cordura
    COMPATIBILITY: [S-Type] [M-Type] [H-Type]

    The T-Bag boasts a whopping 31 liters of capacity and has a roll-top system with nylon clips for closing. Two additional pockets are included on the exterior back side that are able to accommodate water, snacks and accessories. Inside, a zip-up pocket adds a bit of organization and three additional pockets around the outside make room to stow things for the ride.

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    Brompton Shoulder Bag

    The Shoulder Bag by Brompton, designed as a modern update to the classic satchel, is a practical and stylish option for a day out in the city. The zip top closure keeps your valuables secure as you ride, and the flap opening is fixed in place with a simple leather strap and stud.

    DIMENSIONS: 350mm (W) x 220mm (H) x 110mm (D)
    VOLUME: 9L
    MATERIAL: Waxed Cotton Duck
    COMPATIBILITY: [S-Type] [M-Type] [H-Type]

    Inside Brompton's Shoulder Bag you'll find many of the quality of life features you'd expect in a bag of this quality; A quick adjustable shoulder strap, a travel card pocket (like a metro-transit card), and an internal pocket for spare change and your phone.

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    Brompton Roll Top Bag

    Versatile and compact, The Roll Top Bag is a stylish about-town bag for everyday use. The clever roll top closure allows you to adjust the capacity of the bag depending on your needs.

    DIMENSIONS: 350mm (W) x 220mm (H) x 110mm (D)
    VOLUME: 9L
    MATERIAL: Waxed Canvas
    COMPATIBILITY: [S-Type] [M-Type] [H-Type]

    Whether you’re carrying only the essentials or heading back from the shops, the front adjustable strap keeps things neat and secure while you ride. Other thoughtful features include a quick-adjust shoulder strap for an easy transition between riding and carrying, as well a travel card pocket on the base to make getting on other forms of transport simple. There’s also an internal zip pocket to keep things like your phone and keys handy and a handle for easy removal from your bike.

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    Brompton Tote Bag

    A simple everyday essential, The Tote Bag in Black is perfect for getting around the city - both on and off your bike. The bag is compact enough to grab and go, but still has plenty of space for anything from a packed lunch for the office to all your usual basics for a day out in the city. The internal pocket keeps your valuables safe and easy to access, and the grab handles make it easy to go between riding and walking.

    DIMENSIONS: 280mm (W) x 300mm (H) x 110mm (D)
    VOLUME: 9L
    MATERIAL: Teflon Coated Canvas
    COMPATIBILITY: [S-Type] [M-Type] [H-Type]

    The Tote Bag is made from Teflon-coated cotton canvas and features a quick-access Velcro fastening. The internal pocket has a zip to keep your valuables secure, and the bag comes with a handy reflective rain cover.

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    Brompton Mini-O Bag

    The Brompton Mini-O is a streamlined water-resistant bag designed especially for Brompton by Ortlieb. The Mini O Bag is a small size bag in a sleek shape that will keep your essentials dry. A great option for low-fuss commutes or short-day trips. Think of it as the 'glove box' for your Brompton.

    DIMENSIONS: 280mm (W) x 270mm (H) x 180mm (D)
    VOLUME: 7L
    MATERIAL: Coated Polyester
    COMPATIBILITY: [S-Type] [M-Type] [H-Type]

    Inside you'll just the right amount of space. Pack your phone, a water bottle, or a book. It is the perfect size for the kinds of things we are likely to stuff inside a pocket or purse. There is a small zippered pocket to keep things organized, and a shoulder strap to bring the bag along when you are off the bike.

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    See Our Entire Bag Collection -----> HERE

  2. Brompton Tire Guide

    Looking for some new rubber for your Brompton? We have been riding and selling Brompton Bikes for over 10 years. Finding the right balance between durability, ride quality and efficiency will depend on where you ride, how you ride and what your expectations are.

    • We find the Schwalbe Marathon to be a shop favorite (not just for Bromptons, but overall) because it has mega durability yet the Marathon is quite speedy. The downside is that it is a fairly stiff tire, so the ride isn't quite as smooth as some other options.

    • If you want to be protected from flats as best possible, the Marathon Plus is the way to go. In Minneapolis it might be considered overkill, but if you're in a cactus state it might be necessary. This is the highest mileage and best flat protection offered from an air filled tire.

    • The Marathon Racer is Brompton's default stock tire. The Racer is a nice compromise between durability, smooth ride and speed. You're not going to get the same mileage as the Marathon and the flat protection isn't quite as high, but you gain a more supple tire which translates to a smoother, speedier ride.

    • If you like kicking it old school and want the narrowest and highest pressure tire, then the Kojak is for you. This has been the go-to for Brompton racers since the day it was introduced. While the folding and the non-folding Kojak look identical, the folding Kojak is lighter and more supple (higher sidewall chord count).

    • The Schwalbe One is the newest performance minded tire in the lineup. We LOVE it. Fast, lightweight, supple, durable and even a bit chubby. The only downside is the price, but hey, we don't need to replace our Brompton tires very often, so it is money well spent.

    • While the Marathon Winter is only going to appeal to those riding on rather extreme conditions (like those of us in Minnesota), it is a great tire for icey conditions. The Fin's made this tire possible and Minnesotans thank them ; )

    Schwalbe Marathon HS 420

    SIZE: 16 x 1.35"

    ETRTO: 35-349

    PRESSURE: 65-110 psi

    WEIGHT: 420g

    BEAD: Wire

    COLOR: Black

    COMPOUND: Endurance

    If we had one tire to recommend for the utility rider or daily commuter, the Schwalbe Marathon HS 420 is it. It is a little slower rolling than others on this list (except the Marathon Plus), but in exchange it will reliably shrug off glass, wire and other debris. We find this this is a dependable tire that will provide favorable riding characteristics.

    Schwalbe Marathon Plus HS 440

    SIZE: 16 x 1.35"

    ETRTO: 35-349

    PRESSURE: 65-110 psi

    WEIGHT: 480g

    BEAD: Wire

    COLOR: Black

    COMPOUND: SmartGuard

    The Schwalbe Marathon Plus HS 440 is Schwalbe's best selling tire and is also the most puncture resistant tire available for Brompton Bikes. It is an extremely durable, long-wearing and flat resistant tire. This is the highest mileage and most flat resistant tire available for Bromptons.

    Schwalbe Marathon Racer HS 429

    SIZE: 16 x 1-1/3"

    ETRTO: 35-349

    PRESSURE: 65-110 psi

    WEIGHT: 282g

    BEAD: Wire

    COLOR: Black

    COMPOUND: SpeedGrip

    The Schwalbe Marathon Racer HS 429 is the best-of-all-worlds option for your Brompton, and is the standard tire option on their bikes since 2017. We find that the Schwalbe Marathon Racer provides excellent city / commuting performance, while still being reliable and rugged enough for everyday use.

    Schwalbe Winter HS 396

    SIZE: 16 x 1.20"

    ETRTO: 30-349

    PRESSURE: 65-115 psi

    WEIGHT: 460g

    BEAD: Wire

    COLOR: Black

    COMPOUND: Winter

    The Schwalbe Winter HS 396 is the best way to winterize your Brompton. This tire provides outstanding grip on ice, and the winter compound provides reliable stability in winter conditions. We also like the added puncture protection and reflective sidewalls.

    Schwalbe Kojak HS 385

    SIZE: 16 x 1-1/4"

    ETRTO: 32-349

    PRESSURE: 70-115 psi

    WEIGHT: 230g

    BEAD: Wire

    COLOR: Black

    COMPOUND: SpeedGrip; 50TPI

    The Schwalbe Kojak HS 385 is a high performance Street Slick, well suited for use on the road. We find that the Kojak is ideal for city / urban performance riding due to its high on-road grip, low rolling resistance, and puncture protection. Reflective labeling is just the icing on the cake.

    Schwalbe Folding Kojak HS 385

    SIZE: 16 x 1-1/4"

    ETRTO: 32-349

    PRESSURE: 70-115 psi

    WEIGHT: 175g

    BEAD: Kevlar

    COLOR: Black; RFX

    COMPOUND: SpeedGrip; 67TPI

    The Schwalbe Folding Kojak HS 385 has similarities to the non-folding Kojak, but it's lighter weight, has a kevlar (folding) bead, higher threads per inch, and a full reflective strip. The higher thread count makes for a lighter and more supple casing. Additionally, the compact fold makes this a great option if you need to pack an extra tire.

    Schwalbe ONE HS462A

    SIZE: 16 x 1-1/3"

    ETRTO: 35-349

    PRESSURE: 65-100 psi

    WEIGHT: 180g

    BEAD: Folding

    COLOR: Black w/ Tan Walls

    COMPOUND: Addix Race

    The Schwalbe One HS462A is the fastest and lightest Schwalbe tire available for the Brompton. Here at Perennial Cycle, we prefer the slightly wider Schwalbe One VS. the Kojak, as we find the the ONE gives a slightly smoother ride and gives a bit more durability. If you are looking for the speediest tire option, this might be 'the one'.

    • • • • • • • •

    Schwalbe Tubes

    Schwalbe tubes have extremely high air retention and elasticity. We recommend Schwalbe Tubes for all of these tires.

    The Schwalbe AV4 is standard (shrader valve) for Brompton Wheels. This tube is used unless you have non-standard rims.

    WEIGHT: 85 grams

    STEM LENGTH: 40mm

    VALVE TYPE: Schrader Valve

    The Schwalbe SV4 is used on non-standard (presta valve) Brompton Wheels. This is used if your rims are setup for presta valve tubes.

    WEIGHT: 85 grams

    STEM LENGTH: 40mm

    VALVE: Presta Valve

    Click here to see all of our Brompton Tires & Tubes

  3. Igaro-UK D2 dynamo charging units are here!

    Igaro D2 Dynamo Charger
    The Igaro D2 is tiny & packed with tech

    Igaro is a company in the UK making an extraordinary dynamo charging unit called the D2. Whether you are touring, randonneuring gravel grinding or spending the day out and about on your bike, the Igaro-UK D2 will keep your phone, Garmin, Wahoo, power bank or any number of USB devices charged no matter how many apps you're running.

    While we have been reliably using dynamo charging here at Perennial Cycle for several years now, we are always searching for the next evolution of this amazing technology. The Igaro-UK D2 has been of particular interest to us because it has new technical features that we have not seen before, namely the ability to auto-reconnect. What this means is that when a device has either stopped charging completely, or the device's charger has locked onto the lowest trickle of current (like when you encounter a big hill), the D2 will recognize this and once there's enough current to charge at a higher rate, the D2 restarts so the device will start accepting the higher current. This is the feature makes the D2 a plug and play charging device.
    Note: Your device needs to be plugged into the D2 while the bike is at a standstill. Being plugged in from a stop allows auto-reconnect to calibrate itself. Plugging in your device while rolling doesn't prevent the charger from working, it just won't activate auto-reconnect if needed. Some devices are capable of reconnecting after charging has been shut down due to a low current, so auto-reconnect is not always a necessary feature.

    Many of Perennial Cycle's dynamo super-users have ultimately ended up using their charging units to charge the Cinq5 Power Pack II (power bank). This is due to the fact that the Power Pack II is capable of adjusting its power intake to the flow that is being offered AND it can be used as a pass-through, so while it is being charged, it can also charge a device. Charging a The Power Pack II is the safest way to be sure you are going to be able to charge any device in all riding conditions, but the Igaro-UK D2's are as close to a sure bet as you'll find when connecting a device directly to your dynamo charging unit.

    There are 2 models of the D2 available at Perennial Cycle, D2-Standard and D2-Lite. While both models of the D2's have auto-reconnect, the D2-Standard adds tuning optimization to its function and is tuned to give optimal power output at 12 MPH. This translates to adding over 20% more power output at around 12 MPH vs. D2-Lite (or other charging units on the market).

    D2's are tiny and easy to tuck into a frame bag or handlebar bag. No matter where you place your D2, the power input pins need to be protected. We have found a nice little ABS box that works well to protect the D2. You can buy it with a USB-C input plug (plugs into the D2) that is about 5" long and the other end of this adaptor is a female USB-A plug.
    Note: If you have other adaptor cables that you plan to use, we'd recommend you buy our D2 Box as a DIY project so you can add holes specifically sized for your cable.

  4. Next Generation of Dynamo Charging Units

    The Plug5, Igaro D2 and Appcon3000
    The Plug5, Igaro D2 and Appcon 3000

    In the past 6 months we’ve seen 3 new dynamo usb charging units come to market and in my view these products represent the next generation in dynamo charging. Don’t get me wrong, I love my Plug III and have used it to charge my phone a lot, but that unit is soon to be moved to my commuter so I can make room for one of these newer, higher tech models.

    Two of them I see as a response to what is a clear trend among long distance and touring cyclists that rely on their dynamo charging unit. This trend is to use their dynamo charging unit to charge a power bank, then use the power bank to charge their device (phone, garmin, wahoo, etc). There are a large amount of devices needing to be charged on the road, yet info regarding how these devices manage being charged is hard to find (in particular, how each device would handle a low, fluctuating power supply). Thus, the safest bet is to charge the power bank. Specifically the Smart Power Pack II because this power bank is designed for getting charged via dynamo power and can be charged while charging a device (pass-through technology).

    The third option is strictly a dynamo charging unit with a usb-c port with some tech advancements that we’ve dreamed about, though this is the first time they’ve been available to us. The biggest advancement that we are most excited about is auto-reconnect. This is an answer to my comment above about not knowing how well a device can be charged when the flow of power fluctuates (namely drops to a tiny flow on a hill climb). Often devices stop receiving power when the current dips too low and then it ignores the incoming power…even when the power supply increases. Auto-reconnect solves this problem by recognizing the issue and reconnecting to the device when the power supply is at a level that the device will accept.

    Here are the 3 options (plus a runner up):

    Appcon 3000 w/ Bag Option

    Appcon 3000: The Appcon 3000 has a lot of tech happening in a nice little package. A 3000 mAh power bank is integrated into this unit. It can be mounted a few ways on the bike. Using the steer tube mounting setup is probably the cleanest solution, though you need to know that the headset cap is not the USB port (like some other units), but the USB port and the incoming power lines come out of the cap with a few inches of durable cable. Whatever mounting setup you go with, the Appcon 3000 is designed to be easy to remove from the bike. This is because you might want to take it in the tent and use the power bank, or you may want to bring it into the cafe and charge the power bank via usb wall plug. Another added feature of the Appcon 3000 is an iOS or android App. The App uses bluetooth to connect to the Appcon 3000 and gives you tons of information about incoming and outgoing power.

    Cinq5 Plug5 Plus

    Cinq5 Plug5 Plus: The Plug5 Plus also has an integrated power bank. The power bank on the Plug5 Plus is 1000 mAh and is not capable of being charged from a wall mount and there’s no app for your phone, but there’s loads of tech in this unit. The Plug5 Plus has power management built into it so that charging a device AND having your lights on is a possibility, though we must understand that the hub only has so much power to give and the charging will happen much better when the lights are turned off. The Plug5 Plus is designed to fit into a steer tube. When this is possible, it’s an awesome setup as the USB-C plug is built into the top cap and the power bank along with all the electronics are hidden inside your steer tube. If you prefer a less permanent solution for mounting the Plug5 Plus (or you have a carbon steer tube), you can keep it external by using a length of 1-1/8” aluminum tubing to act as your mock steer tube. This will easily fit it into a frame bag or handlebar bag.

    Igaro-UK D2

    Igaro-UK D2: The Igaro-UK D2 is a simple, super lightweight and very techy dynamo charging unit. All Igaro D2’s have Auto-Reconnect technology built into them. With Auto-Reconnect you can successfully charge a variety of devices that might fail otherwise. The fail happens because the the device being charged might lock on to a very tiny stream of power, or possibly stop charging altogether because of the drop in power supply on a big climb. The D2’s will see this issue as it’s happening and automatically restart the charge process when there’s a higher power supply available. This charging shut down is a somewhat common struggle when using a  dynamo charging units that are not incorporating a pass-through power bank, so this is a pretty exciting feature to have. The Igaro D2-Standard has charge optimization built into it which is set for 12 MPH. This adds a nice little boost to the power output that the D2-Lite (or any other dynamo chargers) do not have. 

    Worth Mentioning (runner up):

    Cinq5 Smart Power Pack II

    Cinq5 Smart Power Pack II: I would be remiss to not mention that while the Smart Power Pack II is not a new product, it is something that’s been gaining in popularity in the past 18 months. This is due to the fact that this power bank is pretty awesome. It is capable of adjusting it’s power intake with the power supply being offered AND it can charge and be charged (act as a pass-through). These are features that all 3 of the next generation of dynamo chargers are working to address. So if you have a charging unit that you’d like to breathe new life into, you might want to consider getting the Smart Power Pack II

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    Looking for more info about using dynamo power? Check out these blogposts:
    - Dynamo Lighting Basics
    - USB Charging w/Dynamo Power

    Here are some relevant links for our shop:
    Dynamo Charging Units - Dynamo Products - Dynamo Lights  -  Dynamo Wheels