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Edit: watch the recorded event on YouTube.
Past cargo bike webinar recordings are also available!
Perennial Cycle of Minneapolis, Kindred Cycles of Pittsburgh, Clever Cycles of Portland, and J. C. Lind Bike Co. of Chicago are presenting a free cargo bike webinar on February 4.
The goal is to empower you with enough information so you can make the best choice for your upcoming purchase. The presenters, who are avid riders and have been taking care of cargo bike users for many years, will share their experiences to help you along the way.
SO, if you're considering buying a cargo bike in 2024, take advantage of this excellent opportunity to learn from experts. We are bringing our knowledge to you, as we understand that many people are not fortunate enough to have shops like these in their neighborhood. We expect attendees from various locations, and will be thrilled to have people join our Zoom from anywhere.
Luke has been the owner and operator of Perennial Cycle, previously known as Calhoun Cycle, for over 30 years. Throughout his career, he has consistently shown his love and dedication for utility and cargo bikes. For many years, he eagerly waited for cargo bikes to become more popular among customers.
Today, Perennial Cycle is the go-to place for cargo bike enthusiasts in Minnesota. The shop also organizes a variety of community-oriented group rides and events. Rides organized in 2023 include the Queer History Ride, the famous Pastry Rides in April, several Family Fun Rides, and DJ Dance Rides.
Eva has been the co-owner of Clever Cycles since 2014. She has been a part of the retail bike industry for 17 years and is passionate about solving problems, working with numbers, and interacting with people. Eva is originally from New York's Hudson Valley but moved west for college and fell in love with the community. She is currently a member of the executive board of BikeLoudPDX and co-hosts the BikePortland podcast.
Clever Cycles is Portland's largest and first-ever bike shop that focuses entirely on bicycles as primary transportation. The shop mainly caters to urban households that want to reduce their dependence on cars.
J.C. Lind Bike Co. has been selling European city and cargo bikes in Chicago for the past 16 years. The owner, Jon Lind, believes that bikes are more than just modes of transportation; they are lifestyle vehicles that have the power to enhance their owners' lives. Jon's passion for biking began during his time living in the Netherlands, known for its cycling-friendly culture. Furthermore, Jon's interest in transportation biking runs deep, as he remembers his mother riding her bike to work every day, even in the snow, when he was a boy.
Aiming to help customers lead car-light urban lives, J.C. Lind Bike Co. provides practical and dependable bikes.
The 10th anniversary of Kindred Cycles is coming soon! Born and raised in Pittsburgh, Katharine developed a passion for cycling while residing in Boston and has been repairing bikes ever since. Kindred Cycles has become a reality of their dream — a place where cyclists using bikes for both transportation and pleasure can receive exceptional service and benefit from the vast commuting experience and knowledge available.
Undoubtedly, electric cargo bikes have proven to be a valuable asset to individuals and families seeking to replace their cars and embrace a bike-centric lifestyle. Kindred Cycles supports a diverse and expanding community of riders united in their determination!
The latest "Minnesota Stay Safe" order began today. Staying safe at Perennial Cycle is a priority. We are working hard to keep our employees and customers as safe as possible. Due to our deep concern about safety, we will continue to be open but we will also continue with our modified manner of operation:
Front Door Only
The shop back door and Dunn Bros. entry are locked. Please come to front door to be met by staff. You won’t be allowed to enter beyond the entry of the shop, but staff will help you using our new procedures listed below:
‘No Contact' Bicycle Service Drop-Off
Repairs and tune-ups will continue, though you will not be entering the shop. Please fill out this form to give mechanics information about your service needs. Bring your bicycle to the front door of the shop, and knock or give a call. Staff will meet you at door to take your bicycle after you step away. The mechanic will follow up with a phone call after they've looked over your bicycle to discuss service. No work will begin until you've approved it.
‘No Contact' Merchandise Pick-up
The majority of our merchandise is on our website and may be purchased online. Choose ‘curbside pick up’ and come to the front of the shop. If you need assistance, give a call at (612) 827-8000 or use the online chat on our website.
Bicycle Sales by Appointment
Bicycle sales are by appointment only after the shop has closed for the day. Test rides are available. Maximum two people per appointment. Sorry, but no children at this time. The appointments are currently being grouped by style of bike. There are a maximum of 4 slots per evening. Please fill out this form if you’d like to schedule a sales appointment. Or call (612) 827-8000.
Free Shipping
Order online and have accessories delivered. Shipping is free for qualified orders over $100.
New Hours
10-6 Monday - Saturday
Closed on Sundays
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.
Borough Basket Bag L
Metro Messenger Bag L
Borough Roll Top Bag L
Carradice City Folder
Carradice Stockport Folder
UPSO Ferrybridge Folder
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 ; )
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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
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