[Mark Shimonkevitz]

Greetings,

I am a new member from the USA. Currently travel a lot, with either my Brompton or my Bike Friday. Interest in small-wheel bikes has led me to Moulton.

I was able to ride a new TSR-2 at Lola bikes in The Hague while on holiday last month, and that really got my attention. The suspension and ride quality over the cobbles was delightful.

So I am considering starting with an older F frame model, maybe as a bit of a restoration project, and adding drop bars.

I weight 225-230 lbs. (104 kg). What is the weight limit for the older Moultons?

Thank you!

[CLIVE FENNER]

I can’t see your weight being a problem, but it may be worth considering a classic Molton with the stronger series two rear forks. Find out about the best tyres to use & tyre pressure’s.

[Alexander Johnston]

Hi Mark
Bear in mind that F frame Moultons are now about 50 years old and were made when the average British male weighed about 175 lbs.
Also bear in mind that some bikes will be used much more than others and that some models are stronger than others.
Steel is a great material for bikes but like everything else it doesn’t last for ever.
Generally the later the date of manufacture the stronger the frame as a result of design improvements although there are exceptions.
The Raleigh made bikes such as the Major were particularly robust having the rotated seat tube, brazed frame and Series 2 rear forks.
Also note that a modern Moulton TSR which is built to a higher specification than the F frame bicycles has a maximum permissible weight of 264 lbs (rider and luggage).
Frankly in your shoes I wouldn’t take the risk.

[Alexander Johnston]

Hi Mark
Try the TSR 27 if you get the opportunity.
It will give you a much wider gearing range and the superb ride quality.
Also it’s comfortable and fast.
It doesn’t fold like a Brompton but a much smoother, faster ride than either the Brompton or Birdy.

[Mark Shimonkevitz]

TSR is beyond my budget right now. But I’m sure the 27 is a great bike. I have 27 speed gearing on my Bike Friday, and that makes it usable just about anywhere.

Differing opinions on the weight issue. I was hoping that there had been some official guidance, based on the serious engineering background.

Thanks to all!

[Alexander Johnston]

I’m not aware of any official guidance and I’d be surprised if it existed. I suspect – but could of course be wrong – that weight of rider simply wasn’t an issue for manufacturers in the 1960s but has since become a consideration as people have become taller and heavier.

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