The tikit comes in two basic forms: the Hyperfold tikit, in which the handlebar stem is locked down using an innovative cable, and the Impulse Fold or Model-T tikit, in which the handlebar stem is locked down using a knob (like on a Brompton). The tikit also comes in three sizes: small, medium, and large, plus options for heavier riders. The small and medium tikits generally use thinner tubing than the large. Thus they are slightly lighter but are also more flexible. Below are various tikit models, plus special issues and recommended upgrades based on model year. 2007 Modelstikit.8-speed rear derailleur. Early tikit models used two brake cables to hold the stem clamp in place, and had a long slotted latch arm (the so-called dinosaur) which was prone to bending. The off-the-shelf model was available in a mixture of blue and black. This is a "hyperfold" tikit, though the term was not used in 2007. Special IssuesThis model used a slotted latch arm for locking the bike in folded position. This latch arm could bend out of position, making the bike unable to stay folded.
Recommended Upgrades
2008 ModelsHyperfold tikit.8-speed rear derailleur. This model replaced the two brake cables with a single large-diameter cable, and upgraded the latch arm (the dinosaur to a stiffer version without a slot. Certain early 2008 models may have the original 2007 latch arm. Many 2008 models also have a metal stem catch, but it is too thin and can be upgraded to a thicker metal. Model-T and "Impulse Fold" tikits.8-speed rear derailleur. The Model-T is the base model of the impulse fold tikit version, which replaced the two brake cables with a "twiddly knob" similar to that found on the Brompton. Special Issues
Recommended Upgrades
2009 ModelsThis model year introduced a variety of tikits, some with adjustable dropouts and some with fixed vertical dropouts. Near the end of the year Bike Friday introduced versions of the bikes with a modular dropout system. Just the tikit.Hyperfold version, same as before. Available in solid blue. Model T tikit.Same as before. Build-To-Order TikitsBuild-to-order tikits are available in many colors.
Recommended Upgrades
2010 ModelsThis model year revised the aardvark with a new design with a unified handle, negating the need for the safety brace. Just the tikit.Hyperfold version, same as before. Available in solid blue. Model T tikit.Same as before. Available in solid black. Build-To-Order TikitsSame as before, with customizable dropouts. Build-to-order tikits are available in many colors. 2011 Models2011 tikits added an adjustable latch peg to enable you to more easily get the bike to stay stable in folded position. They also changed the tripod leg to a replaceable bolted-on version. A new version of the bike also adopted a belt drive in lieu of a chain. Model T tikit.Same as before. Available in solid black. First Class tikit.Hyperfold version. Customizable dropouts. 8-speed Nexus rear hub. Carbon Drive tikit.Gates carbon belt design rather than a chain. Customizable dropouts. Either 8-speed Alfine, 8-speed Nexus, 8-Speed Nexus Red Stripe, or 11-speed Alfine rear hub. |
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