by Larry Lagarde

You may have noticed the "Out Of Stock" note at the top of the page for the Kent Ultralite 6 speed. Well, that note is there because Kent International (and RideTHISbike.com) are now out of stock on this model. Worse yet, Kent has notified me that they are probably not going to offer more of these extremely popular & economical magnesium-aluminum folding bikes in the future.

Why?
Although I am not Kent's spokesman, I can guess that there are a couple of reasons why Kent is dropping this line. For one, the Chinese government is ending a large subsidy it created to reduce the cost of the high tech facility needed to build the diecast, magnesium-aluminum folding bikes. The result has been a steady increase in manufacturing costs for this bike. Add to that the rising costs of fuel, materials and labor and the result is a huge decrease in profitability for this model.

Kent's president and general manager have both been busy making the rounds looking at several aluminum folding bike protoypes to take the place of the Ultralite 6 speed. In fact, it appears that Kent is moving forward with a welded aluminum folding bike that is similar in appearance to the fabled Aerlite magnesium folding bike. Kent's model is not magnesium; however, it is said to be quite light and strong.

While the Ultralite 6 speed was far from the perfect folding bike, it had many admirers and a strong following among New Yorkers and other urbanites. Despite the bike's quirks, I'll miss it.

If all the positive reviews of the Ultralite left you interested in the bike, you're not alone. Several people have already asked that I put their name down should more become available at some point. If you feel the same way, let me know. I'll be happy to add you to the list.

Labels: Ultralite-folding-bike

This morning, I received an email asking about the differences between the Kent Superlites sold exclusively on RideTHISbike.com and the Kent Ultralite sold on Amazon and several other websites. Since many of these questions pop up several times a week, I'm posting my response here for the benefit of everyone.

I saw the video about the three Kent bikes on YouTube, and am now thinking of sending back the 6 speed Kent folder I purchased on Amazon (it has not arrived yet) & replacing it with the Nexus. But I had several questions, I was hoping you could help me with my decision:

Q: Does the Nexus have pedals that are only rideable on one side?
A: All 3 of the Kent folding bikes have the same type of folding pedal. The pedal folds in only one direction and has a lever on the bottom that locks the pedal in the riding position. Kent plans to make dual sided pedals available next year. Meanwhile, if you must have dual sided folding pedals, I've seen them from time to time on eBay for $15-40.

Q: What does the cable do that is shown in the picture at ridethisbike.com? I loved the clean lines of the bike shown on the YouTube video, not sure if there was a cable present because it was a bit dark.
A: The single cable on the Superlite Nexus 3 is the shifter cable for the grip shifter on the handlebars.

Q: Does it weigh 23, 24, or 25 pounds?
A: Kent International makes 3 folding bikes (besides the 6 spd and the Nexus, there's a single speed too). Following are the weights for each model:

1 Spd Kent Superlite Folding Bike: 22 lbs.
3 Spd Kent Superlite Nexus Folding Bike: 24 lbs.
6 Spd Kent Ultralite Folding Bike: 25 lbs.

In 2006, Kent started with the 6 speed and they sent me one to review. I was impressed but I also sent back a list of suggestions that would make the bike better. That list led to them making the single speed and Nexus models and granting me an exclusive to sell them.

Back when there was just the Ultralite 6 speed, that bike weighed 23 lbs. With the introduction of the Superlite series in June of 2007, the Ultralite was outfitted with fenders (the same fenders as on the Superlites). Those fenders added another pound of weight.

Q: Are the levers for folding made of plastic or metal?
A: There are 3 quick release levers used on the Kent Superlite and Ultralite folding bikes. The primary quick release folds the frame; the other 2 are for adjusting or removing the seat and the handlebars.

All quick releases on the Kent Superlite and Ultralite folding bikes are made of metal alloy. Also, the primary quick release for folding/unfolding the frame has a clear vinyl cover over the end to prevent the lever from scratching the frame.

Q: Are coaster brakes repairable?
A: Coaster brakes are wonderful. They're low maintenance, reliable and eliminate the need for brake pads, cables and levers - items that eventually require replacement (brake pads also wear out rims so the rims on a coaster last longer too). Coaster brakes can be repaired/replaced if necessary and are readily available.

Q: Is the mph between the 6 speed & the Nexus noticeable?
A: There is; the Superlite is faster.

Due to the gearing, you can cruise at a higher rate of speed on the Superlite Nexus 3. The difference is about 2-3 mph which sounds minor; however, if you're riding more than a couple of city blocks, you'll notice it.

Q: Is the bike durable? I plan to use it mostly for commuting, throwing it behind the seat of my car, and local shopping. (two miles each way) I usually keep bikes forever, my one and only 'cumbersome' has been with me for over 15 years. So I hope to keep the folder a lifetime too.
A: The Superlite and Ultralite folding bikes are sturdy and durable. Because the bike frame is so light, Kent was able to use standard bike components that have been proven rather than parts that are delicate.

Q: Is the bike heavy? I am small in stature (about 5' 2" 120 lbs.) so lifting a heavy bikes is a bit difficult.
A: All of the Kent folding bikes weigh less than 26 lbs. They are at least several pounds lighter than other folding bikes and much lighter than the average store bought mountain bike.

Q: Why are the Kent folding bikes so light?
A: The Kent folding bikes are made from a special magnesium aluminum alloy. Magnesium is among the lightest of metals; it also is stronger for its weight.

Q: Why does it cost so little for a Kent folding bike?
A: Using the latest in technology, the frames for the Kent folding bike are die cast. Instead of someone tediously cutting tubing and welding it together, molten magnesium aluminum alloy is poured into a mold. Seconds later, it's x-rayed to assure quality. If there is a problem, the frame is rejected and melted down for reuse. As a result, there is zero waste and production time is just a fraction of that needed for a conventional bike.

Q: Is it comfortable to ride?
A: Another quality of magnesium is that it has greater shock absorbtion qualities than steel or aluminum. Thus, Kent folding bikes have a gentler ride than similar sized folding bikes that weigh even more.

Q: What are the differences between the Ultralite 6 Speed & Superlite Nexus?
A: The Superlite Nexus 3 has a higher cruising speed; the Nexus model is also almost maintenance free whereas the derailleur on the Ultralite 6 speed hangs low and will pick up grass clippings, twigs, etc. when in low gear. The Superlite models have a better seat and hand grips (the seat has more padding; the grips are a comfy soft rubber).

LL

Labels: bike-FAQ, Kent-Ultralite-folding-bike, Superlite-folding-bike, Ultralite-folding-bike

Following are answers to questions that come up regularly regarding the Kent Ultralite folding bikes.

Q: Are the Kent Ultralite folding bikes really light?
A: The Superlite and Ultralite folding bikes are made from an extremely light but strong magnesium/aluminum alloy and weigh from 22-25 lbs.; thus, they ARE lighter than virtually any other folder available. If you removed the fenders, kickstand and carry rack, they'd weigh around 20 lbs.

Q: Will Kent Ultralite folding bikes really fit in an airline legal suitcase?
A: I have fit Ultralites into airline legal suitcases of 28 inches, the type that are readily available at discount stores such as Big Lots, Kmart or Walmart for $50 or less (with roller wheels and slide out handles). Of course, you could buy a Samsonite Oyster but I think that's overkill.

Folded dimensions of the Kent Superlite and Ultralite folding bikes are 27"x24"x15". To reduce the 15" dimension, unbolt the front wheel, then open the QR on the handlebar stem to remove the handlebars. This will shave off 5" with only minimal effort.

To fit the bike into a smaller suitcase, remove the handlebars, both wheels and the rear carry rack, that will drop the folded dimensions to @ 22"x20"x10". I used bubble wrap and pipe insulation foam from the hardware store to protect all the components.

Q: What accessories come standard with the Kent Ultralite Folding Bikes?
A: The bikes are outfitted from the factory with rust free (plastic) fenders, an alloy carry rack, folding pedals and a kickstand. Both the handlebar and seat post have quick releases so they are height adjustable to fit the size of the rider.

Q: How are the Superlite folding bikes geared?
A:
Superlite 1 Speed:
Using 16" 35-349 rims: 38.7 gear inches
Using 16" 37-305 rims: 46.2 gear inches

Superlite 3 Speed (Shimano Nexus hub):
Using 16" 35-349 rims:
1st Gear (low spd): 33.9
2nd Gear (medium): 46.2
3rd Gear (high spd): 62.8

Using 16" 37-305 rims:
1st Gear (low spd): 28.4
2nd Gear (medium): 38.7
3rd Gear (high spd): 52.6

Q: How can I make the bike go faster?
A: The easiest upgrade is to replace the sprocket on the rear hub with a sprocket with fewer teeth, making the rear wheel turn faster for each revolution of the pedals. Bike shops readily offer sprockets with 13-16 teeth; price is around $10-15 and shops can easily handle the installation for you.

Q: What size rims are on the Superlite & Ultralite folding bikes?
A: 305mm (16" x 1.5"; 28 hole)

Q: How long is the seat post?
A: Total post length: 50cm (just shy of 20")
Recommended max length (min. insertion safety hashes to top of seat): 18"

Q: Where can I find more photos or videos of these bikes?
Superlite 1 Speed Folding Bike Photos on Mississippi River Levee
Superlite 1 Spd Folding Bike Video Riding Thru the French Quarter
Superlite 1 Spd Folding Bike Video Riding Beside the Mississippi River

Labels: bike-FAQ, Kent-Ultralite-folding-bike, Superlite-folding-bike, Ultralite-folding-bike

Kent notified me this morning that they are taking advantage of the Labor Day holiday weekend to transfer the Ultralite folding bikes across the continent to their primary distribution warehouse in New Jersey. Effective immediately, all orders that have not made it out the door are on hold until the inventory transfer is complete.

My Kent rep apologized for the inconvenience but the transfer should result in faster shipping times. The Labor Day holiday was deemed the best time to make the inventory transfer because the shipping department is closed longer than over a typical weekend.

Larry

Labels: Ultralite-folding-bike

by Larry Lagarde

The Hip, Retro, Single Speed Ultralite Folding Bike

Back in the day, cycling wasn't about hurtling down a mountain goat path or the Tour d'France; it was about leisurely neighborhood rides with friends, bicycling to the park or beach, riding to the movie theater, grocery, post office or campground general store. With the Ultralite 1 speed folding bike, not only have those days returned; they're better. Here's why.



It's Comfortable
A unique feature of the Ultralite's diecast magnesium-aluminum frame is that it dampens road shock far better than unsuspended steel or aluminum bicycles. The Ultralite's upright riding position prevents your upper body from tiring because you're not forced to lean forward to grab the handlebars. Lastly, the seat's pillow like padding let's you keep riding when cyclists on other bikes are saddle sore.

It's Low Maintenance
One speed means no shifter, shifter cable, derailleur or gears to maintain. The Ultralite folding bike is highly resistant to rust; only the ball bearings and some other small parts are made from steel. With coaster brakes providing the stopping power, there are no brake pads to adjust or replace. Without brake pads, there are no unsightly brake levers or cables to wear out. Braking will no longer thin out or discolor your wheel rims either.

It's Light Yet Strong
At just 23 lbs, the Ultralite folding bike weighs less than most folding bikes, making it easier to pedal. Picking up the bike to place it in your trunk or carrying it up the stairs won't wear you out either. The sturdy, diecast magnesium-aluminum alloy frame allows the Ultralite folding bike to carry more than other folders too.

It's Practical
The Ultralite folding bike has quick releases on the seat post and handlebar tubes, allowing the bike to adjust to the size of the rider. The durable rear carry rack is great for shopping. The folding pedals let you walk beside the bike without bruising your leg; they also make the bike fold up tighter. Fenders prevent dirt from staining your clothes. The tires have raised center treads for riding with ease on the road as well as knobby outer treads for traction when riding off pavement.

It's Fun
Available only in cherry red color, the single speed Ultralite's carbon black tires and fenders are contrasted by gleaming alloy handlebars, seat post and crank arms. Combining this 60's era color scheme with the bike's pleasant, easy going style results in an eye catching ride that makes everyone smile - including you.

It's Affordable
The Ultralite 1 speed costs just $169 including shipping and handling (within the USA lower 48 states).

Simpler times have returned. Order a single speed Ultralite today.

Labels: 1-speed-folding-bike, folding-bike-slideshow, Ultralite-folding-bike