Birdy bicycles, designed by the German company Riese & Müller, are known for their compact folding design, impressive ride quality, and versatility. Among their range, two standout models are the Birdy Rohloff and Birdy Touring bikes. Each model is crafted for specific types of riders, offering distinct features tailored for different cycling needs. In this article, we will explore both models in detail to help you understand their strengths and determine which is the best fit for your riding style.

Birdy Rohloff Bike

The Birdy Rohloff is a premium folding bike designed for cyclists who prioritize performance, durability, and versatility. Its centerpiece is the renowned Rohloff 14-speed hub, which is celebrated for its seamless gear changes, wide gear range, and low-maintenance design.

Key Features of the Birdy Rohloff:

1. Rohloff Speed hub: The 14-speed Rohloff hub is one of the main attractions of this model. With an internal gear system, it offers a massive gear range of 526%, allowing riders to tackle a variety of terrains, from steep climbs to fast descents. Shifting is incredibly smooth, even while the bike is stationary, which is a big advantage in urban environments.
2. Low Maintenance: One of the key benefits of the Rohloff hub is its durability and low maintenance. The hub is sealed, protecting it from dirt, water, and other external elements. This makes it an excellent choice for long-distance touring and for riders who don’t want to frequently adjust their bike.
3. Suspension System: Like all Birdy bikes, the Rohloff version features a full suspension system, which makes for a comfortable ride on a variety of surfaces. The suspension works exceptionally well with the high gear range, ensuring smooth and steady cycling even over uneven terrains.
4. Folding Capability: Despite its high-performance design, the Birdy Rohloff remains true to the brand’s commitment to portability. It folds into a compact size, making it easy to carry on public transportation or store in tight spaces. The folding process is simple, and once folded, the bike is small enough to fit into a car trunk or under a desk.
5. Weight and Build: With a robust aluminum frame, the Birdy Rohloff weighs slightly more than its counterparts, around 13 kg (28 lbs), due to the weight of the Rohloff hub. However, its high-quality components make this weight trade-off worthwhile for those seeking superior performance.

Birdy Touring Bike

The Birdy Touring is designed for those who enjoy extended bike tours and need a reliable, comfortable, and efficient ride. It uses a more conventional 10-speed derailleur system, making it more affordable than the Rohloff model while still offering high performance and versatility.

Key Features of the Birdy Touring:

1. 10-Speed Shimano Deore Drivetrain: The Birdy Touring is equipped with a Shimano Deore 10-speed derailleur system. This drivetrain provides a wide range of gears, suitable for both city commuting and longer touring rides. While it doesn’t offer the same seamless shifting experience as the Rohloff hub, the Deore system is known for its reliability and precision.
2. Touring-Optimized Design: The Birdy Touring is built for long-distance rides, with a focus on comfort and efficiency. It comes with features like ergonomic grips, a comfortable saddle, and a full suspension system that reduces fatigue on rough roads. The bike’s geometry also promotes a more upright and comfortable riding position, which is essential for longer trips.
3. Portability and Folding: Like the Rohloff model, the Birdy Touring folds down quickly and easily. Its compact folded size makes it an ideal option for cyclists who need a bike they can bring along on buses, trains, or planes. At around 12 kg (26 lbs), the Birdy Touring is slightly lighter than the Rohloff version, making it easier to carry.
4. Price and Accessibility: One of the major advantages of the Birdy Touring is its affordability compared to the Rohloff model. While it still carries the premium quality associated with Birdy bikes, the use of a more conventional derailleur system reduces its price, making it more accessible to a wider range of cyclists.
5. Suspension and Comfort: Like all Birdy models, the Touring version also features a full suspension system that provides a smooth ride over various surfaces. The suspension helps absorb shocks from uneven roads, making long tours more enjoyable and less fatiguing.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both the Birdy Rohloff and Birdy Touring bikes are excellent folding bikes, but they cater to slightly different needs.
• If you are a cyclist who values high-end performance, low maintenance, and superior gear range, the Birdy Rohloff is the better option. It’s ideal for long-distance touring, steep hill climbing, and riders who want a bike that can handle a wide variety of terrains with ease.
• On the other hand, if you are looking for a more affordable option that still offers excellent performance and is optimized for touring, the Birdy Touring is a great choice. It’s lightweight, portable, and versatile enough for both daily commuting and extended bike trips.
Ultimately, both bikes exemplify the Birdy brand’s commitment to quality, performance, and portability. Choosing between them comes down to your specific cycling needs and budget.
Birdybicycle
5 Vale St., St Kilda.
VIC 3182
(03) 9534 3074
[email protected]
https://www.birdybicycle.com.au