A very disgruntled customer
I purchased my BikeFriday NWT in July 2004 and have had a never ending list of problems with this bike from day one. Here is a list of some of the problems experienced: The bolt that holds the front derailleur assembly was stripped and fell off when I unpacked the bike on day one. The bike was received with no shim in the seat post so that the seat could not be fastened tightly The chain broke after one month's usage. The rear brake cable broke after 7 months usage. The chain guard (the black part) was set too far from the small inner front sprocket, and failed to keep chain on when I shifted to the low gears. Then the chain got jammed, and I had to loosen the black chain guard to release the chain. I finally removed the chain guard from the bike - too much hassle. Screws came loose (got lost) on the Travelcase suitcase causing the handle to get loose. I recently ordered a new replacement rear cassette to replace my worn cassette after 3 years and BikeFriday shipped the wrong size cassette even though they told me that it was identical. Yes, I still ride the bike, but the never ending problems that keep occuring is discouraging since I thought I bought a custom fit, super bike.
Bike Friday responds:
Dale appears to have a frame that is slightly too big given his age. His suggestion - that as most of our customers get older (60 and up - Dale is now 67), they will require a smaller frame and more up-right position - is very valid, and we try hard to be mindful to specify bikes with these criteria in mind.
We have offered him a replacement shorter main frame and stem that is built as needed - gratis- to get him back on his bike in a more comforatable configureation.
As for the Capreo 9-32, this was a BF custom part discontinued because it made adjustments at the factory difficult when installed.
Dale also mentioned a split rim along the center of the rim - between spoke holes - about a year after having the bike. We encourage our customers to seek our help in matters such as this. Even if the original maker of the part won't stand behind their product, we will. Ouir goal is a life time relationship with our customers.
We are pleased to hear that Dale's wife is happy with her bike.Cheers, Hanz and Hugh