Brompton epitomises urban mobility like almost no other bicycle brand. The compact folding bikes are particularly popular with commuters who want the flexibility to switch between cycling and public transport. With the G Line, however, the British brand has long since taken its tried-and-tested concept beyond the city limits – after all, the model is equally at home off the beaten track. An extraordinary adventure now demonstrates just how far this idea can be taken: on a 3,000-kilometre tour through southern Africa, the Brompton G Line is proving just what this compact folding bike is capable of.
To this end, Andy Donohoe, editor of the British Rolling Magazine, set off in June this year on a three-week journey through Namibia, Botswana, South Africa and Eswatini. His route took him along endless gravel tracks, remote paths and challenging mountain passes – through landscapes one would hardly associate with a folding bike. As well as the physical challenges, it was above all the encounters with people and wildlife, as well as the ever-changing landscapes, that defined his journey. The adventure was captured in the documentary “Ukuwela”, which Brompton has now released.
The 3,000-kilometre tour was therefore, not least, an extraordinary real-world test for the still relatively new G Line. With its larger 20-inch wheels, wider tyres and more off-road-oriented features, it differs significantly from the classic Brompton models. Donohoe’s journey impressively demonstrates that the bike is capable not only of short detours onto unpaved tracks, but also of extended expeditions.
More than just a cycling adventure
However, ‘Ukuwela’ is not just about the journey or the capabilities of the folding bike. Through this project, Brompton also aims to raise awareness of the work of the World Land Trust, which is committed to conserving threatened habitats around the world.
The focus is on a nature conservation project on South Africa’s Elephant Coast. The aim is to acquire a 66.3-hectare area there to bridge an existing gap between the Greater Ukuwela Nature Reserve and the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. In collaboration with the local organisation Wild Tomorrow, the aim is to create a continuous wildlife corridor that will make it easier for larger mammals in particular to migrate between their habitats.
The area in question comprises rare dry sandy forests, freshwater wetlands and grasslands, which are under threat from agricultural use and the establishment of non-native timber plantations. Amongst others, elephants, black rhinos, lions, leopards and African wild dogs would benefit from its long-term protection.
Furthermore, the project is also intended to involve the local community. Plans include funding two ranger posts and supporting the management of the protected area. In addition, 15 members of the Green Mambas, a local, women-led nature conservation group, are set to restore around 20 hectares of damaged sand forest by planting 1,000 trees. Brompton is supporting the project with 10,000 British pounds.
An adventure along gravel tracks and through the wilderness
The documentary itself focuses on the experiences encountered along the way. As well as showcasing the scenic highlights, it also depicts the hardships and unforeseen situations that arise on such a journey. It is precisely these less predictable moments that are intended to define the character of the film – a far cry from a perfectly staged travelogue.
For Brompton, ‘Ukuwela’ also presents an opportunity to showcase the G Line in an unusual setting. After all, for decades the British brand has been synonymous above all with compact urban mobility. The idea that a folding bike could also be used on an expedition lasting several weeks through southern Africa is likely to come as a surprise even to some Brompton fans.
The full film “Ukuwela” is now available to watch on Brompton’s YouTube channel. Anyone wishing to support the accompanying nature conservation project can find further information and a way to donate on the World Land Trust website.
Ready for your own adventure: the latest from the G Line
If you’re now keen to embark on an adventure with the G Line yourself, there’s also some news regarding the range: with Brompton Blue and Lake Grey, the manufacturer is adding two new colours to the colour palette of its off-road folding bike. Both feature a metallic textured finish and complement the four existing colours: Traildust White, Adventure Orange, Forest Green and Space Black.
The Brompton x and wander special edition, developed in collaboration with the Japanese outdoor brand and wander, is also still available. Among other things, it differs from the standard model in its dark grey metallic finish, yellow anodised accents, specially designed components and a matching rucksack. All variants can be found on the Brompton website.
