Peter Henshaw
Oh dear, the Bickerton lives on. A long aluminium tube surmounted by some wobbly looking handlebars – it’s all horribly familiar. Actually, the iXi looks a lot more elegant than any Bickerton ever was. But I ask you, belt drive! I have memories of an early belt-drive Birdy of almost legendary inefficiency. ‘Like cycling through treacle,’ was one of the kinder verdicts on this ‘clean, grease-free’ system. And why does the iXi split in half instead of folding down properly? The ‘impact resistant’ drinks holder looks very swish, but will your tea be impact resistant too? The in-frame storage could be handy if you need to carry a banana. And here’s the punchline: £999 for the split-apart version, with not much change from £1,200 if you specify the optional lights, luggage, mudguards and key fob. Still, the website is very nice.
VERDICT – MISS
Gary Lovell
…carefully thought out, but they used all the wrong thoughts…
For – step-thru frame, carrying handle and front disk brake (no rim wear). Against – heavy aluminium frame with no rear suspension and 100 psi balloon tyres, which must give a harsh bumpy ride.The bike does not fold, but separates (eventually) into too many unmanageable bits. And quick releases everywhere mean any of these parts can be stolen by passing criminals.
The oil-free belt drive is nice, but this system will give no positive feel. It needs a chain fully enclosed in a lightweight chaincase (this would be possible, because the rear end does not fold).There aren’t enough gears either (five or six hub gears should be the minimum), and the back-pedalling coaster brake is not up to busy stop-go urban commuter traffic in my opinion.
Surprisingly on such an expensive bike, there are no mudguards or lights as standard, and the basket system – although adequate – seems to have to stay on the bike once fitted. It looks as though it would seriously inhibit the separation of the bike for storage. The price is outrageous – £1,130 as I would equip it. I would expect to pay nearer £380 for this sort of machine.
This bike has been very carefully thought out, but they used all the wrong thoughts. I’m confused as to what it is actually for. I can only think it is suitable as a very short-haul shopping bike.
VERDICT – MISS
Specification
iXi Breakaway UK £999 (plus £40 p&p) . USA $1,289 (plus shipping) .Weight (claimed) 12.3kg (27lb) Folded dimensions (claimed) 91cm x 61cm x 38cm . Folded volume(estimated) 211 litres (7.5 cu ft) . Gear system Nexus 4-spd hub (with belt drive) . Gear Ratios (estimated) 49″ – 91″ Manufacturer Delta Cycle Corp. tel +1 800 474 6615 mail customerservice@ixibike.com
