Brompton Gear Guide: Understanding the C Line 4-speed, 6-speed, and 12-speed Options
Choosing the right number of gears can make a big difference in how your Brompton feels to ride. Whether you’re pedaling through city streets or climbing steep hills, gears let you control how hard you need to work — so you can ride comfortably no matter the terrain.
In simple terms, bicycle gears change how much effort you put into each pedal stroke. Lower-numbered gears make pedaling easier, perfect for riding uphill or starting from a stop. Higher-numbered gears make it harder to pedal, but they help you go faster on flat or downhill roads. By shifting gears, you can keep a steady, comfortable rhythm — known as your cadence — no matter where you’re riding.
The Brompton C Line is available in three gearing options: 4-speed, 6-speed, and 12-speed. Each one is designed to match a different type of rider and route — so there’s a perfect C Line for everyone.
12-Speed: Maximum Range and Versatility
The 12-speed C Line offers Brompton’s broadest range of gears, giving you unmatched flexibility. It combines a 3-speed internal gear hub with 4 external sprockets, for a total of 12 unique gear combinations.
This setup provides smooth, evenly spaced gear changes — with no overlap — making it the best choice for riders who want top performance across all conditions. The 12-speed makes climbing steep hills easier, while still offering high-speed potential on flat terrain.
If you value a smooth, versatile ride and want to tackle everything from commutes to weekend adventures, this is the one to choose.
6-Speed: Balanced and Practical
The 6-speed C Line is the classic all-rounder — ideal for everyday riding in mixed terrain. It uses a 3-speed internal hub paired with 2 external sprockets, creating a useful gear range that handles moderate hills comfortably and keeps you moving quickly on the flats.
It’s a smart choice for riders who want flexibility without complexity. If you’re confident in your fitness on gentle hills or want one bike that does a bit of everything, the 6-speed is a great match. It’s also the most affordable multi-gear option while stocks last.
4-Speed: Lightweight City Simplicity
The 4-speed C Line is built for city life — quick, light, and efficient. It uses 4 external sprockets without an internal hub, keeping the system lighter and simpler.
This setup shines on mostly flat streets and short commutes, giving you just enough gearing for a smooth, fast ride. It’s the lightest C Line option, making it popular among performance-minded riders who value speed and simplicity over hill-climbing power.
Choosing Your Perfect C Line
- 12-speed: The widest range and smoothest ride
- 6-speed: Versatile and practical for everyday use
- 4-speed: Lightest weight for fast, flat city riding
No matter which you choose, every C Line folds small, rides beautifully, and is hand-built for years of enjoyment.
