Optimized specifically for the limited space needs of RVers and boaters, the all-new Flatbike Change Adventure folding bike is designed to be a self-contained force in two-wheeled escapism. Whether you slip it into an RV to pedal the maze of logging roads around camp, throw it aboard a packraft to connect two waypoints separated by water, or hop a train between epic rides in high mountain resorts, the Change is built to explore via any multimodal means necessary.
Unlike like-minded people Bike Friday All-Packa back, the Change is a full-size bike available in 17-, 19-, and 21-inch frame sizes and rides on 700c wheels shod with 38mm (1.5-inch) IRC Intezzo tires. Flatbike describes it as a rugged hybrid designed for off-road exploration and positions it as a gravel bike alternative for those who want an upright riding position without drop bars.
Since 2016, Flatbike has distributed folding bikes from the Taiwanese manufacturer Changebike, including the Changebike model. Change the hybrid 811 which served as a predecessor to Change Adventure. The company admits that the 811 Hybrid was a best-seller, but it believed there was room for improvement, so it took control of the build specifications to create the Change Adventure.
Flat bike
The Adventure still has the same ISO 4210-certified, double-butted 7005 aluminum folding frame and rigid carbon fiber fork as the 811 Hybrid, but the changes literally start from the ground up. Flatbike swaps the old Mavic 27.5 wheels for a set of Shimano 700c rims that it describes as faster and lighter. He also says the new hoops open up a wider tire selection and allow him to add Tannus Armor puncture protection to help keep things pumped up and rolling smoothly on long, arduous off-road expeditions.
Flatbike also streamlines the drivetrain, swapping the previous 3×9 system for more efficient 1×11 and 2×11 options. The 1×11 version pairs a single 40-tooth chainring with a 51-tooth cassette and Shimano Deore 11-speed shifting. The 2×11 bike, on the other hand, features a pair of 46/30t chainrings, a Shimano GRX front derailleur, Deore 11-speed rear shifting and a 42t cog. The 2×11, in particular, gives the bike a comparable gear range without the redundant center chainring, as shown below.
Flat bike
Flatbike is also looking to improve comfort for the type of long rides the Change Adventure is designed for, swapping out the Venzo split saddle it also uses on its latest folding gravel bike, a pair of wide Ergon grips and the choice of the buyer of MTB, flat or SPD quick release pedals. Regardless of which pedal option the buyer chooses, each will detach in seconds, allowing the bike to fold flatter.
As for that folding, Flatbike says the 26 lb (11.7 kg) Change Adventure folds into its packaged 37 x 14 x 30 inch (94 x 35.6 x 76.2 cm) form in less than 'one minute. It is intended to fit in a car trunk, RV locker, truck cabin or on a small boat and also comes with a black canvas carry bag that makes it easy to transport aboard a train or bus. Owners will likely want the protection of a hard case for air travel, but its small size and quick fold promise to make it more practical than a traditional bike.
Flat bike
Flatbike announced the new Change Adventure this week, and the bike starts at $2,080 USD. If the geometry or construction of the Change Adventure doesn't quite suit your riding, but you like the idea of a full-size folding bike for off-road use, Flatbike also offers gravel bike versions and of Change folding mountain bikes, one or two of which are priced lower than the Adventure.
Source: Flat bike
