Sadly, Brompton hasn’t made the T Line Electric faster for US riders, so I’m afraid you have the UK speed limit of 15.5 mph instead Class 1 pedal assist not exceeding 20 mph.
I first experienced the e-Motiq system in 2024, when I tried the larger 20 inch. Brompton G Line. This powerful rear-mounted engine, capable of hitting 20 mph, provided a more stable ride compared to the front-mounted model, and when pushed felt more natural than towed. The redesign also puts the weight back, so the folding mechanism remains balanced.
There are three levels of power assistance available here, plus Push Assist (more on that below), and the e-Motiq system also adapts to your driving style. Monitors pedal force and cadence. How often you stop and start over your first 62 miles on the bike adjusts how power is used. This is not to gain extra mileage, but to make your journey smoother and more natural.
During testing, I didn’t notice any changes as I racked up miles, but I was very impressed with how normal the bike felt. Well, it’s normal for a slightly wobbly upright design and small 16-inch wheels. Yes, there was a surge of power when I started pedaling, but the initial acceleration was manageable. I felt more like I was pushing my legs more, instead of locking the car on my bike.
My test bike was a single speed, but there is also a four-speed option is available. Driving around London, I didn’t need more than one gear as the engine just takes the effort out of any hills. The endless traffic also means it’s harder to top speed for long periods of time, but when the road opened up, I was impressed by how easily it was able to switch between assist and reverse power to stick to 15.5 mph. I can only guess, but on the highways of America, I think I would want four gears. I would also like the speed limiter to be added. It’s a shame Brompton only thought to include one of those things.
I also rode a few miles without the battery pack, and was pleasantly surprised. It weighs less than my old steel Brompton, and feels much better to carry, too. I carried the e-Motiq Electric Line up many flights of stairs, to the London Underground, threw it into the trunk of a taxi at 2am, and left it in a restaurant cloakroom only once. It’s light and small enough to just carry with you, and also inexpensive enough that you’ll never pack it up and leave it on the road.
I have also been able to ride non-electric titanium Brompton T-Linewhich at 17.64 pounds, was almost light. If you don’t need electric power, then it is the best commuter bike.
Regulation, Surplus, and Competition
Photo: Chris Haslam
It’s small, but the handle-mounted controller does a number of nice things. There is a start assist button, which if you press just before you start at traffic lights, or hit a hill for example, it will give you a big boost to start. It’s not loud—you need to be quiet though to get in.
