Airnimal folding bikes set out to give true full-size bike performance in a compact collapsible format. Driven by the desire to be able to take your best bike with you wherever you go, be it bus, train, car or plane, the concept was brought to the market. The brand offers two basic road-based models, which are both available with a variety of different specifications: the Chameleon and the Joey.

Both bikes are classed as collapsible rather than folding because they involve a level of dismantling. However, within 30 seconds they are ready to be carried aboard a bus or train in carry-on size. Within 3 minutes, they are packed into a case ready for airplane travel.

It comes with two wheel sizes: sporty 520 rims with thinner high pressure sports tyres and rims, or the versatile and slightly smaller 507 size. The latter come with thicker tyres, better suited to touring and more varied road conditions. Due to historically varied wheel sizing standards both are nominally "24 inch" but the 507 is the more common (24x1.75). Essentially, the Joey will deliver large wheel performance in a foldable package but at a more affordable price than the Chameleon. Racks and mudguards are available for all models (but do complicate the fold).

We love these bikes because they offer a very practical solution to a classic conundrum: how to bring your best bike with you on your travels. We think they've succeeded.

Airnimal Joey Explore

£950.00

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The Joey Explore is the bike for the adventurer. With 27 gears at your fingertips delivering a highly useable 22.5 to 113.5 gear inches, a robust set of wheels, a Shimano disc front brake and full mudguard and rack capability, this bike expands your touring horizon as far as you dare go. Like the Commute, a tyre upgrde to Schwalbe Marathon would be a good move for durability and puncture protection.

New for 2009/2010 is the introduction of a triple chainset to achieve 27 speeds, in place of the original SRAM Dualdrive 27 speed combined hub and derailleur system. Offering a broadly comparable range of gears, the more conventional triple chainset with front derailleur means that you'll at least have a slightly better chance of finding compatible components to fit if you find yourself in a far-flung place in need of servicing.

The Explore really is a go-anywhere bike, proven by genuinely impressive touring achievements across the globe. The spec of this bike would allow regular use as a commuter as well.

Usually stocked at our York Railway Station branch.