Minivelo

Mini velos are otherwise full-sized bicycles with 20″ wheels and
road-ish components and ergonomics

Some Mini-Velo FAQ’s that no-one has asked yet but we thought they might.

1. What are MiniVelos?
They are 20” Road bikes originating in Japan and Korea. Now becoming popular for riders who enjoy the responsive fun ride.

2. What size are the wheels?
There are a few different 20” sizes around – from the old imperial 20x1 1 /8 “ size through the standard BMX size (406 ETRTO) to the BMX racer size (451 ETRTO). Some of our MiniVelo’s have 406 as rims and tyres are more easily found in bike shops in this size, and some have 451 as these ride faster, keep rolling longer (less tiring) and have more of a normal bike feel due to the increased gyroscopic effect due to the slightly larger size.

3. Are MiniVelos okay for tall people?
Most of our MiniVelos will fit people up to 6ft tall. For taller people longer seat posts, stem risers and handlebars with more rise are available as extras. The extra height may require re-fitting of brake and if fitted, gear cables. If you think you may need longer or taller please give us a call prior to ordering as there may be an extra charge.

4. What sort of ride can you expect from a MiniVelo?
Very much like a normal bike, but with quicker steering and quicker to get up to speed. Most people get used to the ride within a few minutes; you will get a responsive, fun, lively “Mini Velo” ride. The models that have the shorter wheelbase and more upright geometry will be more lively, those with longer wheelbase and more relaxed geometry will be less so - but still more lively than a bike with 700c wheels.

5. Will my MiniVelo be assembled when it’s delivered?
Only a little bit. The bike will have been fully checked in our workshop prior to being boxed and dispatched, but you’ll need to fit the front wheel and turn the handlebars round. Full instructions will be supplied but you’ll need your own 15mm spanner and a 4mm allen key and to be competent at doing the job. If you have any doubts at all of your abilities or if you just don’t want to do it yourself then you should take it to a local bike shop and ask them to do it for you.

6. Can I order outside the UK?
Yes but contact us for shipping costs.

7. Can I carry luggage on MiniVelo?
Small amounts of luggage can be carried on the front either in handlebar bags or on one of the Velo-Orange front racks available for some Minivelos. Small seat bags are permitted such as will take an inner tube and a banana, but not large seat bags. Rear panniers and racks are not permitted on any current models.

8. Can I fit mudguards to the MiniVelo?
The Soma Minivelos can be fitted with mudguards,

9. Can I use my MiniVelo for tricks, competition or off-road?
No, the MiniVelo is not designed for trick riding of any sort, nor is it designed for competition, stunting, jumping or any off-road use.

10. Where can I test ride MiniVelos?
MiniVelos are available for hire at London Recumbents in Battersea Park and Dulwich Park, £8 an hour. Info on locations and opening times is at www. londonrecumbents.com.

11. Can I fit a child-seat to my MiniVelo?
No. Categorically not. Minivelos are designed for use by one person only.