The IF Mode folding bike is one of the most interesting and unique designs in our shop. The bike is on display in NYCeWheels’ window, and every morning as I walk into the shop, it catches my eye—folded up, its two wheels layer together perfectly, creating a soft curved profile that contrasts the strong lines from its frame — drawing my eye in like some exhibit at the Modern Museum of Art.
Today, my co-worker Peter informed me that NYCeWheels was getting in more of the IF Mode in nyc, and I decided it was high time I took it out for a little test ride. Could it be as fun to ride as it was to look at?
IF Mode folds with ease and efficiency
The first thing you notice about the IF folding bikes is how easy they are to fold. Unclasp one hinge in the center of the bike and it folds directly in half, allowing the front wheel to magnetically adhere to the back. There is no wasted space in this fold. The wheels fit flush together and are perfectly aligned so that, from the side, it appears that you are looking at one wheel instead of two. Amazingly, the wheels not only lie together, they also ROLL together, so that even when the IF Mode folding bike is folded, you can grab it by a comfortable handle on the back, and roll it down the sidewalk like you’re walking your dog—your smooth, sleek, incredibly well designed dog.
A comfortable, easy to use folding bike
Unfolded, the IF Mode is comfortable and easy to ride. Although it is a folding bike, its larger frame and 26” wheels make it feel like you’re riding a full sized mountain bike. I decided to ride over Carl Schurz Park and head north up the East Side bike path. This path is partially made out of cobble stones, but the IF Mode’s, thicker Kenda Kwick Roller Sport tires absorbed the rougher terrain easily.
By the end of my ride, my perception of the IF Mode was subtly altered. IF Mode Folding Bike is designed to look beautiful, but it is a beauty born of functionalism. It’s nice to look at but first and foremost it is easy to use. Its larger frame, plush seat, and intuitive heel activated shifters make it easy to ride, and its perfectly designed hinges make it easy to fold, and take with you when you go.
Can’t wait for the new IF Modes to arrive!
Having finally ridden the IF Mode its difficult to imagine that any aspect of the design could be drastically improved, and yet, the new bikes that are coming in are a third generation model, every component gone over and refined to produce an even more polished final product. Now that the new IF Modes are finally arriving on the market, don’t hesitate, come by the shop experience this bike for yourself!
Jack
