Brooklyn Bicycle Co. Franklin

79/100
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Facts

Gender
Release Year
Wheel Size
Number of Gears
Weight
34, 33, 31 lb
Suspension
Frame Material

Summary of Reviews

We have read all expert and user reviews on the Brooklyn Bicycle Co. Franklin. In summary, this is what cyclists think.

12 reasons to buy

  • The Franklin comes in two builds: 8 Speed with an external derailleur and 26” (size M) or 700c (L) wheels or 3 Speed with hub gearing and 650b wheels.
  • The frame comes in two sizes, S/M and L, with a total height range of 4'11" to 6'3".
  • A reviewer enjoys the relaxed upright position afforded by the swept-back handlebars.
  • Testers agree the faux leather Selle Royal saddle is comfortable.
  • The 35mm (1.375") puncture-resistant tires roll quickly, say owners and experts.
  • The Franklin 3 Speed's Shimano NEXUS hub requires less maintenance than external derailleurs.
  • The Franklin 8 Speed has five color choices, the 3 Speed has three. All have matching fenders and chainguards.
  • An expert and multiple owners admire the elegant, aesthetic design.
  • A professional assembly is included in the price.
  • Brooklyn Bicycle Co. provides a limited lifetime warranty on the frame and fork.
  • The Franklin comes with fenders and mounts for front and rear racks.
  • Owners praise Brooklyn's customer support.

6 reasons not to buy

  • A 6’1″ reviewer feels cramped on the large frame despite being rated for up to 6'3".
  • The limited gear range of the 3 Speed will make climbing hills a challenge.
  • The 3-speed internal hub clicks, frustrating one owner.
  • A buyer struggles to attach the rear rack, which Brooklyn claims is compatible with all its bikes.
  • The faux leather grips are slippery when wet, according to an expert.
  • Not all Franklin frames have bottle cage bosses.

Bottom line

The Brooklyn Bicycle Co. Franklin is a mid-step commuter available in two steel-framed builds: 8 Speed and 3 Speed. Reviews, though sparse, praise the bike for its elegant design, comfortable ride, and fast-rolling tires. It comes with fenders and mounting points for racks, but a buyer struggles to fit the "universal" rear rack. The L size is rated for up to 6'3", but a 6'1" tester feels cramped. Another tester finds the 3-speed gearing insufficient on climbs. Overall, the aesthetic and practical Franklin is considered a good budget-friendly city bike, especially given the included professional assembly and lifetime warranty included.

Expert Reviews

82/100 based on 1 rated expert review
82
Femme Cyclist

Brooklyn Franklin Bike Review

The Brooklyn Franklin is a great choice thanks to its simple, attractive Dutch-style design, comfortable riding position, and attractive price point.

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User Ratings

95/100 based on 4 ratings
  • 5 star
    75%
  • 4 star
    25%
  • 3 star
    0%
  • 2 star
    0%
  • 1 star
    0%

Rankings

Compared to other bikes
#259 Best Commuter
Bottom 30%
#22 Best Retro - Vintage
Bottom 40%
#650 Best of All Bikes
Bottom 30%

Bike Comparison

Brooklyn Bicycle Co. Franklin in comparison to averages

Forum Discussions

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