I bought my Grasshopper fx new in Germany in 2021. I added the optional rear cargo rack, water bottle holder, telescoping front end, improved rear suspension, underslung handlebars, mid-frame pannier racks, hydraulic brakes, light system with dynamo hub, better seat, flag, and Rohloff geared hub. I absolutely love riding it! It is incredibly comfortable and doesn't make my nether regions sore when I ride it. It is a little slower than a regular road bike, it requires more pedaling effort from your quads, and it is bear to ride when going up hills. However, on flat, hard surfaces, it is a dream to ride. Even bumpy surfaces are relatively pleasant to ride over. I can - and have - ridden it for hours at a time. I don't need specially padded shorts or clothes to ride it. I'm not hunched over my handlebars and my neck isn't sore from having to look up all the time. Plus, I can fold it up and put it in my trunk when I want to go somewhere with it. Twice, I've taken it to vacation spots here in Germany and I've also taken it on the train. It is more sensitive to weight shifts and carrying heavy items on the rear rack. It also takes practice to learn how to ride well; it handles differently than a normal bike. Despite this, I enjoy riding it more than I ever have a regular bike. Overall, it's a very well-made bike with a lot of neat features. I look forward to many more years with it. I highly recommend this model and manufacturer to anyone.

@RomeoWhiskeyTango

3 ай бұрын

I’ve been considering adding one of these bikes for my travels and Rohloffs are sweet. I’m curious how you geared it. What size chain ring did you use for the crank and did you stick with the standard 16 tooth cog for the SpeedHub?

I have a Speedmachine and a Grasshopper, both with the SRAM 24 gearing. The Speedmachine I find is better for long tours, the Grasshopper is more nimble and better in urban riding and also a bit lighter, plus it packs into the back of the car. Both are very comfortable. Indeed they don’t climb so well, but are fast enough for me on the flat, and are really good if there is a headwind. They are expensive, but very well built, and the Velotechnik service is top notch. I highly recommend either one if you suffer from back or other pains, or if you want a relaxed way to cycle. 😎

@TheMsPato

2 ай бұрын

How much slower is the Grasshopper on average compared to the speedmachine?

@brucebrown9604

2 ай бұрын

@@TheMsPato Not much slower, if at all, possibly better uphill, but probably slower in a headwind due to the more upright position. I think it also has to do with how the bike is equipped: my Grasshopper is barebones and light, my Speedmachine is equipped for Touring.

How does it compare to the HP Velotechnik Spirit or the Azub mini?

Looks good, but I'd be worried about buying a german bicycle due to german industry collapsing due to nolonger getting cheap gas from russia.