There followed a conversation that was a bit like the lyrics for Chuck Berry's "No Money Down", during which I specified exactly what I wanted from my new wheels. The titanium fittings, the Brooks saddle, the puncture-resistant tyres, and the T-bars were a given, but I'd also be dispensing with the carry rack, the three-speed gear system and the dynamo – all in the interests of less weight. And oh yes, colour: matte-black, natch, I am a child of the 1980s after all.
Will Self gushes about his old and new Brompton.
