In this article, I take a close look at the Carrera Intercity. This is an affordable folder that can compete with some considerably more expensive bikes. It rides really well with 20” wheels, a responsive alloy frame and decent components for the money. The 8-speed Shimano gears and V-brakes are effective while the adjustable stem allows a wide range of riding positions to be accommodated. This is the cheapest folding bike I’ve ridden that felt like a proper bike, I’d be happy taking it on a long ride. Although this is still no Brompton in terms of folded size it does weight about the same at 12kg (26 lbs) and could be carried onto an underground train or into a shop at a push. Currently selling for £350 from Halfords.co.uk this really is very affordable for a decent folding bike. This bike is in some ways similar to the cheaper Carrera Transit but if you have the extra money I’d definitely go for the Intercity.
The good:
- Reasonably priced folding bike
- Fully equipped with luggage rack and full mudguards
- Decent gears and brakes
- Lively feeling frame with predictable handling
- 20” wheels
- Reasonable weight 12kg (26 lbs)
The bad:
- Quite large when folded: 83.5cm x 36cm x 66cm (33” x 14” x 26”)
Folding and unfolding the Carrera Intercity
The Carrera Intercity is a typical half way fold, very similar to the Transit. The folding process starts by lowering the saddle and then folding the frame in half. This causes the front wheel to swing around and align next to the rear wheel. Magnets catch at this point holding the wheels together and preventing the bike from swinging open. A brief tug is all that is required to break the magnets and open it back out. Finally, the handlebars can be folded over the top of the bike. It seems as though it should be possible to fold the handlebars first so that they are inside the folded package, between the wheels. However, I found that if I did this I couldn’t get the magnets to meet, just as with the Carrera Transit.
The folded package is smaller than many other more affordable folders although still over twice the volume of a Brompton at 83.5cm x 36cm x 66cm (33” x 14” x 26”). In terms of weight, the Carrera Intercity’s 12kg (26 lbs) is much more competitive, around the same as an equivalent spec Brompton, which would cost you almost three times as much.
Ride and handling of the Carrera Intercity
I was really surprised by how well this bike rides. Although in many ways it appears to be similar to the Transit, the Intercity really feels like a far superior bike. The adjustable stem enables a wide range of riding positions. This is a very significant improvement and I found that although the frame was still a little short for me I was able to achieve a position that felt pretty good. I felt confident making tight turns and braking hard on the Intercity. The forks and stem felt quite rigid and I didn’t experience any of the judder when using the front brake that was an issue with the Transit.
I’m about 181 cm (6’), I didn’t need to overextend the seat post to get a good leg extension. The Carrera Intercity’s adjustable stem and very long seat post should accommodate much smaller riders very well.
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Specifications
The Carrera Intercity’s 8-speed Shimano gearing utilizes an Altus derailleur and Revo twist grip shifter. These are lower end components but they function very well and are easily maintained. Although I wouldn’t expect this bike to be used for any serious mountain passes the range of gearing should be sufficient for hilly areas. The 20” wheel size provides a good compromise between being small enough to give a compact fold while being large enough to deal with obstacles and roll smoothly over rougher road surfaces. This is also a common size with plenty of tires choices available. The fitted V-brakes do the job of stopping, even in wet weather, although they might not be the most refined design. V-brakes are also easy to work on and pads are available everywhere.
I was pleased to see a chain wheel guard and mudguards, all practical features to keep your clothes clean. The front mudguard could definitely benefit from extending further around the back of the front wheel as my shoes got soaked when riding through puddles. I would also have preferred to see a full chain guard although I appreciate this is difficult with derailleur gearing. It also would have been nice to see quick release wheels, without these you will need to carry a spanner to repair flat tires and the process will be somewhat more irritating.
Luggage and Child Carrying on the Carrera Intercity
The Carrera Intercity is supplied fitted with an alloy luggage rack. This is a useful feature. There, of course, no integrated child seat but one could probably be fitted to the luggage rack.
Conclusion
The Carrera Intercity is quite affordable and yet in some ways can compete with considerably more expensive bikes. For example, compared to a Brompton, the Carrera Intercity is almost one-third of the cost while being about the same weight, having larger wheels and in some respects having superior gearing. In terms of the riding experience, it is very similar. The adjustable stem makes a big difference by enabling an efficient and comfortable riding position. If you want a really good quality folding bike for a decent price then this should definitely be on your list.
After four years I have just bought my second ‘Intercity’ since I found it excellent and there is still nothing to compare ŵith it at the price. I note the build quality of the new one is distinctly better – after several years building it the makers have of course perfected their assembly methods, though actually nothing ever went wrong with the 2015 bike.
This new one still has the snap- fit fastening instead of magnets and for some reason this is much easier to use than the one on the older bike. With the metal snap latching no problem arises when the handlebars are folded between the wheels, as was certainly intended by the makers. With the handlebar stem folded across the frame the paint work would be damaged and I could not fit the bike into the boot of my car. As you say, quick- release wheels would be nice, but of course these would add to the cost and even Brompton do not supply them.
Respecting Brompton, my housemate has one and I have ridden it several times in different conditions. It is certainly more compact and notably better suited to carrying onto buses or trains (which I do not usually do). However, the Carrera has much larger wheels and tyres and is far less sensitive to road conditions, thus being safer to ride. It is also much more comfortable, especially once a ‘gel’ saddle has been fitted. An upright riding position is imposed by all these folders and they are all supplied with hopeless saddles.
Horses for courses. If the bike is for use with public transport the Brompton is far easier to live with, but if you will only load it into the boot of a car then buy the Carrera and spend the £800 saving on a nice holiday.
Hi Ralph, thanks for the feedback. It’s really useful to hear from a long-term user.
I find that lifting the locking lever on the top of the handlebars before folding the bike stops it from hitting against the bike frame when the handlebars are folded between the wheels.
Cheers mate good vibes there just got one as getting to old for serious cycling just want something to fit in boot to to country and leisure ride for 2 hours can’t wait to get on it arriving Wed cheers safe riding bud
You can always trust a Ralph to give you a solid review. Nice to know it is a viable alternative to a Brompton for the boot of my car.
Have you put a bottle cage on yours yet? I’m trying to work out what screws to get for it.
I use T6 aluminium bottle cage screws bought on ebay. The rear mounts have through holes, so there is no problem there. However the mounting holes on the handlebar stem are quite shallow into the solid stem. So I cut the two screws down to length with a lathe, but it could be done with a hacksaw and a file or sandpaper.
After reading the helpful and frank review I purchased a Carrera Intercity in red from Halfords ( included a free cleaning pack and was set up in store ). I had no problem in folding the bike to the magnetic clip- I folded both pedals and left the handle bar rotation clip loose so that the bell and levers clear the lower rear arm, Not ridden a bike for some time but pleased with range of adjustments for comfort, gear ratios, brakes and handling. As I cycle on traffic free routes such as old railways and canal tow paths the bike is easily stowed in the car boot and ready to roll in minutes.
Hi Alex, thanks for the feedback and glad we were able to help you choose a bike you’re happy with.
I purchased a carrera intercity ~ 2 years ago and I really liked the bike in the beginning. It was easy to fold and unfold. I have been using it everyday for 2 years (~50 min per day). One week ago (~2 years from when I purchased it), the frame split in half while I was cycling. It split on the welding next to the central hinge. I fell on the pavement and slightly hurt my shoulder. Fortunately, there were no cars behind me and I was wearing an helmet. Reading around, it’s not the first time this happened. I won’t recommend this bike as it’s not safe.
Hi David, thanks for letting us know about this and sorry to hear about your broken bike and bad experience. I’m trying to look at this objectively. There will always be some small percentage of failures with all bikes, so your experience alone doesn’t necessarily mean this bike is more dangerous than others. The fact that you say other’s have had the same experience does make it more of a concern, can you send some details of the other cases? I do wonder whether you would find similar stories for other bikes. Please don’t be offended by my response, it may very well be the case that this is a dangerous bike, I just feel it would be wrong for me to immediately draw that conclusion. Have you made a warranty claim and did they offer a replacement and compensation for your accident? Can you send some pictures of the broken bike?
Hi Jody,
I’m very concerned about David’s experience with this bike, as I have it short listed with a few others for a possible purchase soon.
Has David supplied any evidence of this catastrophic frame failure?
Regards
Jody, has David supplied any evidence of this catastrophic frame failure?
This bike is one that I’ve been looking at.
Regards
I’ve still not had a reply from David to my above questions, so no, he has not provided any evidence of this
Hi. How far would you cycle on one of these bikes please?
It really depends on you, it’s suitable for fairly long rides. The height adjustable stem means that you can adjust your body position to move your weight forward and onto your hands. This is important when spending hours in the saddle.
Hi Jody, I was wondering what you think about what is the correct resting position for this bike when folded? In your pictures I have seen that you rest the chainrings against the floor but I just wanted to confirm if this won’t damage the chainrings or any other part over time (at least according to your experience). Thanks!
There is a plastic floor stand on the bottom of the saddle stem that supports the bike when folded
After hearing David’s comments I was thinking of purchasing this bike as a little runaround with a child bike seat on it…might have to reconsider
Hi Ed, I understand your concerns. I’ve tried to contact David asking for some more information and not had any response. It is, of course, possible that a competitor is putting out false information. At this stage, I can’t really comment further.
Hi, I’ve been reading the comments whilst searching for an article on the gear ratio for this bike. I bought one just over a year ago and really like it. I’m a “leisure” rider and don’t go out often but can easily ride 25 miles or so (generally avoiding too many hills). I replaced the saddle for a more comfortable one. Folding is easy, once you know how but the paint does get rubbed off easily. The clips were useless (too stiff) so removed the clip-in bracket and use a bungee. I don’t put it on public transport and the bungee means it will try to open if not lifted by holding it together. It’s light compared to other similar bikes but heavy to carry any distance — garage to car boot is enough for me. It’s fits in my boot but there’s no room for anything else, eg a case. When folded I leave it resting on the bottom of the seat post (not the chain ring) and it’s reasonably stable. I bought a rack pack which means I can plenty of bits such as pump, lock, spare inner tube, spare jacket, etc.
Still haven’t found the cassette spec (yes I know I could count them) but thought this might help anyone thinking of purchasing.
The cassette is a Shimano HG41 8-speed Altus 18-30T
Hi Jody, thanks for a thorough review and excellent follow up with contributors. I’m considering buying a folding bike and, budget wise, this looks good. But I’m 6’4″/195cm. You clearly got on well with it, but do you think it might suit someone of my height too? Many thanks.
I think you should give it a test ride and decide for yourself
Hi Jody. Is it possible to roll the folded bike around, like you can with the Decathlon folding bikes? Thanks!
Sort of, it can roll on the rear wheel but it’s quite awkward. If you want a bike that’s easy to roll when folded you really can’t beat a Strida
Hello and thanks for a detailed review, I got this folding bicycle from Halfords recently here in the Midlands in July 2020 as need to return back to work and want to avoid public transport. Staff were friendly but clueless about practical help and understanding of how this bike folds. Did anyone else have difficulties with folding it in half? I found the clip-in bracket REALLY difficult and stubborn to make the two parts connect. Have literally been standing over it, trying to rotate the bracket round and figure out to allign it best to no avail! I notice another comment above where someone else also mentions this. What are good solutions? I am on the verge of returning this bike as its such a faff to make it clip together. Maybe there is DIY solution? Someone mentioned a Bungee but I need a solution so that the fold holds and and the front does not swing away when carrying.
Also, do the pedals not fold? This would reduce the width of the bike and would help it fit in my boot easier.
The reviewer also mentions the mudguard not being long enough at the front to avoid getting splashed. Is it easy to fit a better one? And would that interfere with folding the bike or cause problems?
p.s. got the generic halfords bike bag which is bulky, baggy and poorly made in my humble opinion. What do other people use?
The pedals do fold. You have to push them in, then they will fold.
Does the Carrera intercity fold small enough to get two into a family car boot? I am considering getting one for myself and one for my wife
Depends how big the boot is. The dimensions are given so measure your boot.
Hi. I am 5ft tall and loooking to purchase this bike. Are the handlebars adjustable as well as the saddle column?
Yes the stem is telescopic giving a wide range of adjustment
As all the bike stores had run out of folding bikes I bought a second hand intercity. I don’t know how old it is and it came with no manual or user guide, and given that the previous owner had never folded it, I had to guess how to do it.
I use a different folding sequence to the one that you’ve described and it seems to result in a more compact fold. My sequence is: (1) put the stand down, (2) lower the seat as far as possible and lock into position, (3) lower the handle bars as far as possible and lock into position, (4) fold the steering column/handle bars as far as it will go, (5) fold the frame of the bike and ‘click’ into position using the ball and retainer, (6) put the stand up. This results in the handle bars being sandwiched between the two halves of the folded frame. Here’s a link to a photo of bike folded: https://www.flickr.com/photos/187765902@N03/50221916802/in/dateposted-public/
I’ve since discovered that there’s a bit of play in the steering head. If I put the front brakes on hard and push forward I can see/feel some movement in the ‘steering column’. I’m not sure if this is just a normal amount of play, but none of my other bikes have any such movement. The handle bars turn smoothly and there doesn’t seem to be and adverse impact to the handling. I’ve tightened up the head set as much as I can much the movement remains. Perhaps I need new headset bearings. Any thoughts?
Without looking at it, it’s hard to say whether your bike has play in the headset bearings or is flexing somewhere else. I suggest you get a bike mechanic to take a look at it.
I know this is probably too late for you to be any help but I would make sure the steering column clamp’s nut tension hasn’t loosened, the clamp for the steering column should be tense enough to require your palm to close (rather than easy enough to close with a finger). The nut to tighten the clamp can be found exposed inside the column when the steering handle is folded open.
Hi Jody, I have just purchased this bike and already supper excited can’t wait to hit the road on the weekend hopefully we still have some sun shine left, I was wondering if you could tell me what the maximum weight limit for rider and child on the rear seat is? Thanks
Great, hope you enjoy it Barz. I can’t tell you the weight limit, you’ll need to check that with Halfords.
Hi just brought this bike for U.K. holidays, I’m a Very keen road cyclist , adjusted the brakes fo better Spring balance and toed in the brake shoes so the pull onto the rims better, fitted a bike pump to the frame using the pre threaded holes, tried to fit a drinks bottle rack to the handle bar stem but the bolts only go in a few turns very disappointed, took the bike for a 25 mile ride and it performed perfect, great bike for the money and very well made 👍
Hi Steven, great to hear you’re enjoying the bike. Please do let us know more about how you’re getting on with it after some more time.
Hey Jody,
I purchased this bike and I love it! Although, yesterday I was on a hill and the steering column opened up. Hopefully, I felt it and I didn’t fall. Has this ever happened to you?
I went into a cycle shop and they told me it’s a common issue with folding bikes.
I am worried and wanted to see if anyone else has experienced the same.
Thank you,
Kostas
Hi Kostas, this isn’t something I have ever experienced and it definitely should not be happening. I will ask around if anyone else has experienced this but it’s not something I’ve heard of before. Do you think this was caused by a fault with the bike or is it possible you hadn’t closed the clamp securely?
I work for Halfords, the steering column opening when ridding is certainly not a common issue if closed properly. it is very rare for us to have problems with folding bikes. What i would say is, If you have a problem with a bike purchased from Halfords, return it and speak to the Bike Hut manager as they will honour the warranty.
I would make sure the nut on the end of the steering column clamp hasn’t loosened, the clamp for the steering column should be tense enough to require your palm to close (rather than easy enough to close with a finger). The nut to tighten the clamp can be found exposed inside the column when the steering handle is folded open. The tension determines how well the silver block of metal around the nut engages with the steering column to keep it locked closed.
I’m trying out a friend’s Intercity before deciding whether or not to buy it from him. What’s a decent price to pay? It’s relatively unused on road but lots of paint scrapes where he’s had issues with folding it. The bell is in an awkward position too … anyone else swapped theirs to something else ?
Hello, i am looking to get this bike for commuting and taking it on the national rail and maybe the underground one in a while. Will this be suitable?
What bags are people using to transport them in?
Yes, this will definitely be suitable.
So i cant seem to get the seat high enough due to the plastic base on it. I can’t seem to get this off. Any ideas?
I’m thinking of buying this buy? Is it pre assembled or do you need to assemble it.. thanks
It should be assembled. Where are you planning to buy it from?
Halford,
As this would be my first bike, recently learnt, I’m in two minds between this and the brompton… due to space I want to make sure I get the correct one for me… how has the bike lasted for the last 2 years?? . Thanks
Hi Jody,
Quick question, I’ve got the bike the middle clamp where you fold the bike. Do you need to slide the nub to open to open the clamp… the reason I ask is because on mine the clamp can be pulled open or closed..
Thanks Mo
Hi Jody – i’m looking into buying this bike. Would it be suitable for mild off road conditions?
Well I doubt that the warranty would cover off-road use, and it’s not suitable for anything too rough, but I would expect it to be fine for unsurfaced cycle paths, reasonably smooth single-track forest trails, and the like.
I love my intercity I have used it everyday for 4 or 5 months now. Only downside I see is the cheap breaks on it. I am going to look into replacing the system.
I have added a water bottle holder from decathlon for my coffee just need to put a waterbottl cage on it for my water bottle. I do struggle to fold it sometimes but that’s because I don’t do it often.
Any tips on what screws to get for the water bottle cage?
I use T6 aluminium screws that I shorten on a lathe. But it could be done with hacksaw and files, or a grinder or sanding disc.
I’m really struggling to do the final lock, where you fold the bike in half and the ball goes into that magnet thing. Any other tips?
Good afternoon, maybe you can help ? i’m trying to find the max rider weight for the intercity but cant find it anywhere on lone?
Halfords website states that all of their adult bikes have a max load of 120kg
How is this bike compared to Btwin Tilt900 from Decathlon??
very informative information, just what i needed i will purchasing this bike.
I bought one to take on holidays in my caravan. It only needed a tweak to adjust the gear cable and it was ready to go. I bought a carry bag from Amazon to keep the road dirt out of my ‘van. I have now used it all over the country on roads, paths and tow paths. I was very impressed and decided to make some improvements to suit my needs. Since returning home I have changed the tyres for Schwalbe Marathons – a huge improvement in speed and reduction in effort. I have also changed the slightly flexible folding pedals for MKS removable pedals and toe clips. I have fitted bottle cages – the fitting bolts on the front need shortening as the holes into the handlebar stem are quite shallow.
The bike is now my favourite, and I ride it hard around the hilly area where I live, and along old gravelly railway lines. My longest ride is 35 miles so far, but I wouldn’t worry about riding much further. I have added a bottle bag, a handlebar bag, a seatpost tool bag and a rack-top bag for extra luggage capacity. I have also bought a cateye computer so that I can compare my performance against my other bikes – this is a serious machine! My cycling friends have been surprised by the bike’s speed and competence. Highly recommended, especially with performance tyres.
I bought this bike 3 weeks ago from halfords..
To commute to and from work and storing it in limited space at home plus exercise
And having not been on a bike in over 50 years I am completely happy with its performance and very easy gear changing..but I think I will invest in a more bottom friendly saddle ! Lol..and although I haven’t yet mastered the folding down procedure to its full capacity..just folding it in half is enough for me to get it up the stairs and in to its designated parking spot at home
So very happy with it so far..just waiting for my leg muscles to kick in !! Lol.
Halfords are a bit useless when trying to get information but what is the maximum amount of weight the bike can take? I’m about 14-15,stone and sometimes I carry about that much in luggage so can this bike take up to 30kg whilst riding?
Useful review of the Carrera Intercity bikes. Just got a Carrera Intercity 9 speed, however Halfords do not offer a rack for it, though it has the mounting points. Open to recommendations that anyone has.
Has anyone replaced the pedals on their bike yet? One of mine needs changing and wondered of anyone already did and what they would recommend. Thanks in advance
I bought one of these 3 months ago attracted by the possibility of using it in conjunction with my new bus pass! I have only been out on it only a dozen or so times (aprox 5 miles a ride). Last weekend I took it by bus to go out to an area I used to cycle regularly that I know to be relatively flat and traffic free. I used to own several road bikes, was a member of Audax and regularly cycled 200 km + a week. I had to cut my recent journey short however as my legs just gave in. I’m now 66 and I put it down to my age, the hot weather and loss of cycling strength in my legs. I spent a fair amount of time wheeling the bike back to the nearest town and found the clip that holds the bike together when folded had caught my right calf several times and gave me several quite deep scratches.
On getting home I upturned the bike and attempted to spin the wheels only to find the brakes had been set up far too tight and were catching the rims in several places. I loosened the front and the wheel spun freely, but for some reason the back brake cabe had been cut way too short and could not be loosened. I released it from the bolt that held it together wound string round the v brake to secure it. I also removed the rather nasty clip that had ripped my leg up. I have fashioned a strap out of nylon webbing and quick release buckles that holds the two wheels together when folded and cycled the 10km to Halfords without a back brake to get a new (hopefully longer) brake cable fitted.
I pick the bike up today and will hopefully be able to cycle/bus back without mishap. I have great hopes for this little bike despite my early experiences. I find folding becomes much easier with practice. I have made my own rack pack out of a “Savers” black “bag for life”, velcro and nylon webbing straps. I will probably replace the saddle and pedals and research into whether quick release spindles can be fitted. I have discovered that by finding the bike’s centre of gravity (front of rack, behind seat post) the bike can be lifted with one hand when folded.
Ok, it ain’t a Bianchi or a Brompton, but for an old guy on a pension it fits the bill!
Great reviews & info……I’ve had one for 4 years…..been everywhere on it. It’s a FAB bike suitable for trail & canals. I love it.
My problem is my back wheel (20″ x 28 spoke) has split & I’m finding it impossible to replace .
Halfords can’t help either (unbelievable).
Anyone out there got a spare rear wheel (or rim for re-build)…??
Cheers
Paul