Los Angeles Times Travel

Join the Fold – TX Review

Join the fold. Car racks may become a thing of the past, thanks to the improving quality of folding bicycles. Today’s folding bikes are big, sturdy and best of all, cool looking. We tested a new folding mountain bike by Swissbike that performed admirably. The TX model looks like a bona fide mountain bike with front shocks, front disk breaks, an 18-inch frame and 26-inch knobby tires. Within 30 seconds or so, we had the bike folded to 36 inches by 28 inches. We are also happy to report that the bike did not fold up during a test ride. The bike, weighing 30 pounds, was agile and rugged.  Our only critique: the rear rubber brakes lose friction when they get wet, and the pedals are too small. The bike sells for $ 679. Info: (800) 736-5348 or swissbike.com to find a dealer. Hugo Martin