What To Look For
Traveling by bike is more efficient than using a car, faster than walking and environmentally sound. And if you're looking for even more convenience, the Paratrooper is an exceptional version of a folding bike, as it fits in the trunk of a car, requires no tools to fold and unfold, and is low maintenance.
The Paratrooper is as strong as a conventional bike. The 18- or 20-inch frame folds to 36-by-28-by-12 inches and weighs 27 to 32 pounds. The bike comes equipped with 24-speed SRAM X-5 shifters, heavy duty pedals of double-gage aluminum, an SR Suntour XCT 80-millimeter front suspension and disc brakes. It can be fitted with standard wheels and components.
The specially designed cable routing keeps them aligned and protected during use and storage, and the bike is available in camouflage green with an anti-corrosion finish.
Common Pitfalls
The frame features double-butted 7005-series aircraft-grade aluminum. The frame is welded for strength and comes in a standard size, not the shortened version frequently found with folding bikes, so there is no compromise in comfort or handling.
To fold the bike, remove the front wheel and unlock one quick release for the frame. The bike stores in seconds.
The design keeps all of the tubes intact and uses a tube-within-a-tube system to make the breakdown simple without compromising the bike's strength. It also comes equipped with a safety lock to prevent accidental folding.
Where To Buy
The Paratrooper is available online and in some retail stores. If you buy direct from Montague, the company provides a 30-day free test ride, and if you return the bike within that period they will refund the price of the bike. All you owe is the shipping cost.
Also, according to montagueco.com, if you purchase your vehicle from the factory store or an authorized dealer and a friend also buys one and mentions your name, you may receive a free carrying case.
Cost
The Paratrooper costs between $700 to $830. There are benefits to ordering from the factory, but you will more likely pay a higher shipping charge than when buying from another source. Other online bike sellers offer shipping at half the price that the company charges (Montague uses FedEx ground).
Accessories
A soft-sided nylon carrying case with a heavy zipper and shoulder strap is available for between $99 and $129. You can order a kickstand from the factory, and you can use any standard accessories with the bike, including racks and fenders.
Montague offers a one-year warranty for components and a limited lifetime warranty for the Paratrooper's frame.
