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Melon Bicycles is a brand of folding bicycle produced by Lakeland Gear Inc. located in Candler, NC just outside of Asheville, NC. Melon was founded in July 2008 by Loran Evans, the current President and CEO of the company. Originally based in Alpharetta, Georgia, Evans was inspired to create a bicycle that was more convenient for recreational riders. Motivated by neighbors with bulky bikes, Evans' goal was to design an easy to ride, easy to transport bike, without sacrificing performance. Many cyclists refer to the company as Melon Bikes, Melon Bicycles, or simply Melon. Melon completes its manufacturing in reputable Taiwanese factories.
Uses
Melon bikes are designed to be multifunctional and can be used for fitness, recreation, commuting, or travel. Melon currently has one model on the market, the slice. Riders rely on the slice's frame geometry and gearing to travel for longer distances. A slack head tube angle and longer wheelbase set Melon apart from other folding bikes. These features allow for increased performance, however its dimensions may constrain potential riders who are over 6'3". Although the convenience of the Melon can be enjoyed by commuters, its intended function is as an alternative to conventional hybrid, comfort, and fitness bicycles with all of the advantages of a folding bike.
Folding System
The Melon Slice folding system is relatively conventional and straightforward. First, it folds at the pedals and then at the handlebar stem. The bike is then folded in the middle of the top tube so that the two halves come together. After a short learning curve, the bike can be folded in about 15 seconds. The folded size of the bike is 34”L x 27”H x 13”W.
Specifications
The Melon Bicycles Slice model’s frame and fork is made from 7005 aluminum. The slice uses a large size 52T chainring and a 12-25T cassette to provide enough of a gear range to conquer all terrains with only 8 speeds. Grip shifters are used for shifting with an easy to read display indicating the current gear chosen. The slice uses 20” wheels (406mm) in the 1.75” width. The bicycle geometry features a lower head tube angle than most folding bikes which provides for smooth riding and greater maneuverability. The bike’s frame is generally built to accommodate common "industry-standard" components such as brakes and gear systems. The bike will accommodate riders up to 6’ 3” in height.
Accessories
Many municipal bus and train lines require that bikes brought on board be kept transported in a bag. A Folding Bike Carry Bag conveniently carries the bike when folded and attaches to the bikes handlebars by Velcro when not in use. In this position, it has a water bottle holder and cell phone pocket that can be accessed by the rider. When used to carry the folded bike, the bag has a set of carry handles, an adjustable shoulder strap, and an outer zippered pocket.
Bike commuters ride in all types of weather conditions and thus prepare accordingly. The melon slice folding bike can be outfitted with a pair of mud guards to keep rain and dirt from soiling the riders clothing. The mud guards bolt on to the front fork and the rear reflector frame member.
References
Bicycle Times Magazine Issue 5, March 1, 2010 pg.40-41