Cycling Across Vietnam on a Trifold Bike: A UK Couple’s 2,300 KM Journey with TAKACHIA

Cycling Across Vietnam on a Trifold Bike: A UK Couple’s 2,300 KM Journey with TAKACHIA

A Bold Idea, A Breathtaking Route

Cycling 2,300 kilometres across Vietnam is a bold idea, one that not everyone can pull off. From unpredictable weather to steep mountain roads, the journey is as tough as it is breathtaking. TAKACHIA is honoured to be part of such an incredible adventure. 

Two Riders, One Mission

Over the course of several weeks, two passionate travellers from the UK — Richard and Lisa (Instagram:@thefreedomroad.co.uk) , set out to explore Vietnam on two wheels. They rode with curiosity, determination, and their TAKACHIA Tiime Series C20 PRO trifold bikes. From the misty climbs of the northern highlands to the coastal heat of Central Vietnam, they pedalled through a country full of contrasts, kindness, and unforgettable beauty.

A Journey That Changed Everything

Their 2,300 kilometre ride was more than just a test of endurance. It became a story of transformation. They began in the south, where sore muscles, scorching sun, and relentless headwinds slowed their progress. When the weather became too fierce to continue, they took a 28-hour sleeper train to Hanoi. That pivot gave them space to reset and breathe. Heading south again, they discovered a more personal Vietnam — quiet villages, hidden national parks, and moving encounters that most tourists never experience.

Tough Roads and Unexpected Joys

Each day on the road brought new challenges. Gravel trails, slippery hills, and days of nonstop rain pushed them to their limits. There were moments when exhaustion took over and the climbs felt endless. But there were also unforgettable highs, like a spontaneous Tet celebration in a fishing village, or the simple thrill of a long descent after a punishing hill. For every difficulty, there was an equal reward in beauty, connection, or surprise.

Built for the Long Haul: TAKACHIA TIIME Series C20 PRO

Richard and Lisa’s TAKACHIA TIIME Series C20 PRO trifold bikes were put to the test throughout their 2,300-kilometre journey across Vietnam. From long climbs in the northern highlands to countryside roads and changing terrain, the bikes travelled with them through a wide range of riding conditions. The C20 PRO combines the practicality of a trifold design with features developed for a more capable and enjoyable riding experience. Compact enough to transport between destinations, yet designed to ride confidently once unfolded, it gave Richard and Lisa the flexibility to take on the journey their own way.

What Makes the TAKACHIA TIIME Series Ready for Touring

🔹 Built for Real-World Riding – Designed with a balance of durability, practicality and riding performance, the TIIME Series is made for more than just short city rides.

🔹 Trifold Design, Easy to Travel With – Fold the bike down when you need to store, transport or move it between destinations, while still enjoying the riding feel of a full-size bicycle when unfolded.

🔹 20" Wheels for Longer Rides – The C20 platform offers a stable and comfortable riding experience, making it well suited for longer-distance rides and changing road conditions.

🔹 Shimano External Gearing – A 9-speed external drivetrain provides a useful range of gears for managing different gradients and terrain during longer journeys.

🔹 TAKACHIA Anti-Chain-Drop Tech – Helps keep the chain securely in place while riding and folding, giving riders greater confidence when travelling over varied terrain.

🔹 Hollowtech System – Designed for efficient power transfer and a responsive pedalling feel, helping riders maintain a smooth and efficient ride over longer distances.

🔹 Universal Components – Built around widely available bicycle components, making routine maintenance, servicing and replacement parts more accessible when you are travelling or riding far from home.

🔹 Designed for the Journey, Not Just the Destination – From everyday commuting to multi-day adventures, TIIME gives riders the flexibility to go further while keeping the convenience of a trifold bike.

What Richard & Lisa Experienced
“They performed brilliantly and the 9 speed cut through the elevation much easier than we thought. Super comfy and so so so easy to transport on trains, planes & automobiles! We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend!!” — Richard & Lisa

The Model Behind the Miles

TAKACHIA TIIME Series C20 Pro bike tour in Vietnam

Richard and Lisa took on this ride with the TAKACHIA TIIME Series C20 Pro, a trifold bike built for serious adventures like this one.

“We had these bike shipped to Vietnam were we cycling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. For what we attempted from a fresh out of the box bikes. They were excellent. Of course we had a few teething problems, but the company was outstanding and delivered excellent customer service. We wouldn’t hesitate to buy one again and highly recommend both the bikes and the company. I hope the company continues to grow and make many fantastic bike in the future.” — Richard & Lisa

More Than Just a Ride

For Richard and Lisa, this was more than a bike trip. It was a test of endurance, trust, and companionship. Every turn of the wheel brought new lessons and deeper appreciation for the road, the people they met, and each other. We are proud that TAKACHIA was part of every kilometre.

Discover more from their 2,300km journey across Vietnam on Instagram: @thefreedomroad.co.uk

Ready to Ride Beyond the Map?

Whether you're chasing open roads or discovering quiet countryside paths, the right bike makes all the difference. The TAKACHIA TIIME Series isn’t just built for the journey, it’s built to transform it. Like Richard and Lisa, you don’t just ride with TAKACHIA. You create a story worth remembering.

Discover your TIIME Series today


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