You don’t have to play bike polo or pretend to like watery beer to appreciate this single-speed urban commuter. Globe Bikes is owned by Specialized, and the Roll 2 is as intelligently designed as it is trendy. The sturdy chromoly frame and steel fork are practically indestructible. The stock gearing (42 front, 17 back) is perfect for all but the steepest hills. And the wheels attach using a hex-bolt system instead of quick-release, deterring would-be thieves when you lock it up outside. You might find the riser handlebars a bit narrow (we did), but that’s an easy enough swap. And yes, you can pull it off: it doesn’t take skinny jeans to ride a bike with some verve.
Photo: Inga Hendrickson
