Bikes

The Globe Live is an upright-riding utility cycle notably equipped with integrated front rack, fenders, kickstand, and chain guard. I’ve been riding the 8-speed Shimano Nexus equipped Live 02 model for more than six weeks, and it immediately became my ride of choice for errands around the city. The 25 kilogram (55 pound) rated removable front rack mounts securely to the fork crown and blades with the load centered over the front hub for improved riding stability. The Live was engineered with this custom front rack from the ground up; forget the wimpy wire basket on your bike now, this one isn’t going to rattle or sway when going over potholes or curbs.

I was at first skeptical of the handling of this bike when it was fully loaded, so I rode to the beer store and loaded up the front rack with 18 bottles and a 5-liter keg, a task made simpler by the damping steer spring and cargo kickstand. The Live gave a surprisingly solid ride with no wobbles up front. Sure, the steering was a bit heavier, but not surprising, and better than expected for the roughly 11 kilogram (24 pound) of freight. The only feature lacking on the Live model is a cargo net to hold down your provisions.

I’ve been riding the Live as my primary bicycle to work, to the dentist, to the local bicycle and coffee shops, the grocery, dinner parties, and all places in between. While the Live certainly rides a bit slower than my commuter road bike, it’s a pace I can accept in a stop-and-smell-the-flowers, reduced stress, car-free world. MSRP: $990 USD