Specialized’s Globe bicycle line continues to grow the options for urban, commuter and city bikes with well appointed frames. Several eyecatchers are shown at the bottom of this post, but there was one clear leader of the class. As with any brand, they need a halo bike in the line, just for fun in some cases, but also to showcase what can be done.
For Globe, it’s the Roll 8 Rare. The frame is a premium Reynolds 725/520 chromoly steel that’s nickel plated and polished to a shine. It’s then equipped with top end commuter bits like Shimano’s Alfine 8-speed internally geared hub (hence the “8” in the model name) driven by Gates’ Center Track carbon belt drive. And then there’s the small details…
All Globe bikes have the blank headbadge that lets you slip in your favorite photo. Classic cable housing clips hold the brake cable in line. Riding position is very upright thanks to plenty of rise in the handlebars.
All belt drive bikes need a frame break somewhere to insert the belt into the rear triangle. The Rare’s stainless steel CNC’d frame break sits high on the seatstay. This sort of arrangement is found on plenty of frames, but few are as smooth as this – no visible welds or tube interruptions make for a very sleek appearance. Wheels get strong box section rims with stainless steel eyelets. Brakes are custom TRP road brakes for use with flat bar brake levers.
The lugged chromoly fork ends with chromed axle caps and has hidden accessory mounts (racks, fenders, etc.). Rear dropouts and the brake arch are forged pieces. Retail is $1,750 and only 275 will be made, 100 coming to the US.
Some other fun bikes, all listed on Globe’s website.
