2021 Specialized

Turbo Como SL 5.0

One of the sportiest cruisers I've ever reviewed. Relatively light weight at 47.2lbs including integrated lights, a pannier-only rear rack, and custom designed tubular alloy fenders with extra long rubberized flaps to keep your feet dry. Class 3 speed-pedelec performance offers 28mph (45km/h), which is very unique for a cruiser! Available in three frame sizes and three colors.

Boost hub spacing on the front wheel provides sturdier spoke bracing angle, 12mm thru-axles provide stiffness and control at speed, the mixte mid-step frame is approachable but stiff and sturdy to handle speed and cargo, excellent weight distribution (low, centered, balanced front to rear). Decent hydraulic disc brakes from TRP and Tektro with 160mm rotors. Super clean and quiet Gates Carbon belt drive with 8-speed internally geared Shimano Nexus hub.

Internal battery offers modest capacity but weighs under 4lbs and provides impressive range. Additional Range Extender bottle-shaped batteries are easy to use, quiet, and beautiful... but increase the cost of the bike. This is a sportier cruiser with shorter handlebars that are not easy to change because they are stem-integrated to hide cables. Reflective stickers and accents on the fenders, frame, and tires help keep you safe. Comfortable saddle and grips, useful smartphone app and wireless heart rate monitor integration.

Fairly expensive, but you can skip the belt drive and LCD display if you opt for the 5-speed Turbo Como 4.0 SL model. Since the primary battery is not easily removable, you may need to store the entire bike inside, away from extreme heat or cold, and near a charging port. Kickstand pokes into soft terrain and is center-mounted which creates pedal lock when backing the bike up. No USB charging ports, no suspension elements - just high volume cruiser tires. No remote button pad near the grips, just at the center displays or your smartphone app.