Specialized Roll Elite Low Entry (2016)

Congenial re-introduction to the pleasures of cycling

Pros

- easy on-and-off step-through frame
- sturdy and reliable
- fun to ride
- great value for the price

Cons

- a little hefty

Review

Ever been in the situation where you’ve encouraged someone you know to finally come for a ride with you, only to have them struggle to actually get on the bike? And then, when they finally do manage to mount up, they’re worried about not being able to touch the ground and fearful of being up so high? The Roll Elite Low Entry is a great solution to these problems, allowing timid or inexperienced riders the opportunity to feel the freedom of the ride without the anxiety. The step-through, or low entry, frame means there is no need for the flexibility needed to straddle the top tube, and at the first sign of trouble the rider can simply slide forward from the saddle and plant both feet firmly on the ground.

Specialized are marketing this bike with the tagline that it will “encourage, motivate and inspire you.” They might be onto something – if ever a bike was built to tempt lazy riders out of retirement, or to lure you from a life of endless traffic jams to the freedom and independence of being a regular commuter, this is it.

It’s all about ease, comfort, and security, from the upright riding position to the big, fat, grippy tires.

With a 48/38/28 triple chainring on the front and an 8-speed Shimano 11-32 rear cassette, the rider has 24 options when it comes to gear selection – enough to power forward on the flat roads to make sure you’re at work on time, but easy enough to get you up the steepest hills on a bike path or country trail.

The forgiving lightweight A1 Aluminum frame and chunky headset provide a comfortable, smooth ride, and the stocky 2.3-inch tires give the 650B wheels a nice solid feel. The saddle, handlebar grips, and even the pedals are all big solid platforms – just the opposite of the flimsy feel that often comes with a bike with this price tag attached.

The Tektro mechanical-disc 160mm rotor brakes will definitely provide all the stopping power this bike needs, and Specialized’s own Stout crankset should live up to its name.

There’s plenty of Fitness/Recreation/Commuter bikes out there in this overcrowded market, but this one is definitely worth a second look, even if it’s just for the ease of getting on and off. Go check it out.