As electric bikes become an increasingly popular transportation option in cities worldwide, more models catering to urban riders emerge each year. Finding the perfect e-bike match ultimately comes down to your individual riding style and use case priorities.
In this guide, we’ll conduct an in-depth comparison of two top-rated versatile electric bikes: the Specialized Globe Haul and Co-Op Cycles Cty.
After test-riding both e-bikes extensively myself across pavement and dirt trails alike, I’ll analyze how these two models stack up across a range of factors like performance, customization, and overall value. Just how much hauling capacity and range do you really need?
By the end, you’ll have the insights to confidently decide whether the Globe’s more extreme cargo-carrying competency best fits your needs or if the Co-Op Cty strikes the right balance as an affordable lightweight option instead. Let‘s shift into gear and roll out!
Meet Your Electric Bike Contenders
Before diving into the nitty gritty comparisons, let’s briefly meet our two featured e-bike models vying for your purchase consideration:
Specialized Globe Haul: A Reborn Cargo Hauling Legend
Specialized Bicycle Components has been designing high performance bikes since 1974. In 2022, the company revived the classic ‘90s Globe bicycle brand as Specialized Globe – an electric bike line purpose-built for stable and speedy urban transportation.
The Globe Haul I tested ranks as Specialized Globe’s heavyweight cargo hauling champ. True to its name, the Haul ST can carry a whopping 400 pounds courtesy of its ultra-sturdy aluminum frame, beefy components, and a torquey Bosch Performance Line CX mid-drive motor.
With a surge of 700 watts max power rocketing you along at 28 MPH, the Haul ST certainly lives up to expectations as an electric urban workhorse!
Key Specialized Globe HAUL specs:
- Range: 60 miles
- Motor: Bosch Performance Line CX, 700W max
- Battery: 48V, 772Wh integrated downtube
- Max speed: 28 mph
- Max capacity: 275 lb (rider) + 400 lb (cargo)
Co-Op Cycles Cty: Value-Focused City Sprinter
Co-Op Cycles represents REI‘s own bike brand launched in 2016. REI Co-op, the beloved outdoor gear retailer known best for camping equipment, created its cycling imprint to deliver affordable and accessible bikes for everyday adventure seekers.
The electric-assist Co-Op Cycles Cty e1.1 model provides an entry point option focused on value. Don‘t let its budget-friendly price tag fool you though – REI still packed quality components and riding enjoyment into the streamlined Cty!
Key Co-Op Cycles CTy e1.1 specs:
- Range: 35 miles (up to 50 per Charge Tank upgrade)
- Motor: Bafang, 500W max
- Battery: 36V, 418Wh downtube integrated
- Max speed: 24 mph
- Max capacity: 68 lb rear rack + 300 lb total
Okay, now that you‘re acquainted our two urban utility e-bike challengers, let‘s scrutinize how they compare across five key categories to crown a winner!
E-Bike Showdown: Detailed Comparison
To kick off this electric bike battle royale, we turn our attention to sizing up five crucial decision factors:
1. Design & Comfort
Riding comfort deeply impacts daily commuting enjoyment. Between the Specialized Globe Haul and Co-Op Cycles Cty models, their ergonomic step-through frames both enable easy mounting access.
However, the Haul’s custom-butted aluminum frame and lowered top tube more seamlessly accommodate differing rider heights. Wider 3.5” tires also smooth out bumps better for comfort. High cargo loads do compromise handling though.
The Cty counters with greater adjustability via a telescoping seat post and handlebar stems. Swept-back handlebars promote an upright stance that stays comfortable hour after hour. Though with cargo, the balanced ride gets more awkward.
Winner: Specialized Globe Haul
2. Performance & Range
Let‘s put some numbers behind these models! The Specialized Haul achieves over 30% greater real-world range of 60 miles through its robust 48V/700Wh battery. Charging it does require patience – about 6 hours from empty.
Hauling truly heavy cargo loads, the Haul’s 700 watt Bosch motor propels you seamlessly up to 28 MPH thanks to ample torque. Be mindful of battery drain and increased braking distances though.
While the 500 watt motor of the cheaper Co-Op CTy naturally can’t match that raw power, its 35 mile range suits most urban commutes. The 36V battery conveniently recharges in just 4 hours. Performance stays consistent whether riding light or loaded up with groceries.
Winner: Specialized Globe Haul
3. Braking & Safety
Safely slowing a 400 pound electric bike full of cargo requires robust brakes! The Specialized Haul’s 203mm hydraulic disc rotors deliver. Adjustable levers accommodate all hand sizes comfortably. I gradually got used to applying them earlier given the momentum this e-bike carries!
For the intended casual riding purposes, the Co-Op’s 180mm rotors offer adequate stopping ability. While less grippy than discs found on pricier mountain bikes, they match appropriately with the lower overall weight. Braking stays relatively balanced whether loaded or unloaded.
Both models smartly incorporate front and rear LED lighting powered via the main battery. This boosts road visibility and safety without worrying about charging separate battery packs.
Winner: Specialized Globe Haul
4. Customization & Accessories
While riding enjoyment stems first from performance, personalization through components and accessories shouldn‘t get overlooked either.
The Specialized Globe Haul offers some upgrades from the base model like a dual battery setup for extreme range and premium touchpoints. But customization mostly comes through third-party accessories bolting onto its plentiful attachment points. From baskets to bags to baby carriers, the accessory market has you covered!
In contrast, upgrades on the budget-oriented Cty e1.1 remain relatively limited as delivered. Co-Op Cycles instead provides guidance on compatible third-party racks, bags, phone mounts and other simple modifications for light utility purposes.
If you desire greater versatility from a true modular platform, the Haul’s robust mixed-use design takes the win. But don‘t underestimate how much value carefully chosen accessories can unlock from the Co-Op Cty too!
Winner: Specialized Globe Haul
5. Price & Value
MSRP pricing pegs the Specialized Globe Haul ST at $3,550 versus just $2,299 for the comparably equipped single battery Co-Op CTy e1.1. That‘s a $1250 price gap from the outset.
Factoring in the Haul‘s more powerful Bosch motor, hydraulic discs, heavier-duty frame allowing 400 lb capacity, premium brand pedigree from Specialized and greater resale value retention, you certainly receive tangible benefits that partially offset the 54% pricing premium.
However, analyze your realistic cargo and range requirements. For most urban commuting needs, the Co-Op CTy delivers huge value given its quality construction and riding experience. As an entry-level Class 1 e-bike, it hits a sweet spot between budget and utility.
Only folks regularly hauling very heavy cargo should pay up for the Haul’s impressive brute force!
Winner: Co-Op Cycles Cty
The Electric Bike Battle Champion Is…
Evaluating across five major decision factors yields some trade-offs, but an overall winner emerges convincingly…
The Specialized Globe Haul ST triumphs as best-in-class for utility and cargo oriented electric bike hunters. Superior comfort, performance, safety systems and customization flexibility justify paying a premium when frequent heavy lifting calls your name.
Budget-focused city riders hauling under 50 pounds of cargo get the most value however from the Co-Op Cycles Cty e1.1. You’ll love quickly and efficiently buzzing around town at Class 1 speeds with reliable braking and recharging.
Ultimately both the Specialized Globe Haul and Co-Op Cycles Cty earn top recommendations among today‘s versatile electric bike models ready to electrify your rides without breaking the bank!
Hopefully this detailed electric bike comparison provides clarity choosing between these two excellent purpose-built options. Please share your questions as you evaluate which design best fits your transportation style and needs!
