tires and Shimano shifters and internal hub to give the ride a decidedly peppier vibe. The whole package weighs in at 34 pounds and we found ourselves huffing and puffing carrying the thing upstairs. But with that heft comes luxury and convenience: The front and rear alloy fenders minimized puddle splashback. And that kickstand? It actually works really well. Plus, we were able to load up that rear rack with tons of "books" (OK, beer). The biggest advantages of the Fusion versus, say, the sportier, infinitely more customizable Swobo Crosby are the drop-top tube and pedal-powered LED headlight.

You can literally hop on this sucker in a hurry and take it for night rides without worrying about changing or charging the batteries. We recommend using the extra brain cycles to figure out what to do with all the PhD candidates who throw themselves at you for having such a smart ride.

WIRED Below-the-bar and tigger shifters are right at your fingertips, and both on the right side (frees up the left hand for coffee or BEER). Headlight's pretty darn bright. Kalloy Cozy Comfort handlebar is as it sounds: comfy. Anti-smear campaign: Chain guard protects pants. This is the Ziggy Stardust of 8-speeds: Drop-tube frame isn't explicitly masculine or feminine. Bell integrated into the handlebar isn't obtrusive or visually-arresting.

TIRED Roller disc brakes are finicky, difficult to adjust. $950?! Taillight isn't pedal-powered. Surprisingly, the alloy fenders scratch and dent somewhat easily — out of the box, the front fender arrived more smashed than Peter O'Toole. At a wake, at a bar, with free drinks!

• Manufacturer: REI
• Price: $950

Authors: Steven Leckart

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