Easily the most versatile bike out of dozens tested, the chromoly Polyvalent handled like a dream on long city voyages with as much as 40 pounds on the front rack. The 650B wheel size—a resurgent French standard that hits the sweet spot between 26″ and 700C—accommodates fast, bump-eating 38mm rubber. Bonus: VO offers a build kit with wheels, brakes, headset, and seatpost for around $600.
TAGS: touring, 650B
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