Specialized Releases Globe Haul ST, an Affordable Cargo E-bike

The new Haul ST is the first of what will eventually become a whole lineup of cargo-focused Globe models.

Have you ridden an e-bike lately? If so, you’re far from the only one: E-bikes have recently been outselling electric cars by a significant margin, and over a quarter million were imported into the U.S. alone in 2021. If you haven’t, there’s a new reason to try one: American bike manufacturer Specialized has released the Globe Haul ST, an all-new e-bike designed for commuting, running errands, and everyday cargo hauls. With its utilitarian design and relatively affordable price point, it looks to be a serious contender in an already crowded market. (We’re currently testing one and will publish a full review in the coming weeks).

Specialized first teased the Globe Haul ST last spring, and the company has big plans for this segment. Globe will eventually grow into an entire line of bikes that, according to the company’s press release, will fill “the gap between a commuter e-bike and a car.” Priced at $2,700, it’s also the most affordable of Specialized’s cargo bikes.

Globe Haul ST Specs

Haul ST is the first model in the Globe lineup. It’s a short-tail, aluminum-frame cargo e-bike with a hub motor mounted in the rear wheel. Like other pedal-assist e-bikes, the motor provides a boost of power when you pedal. It’s classified as a Class 3 e-bike, which means it has a top speed of 28 mph.

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As its name implies, this bike is built to carry you and your stuff all over town. According to Specialized, Haul ST can carry up to 419 pounds for up to 60 miles on one charge with its 772 watt-hour battery. The 700-watt motor offers five levels of pedal assistance, and it’s paired with a nine-speed cassette and a microSHIFT rear derailleur. The bike rides on sturdy 20-inch wheels with beefy 3.5-inch tires that Specialized has branded “Carless Whispers” (yes, that’s a George Michael pun). Front and rear hydraulic brakes provide stopping power.

Hauling Ability

The Haul ST has an overall layout that’s similar to other cargo-focused e-bikes, like the Rad Power RadRunner and the Tern HSD. The short tail frame features a rear cargo rack and step-through design, which makes it easier to get on and off when the bike's loaded. It also comes with adjustable handlebars and a seatpost with two telescoping sections, so you can dial in the fit to your height. Specialized says it can accommodate riders who measure anywhere between 4’5” and 6'4."

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To stand out from the crowd, Specialized is also offering a lineup of accessories to make the bike especially useful. In addition to the rear rack, the company will offer front and rear pannier adaptors, a rear passenger seat, foot pegs, and more. And in a shot at popular direct-to-consumer brands like Rad Power Bikes, customers will be able to get a Haul ST shipped directly to their door; working with a local bike shop is also an option. The bike comes with a lifetime warranty on the frame, and a two-year warranty on the electronics, which should offer prospective owners some added peace of mind.

Stay tuned for our review to learn even more about how the Globe Haul ST performs in real-world testing.

[$2,700; specialized.com]