Carolina 7-Speed Internally-Geared Luxury Step-Through Bicycle with Classically Lugged Steel Frame and Oversized Wicker Basket

After much research into buying a bike suitable for everyday city riding in style, I settled on the Mozie Carolina. The big box arrived, and it took me about 15 minutes to finish the assembly with the provided tools. I've been riding it for a couple of months now, and I definitely made the right choice! My husband got a Hugo, and he's equally impressed.THE RIDE | The ride is smooth, the seven-speed internal hub is geared perfectly for easier uphills and great momentum on the flats. It feels almost effortless once you get a good pace going on a level path. The bike is heavy, which gives a much softer ride over bumps than the aluminum-framed models I tried. Since I bought it online without riding it first, I was a little worried that the weight would make it difficult on hills or in wind, but honestly I don't notice any difficulty. The handling, too, is surprisingly nimble for a bike this large and heavy. I dare say it responds better than my aluminum Trek hybrid. While the shape of the leather seat is very comfortable for upright riding, the leather will definitely take some breaking in. Compared to my husband's Brooks saddle, it's a thicker leather and stiffer when new. It appears just as well made as a Brooks.STYLE | Style-wise, I found nothing easily available in the US that compares. Other Dutch-style bikes by American companies had a certain amount of sportiness, and I wanted a truly classic-looking bicycle. The house-made Buck & Wing accessories are so beautiful! The grips on the Carolina are designed for upright, easy riding and steering with just the heels of the hands, no gripping necessary. The chain guard and skirt guards finish it off and make it nice to ride, no matter what you're wearing.SERVICE | Mozie's service is exceptional. Really, you don't get this kind of response from many companies anymore! I had a problem with the gear hub on my fourth ride. I emailed them, and their reply was rapid, friendly, and extremely helpful. We resolved the problem, and they sent me a box of free accessories for my trouble! They really made me feel that they were invested in making things right.CAVEATS | I am 5'6" tall, and I wanted a bike with a big, stretched-out feel. This has it, for sure. If you are shorter than about 5'4", the frame may overwhelm. But it's a really comfortable ride for those who are taller.