Specialized Globe Haul vs. Velotric Discover 1: Which One Wins?

Both the Specialized Globe Haul vs. Velotric Discover 1 are fantastic choices for anyone in the market for a new e-bike. From adjustable heights to unbeatable ranges and power, it can be tough to choose between two top of the line options for whatever e-bike needs you may have. While both bikes are incredible, we’ll go over the details and help you decide which one may be right for you.

Specialized Globe Haul vs. Velotric Discover 1: Side by Side Comparison

Specialized Globe Haul vs. Velotric Discover 1: What’s the Difference?

The Specialized Globe Haul and the Velotric Discover 1 look extremely similar at first glance. But the differences become apparent when you peer a little closer. Let’s break down the differences and similarities between these two e-bikes.

Comfort

Both of these bikes were designed with peak comfort and ease of use in mind. The Velotric Discover 1 was created so that you can maintain an upright, straight back position while you ride, providing optimal ergonomic comfort. 

The Specialized Globe Haul has a fairly similar design, also allowing you to ride upright with ease, but does come with a few more adjustment options allowing riders to adjust their seats and heights according to their preferences a little easier.

The differences in the bikes’ frames and design are not extremely significant. They both come with a step-thru style frame for ease of mount and dismount, as well as similar weight-bearing capabilities. More on that later. 

One of the main differences is actually in the handlebars, which possess slightly different degrees and sizes. The Specialized Globe Haul’s handlebars have a 700mm width with a 12-degree back sweep, while the Velotric Discover 1 has 660-680mm width on its handlebars with durable economic grips.

Frame

The Specialized Globe Haul is made with Haul ST Premium Aluminum and comes with a post-mount disc brake. This bike comes in two colors, Satin Obsidian, and Gloss White Mountain, for a gorgeous finish regardless of which color you choose. 

This bike lacks a top tube but comes with multiple adjustment options, so you always feel secure when riding. Despite the top tube, it doesn’t feel overly top-heavy while riding. Additionally, while this bike does not have a suspension, it does have a Globe Steel fork to establish security and ensure a smooth ride. 

For the Velotric Discover 1, the frame is made of aluminum alloy with internal cable routing and a fully lockable tube battery for optimal theft protection and security. In comparison, this is the smaller bike in this case and is slightly more compact in measurement, making the bike more transport friendly. The Velotric Discover 1 has an 80mm travel, hydraulic suspension, and Lock-out capabilities in case you run into a gravel road here and there.

As for what these bike frames have in common, both of these bikes are designed to allow you to sit up with a straight back for the best ergonomics. They are both step-thru style bikes that lack a top tube, but you won’t miss it when you realize how easy it is to slide on and off. 

Tech Specs

Both the Velotric Discover 1 and the Specialized Globe Haul come with enough technology to make your commute a little more interesting. You get small LCD displays that portray things like the battery life, speed, distance traveled, and more. The LCDs are both backlit, so they can be easily seen in broad daylight or at nighttime. 

With that said, the Velotric Discover 1 might win in the display category, as their display is quite a bit larger at 3.5 inches long and is in the center of the handlebars for easier visibility. Compare that to the Specialized Globe Haul display being on the left side of the handlebars and much smaller. Either way, you’re probably not going to spend much time looking down at the display when you’re speeding along on an e-bike. So, we won’t subtract any points for this.

Speed and Durability

The Velotric Discover 1 boasts a top speed of 20 mph or 25 mph unlocked. Conversely, the Specialized Globe Haul maxes out at a speed of 28 mph. Both bikes have a pretty fast top speed for the average daily commute. But if you enjoy the occasional joy ride, these speeds might come in handy. Just remember that the faster you go, the less distance you can travel before you have to re-charge.

The Velotric Discover 1 does have an IPX6 rating, one notch below the Specialized Globe Haul, so it’s not at much risk from a little rain here and there. With a heavy-duty wide-foot aluminum kickstand, this is not a bike that you have to worry about toppling over while you take a break. You can also trust that the full coverage front and rear fenders will keep your bike’s tires well-protected for years to come.

The Specialized Globe Haul, as previously mentioned, does have a higher waterproof rating of IPX7 for optimal durability and protection in all types of weather. This bike has a short tail, and a center-mount kickstand for the best balance possible in keeping your bike upright and stable when not in use. The Specialized Globe Haul also comes with both front and rear fenders manufactured by Globe Cargo.

Components

Both bikes are designed with maximum safety and optimal comfort in mind, so you can focus on the ride worry-free. However, they did execute these ideals with slight differences. For example, the Velotric Discover 1 is made with Hydraulic disc brakes. Coupled with the 180 mm rotors, it has plenty of stopping power.

The Specialized Globe Haul is also made with Hydraulic disc brakes but has 203 mm rotors. This isn’t a massive difference, but e-bike enthusiasts have said a larger motor can make a difference in lurching during the ride.

Both the Specialized Globe Haul and the Velotric Discover 1 come with 36h, double-walled alloy rims. The Specialized Globe Haul has Careless Whisper Effect, 20 x 3.5-inch tires, while the Velotric Discover 1 has puncture-resistant lining tires with a size of 26 x 2.5 inches. 

The Velotric Discover 1 sports a KMC-Z7 chain and 42T chainrings, while the Specialized Globe Haul has a KMC e9S EPT chain with an anti-rust coating and 50T chainrings. 

Battery and Range

The batteries of these two bikes offer slightly different configurations. The Specialized Globe Haul, despite having a shorter expected range, has a larger external battery at 772Wh manufactured by the company itself. 

With that said, if you live in particularly rainy conditions or find yourself taking a bike ride near water regularly, the Specialized Globe Haul is the one for you. Their battery has an IPX7 rating, meaning that this bike and its battery can be submerged in up to 3 feet of water for a maximum of 30 minutes without having to worry about corrosion. 

On the other hand, the Velotric Discover 1 has a longer expected range with a smaller battery of 691Wh. Their battery is UL 2271 recognized, meaning safety is their top priority, and it has been given the stamp of approval for it. 

Both batteries are removable, so you can swap a dead battery out with a good one if you like taking long rides. In the same vein, having a removable battery is great if you lock your bike up outside. You won’t have to worry about thieves snatching your battery since you can take it with you.

Best Uses

Both bikes are great options for commuters or leisurely strollers looking for comfort and reliability. While neither bike is technically cut out for crazy adventures, if you think you might stray off the beaten path occasionally, the Specialized Globe Haul is the one for you with its waterproof rating and overall durability. 

The Velotric Discover 1 is a class 2 electric bike with a step-thru design for ease of mounting and dismounting. But it comes in two different sizes in order to accommodate riders anywhere from 5’0” to 6’9” tall. If you’re on the taller side, this is the bike for you. It also has an incredible 440-pound weight limit, so no worries if you’re hauling groceries back home.

The Specialized Globe Haul is a class 3 e-bike that also has a step-thru design so you can get on and off quickly. However, this bike can accommodate riders anywhere from 4’5” to 6’4” tall, even though it only comes in one size. At a whopping 77 pounds on average, the Specialized Globe Haul will give you quite the workout going back and forth from your apartment each day.

In contrast to the Velotric Discover 1, if you’re on the petite side this is probably the bike you want to choose. This bike has a weight capacity of 419 pounds, so it’s also a great choice for those looking to carry multiple or potentially heavy items with them.

Accessories

If you prefer your bike rides at night or simply value the safety of added lights, both of these bikes provide headlights and tail lights.

However, the Specialized Globe Haul might take the lead on this one given that the headlight is 1500 lumen, has a remote control, and comes with multiple mode options for optimal visibility as well as a 50-lumen tail light on the rear. The Velotric Discover 1 has an LED headlight with an adjustable angle and a tail light attached to the rear fender.

Several accessories come along with the Velotric Discover 1, including front and rear reflectors and fenders, a toolkit, a front light, a bell, and of course, a charger and battery. 

Velotric sells many other accessories, including helmets, a secondary backup battery pack, a rear rack, a front basket, and replacement items such as new handlebar grips or brake pads. This bike comes with everything you need, but Velotric also sells many additional accessories worth checking out.

Though, the Specialized Globe Haul takes the cake when it comes to accessories. This bike caters to a wide variety of riders. But if you want to bring a passenger along, this is the bike for you.

The e-bike company sells something called the passenger kit that includes a cushion for them to sit on in the back, their own handlebar, foot pegs, and more. They also sell baskets that can attach to the rear, the front, or even a coolcave pannier that has a 19 L cargo capacity and can attach to the front or the rear.

Specialized Globe Haul vs. Velotric Discover 1: 8 Must-Know Facts

• Both the Velotric Discover 1 and the Specialized Globe Haul are come with a step-thru frame without a top tube.
• The Velotric Discover 1 has a 1-year warranty, while the Specialized Globe Haul has a lifetime frame warranty and a 2-year e-system warranty.
• The Velotric Discover 1 has a suspension, while the Specialized Globe Haul does not.
• The Velotric Discover 1 bike comes with several color options, while the Specialized Globe Haul only has 1
• The Specialized Globe Haul has only one size option but accommodates riders as petite as 4’5”, while the Velotric Discover 1 is available in two sizes that can accommodate riders up to a height of 6’9”
• The Velotric Discover 1 is a class 2 electric bike with throttle capabilities, while the Specialized Globe Haul is a class 3 electric bike and is slightly faster.
• Both bikes are great choices for commuters. However, the Velotric Discover 1 is a bit more transport friendly due to its lighter and more compact size.
• Both bikes can carry heavy loads. However, the Specialized Global Haul has much better accommodating accessories for passengers and heavier items.

Specialized Globe Haul vs. Velotric Discover 1: Which One is Better? Which One Should You Choose?

It’s a pretty tough choice to make. Both the Specialized Globe Haul and the Velotric Discover 1 are incredible bikes with astounding capabilities for commuters or any bike enthusiast. Both bikes have optimal safety features and were designed with peak comfort in mind, allowing you to ride worry-free and enjoy yourself. 

The Specialized Globe Haul is a force to be reckoned with and comes with incredible accessory options. However, at a price of $2,700, it might be a little too hard on the wallet for some. 

With that said, given its more compact size, versatility, and comparability for a much lower price, we have to go with the Velotric Discover 1 at a price of $1,399 as our top choice.