Larkspur 1

The Larkspur was offered in two core builds built around the same steel frame, fork, and geometry, with the main differences in drivetrain, brakes, and finishing kit. The Larkspur 1 was positioned around $869 and uses a microSHIFT Advent X 1x10 drivetrain with an 11-51T cassette, plus mechanical disc brakes. The Larkspur 2 stepped up to about $1,149 with Shimano Deore 1x11, hydraulic disc brakes, and a TranzX dropper post with 70 mm or 110 mm travel depending on size. Both builds use 650B aluminum wheels and high-volume tires, preserving the platform’s mixed-surface character.

The value split between the two is clear. The Larkspur 1 is the more budget-conscious utility and commuter option, but still keeps the wide-range gearing and all-terrain tire concept that define the model. The Larkspur 2 is the more compelling enthusiast build, largely because the Deore drivetrain, hydraulic brakes, and especially the dropper post make the bike feel more complete and more aligned with its ATB brief. Reviewers repeatedly highlighted the Larkspur 2 as unusually well equipped for the price, even if some questioned whether the 180 mm front rotor was more aggressive than necessary.

Reviewers consistently describe the Larkspur as unusually comfortable and versatile for a commuter-adjacent bike. Bicycling called the Larkspur 2 a “comfortable, cruisy, mixtie-inspired bike” with “go-anywhere capability,” and that theme runs through other reviews as well. Testers praised the upright position, steel frame and fork, and especially the 27.5 x 2.35-inch tires for giving the bike a planted, forgiving ride on pavement, boardwalks, gravel paths, and buffed singletrack. Several noted that letting some air out of the high-volume tires adds meaningful plushness, helping the rigid bike feel smoother than expected on rough surfaces.

The bike’s strengths are stability, climbing ease, and broad usefulness rather than quickness. Reviewers liked the wide-range 1x gearing on both models, with the 11-51T cassette repeatedly cited as a major asset on steep climbs. The Larkspur 2 in particular earned praise for combining Shimano Deore, hydraulic brakes, and a TranzX dropper post at a modest price, though one tester felt its 180 mm front rotor was too grabby for the bike’s intended use and would have preferred a 160 mm setup. The main recurring criticism is weight: multiple reviews point out that the steel chassis is not for riders seeking a light or especially snappy bike.

There were also fit-related caveats. One 6'1" reviewer found a size Large cramped and uncomfortable over a 20-mile ride, suggesting the stock stem is too short for taller riders, while a 5'5" rider found the same platform very comfortable. A long-term tester also mentioned some seatpost flex under hard seated efforts. Taken together, reviews portray the Larkspur as a highly likable, high-value all-terrain utility bike whose relaxed cockpit works best if the rider is comfortable with an upright fit—or willing to fine-tune it.