Rose Hobo Cosmic Cassis: Flat-bar gravel bike now sparkles in purple

This article was first published in June 2026 and has now been updated.

The Flatbar gravel bike According to the manufacturer, the steel version weighs less than 13 kilograms and comes as standard with a front luggage rack and two carrying straps. It is powered by Shimano’s Cues groupset – currently the only version available – featuring a single chainring and ten gears.

The steel frame is paired with a carbon fork, whilst bold Pop Art colours define the look of the latest version, which was unveiled in the summer. In this context, Rose also compared it to the previous model the handlebar width has now been reduced to 680 millimetres.

The Autumn/Winter 2026/2027 frame collection is now available in a new colour: Cosmic Cassis. The striking metallic paint finish in dark purple shimmers with a mystical and mysterious glow, whilst the matching front luggage rack in bright red with yellow lightning bolts shines out as a striking contrast in the darkness.

The range of features remains extensive

Speaking of which: the standard front luggage rack, with a load-bearing area of around 7 by 20 centimetres, is something of a highlight on the Hobo. It can carry up to 5 kilos and can be fitted with extension pieces as an optional extra. The base area then increases to 41 by 32 centimetres – big enough for a pizza box.

​The extension costs 99.95 euros and is available in the current colours to match Cosmic Cassis and Cotton Candy (i.e. Fire Red and Light Blue). Furthermore, Complete sets priced at 149.95 euros Still available in previous colours in the shop (for earlier models without a base carrier). Details from the manufacturer: When ordering for home delivery, the rack is supplied separately; it is pre-assembled when you collect your bike from the shop.

The rest of the spec remains unchanged. The in-house 650B aluminium wheels are fitted with 47-millimetre-wide WTB Venture tyres, which really come into their own on tarmac and simple gravel tracks. There are also mounting points for a side stand and suitable mudguards are included to highlight the bike’s qualities for everyday urban cycling.

Nevertheless, the Hobo is more than just a practical city runabout: the frame and fork feature 14 mounting points for luggage, making the bike a robust companion for a bikepacking tour as well. This is complemented by the tyre clearance, which accommodates tyres up to 55 millimetres wide.

Weighing 2,900 grams in size M (manufacturer’s specification), the steel frame does not make it onto the list of lightweight models, has already demonstrated its stable handling – particularly when laden – in our test. At 12.9 kilos, the Hobo is rather heavy, though. You certainly can’t complain about the price, though: for 1,300 euros, the Rose Hobo is a bike whose frame should provide years, if not decades, of carefree cycling enjoyment.

Provided that the supply of spare parts remains secure. However, the non-Boost axle standard (12x100 mm at the front, 12x142 mm at the rear) is still common in this class. Mountain bikes, particularly 29er MTBs, are usually fitted with the wider Boost hubs, which allow for stiffer wheelsets.

Serious gravel rider

“Even though many people will be riding this bike in the city, it’s perfectly capable of serious gravel riding,” says Rose product manager Anatol Sostmann, describing the bike, and adds: “The Hobo is more than a match for bikepacking trips and cycle tours.” The bike is now available from the Rose online shop, with prices starting at 1,300 euros.

Details, Price & Geometry

Technical specifications (manufacturer’s specifications)

• Frame: steel, frame weight (size M) 2900 g, 12x142 mm thru-axle
• Fork: Carbon, Rose Hobo, Carbon, fork weight 530 g, 12x100TA Black
• Gear system: Shimano Cues Linked, 1x10-speed
• Brakes: Shimano, hydraulic disc brakes, front/rear brake discs 180/180 mm (max.)
• Wheels: Rose G aluminium wheels 650B
• Tyres: 47 mm all-round gravel tyres
• Handlebars: 680 mm wide
• Ground clearance: up to 55 mm
• Weight: 12.9 kg
• Features: Front luggage rack with two straps, 14 mounting points, fittings for side stand and mudguards, Knog Oi bell included
• Price: from 1,300 euros >> available here
• Colours: Cotton Candy, Cosmic Cassis (both subject to availability)

Dimensions (manufacturer’s specifications)