The Specilized Langster:
The Langster replaced a Cannondale hybrid which was functional and solid but never made riding a pleasure. What a change. This is a fun bike to ride - fast, responsive, and low maintenance due to the lack of derailleurs. For the last year, I have used it daily for my 3 mile Chicago commute in all weather except ice and heavy snow. I've also taken it for longer spins, although nothing longer than about 30 miles at a stretch. So far it has performed like a champ. Despite many of the reviews here, I stuck with the stock Mondo tires and have had no problems with the tubes as long as I keep them at 110-125 psi. They tend to be a little sensitive, but I've found that I can top them off every week or so and that's enough. The only other thing I've done in the way of maintenance is clean the chain. Sadly, my old Pedro's Chain Machine doesn't fit over the links, however, so I have to clean it by hand.
The Specilized Langster Fixed Gear Bike
I ride the Langster as a fixed-gear, which took a bit of getting used to after 20 years of free-wheel. I've grown to like it a lot, however, especially in the city where it's sometimes an advantage to pedal really slowly (lights, pedestrians, etc.) I have not experienced the brake issues referred to by other reviewers.
I am also using the stock handlebars. Some people have complained that they are too narrow, but I haven't had any complaints. That may be in part because I'm not an especially large person (42" chest or so). Wider shoulders may feel cramped on these bars. I have noticed that I have more control over the bike on the lower bars than the upper ones.
I don't know whether or not I would enjoy the Langster as much if I lived in a hilly area. However, on the platter-flat roads of Illinois, it's an amazing machine.
Strengths:
Low maintenance
Responsive
Quick
Light
Resilient
Weaknesses:
Expensive compared to mountain bikes, though cheap for a road bike.
Tires need frequent topping off.
About Specialized Bike Co:
Today, the company produces a variety of gear, including clothing, helmets, and parts, in addition to over 25 lines of bikes. They range from cheaper models such as the Hardrock, P series, and the children's Hotrock, up to the expensive S-Works models for road and cross-country riding, and the Demo for freeride and downhill mountain biking.