STEEL STEED: THE 4X4
Cyclocross bikes already feature road-bike-like geometry plus the ability to tear up all but the most challenging singletrack, but Surly designed the Cross-Check to do even more. Not only does it accept fat tires; it's also easily transformed into a fully racked and fendered light-touring model. It's perfect for those commutes that trace a mixed-terrain route stitched together to make time and avoid busy streets. $1,050; surlybikes.com. ALSO SEE: The Bianchi Volpe ($1,100; bianchiusa.com), a similar multiple-personality cyclocross machine, with STI brifters, in case you prefer them to the Surly's less fussy bar-end friction shifters.

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