I really didn't plan on getting this bike but one short test drive and I was sold. The bike is very smooth and can hold a lot. Low gears are great for any hill you can find in Chicago with two kids and four bags of groceries and high gears can definitely get you going faster than you should be if you still have two kids and four bags of groceries hanging on.
I've had the bike for 5 years with regular use and basically no repair. Maybe $40 worth of maintenance? Everything is internal and more or less weather proof. The weight and large tire make me feel safe in the winter, built in light are also great. Kids love the bike, especially on the built in seat in front. I installed a pear box on the front rack and I think it looks great.

My five year old's review: "I like the bike because dada goes fast on it. I like sitting in the front because i can see everything in the front."
My three year old's review: "Yeah, I like it because it goes really fast and because sometimes i get to go on the front and because when we go on it you say yes"

Bought this bike just prior to moving from Chicago to Florida. I hadn’t ridden in some time as I’m a senior citizen and a big gal, 6’2 and not slim! I had always ridden a guys bike but no longer felt secure not being able to put my feet easily on the ground. A girls bike was just too small for my long legs. The Fr8 is fantastic! Fits well, sturdy easy shifting and I feel secure. Thanks Jon!

What an amazing bike! Everything, every element, is perfect and of the highest quality, finish, and feel. The bike rides solidly, with great comfort and very smooth. The integrated lights are a nice touch. We've been able to carry our twins with ease on the bike, and they love it. There's obviously ample room for both kids and a bunch of cargo, but without the extra long, cargo-bike tail. I should also point out how critical the big, stable kickstand is if you've got kids about and are putting them in seats. Everything has been thought through for daily use and convenience--the brakes are amply powerful, the gears are smooth, the chain guard makes it so you never have to think about grease or dirt, or fingers with the kids. We love it!

This is the bike! It rides smooth like a Cadillac and can carry it all. Two kids, three kids, kids bikes, work stuff. In the rain, snow and year round. It is, simply, incredible. I've had mine for 7 years and look forward to my morning ride every day. Date night? I have had my wife ride on the back side-saddle for a mile to get to a museum. With the seat up front, the little kids are right front and center. Far less heavy then the bucket bike and quite easy to ride. Maintenance has been very easy mostly just air in the tires. Very little wear even riding year-round in Chicago. I have taken it to Jon's shop for just one tune up in seven years. It is hard to communicate just how great this bike is to ride and have in your life. Go try one out, you won't be disappointed!

I do not live near the JC Lind store and ordered this bike unseen over the internet. I was originally considering a different bike, and ordered the Fr8 after communicating with Jon via email. The shop was extremely helpful in recommending a bike that is perfect for my needs. I feel so comfortable and secure riding this bike and it has turned into my daily commuter. I got the fixed frame front child seat, and my 5-year old son loves riding on the bike. The seat is very stable and safe. I was a bit worried that it would get in the way of pedaling when my son is not on the bike, but that has turned out to not be true! It is very easy to ride the bike with or without passengers. I have also ridden it with my son on the front seat and my husband on the back for short trips around town - very convenient for going to festivals and parades. I love that I can put my feet on the ground easily at stop signs and the tires are ideal for the bumpy New Orleans roads. I was originally considering getting an e-bike and the store owner recommended against it. I see the wisdom now in that advice, as this is an extremely safe bike and safety on roads (especially with my son) is my top priority. I cannot tell you how much I LOVE this bike! As someone new to commuting via bike, I feel very comfortable riding the Fr8, even with my son and all our backpacks, cargo, etc. Thank you for a great recommendation! If you have any concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to the shop via email because Jon really knows his bikes! :)