I've owned both, and honestly the Roll has my vote hands down. Hills in seattle were stupid easy on it (roll sport) and it's deceptively nimble and quick for having such large tires on it. The verve felt plenty nice and did what I asked of it, but despite the gearing being pretty close it felt slower and heavier than the roll. Even when I moved back to phoenix I found myself riding it over my normal go-to commuter for work and things. I only sold it to fund my Vaya. If I had room, I'd buy another in a heartbeat. Great bike