best trek bike for casual riding

Best Trek Bikes You Can Get: Complete Lineup Overview for 2024

Trek is one of the first brands that comes to the mind of both beginners and experienced cycling enthusiasts. But what are the best Trek bikes on the market? Let’s see

They have a HUGE range of bikes , in all price categories, for different purposes, many of which are often seen at top-level competitions, such as the Grand Tours. This American bicycle and product manufacturer enjoys respect in all cycling categories, including road, mountain, gravel, cyclocross, touring, and commuting.

We’ll take a closer look at the lineup of best Trek bikes across different model series and tell you more about each!

Where It All Began…

Marlin series, domane series, supercaliber series, émonda series, speed concept, roscoe series, fuel series, 520 – 920 – 1120 adventure series, farley series, slash series, powerfly series, checkpoint series, ticket series.

Trek Bikes was established in 1976 , in a small shed in Waterloo, Wisconsin. It is the brainchild of Bevill Hogg and Dick Burke who started making their first steel bikes with just five employees.

Trek made their first mountain bike in 1983, which quickly became very popular across the USA. The first carbon frames came off the production line a few years later, and Trek was already a well-known name worldwide by 1990s.

Among other things, Trek is also a big advocate for women cycling , being one of the first companies to design women-specific frames in the early 2000s.

Also read:  Trek vs. Giant Bike Brands Comparison

Perfect Trail Glider

Marlin is one of Trek’s most popular trail lines . It’s intended for beginners with prices that stay around $1,000 and includes both models suitable for both men and women.

The number of models changes, but it usually stays at around 5 or 6 models that differ in terms of components and colors.

All Trek Marlin models are hardtail , with 100 mm of front travel, lots of gears, Shimano components, and disc brakes.

What’s interesting is that these models are available with either 27.5″ or 29″ wheels , depending on the size of the frame.

It’s an excellent choice for mountain biking beginners and casual riders who like hitting the trails from time to time.

Our Top Pick: Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2

Our favorite model and the true representative of this Trek’s versatile line is Trek Marlin 5. It is a reasonably priced hardtail bike that offers a lot for the money and will not disappoint any mountain biking newbie.

This bike comes equipped with SR Suntour’s 100 mm of travel and rolls on Bontrager tires that are 2.20″ wide . That makes it an excellent choice for XC riders, mild trails, and even daily commutes on less than ideally paved roads.

What sets Marlin 5 from other bikes that cost around $700 are hydraulic disc brakes . They’re a rare find in the entry-level trail world and they mean a lot to transform the on-trail experience.

Shimano Altus components and a 2×8 drivetrain are a good starting point and suit well with this model.

See the Model on Trek Bikes

Proper Road Warrior

Domane is one of Trek’s most popular lines of endurance road bikes . This line usually numbers between 20 and 30 models in different price categories. There are a few entry-level and mid-range bikes to choose from, but the majority are high-end road machines that cost thousands of dollars.

As expected, there are both men’s and women’s models to choose from, but the majority of them are unisex. Apart from these, the Trek Domane series also includes several e-bikes, such as the Domane+ LT.

As one can expect, Domane models come with nothing short but the best SRAM and Shimano component groups. Some of them sport V-brakes, whereas others brake with discs.

This line is also known for featuring Trek’s front and rear IsoSpeed decouplers that decrease vibrations in the headset and the seat tube.

Check out our reviews on Domane models:  2 –  3 – 4 .

Our Top Pick: Domane+ LT

Choosing one favorite Trek Domane model is not an easy job — most of them are jaw-droppingly good . However, when it comes to the electric models, Domane+ LT really stands out.

This high-end electric machine is built around a full carbon frame and fork with adjustable IsoSpeed decouplers both up-front and in the back.

Its e-parts are cleverly hidden in the oversized down tube, so this bike is pretty discrete. The motor and the battery will assist you up to 20 mph , and after that, you’re on your own.

Domane+ LT can also boast with a full Ultegra drivetrain and disc brakes, so it’s intended for serious roadies who will know how to use these components to their full potential.

This model sells for between $5,000 and $12,500 , but it’s well worth the money because it is one of the best Trek bikes you can get.

See the Models on Trek Bikes

True XC Machine

If you want the best of the best in the cross country world , then you should end your quest with Trek Supercaliber. This is a line of crème de la crème XC bikes with carbon frames, full suspension, and pretty steep price tags.

There are around 7 models you can choose from, but you’ll have to save between 5K and 12K  to own one. Ouch!

Trek Supercaliber models are light, fast, nimble, and swift. They feature strong and responsive carbon frames and short travel that makes these bikes precise in the corners.

Trek designed Supercaliber models with a rear shock IsoStrut design that puts the shock into the top tube. That gives Supercaliber models characteristics of both hardtail and full-suspension bikes.

Our Top Pick: Trek Supercaliber 9.9 AXS

Trek Supercaliber 9.9 AXS is simply the best you can get in the XC Mountain Biking world at the moment. This is a top-of-the-line XC racing monster that will instil fear in the opponents at the start line.

Like all other models in this line, Supercaliber 9.9 AXS comes with the IsoStrut integrated shock design that makes this bike fast and responsive. It’s extremely light as well, weighing under 21.83 lbs .

The drivetrain and the list of components are crowned with a fully wireless SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS groupset that shifts quickly, smoothly, and precisely.

Its 29″ wheels and 2.20″ Bontrager XR1 Team Issue tires will gobble obstacles like they don’t exist.

According to Trek, this is one of the lightest, fastest, and stiffest XC race bikes they have ever made. There’s nothing else we can do but agree.

Lightest Road Bikes

Trek created the Émonda series for roadies who are in the game because of speed, performance, and timed personal records.

These are high-end road bikes with racing geometry and some of the lightest carbon road frames Trek has ever made.

Trek Émonda consists of more than 10 models that cost between around $2,300 and $13,000 . This includes unisex models that can be ridden by all genders and no women-specific models.

The cheaper, ALR models, are made from aluminum, whereas the higher-specked SL models have stiff carbon.

Émonda was intended as a group of efficient climbing bikes , with up to 28 mm tires and disc brakes

Our Top Pick: Émonda SLR 9

If you’d fall asleep and dream about the world’s best and lightest performance carbon road bike in the world, you’d probably be dreaming about Trek Émonda SLR 9.

This bike exceeds expectations in all areas of road racing performance. It’s built around Trek’s lightest disc road frame that weighs just 665g, whereas the entire bike weighs less than 6.5kg (~14 lbs).

This mouth-watering package also includes Bontrager Aeolus carbon wheels, a carbon bar/stem combination, and a full 2×11 Shimano Dura-Ace drivetrain.

All Émonda models are equipped with hydraulic disc brakes. In the case of SLR 9, they’re Shimano Dura-Ace.

This bike costs $12,500 but comes with components and technological solutions that will allow the right pair of legs to win podiums and competitions on a regular basis.

Beat The Wind

Trek Speed Concept is a super-fast and super-light aero bike, ideal for triathlons and TT races . If you believe that time is valuable and that every second counts, you’ll fall in love with its tech and aerodynamics.

Related: Best Triathlon Bikes

Trek Speed Concept sells for between $8,800 – $14,000 , which is why it is common to see it both with pro and with amateur races.

Its main selling points include an adjustable aero frame developed in a wind tunnel , a headset integrated into the frame, deep carbon aero wheels, Ultegra components, and more.

Through Trek’s Project One , Speed Concept can be adjusted to fit your body perfectly and become 100% percent unique and yours.

Speed Concept is also known for the Bontrager Integrated Speed Storage that blends with the frame and does not affect the aerodynamic properties.

True Trail Hardtail 

Roscoe is a line of reasonably-priced hardtail bikes intended for trail-loving mountain bikers. There aren’t too many models in the Roscoe line (around 5) and one of them can be yours for between $1,200 and $2,800.

Here you’ll find both men’s and women’s models, each one being unique and offering different specs and colors. What’s common for all of them are massive 27.5+ tires that make no compromises on the trails.

Trek Roscoe bikes can also boast with light and efficient 1x drivetrains , playful frame geometry, and hydraulic disc brakes.

All but the cheapest Roscoe 6 also have dropper posts which is always a big advantage and a pleasant surprise in this price range.

Trail enthusiasts and first-timers will love the Roscoe line!

Our top pick: Roscoe 8

Roscoe 8 is one of the highest-specked models from this line.

Those who choose to spend $2,400 on it will get a capable and fun two-wheel package that offers excellent value for money.

You’ll get a 1×11 SRAM NX Eagle drivetrain with a wide-range 11-50T cassette. The 27.5″ x 2.80″ tires are massive; they’ll give you enough confidence to always choose the more demanding line and go out and ride no matter the conditions.

The frame is made of aluminum , which makes the bike slightly heavy (14.32 kg / 31.57 lbs), but the frame performs well on the trails and offers good responsiveness and great power transfer.

Trek Fuel is a line of versatile all-mountain bikes ideal for aggressive singletracks and descents. This is a gang of around 15 high-end bikes with lightweight aluminum or carbon frames, slack geometries, and lots of travel.

If you want to own one, you’ll have to spend between $2,500 and $4,000 for an aluminum model and up to $11,000 for a carbon frame. That’s steep but well worth it.

These are 29ers , but XS and S frames come with 27.5 wheels. When it comes to components, the list differs greatly relative to the price point.

Travel is usually in the 130mm to 140mm range , which makes Trek Fuel bikes real all-mountain monsters and gives them the necessary capabilities to dominate trails.

Our top pick: Fuel EX 8

We chose Fuel EX 8 as our favorite model from this Trek’s lineup. At $4,000 it’s not a budget bike, but it’s pretty reasonably priced considering the components you get with it.

It’s ideal for all-mountain enthusiasts who simply love hitting all types of trails and terrains and spending time outside.

This model has a lightweight aluminum frame coupled with 140 mm Fox Rhythm 34 fork and a 130 mm Fox Performance Float EVOL rear shock.

Apart from that, it has a 1×12 SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain with a massive 10-50T gear range. Coupled with excellent Shimano Deore hydraulic disc brakes, you can climb and descend any hill that comes in your way.

Best for touring

Apart from excellent road and mountain bikes, Trek is also a commonly seen name in the bike touring and bikepacking categories.

Their offer for this type of adventuring includes three models called 520, 920, and 1120 . The first two are intended for bike touring expeditions, whereas 1120 is best for bikepacking. Their prices range between $1,500 and $3,000.

The 520 and 920 models feature touring frames with comfortable touring geometries. The frames are already equipped with lightweight aluminum front and rear racks, so you’re ready to rumble.

1120 is a bikepacker’s dream , ideal for off-road adventures thanks to the aluminum frame, carbon fork, wide wheels, and front and rear racks.

If your idea of cycling includes exploring the world , there are few better choices than Trek 520, 920, and 1120.

Our Top Pick:  520

Trek 520 is a bike touring beast, perfect for open roads and all-day explorations . This bike has a very long tradition, as the first model was built in the 1970s. It costs around $1,800, which makes it even more desirable in the bike touring world.

The 520 comes with a practical and durable steel frame and custom-made front and rear racks that can carry a lot of weight.

The drivetrain has 27 gears with Shimano Sora and Alivio components, ideal for long days when you need to pedal for 10 hours over a variety of terrains.

If you plan to spend months on the road and carry front and rear panniers loaded with food and gear, Trek 520 is a bike that can keep up.

Expand the borders

Farley is Trek’s collection of extremely capable fat bikes with massive tires and stocky frames. They’re ideal for men and women who find regular mountain bikes can’t keep up with their adventurous spirit.

If you want to ride on snow, sand, over sharp rocks, and through mud, then you need a Trek Farley. There are around 5 models you can choose from here, priced between $2,000 and $3,500 . But prices can vary.

Frame materials include both aluminum and carbon , depending on how much money you’re ready to spend. However, what’s common for all models are intimidating 27.5 x 4.5″ tires . They’re some of the widest you can find in the world of fat bikes.

What’s also commonly seen on all Farley models are 1x drivetrains with quality Shimano and SRAM components that can get you through any challenging terrain.

Our top pick: Trek Farley 5

Trek Farley 5 is by far our favorite model from this series. It’s the best value fat bike you can find around with a light and compliant aluminum frame and an even lighter carbon fork that’s stiff and responsive.

The first thing you’ll notice on it is its 4.5″ wide Bontrager tires that are unstoppable when you take them over rocks, tree stumps, and through snow and sand.

A 1×10 Shimano Deore drivetrain gives you plenty of gears and a pretty decent value for around $2,000.

The package also includes hydraulic disc brakes , an internal derailleur, and dropper post routing, as well as plenty of rack and water bottle mounts.

For Commuting

A hybrid bike is used for different things by different people. Some use hybrids to commute, others to exercise, and some just to be on the move. The Trek FX series has the perfect hybrid for all of these purposes.

It’s a collection of a large number of different hybrids with step-over and step-through frames , men and women-specific models, and different price points.

The majority of bikes in this range are entry-level models , costing between $600 and $1,000, but there are some more serious models as well that reach $2,000.

All come with 700c wheels, flat bars, slightly wider tires, and aluminum or carbon frames and forks.

If you need a bike to get from home to work, run errands around the city or lose some weight and get fit, you’ll find it in the Trek FX lineup.

Our Top Pick: FX 1

The one we recommend entry-level cyclists to go for is the Trek FX 1 — the cheapest and most versatile option. This bike costs just $700 and has components and characteristics that suit the entire family.

It sports a lightweight aluminum frame and a comfortable and strong steel fork that accommodates 700c wheels and 35mm wide tires.

This makes it possible for FX 1 to commute on paved and unpaved roads equally well.

Shimano Tourney and Altus derailleurs put 21 gears at your disposal, which is more than enough for casual city riding on bike paths and streets.

Bottom point is that this is a simple and comfortable bike ideal for casual riders who just need to get from point A to point B and not spend an awful lot of money.

Proper Enduro

Trek Slash are proper enduro bikes built to dominate sketchy descents and demanding singletracks. They’re equipped with massive 29″ wheels, carbon or aluminum frames, and excellent mid-range and high-end Shimano and SRAM components.

The Slash line numbers around 10 bikes that cost $4,500 to $12,500 , so they are definitely not cheap. However, keep in mind that these enduro machines are intended for professionals and those who feel that way.

These bikes are characterized by a long wheelbase, very slack geometry , and impressively long travel.

You’ll be working with Fox and RockShox suspension that gives you 150 to 160 mm of travel , which is ideal for challenging enduro rides and downhills.

All Slash models also come with dropper posts and high-end braking systems that ensure precision and confidence. 

If you like it when things get rough, then get a Trek Slash bike!

Our Top Pick: Trek Slash 8

We believe that the best representative of the Slash family is Trek Slash 8. At $4,200, it’s pretty reasonably priced, even though still intended for experienced riders who will know how to put it to good use.

It sports a lightweight yet burly Alpha Aluminum frame with a 65-degree head tube angle , internal routing, and downtube guard.

Slash 8 is bejewelled with RockShox suspension with 160 mm of travel on the fork and 150 mm of give on the shock.

Other highlights include the SRAM GX Eagle 1×12 drivetrain, SRAM Guide R 4-piston brakes, and grippy 2.40″/2.60″ Bontrager XR5 tires.

The value for money Trek Slash 8 offers is excellent and its performance on the trails is even better.

Electric bikes have been a full-fledged member of the mountain biking family for a long time now. Trek is giving their contribution to e-MTBs with their Powerfly series.

This a selection of around five hardtail and full-suspension bikes with powerful electric motors and durable batteries. To own one, you’ll have to spend around $5,000 on average.

Trek Powerfly bikes are ideal for riders who struggle with some injuries or just can’t be bothered to tackle grueling climbs in order to enjoy some nice descents.

Powerfly models are available with both aluminum and carbon frames and with 27.5″ and 29″ wheels. They’re equipped with a wide range of high-end Shimano and SRAM components, all of which feature capable 1x drivetrains.

If you want to keep smashing challenging trails but you need some extra juice now and then, Trek Powerfly will meet your demands.

Our Top Pick: Powerfly 5

The versatility and capability of Trek’s e-bikes can best be seen on the example of Trek Powerfly 5. It’s a practical bike with an excellent value that will enable you to get back in the saddle and set new records.

This model is priced at $4,200 and is built around an Alpha Platinum Aluminum frame. The 500 Wh battery is fully encased in the downtube and the Bosch 250W motor is located in the bottom bracket.

Therefore, the bike looks sleek and all of the electric components are protected well. The motor will assist you up to 20 mph, and after that, you’re on your own with a 1×12 SRAM SX Eagle drivetrain.

All in all, if you want a high-performing trail e-bike with 120 mm of travel and durable Bosch electric parts, you’ll be quite happy with the Powerfly 5.

Versatile Gravel

Gravel riding is slowly but surely becoming one of the most popular cycling disciplines in the world. Gravel bikes are talked about everywhere and the number of gravel events is on the rise.

Trek’s response to the expanding gravel culture is the Checkpoint line . This is a range of around 10 excellent gravel-specific bikes, suitable for everyone’s pocket.

They are built with aluminum or carbon frames and forks, with plenty of eyelets to equip them with racks and water bottles and ride for days.

All Checkpoint models have 700c wheels with wide and knobby tires ideal for soft gravel and hardpacked dirt. They’re equipped with high-end and mid-range components, disc brakes, drop bars, and 1x or 2x drivetrains.

If you want to get on the Gravel bandwagon, Trek Checkpoint is your ticket.

Our Top Pick: Checkpoint AL 3

Trek Checkpoint AL 3 is the cheapest of all models in this range, which makes it affordable and accessible. It costs just $1,200, so it’s the perfect first gravel bike for those who want to explore the world.

Even though this is an introductory model in the lineup, it’s still packed with neat features that will allow you to use and abuse this bike.

It comes with a 200 Series Alpha Aluminum frame, a carbon fork , versatile 32c tires, and Shimano Sora components. You’ll have access to 18 speeds on your adventures with a 2×9 drivetrain, which is a pretty good range.

Checkpoint AL 3 also has mechanical disc brakes and weighs just 10.5 kg (23 lbs), which is excellent for a bike in this price range.

Even though most riders prefer buying complete bikes, there are those who want their bikes to be unique and just their own. If you’re one of those and you want to build your own trail bike , you can consider the Trek Ticket series frames.

These are lightweight framesets made from aluminum, perfect for building trick bikes, dirt bikes, and jump bikes. They’re available in both hardtail and full-suspension iterations, so you can make your pick depending on your preferences.

The hardtail Ticket frame is characterized by a compact rear end, long top tube, and horizontal sliding dropouts. Therefore, you can built it into a geared or a single-speed setup.

The FS frame is ideal for building a slopestyle MTB . It comes with a 100 mm Fox rear shock and is commonly used by Trek C3 Project riders.

If you wish to build your own bike from scratch , Trek Ticket frames are a good place to start.

See the Ticket Frames on Trek Bikes

Trek does not excel only when it comes to adult bikes. They make plenty of models for their youngest fans as well. Trek’s collection of bikes for kids is pretty impressive and includes lots of MTBs and cruiser bikes.

The wheel sizes range from 16″ to 24″, and there are models both for boys and for girls.

Trek’s lineup for kids also includes plenty of models with training wheels , ideal for the tiniest of riders who are still learning how to ride and balance a bike.

Our top pick: Trek Roscoe 24

Trek Roscoe 24 is a rigid mountain bike intended for kids. It is as capable as any adult trail bike. This is a mid-fat model with 2.8″ wide tires and costs just $570.

Roscoe 24 is the perfect first serious mountain bike for any child who loves riding on trails. It will help them develop control and the wide tires will give them more than enough confidence in all situations. 

Trek Roscoe also features a lightweight 1×8 Shimano drivetrain and powerful Tektro mechanical disc brakes. The entire bike weighs around 11 kg (25 lbs), so kids will be able to lift it.

The selection of colors includes silver, orange, and pink, so both boys and girls will easily fall in love with this bike.

See the Kids Bikes on Trek Bikes

Our Top Pick For Girls: Precaliber 24

For girls who want to practice their off-roading skills , Trek Precaliber 24 is a perfect choice.

This is a girls’ bike with 24″ wheels and wide and knobby tires. It’s ideal for daily rides to school and back home, as well as adventures away from paved roads.

Precaliber 24 sports a 1×8 drivetrain that offers more than enough gears for most situations. The lightweight and sturdy aluminum frame is coupled with a performance suspended fork that boosts capabilities and comfort.

This bike also has a kickstand, so it can be parked without chipping the paint. Talking about paint, Precaliber is available in white and magenta colors, both of which are really nice and girly. 

Final Verdict On Best Trek Bikes

Trek makes some of the best bikes in the world , without any doubt. This brand’s strongest points are tradition, reliability, durability, and incredible value.

The reason why they are so popular around the world is that they have a HUGE selection of bikes . No matter who you are, you will be able to find the perfect bike for your needs. And one that also fits your budget!

The 14 Trek lineups we covered above are a good place to start looking for your perfect Trek bike! So choose yours and enjoy the ride 🙂

See ALL Trek Bikes

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4 thoughts on “ best trek bikes you can get: complete lineup overview for 2024 ”.

What about the x-caliber series

Hi Blueboy,

Thanks for that suggestion. We will keep that in mind for future articles.

I order an Electra Townie Cruiser 8g eq step thru creme color in May from my local trek shop. Laurel Ave ft collins CO 80524. They said sometime between July and September. That’s a long time to wait for my new bike. Only Calvin has been helpful the others not so much. Can you tell me when it will arrive?

Hi Mary, I suggest you give them a call during store hours at 970-482-6006.

Store hours are : Monday 11:00 AM-6:00 PM Tuesday 11:00 AM-6:00 PM Wednesday 11:00 AM-6:00 PM Thursday 11:00 AM-6:00 PM Friday 11:00 AM-6:00 PM Saturday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM

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The Best Bikes for Every Type of Ride

By Christine Frietchen

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

My world changed when I bought my first bicycle. Walking into the local bike shop, I was bewildered by the choices (and prices) of the best bikes. I left with a cheap hybrid bike—regretted that particular purchase after a mere month; see below—but it changed the way I experienced my hometown of New York City .

On a bicycle, you’re moving fast enough to really cover some ground , but slow enough to notice everything you miss whizzing by in a car. I began to call my bike excursions “tiny travels,” venturing to the Louis Armstrong museum in Corona, Queens , exploring the Civil War-era Fort Totten designed by Robert E. Lee, and pedaling out to the Steinway piano factory, around which a whole neighborhood had been built in 1870 for its German immigrant workers. Along the way I stopped for authentic Chinese dumplings, homemade Indian samosas, and Dominican street food.

I quickly moved on to a lighter, better quality two-wheeler, and nowadays, I travel with my bike whenever I can. It’s my preferred exploration vehicle.

There’s no time like the present to rediscover the wind-in-your-hair thrill and freedom of a bicycle , especially these days , when big getaways and elaborate travel aren’t options . Cycling allows you to quietly connect to your own ecosystem. You are part of the landscape rather than merely moving through it. You’ll notice architecture, scenery, and wildlife you never knew were just a few miles from home.

No one bike is perfect for every kind of riding, but there’s absolutely something out there for everyone. Below, seven types of the best bikes to cover the environments you're most likely to encounter and our pick for the best bike in each category, along with tips for where to get one and what accessories you'll want to purchase, too.

All products featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Gravel bike

Best for: Pavement, dirt and gravel roads, touring

If any bike comes closest to a jack of all trades, it’s a gravel bike. Wide wheel clearance lets you go with fatter tires for rough terrain, or smoother rubber for pavement. Drop handlebars give you lots of hand positions for the best comfort on long rides. A wide gear range gives you smooth shifting for steep descents and climbing.

• Great for various types of terrain
• Wide gear range
• Lightweight
• No suspension, so not appropriate for true mountain biking or singletrack

Best gravel bike: Diamondback Haanjo 3 and Haanjenn 3 This versatile, snazzy looking bike has a longer wheelbase and slightly wider handlebars for excellent stability. It weighs just 24 pounds and includes frame mounts for fenders and racks to boost utility.

Buy now: Diamondback Haanjenn 3, $900, diamondback.com Buy now: Diamondback Haanjo 3, $1,10, eriksbikeshop.com

Mountain bike

Best for: Gnarly trails, singletrack

Mountain bikes have flat handlebars and a more upright body position that many people find comfortable. Full-suspension models are best for the roughest and most technical trails, like winding mountain singletracks, while ‘hardtails’ (front suspension only) work well for less technical terrain like rocky fire roads and muddy country lanes. Swap their nubby tires for smoother/smaller tires and lock out the suspension for a passible everyday bike on roads. Add fenders to fling off the mud. Most have a smaller number of gears compared to some other styles, which reduces maintenance, but can make it harder to find the comfiest one.

• Chews up trails and muddy terrain
• Can switch to slick tires for road use

Jessica Puckett

María Casbas

CNT Editors

• Limited hand positions
• Limited gear range

Best mountain bike: Specialized Rockhopper Comp This classic hardtail is a great value and weighs a reasonable 29 pounds.

Buy now: $750, specialized.com

Best for: Leisurely neighborhood rides

Cruisers or beach cruisers are cute, stable bikes for touring the neighborhood . Many come standard with fenders, chain guards, and storage racks, and some have a step-through design that make them especially easy to get on and off. Their heavy weight makes them a challenge on hills, though.

• Stable, low center of gravity
• Usually come with fenders, baskets, racks, etc.
• Cute and nostalgic
• Terrible for hilly areas

Best cruiser: Townie Electra 7D Step-through This easy-to-ride bike has a low axle height, making it effortless to put a foot down at stops. At 35 pounds, you’ll want to stick to flat terrain.

Buy now: $630, trekbikes.com

Electric bike

Best for: Fun riding with less effort

Electric bikes have revolutionized cycling, making it accessible for those with mobility issues, and enabling everyone to ride much farther with a fraction of the effort. “Pedal-assist” models have the same feel as a regular bike, but your pedal strokes are supercharged by the motor. Most have a removable rear- or tube-mounted battery with a range of between 30 and 60 miles before needing a recharge. Some hide the battery in the frame, so it’s not obvious you’re riding an e-bike.

• Goes further with less fatigue
• Pedal-assisted models still feel like riding a bike
• Many no longer “look” like an electric bike
• Must recharge battery/limited range
• Heavy, expensive

Best E-bike: Cannondale Treadwell Neo EQ The Treadwell hides its battery within the frame tube and to the naked eye looks like any other bike. The battery can’t be removed, so you’ll need a garage or storage area with a power source for recharging. The battery has about a 40-mile range and brings total bike weight to about 39 pounds.

Buy now: $2,650, cannondale.com

Commuter bike

Best for: Stop/start urban rides

Commuter bikes, sometimes called urban bikes, are simple and good looking for city and suburb commutes and family rides. Their flat handlebars and upright riding position ensure good visibility for city rides, stop/starts, and hitting up the farmer’s market, but aren’t as comfortable for long endurance rides.

• Better for hills than a cruiser or a folding bike
• Can be fitted with fenders, racks
• Not for off-road use

Best commuter bike: Brooklyn Bicycle Co. Bedford 3-Speed This hip-looking urban bike has a steel frame that absorbs pothole bumps. It comes in both three- and seven-speed versions.

Buy now: $580, brooklynbicycleco.com

Best for: Speed and endurance on well-maintained roads

Want to know what it’s like to bomb a descent at 50 mph? ‘Roadies’ are fast, light, and sexy, with carbon-fiber frames and an aggressive, lower riding position. But they get expensive fast—a $2,500 model can be considered a starter bike and they can run up to $15,000 with electronic shifting and braking, race wheels, and every aerodynamic doodad.

• Precise sizing
• Aerodynamic and fast
• Overkill for casual neighborhood rides
• Not for off-roading

Best road bike: Trek Domane SL6 This full-carbon beast comes in a wide range of precise sizes to fit anyone from 4’11” to 6’3.” Upgraded versions come with electronic shifting, race wheels, and even a custom paint job.

Buy now: From $4,100, trekbikes.com

Folding bike

Best for: Office workers

These problem-solving bikes fold up with just a few flicks (it’s one of those things that will take you 20 minutes the first time, then 90 seconds thereafter). The urban suit crowd can carry their bike from the ‘burbs by commuter train, then unfold and ride the last few miles to the office, refolding in a flash for the elevator. The small wheels on a folding bike are perfectly fine for good roads, but you’ll feel every bump or pothole otherwise.

• Best for storage/tight spaces
• Travel bags and boxes available
• Not good for long rides or serious hills
• Bumpy ride on less-than-smooth roads

Best folding bike: Brompton M6L This 26-pound, six-gear bike from the folding-bike leader is easy to fold and unfold down to 23”x 23” x 11”.

Buy now: $1,590, rei.com

Hybrid bike

Best for: Your back-up bike

Also called a ‘comfort’ or ‘fitness’ bike, hybrids try to be everything, but excel at nothing. Low-grade components and heavy weight make them fine for a ‘guest’ bike, but that’s about it. Rather than a hybrid, think hard about what you want to do on your bike, and match to one of the types above. If you must buy a hybrid, get the cheapest possible model at a big-box store and don’t expect much. Another option is to hit up garage sales and plan on getting a tune-up at a local shop.

• Inexpensive
• Lowest-grade components
• Uncomfortable

More bike tips

Size matters.

At minimum, you need a bike that allows you to straddle it comfortably, and easily put a foot on the ground when stopped. You should not have to rock side-to-side to reach the pedals. You’ll see bikes sold in ranges (S/M/L etc.) or as a numeric size (46 is about the smallest you’ll see, and 62 the largest).

Where to buy

Bikes are mechanical. Parts wear out and need replacement, and you’ll need periodic tune ups. That makes your local bike shop the best bet for an initial purchase, as you’ll likely get a couple of years of free adjustments. Some brands now offer online ordering with pickup at a local shop or home delivery.

Essential accessories

You need a brain bucket (a helmet) and a bike pump at minimum (you can get decent versions of both for $30 to $70). Get a bike lock if you plan on making some stops ($20 to $100).

Optional gear

Bottles cages, fenders, racks, and baskets add weight but increase utility. Most bikes have mounts for these. A small repair kit with an extra inner tube and inflation tool can be a life saver if you’re far from home with a flat tire.

Non-profits with maps and travel tips

For more details on routes, check out Adventure Cycling Association , an advocacy group focused on bike touring in the U.S., and Great American Rail Trail/Rails to Trails Conservancy for maps and a database of trails in your state.

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Best comfort bikes 2024: a guide for happier leisure rides

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Comfort hybrid bikes are becoming increasingly popular as more of us are choosing two wheels to make short distance trips to the shops, to go on exciting little pursuits into the countryside or to beat the traffic jams into work.

Styles of hybrid bikes and components fitted can vary significantly, with options ranging from the best fitness bikes to those more comfort oriented.

We have compiled a guide to the comfier hybrid bikes out there on the market, but first...

What is a comfort bike?

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

Calling a bike a 'comfort bike' somewhat infers that other bikes are not comfortable. This is not strictly correct. Rather the geometry and contact points, such as handlebars and saddles , of certain models of road and hybrid bikes are just more suited to riders who already have many miles under their belt.

If you are not used to riding a bike, holding yourself in the unusual position a bike bends and forces you in can cause pains and strains. Instead of putting up with these annoying aches in your first miles aboard a bike, a comfort bike presents a compelling alternative.

>>> Feel more comfortable, ride faster and prevent injuries with a physio led bike fit

A comfort bike can make the shift from not riding a bike at all or just a few miles a week to more regular rides, as the name suggests, a more comfortable affair. That said, comfort bikes are not just for beginners who are first entering the cycling world. For those who have niggling or persistent injuries, or are just generally not as flexible, a comfort bike has a much more suitable geometry.

>>> How to set your saddle height: a beginner's guide

By keeping your posture upright these bikes are designed to ensure maximum comfort when riding, which in turn helps reduce lower back pain and neck pain .

The bikes tend to have a step through frame or a sloping top tube which makes it a lot easier to mount and dismount from the bike.

Front fork suspension also often features on comfort hybrid bikes to help dampen the vibrations of bumpy and pothole ridden roads.

>>> Best flat pedals

More features of comfort hybrid bikes are detailed at the bottom of this page.

How to make cycling more comfortable

A comfort bike is not the only way of achieving a more pleasurable and enjoyable riding experience; there are other areas of your equipment and clothing you can look at to see significant improvements.

Saddles sores are an uncomfortable by-product of cycling that can be caused by a saddle that isn't right for you or shorts that don't fit properly.

Choosing the perfect saddle for you can take work but we have a handy guide - see it here

While a large proportion of cycling comfort comes from finding a quality saddle, investing in a pair of padded cycling shorts is also important as it is what sits directly between the saddle and the most delicate part of your body.

You should also avoid wearing underwear under padded cycling shorts because these interfere with the purpose built padded shorts that are designed to wick sweat and moisture away from the body. The extra layer of underwear is likely to lead to painful chafing as the seams and material are ill-suited and inappropriately placed.

Along with choosing the right pair of cycling shorts and a saddle, a generous helping of chamois cream will help eliminate friction between your skin and clothing, thereby preventing saddle sores and increasing ride comfort.

Using a foam roller on your quads, hamstrings, glutes , lower back and calves after riding your bike can also aid recovery and stave off injury.

Best comfort bikes

Boardman MTX 8.6

The handling and position on this offering from Boardman are tailored for control and comfort. With its upright geometry the roads and traffic ahead are clearly visible which means there's no need to strain to see properly and stay safe.

Its 63mm travel suspension fork smooths out the ride, and this is paired with Schwalbe's Tyrago tyres which are 35mm wide and also puncture resistant.

Boardman say the MTX saddle that is fitted on this bike was developed using pressure mapping technology with industry experts, with comfort specifically in mind.

Islabikes Joni

The Joni from Isla Bikes boasts a low-step through design for mounting and dismounting with utter ease.

It's very low gearing makes climbs more achievable - spinning in a tiny gear is much more comfortable than having to get off the bike and push the bike up the hill.

Instead of a front suspension fork, the Joni features a more expensive carbon fork that is both lightweight and incredibly comfortable.

Liv Alight 2 City Disc women's specific bike

Flat handlebars are combined with a women's specific relaxed geometry in Liv 's Alight 2 City bike, providing pedalling comfort that doesn't compromise efficiency.

Its geometry provides a stable, confident ride feel, and the choice of smaller sizes for women will ensure you are investing in a bike that properly fits - which is an essential for ride comfort.

This model has been fitted with Liv's Sport Comfort saddle and hydraulic disc brakes that do not need to be squeezed to death for instant stopping power.

With a kickstand attached, it's easy to park up without having to balance it precariously against railings or an object in your vicinity.

Focus Crater Lake 3.9 Step Through

With a step-through frame there’s no need for any acrobatics when mounting and dismounting, while the high front end puts you in a relaxed and stable position when riding. There’s a wide range of gears so you won’t be grinding away as soon as the gradient tips up on this comfort bike from Focus .

Although our tastes in saddles can differ greatly, the one here has been chosen to be the most comfortable fit for the most people.

Hydraulic disc brakes provide powerful and controlled braking; they also require relatively little maintenance so you can spend more time riding and less time servicing.

Front suspension and plump tyres help to smooth out the ride and absorb any jarring bumps rather than transferring them to your wrists.

Marin Kentfield CS1

Specifically designed for comfortable and relaxed casual rides and commutes, the Kentfield bikes are a great choice for comfort and what's more they come at a very reasonable price.

Placing riders in a neutral, upright position the CS1 provides ample control when riding, while its 38mm tyres will give you a cushioned feel on the move.

A wide range, triple chainring set up has plenty of choice for whatever hills and downhills are thrown at you with it's 21 gears.

Raleigh Detour women's specific bike

Incredibly easy to mount, in whatever you are wearing to cycle, the Raleigh Detour offers a comfy riding position as well as 42mm wide tyres for smooth ventures.

Although it doesn't come with hydraulic disc brakes like other models for pure braking comfort heaven, the alloy V-brakes will still perform valiantly and for the Detour's low price this exclusion is to be expected.

Merida Crossway 100

Although the crossbar is higher than others on this list, requiring a little bit more flexibility when mounting and dismounting, this bike from Merida really excels when it comes to comfort. A front suspension fork is coupled with a suspension seatpost for a smooth and shock-free ride.

There are mounts for a pannier rack, mudguards and a kickstand, or you can leave it unadorned for a lightweight and more efficient ride. Even when loaded up, you shouldn’t have a problem with hills though, as there is a broad range of gears which offer significant help. While the hydraulic disc brakes will keep you in control as you come down the other side.

Features of a comfort bike

A bike doesn't require all of the features below for it to count of a comfort bike, but these are the components manufacturers tend to focus on when designing and building a bike for a comfort haven.

Front suspension

Typically suspension is found in the front fork of a comfort bike and it is installed to smooth out the often imperfect surface of Britain's roads - although this does come at the sacrifice of efficiency and speed. If you want a faster ride that's still comfortable, missing out this component is recommended as you can find comfort from focusing on other areas.

Wide range gearing

It can be extremely uncomfortable and bad for your knees to grind it out in an oversized gear. It is important to be able to pick a suitable gear for both your cycling ability and the challenging gradients of the roads. This is easier with a wide range cassette and a triple crankset for gears to choose between.

Disc brakes

Coming to a halt when riding can be achieved with either rim brakes or disc brakes. Disc brakes are the more expensive option because they provide significantly superior stopping power - you will really be able to feel the difference.

Disc brakes will make life a lot easier and more pleasant for your hands when riding. No more clenching the brakes with all your might to stop in time for a junction.

Hydraulic disc brakes also require less maintenance than cable actuated mechanical ones- you only need to make sure the pads are replaced before they’re completely worn down.

>>> Disc brakes or rim brakes for commuting: what to choose

Wider tyre width

Wider tyres are comfier as they can run at a lower pressures, which means they can absorb the bumps of the road better.

Getting the right tyre pressure is also important for comfort. On the tyres there will be a minimum tyre pressure figure detailed – this should be met at all times when riding. However if the resistance is feeling a bit sluggish, you can up the pressure for a faster ride – although you will feel the road more.

Finding the best tyre pressure is about discovering a balance, between comfort and speed, that feels right for you.

A track pump with a pressure gauge can help you pump up your tyres to your preferred tyre pressure time and time again.

Contrary to what you may believe, a larger, cushy-looking saddle is not actually the most comfortable.

Brands fit comfort bikes with saddles that tend to offer the best support and comfort to the majority of riders. But if you are still experiencing discomfort with one of these saddles it worth checking in for a clinical bike fit , one that includes saddle pressure mapping as part of the process.

Your saddle soul mate is determined by the type of riding you’re doing and your physiology – including flexibility, core strength , sit bone width and soft tissue distribution – which means the perfect saddle varies significantly from person to person.

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I’ve been hooked on bikes ever since the age of 12 and my first lap of the Hillingdon Cycle Circuit in the bright yellow kit of the Hillingdon Slipstreamers. For a time, my cycling life centred around racing road and track. 

But that’s since broadened to include multiday two-wheeled, one-sleeping-bag adventures over whatever terrain I happen to meet - with a two-week bikepacking trip from Budapest into the mountains of Slovakia being just the latest.

I still enjoy lining up on a start line, though, racing the British Gravel Championships and finding myself on the podium at the enduro-style gravel event, Gritfest in 2022.

Height: 177cm

Weight: 60–63kg

An average of 67,565 rides were taken a day between September 2022 and September 2023, an increase of 24%

By Adam Becket Published 23 April 24

Colombian, who suffered traumatic training accident in 2022, aiming for return to Tour de France

By James Shrubsall Published 23 April 24

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All you need to know

• What is a road bike?
• How to choose a road bike
• Road riding resources
• Road riding gear

What is a road bike? Road bikes are made for speed and efficiency whether you’re riding on smooth paved roads, chunky gravel backroads, or somewhere in between. However, there are a few key features – like drop bars, lightweight designs, and skinny(ish) tires – that set road bikes apart from their trail tackling cousins.

Drop bars provide a downward-swoop design for riding on the hoods, tops, and drops. They’re great for longer or faster rides because you can easily change your body’s positioning for more comfort, power, or aerodynamics.

Skinny (ish) tires

Traditional road tires are designed to roll fast and corner hard on paved roads. They typically come in sizes up to 28mm and are paired with bikes that have a more race-focused geometry. Road bikes with relaxed and endurance-focused geometry come with larger sized tires and can accommodate up to 45mm of tire clearance for increased comfort, traction, and control on tarmac, gravel, and dirt.

What kind of road bikes are there? Road bikes typically fall into four categories: Performance Road, Electric Road, Gravel, and Triathlon — each is designed to help you reach your goals in different ways. When choosing a road bike, you’ll want to consider where you’ll be riding, how hilly the terrain will be, and if you want a small boost from an electric assist.

Performance

Performance road bikes are made for efficiency and speed whether you're chasing KOMS or racing in the world's toughest races.

Madone Aero road

Madone is an aerodynamic road bike designed to slice through the wind. It’s our fastest road race bike ever. –Kammtail aero shapes from front to back for more free speed –Fast/aggressive race geometry –The top bike of choice for riders and racers who prioritize speed

Domane Endurance road

Domane is an “all-road” endurance bike that’s all about comfort on long rides with the features you need for mixed surface riding. –IsoSpeed road-smoothing tech enables you to ride faster and longer on anything from smooth pavement to cobblestones to light gravel –Comfortable endurance geometry –Great for new road riders and seasoned pros alike

Émonda Ultra-light road

Émonda is an ultra-light road bike designed for maximizing performance on hilly race courses and climbing the tallest mountains. It’s our lightest road race bike ever. –Ultra-lightweight design –Fast/aggressive race geometry –Excellent for dancing up inclines on race day and leading the pack on group rides

Electric road bikes provide a natural-feeling assist that lets you ride farther and faster than you ever thought possible.

Domane+ is an electric road bike designed to help flatten hills and take the tailwind with you on long the way. –Perfect for paved or light gravel roads –Models range from 38mm all-road to 40mm gravel tire clearance –Comfortable endurance geometry

Gravel bikes are true “jack-of-all-trades” bikes that can be ridden on all kinds of surfaces — from gravel to pavement and even light singletrack. They're designed with clearance to accommodate larger, more stable tires and are made for adventure with their ability to carry a whole range of accessories like bags, racks, and fenders. And if you're wondering, "can road bikes go on gravel?" be sure to check out the Domane.

Checkpoint Gravel

Checkpoint is a gravel bike designed for the pursuit of adventure on unpaved roads, exploring with friends, bikepacking, and gravel racing. –Up to 45mm gravel tire clearance –Plenty of mounts for storage and bikepacking bags –Progressive geometry that’s made for light gravel, heavy gravel, and everything in between

Domane Endurance all-road

Domane is an “all-road” endurance bike that’s ready to roll on anything from smooth pavement to rough country roads and light gravel. –Perfect for paved or light gravel roads –Up to 38mm all-road tire clearance –Comfortable endurance geometry for all day rides

Triathlon bikes are designed for setting PRs, racing against the clock, and efficiency during the toughest multi-sport events. They’re packed with loads of tri-specific features like optimized aerodynamics for long distances and storage for fuel on race day.

Speed Concept

Speed Concept is a triathlon bike that’s all about setting you up for your fastest bike split on the triathlon course. –Designed to make you faster than ever during your next Ironman or local triathlon –Fast triathlon geometry with a fully customizable rider-specific fit –Seamlessly integrated hydration and fueling systems

Carbon or aluminum? The construction and material of your bike can make a big difference in how it will feel when you ride it. Trek offers both carbon and 
aluminum options for most of our road bikes. And depending on how you like to ride, one may be better for you than the other.

Trek OCLV Carbon

Carbon fiber is a composite material that can be made into intricate, complex shapes and gives bike designers flexibility when crafting super-light bikes. Carbon fiber bikes are generally lighter and allow for heightened aerodynamics and ride quality. They also tend to take a lot more precision craftsmanship to manufacture and can be more expensive than their aluminum counterparts.

• Shop carbon road bikes

Trek Alpha Aluminum

Trek’s aluminum road bikes are packed with performance technology and share many of the same characteristics as other frame materials. Trek’s Alpha Aluminum uses Invisible Weld Technology for high-quality looks, are super durable, affordable, and a high-value option for the rider who wants a responsive and affordable ride.

• Shop aluminum road bikes

Choosing the level of carbon or aluminum What do the letters after the bike name mean?

The lightest and most premium carbon frames we offer for our models. 700 and 800 Series OCLV Carbon SLR frames feature top-tier tech and are the choice of top-level racers.

Our lightweight 500 Series OCLV Carbon. These road frames are a bit heavier than their SLR siblings, but still pack fantastic performance features into an affordable package.

Our highest-performing 300 Series Alpha Aluminum frames. They’re lightweight, feature elevated details like hydroforming and smooth welds, and don’t break the bank.

Our entry-level 100 Series Alpha Aluminum frames are made at the intersection of performance and value. They have smart features and great looks, and place high value front and center.

Choosing your drivetrain Every Trek road bike comes with a carefully selected combination of parts (the crank, gears, chain, and derailleur) that are more widely known as a drivetrain. Just like bike frames, drivetrains come in a variety of levels. Each road bike’s name includes a number that indicates the level of drivetrain that comes with the bike — 9 being the highest performance level and 2 being our highest value option. Another choice you may have within each drivetrain level is deciding between SRAM and Shimano. Each company makes incredible components for our bikes which have their own benefits to better suit how you like to ride.

SHIMANO DURA-ACE Di2

The pinnacle of Shimano’s road technology and innovation, the DURA-ACE 12-speed electronic drivetrain is Shimano’s fastest ever. Every component was refined, designed, and fine-tuned to make you faster – whether you’re sprinting to the finish on the Champs-Elysees or crushing your local climb for the KOM.

SRAM Red AXS

With RED AXS, you’re always in the right gear. SRAM’s lightest wireless drivetrain offers more range, a smoother gear progression, and simple shift logic. AXS technology allows you to easily personalize your components right from your phone. It’s true innovation, for true advancement, for the truest performance-minded riders.

SRAM Force AXS

The most precise Force AXS. Choose from integrated power options, go further with intelligent gear ranges, and personalize it with the power of AXS. Enjoy redesigned shifter paddles, a sleeker hood shape, and the consistent feel of hydraulic stopping power.

SHIMANO ULTEGRA Di2

The ULTEGRA drivetrain is packed with innovative game-changing features like Shimano’s exclusive wireless integrated circuit, an ULTEGRA power meter, increased ergonomics, and aerodynamic advantages that are combined into a 12-speed package to ensure you’ll have the gearing you need for wherever the road takes you.

Shimano GRX Di2

Shimano GRX Di2 pairs lightning fast electronic shifting power with rugged off-road capability for an adventure-focused drivetrain that excels when the road gets rough

SHIMANO 105 Di2

With a shared Di2 electronic shifting platform inherited from DURA-ACE and ULTEGRA, sophisticated ergonomics, SHIMANO 105-optimized gear combinations, and an exceptional brake system, SHIMANO 105 Di2 brings affordability to electronic performance.

SRAM Rival AXS

Rival AXS features the technology modern riders demand—wireless shifting, innovative gearing, integrated power measurement, and AXS connectivity. With exceptional ergonomics, braking and superb chain management, this group can take you anywhere.

SHIMANO GRX

SHIMANO GRX is designed from the ground up for gravel adventure with its gravel-specific ergonomics, optimized gearing options, rugged reliability, and quiet and stable mechanical drivetrain.

SHIMANO 105

The mechanical SHIMANO 105 drivetrain empowers more riders than ever before to embrace the sport of road cycling. It’s a supportive, high-value drivetrain that provides an accessible option to enable, motivate, and inspire riders of all backgrounds.

Shimano Tiagra

TIAGRA is a 10-speed drivetrain that pairs serious entry-level riding performance with technology from top-tier lines for more intuitive shifting.

Shimano Sora

SORA is Shimano’s most attractive and robust 9-speed drivetrain. It’s great for fitness and recreational cyclists because of its stylish and clean design.

Shimano Claris

CLARIS covers a wide range of uses and comes on fitness bikes, touring bikes, and road bikes. This durable and low-maintenance 8-speed drivetrain gives you the optimal range of gears for comfortable riding.

Quick tip: the drivetrain level of each bike is indicated with a number after the carbon or aluminum marking.

Should I go with electronic or mechanical shifting?

Electronic shifting

Electronic shifting provides a lightning fast and high-performance experience. It’s precise, durable, and can shift quick even while under load. However, with all this speed there is a small drawback — you’ll need to charge the battery every once and awhile.

Mechanical shifting

Mechanical drivetrains are the tried-and-true tech that’s been around for years. Each drivetrain offers high-value reliability, ease of use, and the peace of mind that comes with not needing a charger.

Can I fit bigger tires on my road or gravel bike? The tires that come stock with your Trek road or gravel bike are guaranteed to fit and designed to provide great performance. But you may find you’re looking for even more comfort, traction, and confidence for more off-the-beaten-path adventures. Wider road or gravel tires, which can be run at lower pressure, can provide this.

But not just any tire will fit! Each of our road and gravel bikes comes with a maximum tire size recommendation, which you can find in the details about each bike model. In the bike model details, you may see a maximum “as measured” tire size recommendation. "As measured" means the measured tire width while the tire is on the rim and inflated to the recommended pressure. We recommend at least 4mm of clearance between the tire and frame for road models and 6mm of clearance for gravel models. This clearance is what determines our maximum recommended tire size. A - measure width of the tire B - measure top clearance C - measure side clearance

Madone Gen 7, for example, can fit up to 32mm tires as measured. That means the maximum recommended width of the tire (measurement A) is 32mm, which should provide the recommended 4mm of clearance between the tire and frame (measurement B and C).

• Shop road tires
• Shop gravel tires

Road bike gear – the essentials Once you’ve found your perfect road bike, it’s time to add in the vital gear that every rider needs. Front and rear bike lights and a helmet are extremely important to help protect your head and keep yourself seen at any time of the day, and a bottle cage with a few water bottles are a must to make sure you’re hydrated wherever you roam. Other essentials like a flat kit and spare tube ensure you have a backup plan if you get a flat, and tools like a floor pump and chain lube help prolong the life of your components and keep tires inflated before every ride.

• Shop all road gear

Road bike apparel Road bike apparel is specifically designed to help you have your best rides. Bike shorts and bib shorts with features like a built in chamois provide comfort where your body meets the saddle. Sweat-wicking materials and pockets on jersey tops help keep you cool and offer a quick-access spot to store snacks or other ride essentials like your phone and credit card. Sunglasses are also a great addition to any bike kit as they help you see the road ahead and help protect your eyes from the wind and sun.

• Shop all road apparel

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From cruisers to commuters, the best bikes for every activity — starting at $198

Whether you're hoping to escape your traffic-filled commute or simply want to spend more time outside now that the weather is warming up , biking is a great way to do it.

During the pandemic, bike sales soared as people took up cycling as a way to avoid public transportation, get some exercise and spend time with family. And now, as gas prices hit record-high levels , the idea of being able to hop on a bike and cycle to your destination seems even more appealing.

But finding the right bike for your needs is a little more complicated than simply walking into your local shop and buying the first one that catches your eye. So, to help you make your purchase, we consulted with four biking experts to learn more about what to look for in a bike and how to choose the right one for different activities.

What to consider when buying a bike

When it comes to choosing your bike, one of the most important things to consider is what type of riding you'll be doing, said Neile Weissman, public relations director at the New York Cycle Club . If you're just taking your bike to the office and back, the features that you'll need will likely be different than those that you'd want if you're planning on taking it for 50-mile rides every weekend.

Storage is another aspect to consider, he added. If you live on the fifth floor of a walk-up apartment building, you won't want to have to lug a heavy bike up the stairs every day, so a lightweight option could be a good choice. Or, if you don't have room to keep your bike inside, you might want to stick to a simple model that doesn't come with a ton of additional, expensive features that potentially can get stolen off the bike.

Comfort is another key factor. "When you're shopping for a bike, the first and foremost thing is to find a bike that's going to be comfortable for you," said Alison Dewey, director of education at the League of American Bicyclists . "Because if you don't find a bike that's comfortable for you, you're not going to want to ride it." She suggests taking the model you're interested in for a test ride, if possible, before purchasing to get a feel for it.

Most of the experts we spoke to agreed that your local shop is one of the best places to make your bike purchase. There, you can get a feel for different bikes and speak with experts who can help you determine the best model for your needs. "We recommend our folks take the time to look for the bike that feels right for them," said Angela Azzolino, executive director of Get Women Cycling . "I would say shop around, don't be in a rush and reach out to the professionals in the space. Local bike shops are great, but they also can only sell what they have in stock, so you may want to shop around."

If you don't have a bike shop in your area, Azzolino said that there are also bike coalitions and organizations, like Get Women Cycling, that you can contact to get more information and guidance.

But in case you can't make it to the store or are hoping to buy something online, we asked the experts to guide us through some key qualities that you should look for in different types of bikes and the best options for every activity. But first, we're sharing some reviewer-loved bikes that you can grab for less than $500.

Best affordable bikes, according to reviewers

Best commuter bikes, according to experts, best fitness bikes, according to experts, best cruiser, according to an expert, sixthreezero around the block beach cruiser bike.

Around The Block Beach Cruiser Bike

This popular cruiser has more than 3,400 five-star ratings, and reviewers say that it's easy to assemble and a "great bike for riding around the neighborhood." It comes in 10 colors and multiple sizes and speed levels to match every rider's needs.

Huffy 26-Inch Panama Jack Cruiser Bike

26-Inch Panama Jack Women's Cruiser Bike

Meet the beach cruiser you've been dreaming of. This colorful single-speed bike features a coaster brake, so you just have to pedal backward to stop or slow down. It features the Huffy's upright Perfect Fit Frame, which the brand says makes it "the most comfortable bike you'll ever ride."

Sixthreezero EVRYjourney 3-Speed Step-Through Hybrid Cruiser Bicycle

Women's 3-Speed Hybrid Cruiser Bicycle

Another popular pick from Sixthreezero, this bike has an average 4.6-star rating from more than 3,200 reviews. With a step-through frame, three-speed hub and a comfortable upright design, it has practically everything that you could want from a cruiser. Plus, it comes in four super stylish colors.

Beaumont City Bike

Beaumont City Bike - Step Through 7 Speed

According to the brand, this bestselling commuter bike "mixes form and function." It has a step-through frame, rear rack, ErgoComfort saddle and Shimano Revoshift Shifters, which allow you to easily switch between the seven gears. Plus, it comes in six fun colors, including yellow Sunflower and light blue Cool Mint.

Schwinn Huron Adult Beach Cruiser

Cruise around town or along the beachfront in style with this bike from Schwinn. It has an average 4.3-star rating from more than 1,200 reviews, and one reviewer said that it's a "good quality bike for the money." The single-speed bike seems like it would be great for rides around town, but there are also three- and seven-speed options for those who live in hilly neighborhoods.

Schwinn Discover Hybrid Bike

Discover Hybrid Bike, 21-Speed, 28-inch Wheels

This hybrid bike has more than 1,000 five-star reviews from shoppers who say that it is "lightweight," "comfortable" and is a "great value." It comes in multiple sizes in both the Discovery and Discovery 2 models to suit a variety of heights, and you can add expert assembly at checkout. You can also contact your local bike shop to see if they can put it together for you there — some shops will offer that service for a price.

What to look for in a commuter bike

"A commuter [bike] most of the time is a little bit heartier of a bike," said Garret Seacat, a cycling coach and owner of Absolute Endurance in Manhattan, Kansas. "Usually with a commuter bike, you're often going to get something that is a steel frame and is somewhat overbuilt in a lot of areas, so maybe it has a little sturdier wheel, so it can account for you carrying bags on the bike."

Typically, you want to look for something with upright handlebars, multiple gears and a step-through frame, "that's important, particularly for women who might be traveling in dresses or skirts," Azzolino said. You also want to be aware of the environment that you'll be riding in, she added. Certain bikes have features, like disc brakes or sealed components, that make them more suitable for riding in the rain and rough conditions.

Azzolino said that you might also want to consider looking for something that has a built-in basket or rack or that features mounts that will allow you to add one. That way you can transport all your bags to the office, without having to worry about holding onto them as you ride.

Lekker Amsterdam 8 Speed

Amsterdam 8 Speed

Weissman said that this Lekker option falls into the European hybrid category, which includes bicycles that have key elements that are helpful for commuters — especially those who often ride in the rain. "[They] have a sealed hub, so if you ride in bad weather, all the components are sealed and they have disc brakes, which are very effective in wet weather."

This bike allows you to switch between eight speeds and, according to the brand, requires little maintenance. Another thing to keep in mind about this style of bike: "They're not light," Weissman said. "I wouldn't want to carry them up four flights of stairs."

Surly Steamroller Commuter Bike

Steamroller Single Speed Urban Bike

For a fully customized experience, look no further than the Surly Steamroller. You can buy the frameset on its own and then add additional features, like your preferred handlebars , breaks and wheels . Weissman also said that this single-speed, fixed-gear bike has clearance to allow for wide tires.

Trek Allant+ 7 E-bike

Allant+ 7 E-bike

Electric bikes make it easier to get where you're going quickly. And Seacat said they're a great option for commuters — though they can get pretty pricey. He likes this one from Trek. According to the brand, it has a powerful Bosch drive system that assists up to 25 miles per hour and a sleek controller that can monitor your speed, distance and battery power.

What to look for in a fitness bike

Within the fitness bike category, your needs may vary, depending on your location and how far you plan to ride. But generally, when looking for a bike to use for exercise, Azzolino recommends something with a drop handlebar, which will allow you to use different hand positions and switch the muscles that you're working, so you don't fatigue as quickly. Instead of a step-through frame, opt for a traditional top tube bike, which has a higher, flatter frame. "That [top tube] bike is going to be more responsive," she said.

Another thing to consider is the type of tire that the bike uses. Commuter bikes typically have wide tires, which make it easier to go over bumps and cracks in the ground; but with a fitness bike, Azzolino said you can opt for a thinner tire, which will give you less rolling resistance and allow you to go faster.

Trek FX 1 Hybrid Bike

FX 1 Hybrid Bike

Seacat said that the Trek FX 1 is his favorite fitness bike. "The reason I love that one is it comes with what they call IsoSpeed," he said. "And that's in the rear end of the bike where your seat post actually flexes a little bit, so it takes the edge off of all the little bumps." It also features a lightweight frame, 21 speeds and even has mounts, so you can customize it with a rack or lights.

Specialized Sirrus 1.0

Specialized's Sirrus 1.0 bike has many of the same features as the Trek FX 1 bike, Seacat said. But instead of having the comfort aspect on the back end of the bike, this one has shock absorption features in the front, which help to take the pressure off your hands when riding.

Specialized Diverge Base E5

Diverge Base E5

Weissman says this bike is useful for city, off-road and recreational riding, calling it a "one bike solution." It's expensive, so he said that it's not one that you'd want to leave locked up outside, but it has a range of features that will come in handy for longer rides, like drop handlebars, disc brakes and multiple gears.

Cruisers are a relatively affordable option for anyone who is simply looking for a quick way to get around the neighborhood. Dewey said that "they look very fashionable and fun," and are a good option if you're looking to ride just a few miles at a time. One thing to keep in mind: They have very wide handlebars and are pretty heavy, so they can be hard to transport, she said. Their weight can also make them harder to power up hills, so they may be better suited for flat areas.

"With a leisure bike, the first thing you want to look for is the height of your handlebars to the height of the seat," Seacat said. "So, you want your handlebars to be plenty well above that seat, because what that will indicate to you is that the bike is really sat up and very comfortable."

Electra Townie 7D Step-Through Bike

Whether you're heading out to run errands or biking around town with the kids, the Electra Townie is a great choice. "It's just an all-around fun bike to cruise around on," Seacat said. It features Flat Foot Technology, which the brand says puts you in a comfortable, upright position that allows you to easily put your feet down when you come to a stop.

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Emma Stessman is a writer for Shop TODAY.

The 15 Best Bikes for Men in 2024, Tested by Gear Editors

From road bikes to e-bikes, we found the best brands to buy online.

Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?

Biking is a great way to stay in shape and offers a cheaper, eco-friendly alternative to commuting. But finding the right bike isn't easy. That's why the MH gear team did the hard work for you and tested the best bikes for men to buy now.

Best Bang for Your Buck Road Bike

Cycles adv 2.1 bike.

Best All-Road Bike

Priority bicycles priority 600.

Best Road Bike for Serious Riders

Cervelo caledonia ultegra road bike.

Best Gravel Bike

Specialized diverge e5.

Best Mountain Bike for Experienced Riders

Trek fuel ex 8 gen 6.

BEST INTERMEDIATE MOUNTAIN BIKE

Rei co-op cycles drt 1.1 bike.

Best Mountain Bike for Around $500

Mongoose switchback trail adult mountain bike.

Best BMX Bike

Mongoose legion l100 freestyle bmx.

Best Hybrid Bike Investment

Cannondale bad boy 3 bike.

Best Intermediate Hybrid Bike

Co-op cty 1.1 bike.

Whether you’re into road biking or mountain biking, we tried and tested the best bike models you can buy online and get shipped to your door fast. We also covered our favorite top-rated e-bikes , as the timing has never been better to try one of these bad boys. No matter your preference one thing is for certain: you're going to enjoy the season a whole lot more with a new set of wheels.

Best Folding E-Bikes | Best Bike Helmets | Best Air Bikes | Best Exercise Bikes | Best Cycling Shorts

Best Men's Road Bikes

Good for : Riding on the tarmac. Training for road races.

Skinny tires, low handlebars, and lots and lots of gears. You get the picture. Much like a race car, road bikes are built on speed, aerodynamics, and efficiency. Road bikes are also built to weigh as little as possible so you can glide and turn like a hawk. Unless you're going off-road, most triathlons and bike races are designed for road use only. If you’re looking for a low-impact bike with a high cardio reward—and are perhaps finally interested in getting into race training—then this is the biking method for you.

A child of REI’s Co-Op division, this bike matches all of the technical specs of its more expensive, name-brand competitors. Highly rated by the brand’s customer base, it features an aluminum frame and carbon fork—striking the balance between durability and lightness. We loved testing its solid Shimano components that will also allow you to hit the occasional gravel shortcut if your route requires. After a week of testing the Cycles ADV 2.1 Bike, we concluded that it is a solid starter road bike for those who are looking for something to train with and use for recreation.

Read more: Best Backpacks

Some like to pin all-road bikes into the gravel category, while others say they're an extension of the road bike category. We're in the latter camp of thought, especially when it comes to the Priority 600. Made with a carbon-reinforced belt drive and built with a smooth 12-speed gearbox, the Priority 600 is capable of being your everyday commuter and your recreational rider that can go from tarmac to gravel with buttery ease. After testing the Priority Bicycles 600 on the road and in the back country, we found that this versatile rider is ready for all types of terrain.

One of the most well-known bike brands, Cervelo offers a number of models ideal for all types of road use. We like the Caledonia, as its carbon frame set offers smooth responsiveness for when the road gets bumpy. The bike also has clearance for 34mm tires, so you can customize the bike to be a little more than just road-specific. We can't forget to mention the price point; elevated, yes, but respectable for this echelon of road bikes.

If you're looking for a tried and true gravel bike, the Specialized E5 is going to give you the fastest and most comfortable ride down backroads and side paths. It comes in a durable and lightweight alloy frame and is outfitted with Shimano Claris gears. For the tires, we're talking 38mm Pathfinder Sports that go around Axis Elite alloy wheels. At just $1,300, this is a more than worthy investment for those who like to occasionally take their bike for a spin off the pavement when riding.

Read more: Best Outdoor Gear

Best Men's Mountain Bikes

Good for : Rough terrain.

As the name implies, we’re not in Kansas anymore. Mountain bikes are a whole different ball game. Bigger tires, heartier shocks, and more durable components are all common traits of these bikes—for good reason too. You’ll need your mountain bike to hold together in even the toughest terrain. We tested some popular models across various price points.

SHOP MEN'S MOUNTAIN BIKES ON AMAZON

If you're at an intermediate to expert level of trail riding, then you'll be a fan of the Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6. The bike's alloy frame is sturdy yet lightweight, which helps maximize the smooth-shifting Shimano XT drivetrain. As for the shocks, Trek outfitted the bike with Fox Float X for precise control and then matched the fork with a 150mm Fox Rhythm. Although this bike isn't a carbon model, it's still going to ride like the best of them. At under $5,000, you're simply getting a lot of value for your investment.

Another in-house REI product, the DRT 1.1 is a great beginner to intermediate mountain bike. The large tires and even larger suspension will give you the confidence you need to really dive into trails. REI outfitted the 1.1 with Tektro hydraulic disc brakes in order to consistently deliver reliable stopping power in all weather conditions. On top of the name-brand brakes, you also get a set of premium Kendra tires and a trusted Shimano gear system—all for an impressively low price of $700.

Read more: Best Waterproof Shoes

Just over $500, the Mongoose Switchback is an admirable mountain bike for beginners looking to get into trail riding. It's made of a lofty aluminum frame and outfitted with crisp front and rear brakes and durable double-walled alloy rims. You're not getting any crazy specs on this mountain bike, but what you do get is trusted performance. You'll be in good hands with this bike.

If you're looking for a BMX bike that can ride dirt trails and on park equipment, then the Mongoose Legion is a solid choice. It's not the most advanced BMX bike, but the $500 price point is great when you consider the bike's lifespan and build quality. Reviewers found this bike has an excellent frame to start with (4130 chromoly frame fork and bars) but can be modified over time if you ever want to upgrade your setup.

Read more: Best Ski and Snowboarding Helmets

Best Men's Hybrid Bikes

Good for : Tarmac. Some off-road terrain.

Not sure if a mountain bike or a road bike is right for you? Luckily there’s something right in the middle—a hybrid bike. These cycles are specially designed to offer you a smooth ride on road surfaces, rough gravel trails, and everything in between.

SHOP MEN'S HYBRID BIKES ON AMAZON

The Cannondale Bad Boy 3 is lauded by hybrid bike fans. It's suitable for short commutes and all types of trails thanks to a SmartForm C2 alloy frame that sits in an aggressive stance. The Bad Boy 3 features robust tires on 650b wheels, allowing riders to make sharp turns on any terrain and roll over potholes without any worry. Cannondale also made sure Shimano shifters and brakes that are outfitted. If you're looking for a versatile bike that will last you for years to come, then the Bad Boy 3 is a worthy pick.

Read more: Best Travel Backpacks

Coming to you at an extremely reasonable price, this highly-rated hybrid bike has a sleek aluminum frame with a 24-gear system to allow you to conquer those miles on the open road. However, if you decide to take a spin off-road, you definitely won’t feel out of place. Its suspension fork gives you 63mm of travel to smooth out rough roads or gravel trails. The best part? You can lock the suspension out when it isn't needed to increase control on smooth surfaces.

Men's GTX 3 Hybrid Bike

The GTX 3 hybrid model exudes all of what Schwinn bikes are made to be: quality, long-lasting, and affordable. This bike is perfect for exploring gravel trails or commuting around town on smooth road surfaces. Similar to other hybrid bikes, the GTX 3 also comes a lightweight aluminum frame and features a sturdy suspension fork to keep you feeling confident on whatever terrain comes your way.

Read more: Best Waterproof Hiking Gear

Best Men's E-Bikes

Good for : Long-distance commuting

Do you find yourself wasting endless dollars on gasoline for a relatively minor commute? Are you tired of driving a vehicle that contributes negatively to our ongoing fight against climate change? If you answered yes to either of those questions, an electric bike might be for you. Recent advancements in lithium-ion battery technology have made these bikes more affordable, with longer, more dependable ranges—putting them in the same class as e-scooters or other electric modes of transportation.

SHOP MEN'S E-BIKES ON AMAZON

Read more: Do E-Bikes Cheat My Workout?

Qualisports Volador Folding Electric Bike

Foldable e-bikes are getting better and better as brands continue to innovate. While we could dive in headfirst to multiple foldable e-bikes (see our guide to the best folding electric bikes ), the one that's worth highlighting the most is the Qualisports Volador. This folding e-bike breaks down in only a few steps and weighs just 36 pounds. Couple it with the fact it pumps out 350 watts of power and goes up to 30 miles per charge, and you've got an e-bike that can power you through almost any impromptu ride. The tires and frame are strong enough to handle light off-roading, so feel free to take it through trails and light gravel.

Read more: Unique Gifts for Men

Trek Fuel EXe 9.5

Nearly all traditional bike manufacturers are starting to make electric versions of some of their most beloved designs—mountain bikes included. Brands are still working out the kinks on outfitting mountain bikes with some sort of electrical component, but the Trek Fuel EXe 9.5 has seemed to impress trail riders. The carbon-framed bike is outfitted with a small motor that really shines when riders need pedal assistance—like riding up a mountain to a trailhead. What's great is the motor system and the configuration of the tech still allow the bike to move freely down a mountain without any interference or restrictions. You don't have a mode when you can ride the bike without having to pedal, but the fact you get pedal assistance on a mountain bike of this quality at all is a pretty awesome feature to have.

Cowboy 4 ST Step Ahead

Cowboy e-bikes have some of the coolest designs around. The bikes are simple, sleek, smart, and wonderfully minimalistic. We like the Cowboy 4 ST, a step-through model that provides easy cruising around a city. What's cool about Cowboy e-bikes—aside from the fact they're agile and supremely durable—is you can install the Cowboy app and get a whole mess of real-time data to interpret. You can open the app and lock your phone from and center on the handlebars, then you can open up a map with your planned route and see what traffic delays and weather patterns are to be expected. You also gain access to a ride dashboard that tells you your speed, miles traveled, duration of your ride, and a predictive battery level.

Aventon Level

The Aventon Level is the brand's best-selling e-bike, and for good reason. The bike is made with a 6061 double-butted aluminum alloy frame and outfitted with an internal battery that can reach up to 40 miles of range on average and a top speed of 28 mph. Fans of the Level find this a do-it-all commuter bike, as subtle features like a rack for carrying cargo and fenders for keeping mud and water splashing up on you are added to handle even the toughest of city riding. But what really makes this bike a seriously good pick is the price point. Most e-bikes of this quality are close to $2,000 and up. The Level comes in at around $1,600.

Read mo re: Best Tech Gear

What Are the Best Bikes for Men?

Truly you can't go wrong with any of the bike recommendations we put together above, but if you're looking for a few definitive picks on the best bikes for guys we have a rapid fire list here you can refer to.

Best Bike Overall: Cannondale Bad Boy 3

The Cannondale Bad Boy 3 is our best overall bike. The price point is not too high and the versatile design of the bike allows you to use it for commutes, trail riding, and more. The style of the bike is sleek and modern, and the lifespan you're going to get out of it will be sure to last you for years to come.

Best Road Bike: REI Co-op Cycles ADV 2.1 Bike

For the best road bike, the REI Co-op Cycles ADV 2.1 Bike is going to give you premium materials like a lightweight aluminum frame and carbon fork. You'll also get to familiarize yourself with a set of Shimano gears, which will allow you to learn through all of the different gear settings without having to break a sweat and worry about damaging your new bike out of the gate. The price? An impressively low $1,300 when you consider the amount of value you're getting.

Best Mountain Bi ke: REI Co-op Cycles DRT 1.1 Bike

For the best mountain bike, the REI Co-op Cycles DRT 1.1 Bike is built with features that are going to ensure you stay riding even through the toughest wear and tear. We're talking Shimano gears, an SR Suntour suspension, and Tektro brakes. Oh, and Kenda tires. Rain or shine, the 1.1 is going to give you the tools for navigating all your favorite trails—and all for the low price of $700.

How to Choose a Good Bike

Finding the perfect bike for you starts with two things: your needs and your budget. After covering those two steps you can then look at finding your bike size.

Popular Types of Bikes

We recommend writing down on a notepad what you want in a new bike so you can find the type that best fits you. Some of the most popular types of bikes are mountain bikes, road bikes, cruiser bikes, and hybrid bikes.

Do you plan on training for any races or triathlons? You'd likely want to look at hybrids and road bikes. Do you need a good commuter bike to get you around the new city you just moved to? We recommend checking out an e-bike! Once you have written down what exactly you plan on using your bike for, and what features you might want to have, then you can move towards how much you're willing to spend.

What You Should Pay

Bike prices are hard to pin down, as they fluctuate between different types of bikes and vary depending on what you're hoping to get out of your new bike. We like to stick to a $500 rule when shopping for a quality bike. Try to steer clear from anything under that price, as those bikes might do well for about a year but in reality most of them aren't made to last as long as a good bike should.

Road bikes are oftentimes the most expensive bike you can buy, as they're geared towards professional racing and made with the strongest and most lightweight materials. A good road bike will cost you at least $1,000 these days, but a more realistic price range to look between is $3000-$6000. Some road bikes can go past $10,000; what we'd call the "best of the best." Mountain bikes have a wider price range, but they can go up quite high in price too. You can buy a quality mountain bike starting at a little over $500 and as high as $5,000. The more expensive you get the more bells and whistles you'll receive, like dual suspension, responsive brakes, strong wheels, and more.

While not exceptionally good at one specific type of terrain (like a road or mountain bike), hybrid bikes are capable of adapting to everything from city to trail riding. For us, they offer a solid bang for your buck purchase, especially when you consider you can buy a quality hybrid bike anywhere between $500-$1,500. Last to consider the price on are e-bikes. The price on e-bikes vary so much that you can expect to spend anywhere from $500 to $5,000: sometimes the high price point is worth the investment on e-bikes, and sometimes it's just a bunch of smoke and mirrors because of all the loaded "tech" the bike incorporates. Be weary of high priced e-bikes that are not recommended on our list here.

Next comes your proper size. If you don't know your bike size, your best bet is to go to your local bike shop and get an expert measurement. There are a lot of myths out there about bike fitting, so it's best to understand the type of bike you're wanting to get first (road, hybrid, mountain, e-bike) and then do further research on what to look for in each category. If you want to learn more about the smaller details in the bike fitting process, Bicycling has an informative guide where they bust several different bike fitting myths .

Why Trust Us

The Men's Health team is constantly reviewing a diverse range of bikes throughout the year. Our editors and writers go test bikes in city and trail environments, as well as in races and in parks. Aside from updating our bike roundups each season, we cover the latest bike releases in our Outdoor Awards franchise, an annual package that covers all the newest outdoor products. Lastly, we tap the expertise of our friends at publications like Bicycling and at retailers like REI and Backcountry in order make the best recommendations on bikes we might not as tested as in-depth as we would have liked.

How We Selected

For the past three years, we consulted with Men's Health 's editors on the best bikes for men. Experts including gear and commerce editor John Thompson, put a number of bikes to the test to evaluate their durability, performance, features, and fit. We also considered price points, as some bikes have a better overall value than others. Last, we took into account top-reviewed bikes for men with at least 100 five-star customer ratings on e-commerce websites we trust. The list above is a round-up of our picks for the best bikes for men in 2023.

Christian Gollayan oversees e-commerce content for Men's Health and Women's Health. Previously, he was the Associate Managing Editor at TheManual.com. Christian's work has also been featured in Food & Wine, InStyle, the New York Post, and Tatler Asia.

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Best Comfort Bikes for Women, Men and Senior Riders

Image source: Cannondale

Comfort bikes are becoming more and more popular among casual riders of all ages.

The comfort in comfort bike is due to the relaxed, upright frame geometry, the comfortable saddle with extra padding, wide tires, and front fork or seat post suspension (although, this is not essential). It is also common for these bikes to have step-through top tubes to make mounting easier for less flexible users.

This type of bike is built for comfort over short to medium distances such as for a work commute, running errands around town, or a ride a light ride along a local bike path.

Because comfort bikes typically have a higher base weight, they are best for riding on flat terrain. They are also a great choice for anyone with lower back pain thanks to the upright riding positon.

Why Choose a Comfort Bike?

Many people can be put off of cycling by the aggressive positioning typically seen in road cycling, or the energy-sapping demands of mountain biking. The upright, ergonomic position of riding a comfort bicycle is, therefore, the most important factor in their appeal.

People with low flexibility, those who are prone to neck, shoulder, or back discomfort, or who simply want a relaxed ride, will undoubtedly enjoy the benefits of this style of bike. Elderly individuals may also prefer a comfort bike as the position puts less strain on the body.

A cruiser bike is the most comfortable bicycle out there, while the comfort bike is built around simple commuting in the city.

Table of Contents

Best Comfort Bikes

Best Electric Comfort Bikes

How to Choose?

Best Comfort Bikes in 2024

Schwinn – suburban deluxe.

MSRP : Check on Amazon

Schwinn’s Suburban Deluxe is a low-step comfort bike optimized for women and perfect for city riding and light trails.

This hybrid cruiser has a few key characteristics that make it comfortable. Firstly, dual seat post and front fork suspension help to absorb all the bumps you encounter.

In addition, the Suburban Deluxe has a convenient step-through frame design, upright riding position, a soft and supportive saddle, and plush balloon tires.

This bike’s other notable features include the 21-speed Shimano REVOSHIFT groupset, low-maintenance rim brakes, and lightweight aluminum frame. Finally, Schwinn also used a fully adjustable stem so you can find the optimal riding position for you.

• Fits riders 5’3 – 5’7
• 16″ aluminum frame
• 3x7speed drivetrain

One size frame fits riders 5’3″ to 5’7″

Buy on Amazon

Electra – Cruiser 7D Step-Through

A comfort-cruiser bike

MSRP: $440 REI.com

The Townie Cruiser 7D step-through is a great all-around choice for comfort for your adventures by the beach or around the city.

Electra uses small 26″ wheels with plush 2.125″ tires to ensure comfort and control on bumpy roads. To add to that, you have an ergonomic spring suspension saddle, mustache handlebars, and Flat Foot Technology frame design.

When the road begins to rise, you can rely on a Shimano Alivio Revo 7-Speed Twist shifters and a Tourney derailleur to provide the right gear.

• Frame material: Steel
• Bike weight: 38.5 lbs
• Electra comfort saddle with elastomer springs
• 7-speed Shimano Tourney

>>>Related: What is a Cruiser bike?

Buy from REI.com

Gazelle – Medeo T9

Best women’s comfort bike

MSRP: $2,699  Mike’s Bikes

The stylish Medeo T9 low-step e-bike packs all of the quality expected with any Gazelle bike.

Its defining feature is the fully-equipped design. It is designed for unbeatable versatility as well as comfort when mounting and dismounting. The Medeo uses a powerful Bosch e-bike system with an Activeline Plus 50Nm motor and 400Wh rack-mounted battery. With this, you can expect 40-80 miles of range.

The frame is built with lightweight alloy with a 50mm telescoping fork. This makes the Medeo T9 pleasure to cycle even when the road is bumpy. The combination of Shimano Deore 9-speed gearing, wide 50mm Schwalbe Big Apple tires, and ultra-responsive Shimano hydraulic disc brakes give this bike a truly high-end feel.

• 9-speed Shimano Deore
• Frame: Aluminum alloy
• Tires: 28″ x 50mm
• Shimano Deore hydraulic disc brakes
• Fully-equipped

Buy from Mike's Bikes

Schwinn – Discover 2 700c

Women’s comfort bike by Schwinn

Schwinn’s Discover lady’s comfort bike is a great entry-level choice that doesn’t sacrifice rider experience.

The frame is built of lightweight aluminum, and designed for an upright riding position. Discover’s handlebar stem can also adjust easily so you can find the perfect height for your body.

• Frame Material: Aluminum
• 28-inch wheels
• 21-speed SRAM grip shifter
• Weight 35.5 lbs

The highlight of the bike is the shock-absorbing suspension integrated into the seat post and front fork. This combination ensures your ride is smooth, even on bumpy roads or cycle paths.

The Discover also comes with fenders and a rear rack to make your commute as convenient and clean as possible no matter the weather. Lastly, Schwinn includes a comfy yet durable saddle perfect for women.

One size frame fits riders 5’5″ to 5’9″

Public Bikes – C9

MSRP: $650 Jenson USA

The Public Bikes C9 Aluminum is a stylish comfort bike that can double as a commuter thanks to its frame mounts.

Swept-back handlebars, a low-step frame, and upright geometry make for smooth riding on any urban journey. However, the 35mm Kenda tires don’t absorb much of the road chatter.

Another great feature is the lightweight aluminum frame and the shock-absorbing Chromoly steel fork. You can easily install a rack and fenders to turn the C9 into the perfect comfort commuter.

• Aluminum frame
• Shimano Altus 9-Speed
• 700c x 35mm tires
• Dual-pivot caliper brakes

The Public C9 has an entry-level Shimano Altus drivetrain with 1×9-speed gearing, reducing maintenance needs. Stopping power comes from rim brakes, so be careful riding in the rain.

Overall, this is a comprehensive yet affordable bike with lots to offer aside from the comfortable ride quality. 

Co-op Cycles – CTY 1.1

Urban comfort hybrid bike

MSRP : $649 REI.com

Co-op’s CTY 1.1 urban hybrid built for sustained comfort even on those long-distance city commutes.

This recreation bike uses a narrower tire than is standard for comfort bikes along with a light aluminum frame to maintain efficiency over distance. Additionally, the relaxed upright riding position paired with a Selle Royal Shadow+ saddle and riser handlebars create a pleasantly smooth riding experience.

• Frame Material: 6061 Aluminum
• Size: MD 5′ – 5’9″
• Brake Style: Mechanical Disc
• Rack and fender ready

The CTY 1.1 also uses a 3×8-speed Shimano groupset and Kenda 700 x 40mm puncture-resistant tires.

Buy from REI

Cannondale – Treadwell 2

Perfectly balanced comfort bike with unbeatable functionality

MSRP: $950 REI.com

With the Treadwell 2, Cannondale delivers one of the most functional urban bikes available on the market, designed to be agile, comfy, and durable.

The Treadwell 2 uses unique, “easy-ride geometry” that balances comfort with performance. Additionally, a quilted saddle with ribbed grooves keeps your butt comfortable on even the roughest of road surfaces.

The standout thing among its long list of features is the wheel sensor which helps you track your activity through the Cannondale app. The sensor logs speed, distance, and calories, while also reminding you when you need a service, a truly revolutionary addition to this bicycle.

• Frame and Fork Material: Aluminum
• Wheel Size: 650b
• Weight: 29lbs
• microSHIFT 9-speed gearing
• Hydraulic disc brakes
• Comfortable Cruise Control Handlebars

Two other unique features are the modern paint job with attractive turquoise pedals and grips, along with an integrated handlebar stem phone mount so you can navigate your way through the city streets, or rural roads with ease.

Finally, Cannondale’s Urban Armour bumpers protect the frame from everyday wear.

Frame Size Recommendations

S – 4’11” to 5’6″ L – 5’4″ to 6’0″

Sixthreezero – EVRYjourney

Cruiser comfort bike

The EVRYjourney men’s cruiser style comfort bike by Sixthreezero is both budget-friendly and modern bicycle with an elegant matt-black finish.

Sixthreezero has designed a uniquely comfortable bike with ergonomic geometry. On the EVRYjourney, the pedals are further forward and the bike is lower to the ground than normal, which allows riders to achieve a good pedaling stroke while being able to get a foot down with ease.

As well as frame design, each component is built to be as comfortable as possible. 26″ wheels and 2″ thick tires provide a smooth, controlled ride on any terrain. Additionally, the saddle has extra padding and is extra-wide to make sitting as comfy as possible, and the grips are made from soft and durable synthetic leather.

• Suitable rider height: 5′ – 6’4″
• Weight range: up to 300 lbs
• Shimano 7-speed gearing
• Weight: 38.1 lbs

>>>Related: EveryJourney Review

Finally, the EVRYjourney is highly compatible with accessories to make it functional in any situation. It arrives with fenders and a rear pannier rack and has other snap-on attachment points for baskets or baby seats.

Electra Townie 7D Step-Over

High-spec cruiser bicycle

MSRP: $630 REI.com

The men’s Townie 7D step-over is a sleek comfort bike with quality specs and a stamp of quality from bicycle giant Trek.

Electra’s best-selling Townie is ready for anything. It comes with 26″ puncture-resistant tires that absorb any road vibrations and along with classic rim brakes, help you stay in control at all times. It features 7-speed gearing, plenty to give you the confidence to take on steeper roads.

• 26″ x 2.0″ tires
• 7-speed Shimano gearing
• Ergonomic saddle with elastomer bumpers
• Bike weight: 34 lbs 8 oz
• Weight limit: 300 lbs

Even with its ruggedness, the Townie Path 7D is comfortable. This is achieved through the larger tires, an upright geometry with foot forward pedal position, ergonomic handlebar grips, and a spongy gel saddle.

Priority Bicycles – Priority Turi

Best comfort bike for seniors under $1000

MSRP: $949 Priority Bicycles

Priority’s Priority Turi is a sleek, cost-effective way to get back cycling, perfectly designed for older adults who want a bike for light usage, low maintenance, and pure comfort.

The ergonomic upright frame design, step-through top tube, and comfortable saddle help to prevent saddle sores and pain in areas commonly affected by cycling such as the back, and wrists. Additionally, the positioning of the pedals also optimizes balance and comfort.

• Tires: Puncture-Resistant Comfort
• enviolo City CVT Rear Hub (310% gear range)
• Gates Carbon belt drive

>>> Related: Best Electric Bikes for Seniors

Finally, this bike also has powerful hydraulic disc brakes to ensure effective stopping power in all conditions.

Buy from Priority Bicycles

Aventon – Level.2 Step-Through

Best comfort e-bike for urban rides

Weight – 53 lbs    |     Battery – 672Wh    |     Range – 60 mi.    |     Motor – 500W  

MSRP: $1,799 Aventon

The Aventon Level.2 is an affordable comfort electric bike with lots of features to make urban riding hassle-free. 

A 500W motor and 672Wh battery combine to deliver max speeds of 28mph (20mph throttle) over a max range of 60 miles, one of the best at this price. 

Reliable shifting and stopping are provided by a Shimano 8-speed drivetrain and Tektro hydraulic disc brakes. The new version of this bike knocked 9lbs off the weight, making it lighter than the average comfort eBike.

• Frame: Aluminum
• 8-speed Shimano Acera
• Tires: 27.5″x 2.1″
• 65mm fork suspension 

The bike also features an integrated rack, fenders, and a kickstand. Finally, the Level.2 has typical upright geometry, a convenient step-through frame, wide tires, and front fork suspension to create relaxed and smooth ride quality.

Buy from Aventon

Priority Bicycles E-Coast

A comfortable cruiser-style electric bike

Battery – 576 Wh |     Range – 60 miles    |     Motor – 500W hub motor 

MSRP: $2,000

The Priority Bicycles E-Coast is a comfortable urban cruiser with premium electronics and a fully equipped spec. 

Priroity chose a 500W rear hub motor with a high-capacity 576 Wh battery, that offers a 60-mile range per charge. 

The drivetrain is powered by a drive belt and offers one speed, which is slightly limited for climbing hills. However, the hydraulic disc brakes are excellent for descending steep hills.

Overall, the Priority E-Coast is a pretty solid bike with nothing that needs to be added or removed to fit its price range.

Charge – Comfort 2

Best e-bike for comfortable commuting

Weight – 55 lbs    |     Battery – 418Wh    |     Range – 50mi    |     Motor – 250W    |     Torque – 45Nm

MSRP: $1,899 Charge Bikes

The Comfort 2 electric bicycle by Charge is packed full of features, an excellent comfort e-bike for new and experienced e-bikers.

The Comfort 2 is suitable for riding on pavement and light gravel trails thanks to its plush 2.6″ puncture-resistant Schwalbe tires. It is supremely comfortable and upright for relaxed riding in busy urban environments.

The motor packs a punchy 250W that can power you up to 20mph on pedal assist or throttle. The battery is modest, and it can return up to 50 miles on Eco mode in favorable conditions.

• Frame Material: Lightweight 6061 alloy
• 7-speed Shimano Altus
• Rack and fenders
• Tires: 27.5″x 2.6″ puncture-resistant
• Mechanical disc brakes

The bike also features folding pedals and handlebars and tire pressure indicators. All of these features combine to create an all-around fantastic ride experience .

Buy from Charge Bikes

Gazelle – Ultimate T10

Premium city e-bike 

Weight – 50.7 lbs |   Battery – 500Wh |   Range – up to 80mi |   Motor – Bosch Performance Line 3.0 |   Torque – 65Nm

MSRP: $3,999 Competitive Cyclist

Any riders out there looking for a top-of-the-range comfort e-bike need to look no further than Gazelle’s Ultimate T10.

This bike is equipped best for rides such as a daily commute, running errands around town, or riding along your favorite bike path. It’s full-equipped enough to carry whatever is necessary and ride in all conditions.

Key features include an integrated 500Wh Bosch downtube battery, Schwalbe Energizer Plus 2.0″ tires, a rear rack and fenders, and a powerful mid-drive 65Nm motor.

• 40mm travel fork
• Shimano 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes
• Mounted rear rack
• Shimano Deore Drivetrain
• Schwable Energizer Plus tires

Additionally, the  Ultimate T10 comes with a 40mm suspension fork which is lightweight. This, combined with comfort geometry on a convenient step-through frame and a convenient handlebar display make this bike a joy to ride.

Buy from Competitive Cyclist

Ride1UP – 700 Series

Premium quality comfort electric bike

Weight – 62 lbs    |     Battery – 672Wh    |     Range – 30-50mi    |     Motor – 750W    |     Torque – 60Nm

MSRP: $1,695 Ride1UP

With their 700 series, Ride1UP delivers a premium quality comfort electric bike for a fraction of the price.

The 700 series incorporates hydraulic fork suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, Schwalbe Supermoto tires, and a fully integrated motor and battery system in a lightweight aluminum frame. These components paired with comfort geometry combine to make this bike comfy, powerful, and easy to control in almost any situation.

• 3D double-wall rim, 33mm width
• 27.5″x2.4″ Schwalbe Super Moto tires
• Hydraulic Disc Brakes
• 11-30T Shimano Cassette, Shimano Acera Derailleur

This bike’s battery boasts a huge 30-50 miles range at speeds of up to 28mph pedal assistance and 20mph using the throttle. The motor and battery are conveniently locked and can be accessed with one of two keys included. In addition, the 700 series includes an integrated kickstand and LED lights on the front and rear to make it safe and convenient to ride.

Buy from Ride1UP

Momentum – Vida

One of the best electric comfort bikes for seniors in its price range

MSRP: $760 Mike’s Bikes

The Momentum Vida is a comfort bike for anyone on a budget who wants a smooth and stylish ride .

The upright geometry, comfort sweep handlebars, plush saddle, and shock-absorbent 2.4″ tires provide a that smooth and relaxed ride experience.

Momentum also squeezes in mechanical disc brakes, which inspire confidence in all weather conditions, and a simple 8-speed Shimano Altus drivetrain for reliable shifting. The Vida also has mounts for a rack and fenders for commuters.

• Frame Material: ALUXX Aluminum
• 8-speed Shimano Altus
• 27.5×2.4″ puncture-resistant tires

How to Choose: What to Look Out for When Purchasing a Comfort Bicycle?

Below are the main features to look for when you are searching for a comfort-style bike.

Geometry, Step-through frame & Handlebars

As we mention above, relaxed and upright geometry is the distinct feature of these bikes. You should be able to sit, reach the handlebars, and pedal with little to no bending at the waist. This means your back should be mostly upright, limiting any pressure from gravity on your muscles and joints. This is done by slight adjustments to the positioning of the head tube in relation to the pedals and the seat tube.

Comfort bike saddles generally have a large surface area.

Next up is the seat. This is the most important point of contact on a bicycle when it comes to comfort, and it will make or break the experience. The benefit of a saddle is you can easily replace it.

Comfort bike saddles generally have a large surface area for your bum to rest on. They are built with thick padding which helps to cushion your sensitive undercarriage during short rides, and they frequently come with a spring underneath the saddle to absorb vibrations from the road.

It’s important to note, this type of saddle becomes uncomfortable on longer rides, as the cushion will flatten out and begin to put excess pressure on sensitive areas.

Suspension & Tire Width

Front fork or seat post suspension combined with wider tires contribute greatly to a smooth ride. Comfort bikes with these features transfer fewer vibrations from the road to the user.

The suspension also dampens any changes in the road that you may ride over and allows you to comfortably ride over curbs and speed bumps. While wider tire width is almost universal, suspension features are more common in high-end models. One tradeoff with wider tires is they create more friction (resistance) on the road making it more difficult to ride at higher speeds.

The final consideration of a comfort bike is the gears. To be able to ride comfortably, it’s important to have a wide range of gears, such as on a 21-speed drivetrain. This gives you more options for different terrain. However, good cycling techniques are still important for the efficient use of gears.

What is a comfort bike good for?

A comfort bike is good for those who are prone to the neck, shoulder, or back discomfort when riding other types of bikes. They are also perfect for somebody who relaxed ride that is functional for everyday usage. Senior sometimes prefer a comfort bike because the ergonomic upright body position causes fewer problems.

What’s the difference between men’s and women’s Comfort bikes?

A common question people ask is “what is the difference between men’s and women’s bikes?”.

For modern bikes, the main difference is the availability of sizes. Women are smaller than men on average so they need smaller models of the same bikes. To do this, manufacturers offer a wider frame size range to choose from.

With a frame size to match their height, a woman will make many of the same adjustments a man would so she can fit the bike to her body such as stem length, handlebar height, etc.

There are, however, a couple of considerations more common for women:

• Handlebar width – Women generally have narrower shoulders than men, so narrower handlebars may help
• Saddle – A saddle with women-specific features can be more comfortable than a unisex saddle, learn how to choose the perfect saddle
• Brake levers – For those with smaller hands, adjustments to the brake levers to reduce the reach, or smaller brake levers may be necessary

Finally, women’s bikes traditionally had step-through top tubes because they were designed for women wearing dresses/skirts. This feature persists in many models today. However, it isn’t limited to women’s bikes and is a common feature seen in the comfort and urban-style bikes.

What is the difference between a comfort bike and a mountain bike?

Comfort bikes share some of the same features as mountain bikes such as wider tires, an upright position, and sometimes suspension. Comfort bikes are optimized for more casual riding, using larger padded saddles, ergonomic upright geometry, handlebars that point to toward the rider, and step-through top tubes too.

Are comfort bikes fast?

In general, comfort bikes are built to be functional, super comfortable, and smooth while riding. This means larger tires, suspension, and more additional components. All of this means they are slower on the road than a normal hybrid, mountain bike, or road bike.

How much does a comfort bike cost?

The comfort bikes in this article range roughly from $400 to $5000. The average price is around $1100.

How to make your bike more comfortable

The name “comfort” may lead you to believe that other bikes are not comfortable. This is untrue, and any correctly fitting bicycle can be comfortable for the right person. In fact, for medium to long-distance rides, a road or mountain bike would certainly be much more comfortable than a comfort bike, as comfort bikes are not designed to be ridden these distances.

To make your bike as comfortable as possible, you need to make sure that it fits your body . This means the frame has to be the right size, you must choose a saddle that fits your sit bones, and you must make the appropriate adjustments so your positioning is right.

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The 12 Best Bikes for Women for Commuting, Beach Rides, and More

Schwinn's GTX 3 Hybrid Bike features a 21-speed drivetrain and rides comfortably

Lindsey Lanquist is a writer and editor specializing in fashion, lifestyle, and health content. Her work has appeared in SELF, StyleCaster, SheKnows, MyDomaine, and more.

Heather Black, CPT is a NASM-certified personal trainer and owner of Heather Black Fitness & Nutrition where she offers remote and in-person training and nutrition coaching.

Marley Hall is a writer and fact checker who is certified in clinical and translational research. Her work has been published in medical journals in the field of surgery, and she has received numerous awards for publication in education.

Verywell Fit / Sabrina Jiang

Cycling can be an excellent form of exercise. Research has found that cycling while commuting to work reduces the risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease. It's also a great way to increase your heart rate while getting plenty of fresh air.

If you're ready to get started—or enjoy having an indoor cycling bike and want to get a bicycle for the outdoors—there are plenty of bikes to choose from. Before purchasing a bike, it's important to choose one that's equipped to handle the type of cycling you'd like to do. Are you looking for a budget-friendly cruiser or a mountain bike that can handle more rugged terrain? Maybe you're searching for an e-bike to shorten your commute.

We researched dozens of bikes for women and evaluated them based on material, comfort, durability on different terrains, and price. A personal trainer from our Review Board reviewed this information to ensure its accuracy, how to choose the correct model and men's versus women's bikes.

Here are our top picks for casual cyclists looking for a smooth ride.

• How We Selected
• What to Look For

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Best overall, schwinn gtx 3 hybrid bike.

Dick Sportings Goods

21-speed drivetrain

Two frames for different heights

Works on rocks and pavement

Brakes may need frequent readjusting

Gears may not shift fluidly

Schwinn’s Women's GTX 3 Hybrid Bike is our best overall choice because it boasts a lightweight aluminum frame and has a 21-speed drivetrain, to help you navigate obstacles on slick city streets, rugged paths, and everywhere in between.

Schwinn's Hybrid Bike comes with a 15-inch or 17-inch frame, which is suitable for riders between 4 feet, 11 inches to 5 feet, 10 inches tall. We also like the alloy V-brakes, which are good for crisp stops. And its all-terrain tires will keep your rides feeling smooth and comfortable—whether you’re cycling on- or off-road.

However, some riders have found that the gears don't shift as easily as with other bikes. Users also note that the brakes may need to be adjusted more frequently.

Key Specs: Style: Hybrid | Height Capacity: 4'11" to 5'10" | Weight: 42.05 pounds | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds

Best Splurge

Rei co-op cycles cty 1.1 step-through bike.

Fluid gear shifts

24-speed drivetrain

Three frames for different heights

Handlebars may be too low for some

Versatile, comfortable, and durable, Co-op Cycles’ CTY 2.1 Step-Through Bike is loaded with features that give it a smooth, nimble ride. Although it's more expensive than many of our other top picks, we think its thoughtful design is more than worth the investment.

The Coop Cycles Bike's 24-speed drivetrain will give you the kind of fluid gear shifting you need to dodge obstacles and tackle different kinds of terrain flexibly. And its hydraulic disc brakes are designed to be reliable in any weather condition.

We love that this bike has a relaxed silhouette that will keep you upright as you ride, helping you cut down on hunching over your handlebars. It also features a shock-absorbing suspension fork to keep bumps to a minimum—even when encountering obstacles. However, some users have found that the low handlebars take a few rides to get used to. Key Specs: Style: Hybrid | Height Capacity: 5' to 5'9" | Weight: 30.9 pounds | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

Best Mountain Bike

Royce union rmt womens 21-speed all-terrain mountain bike.

Easy riding

Two frame sizes for different heights

Assembly may be complicated

Royce Union's All-Terrain Mountain Bike is easy to handle and control, making it our top pick for riders of all experience levels. The bike has a no-rust aluminum frame, which is durable enough to support you—but not so heavy that it’ll weigh you down.

With a pair of all-terrain tires, you can maintain momentum in a range of weather conditions. We like that they also offer less rolling resistance than most mountain bike tires, making Royce Union's All-Terrain Mountain Bike a versatile ride. 

The bike comes with a 15-inch or 17-inch frame for riders between 5 feet and 5 foot, 10 inches tall, and a weight capacity of 300 pounds. But some users have found that it can be difficult to assemble—so you may want to grab a friend to help.

Key Specs: Style: Mountain | Height Capacity: 5'7" to 5'10" | Weight: 41.8 pounds | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

Best Folding

Schwinn loop adult folding bike.

Creates smooth, rolling commutes

Comes with a carry bag

Front and rear linear pull brakes

Seat may be too firm for some

If you want a bike you can bring with you on the go, we recommend Schwinn's Loop Folding Bike. This durable steel bike is both reliable and versatile, and its seven-speed drivetrain will help you nimbly shift gears. Featuring smooth tires and linear-pull brakes, your ride will be smooth, comfortable, and easy to maneuver.

What sets this bike apart, though, is the fact that it folds up. When folded, the bike ends up being nearly half its original size. Instead of locking the bike on a bike rack, we love that you can use the included nylon carry bag to bring it with you for  on-the-go exercise  and transportation.

Note that some users have reported that the seat is very firm—so you may want to purchase  a more comfortable bike seat  of your own.

Key Specs: Style: Folding | Height Capacity: 4'6" to 6'2" | Weight: 37.4 pounds | Weight Capacity: 230 pounds

Best for Commuters

Specialized roll 2.0 low entry.

Specialized

Good traction

Reflective accents

Comfortable, gel-padded seat

For a reliable commuting bike, Specialized's Roll 2.0 Low Entry is our top pick. It's just as functional as it is stylish, with a durable aluminum frame that can stand up to daily wear and tear. The tires are wide and can grip the road well, even in wet weather.

We also love that the tires have reflective accents, so it's easier for motorists to spot you when you're riding in low-light conditions. Plus, the ergonomic seat features gel padding for a comfortable ride.

While it's more expensive than other bikes on our list, we think the Roll 2.0's durability and commuter-friendly features make it worth the price.

Best Cruiser

Rei electra cruiser 1 step-thru.

Rides comfortably

Intuitive brake system

Available in four colors

Not suitable for long-distance rides

Not designed for varied terrain

If you’re looking for a comfortable, laid-back ride, we recommend Electra’s Cruiser 1 Step-Thru, which features a single-speed drivetrain. We love the intuitive brakes: Simply pedal backward, and your bike will come to a crisp, efficient stop.

The bike also has a low center of gravity that's designed to keep you stable on all your rides. And if you'd like to stay in a natural upright position as you ride, the bike’s step-through silhouette makes it easy.

However, this bike isn't ideal for long-distance rides over rougher terrain, since it's a cruiser.

Key Specs: Style: Cruiser | Height Capacity: 5'1" to 5'8" | Weight: 36 pounds | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

Best Road Bike

Hiland road racing bike.

Lightweight aluminum frame

Seven-speed shifters for control

Designed with the city in mind, Hiland's Road Bike offers both speed and control in smooth conditions. The bike’s 22-inch wheels will give you a high-speed ride, while its 14-speed shifters will help you nimbly maintain control as you bike. With double-caliper brakes, we like that you can easily stop on slick surfaces—and the aluminum alloy frame is supportive and durable, but still lightweight enough to lift.

The Hiland Road Bike comes with a 21.6-inch frame or a 25.6-inch frame. The 21.6-inch frame makes the bike suitable for riders between 5 foot, 8 inches and 6 foot, 1 inch tall. And the 25.6-inch frame makes it suitable for riders between 6 foot, 1 inch and 6 foot, 4 inches tall.

Some users have found that assembling this bike can be tough, noting missing parts and no instructions. But we still think it's a good investment for beginner to intermediate cyclists.

Key Specs: Style: Road | Height Capacity (size 55 cm): 5'8" to 6' 1" | Weight: 33.4 pounds | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

Best Hybrid

Schwinn discover hybrid bike.

Fender keeps dirt off rider

Changes gears fast

Rear carrier

Suspension and fork can be jerky

If you’re looking for a quality hybrid bike at a reasonable price point, Schwinn's Discover Hybrid Bike is a solid choice. The bike’s aluminum frame is lightweight but durable, so you can feel supported as you nimbly tackle bends and curves. The 21-speed drivetrain also allows for fast, easy gear changes.

Crafted with linear-pull brakes, you'll be able to make precise stops, rain or shine. The bike performs best on commutes and bike paths. But thanks to its shock-absorbing suspension fork, you can take it on rougher trails, too. We also like the fenders, which keep dirt and mud at bay, and the rear carrier to hold your bags and other gear.

As with other bikes on our list, this one has lower handlebars that some riders may find uncomfortable at first. Users have also found that the suspension and fork can feel jerky—but we think the bike's other features make up for any difficulties you might have riding on trails.

Key Specs: Style: Hybrid | Height Capacity: 5'7" to 6'2" | Weight: 35.5 pounds | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds

Best for Beginners

Public bikes c7.

Public Bikes

Available in eight colors

Public Bikes’ C7 boasts a classic step-through design, which means you can expect to sit upright when you cycle. This natural seating position should keep you comfortable on all your rides, allowing you to focus on more important things, like changing gears and exploring new terrain. 

It comes with a seven-speed drivetrain, which you can use to tackle hills and obstacles like a pro. And we like the limited gear range, which allows you to nimbly navigate routes without an overwhelming amount of options. Available in eight sleek colors and available in a small/medium frame or a medium/large frame, it shouldn’t be too tough to find an option that belongs in your collection.

While this bike is more expensive than others on our list, we think it's a worthy investment for beginners who plan on riding their bikes for years to come.

Key Specs: Style: Step-through | Height Capacity: 4' 10 inches to 5' 10 inches | Weight: 32 pounds | Weight Capacity: Not listed

Best Electric

Electra townie go 7d step-through electric bike.

Works as a cruiser or an e-bike

Electra’s Townie Go! 7D Step-Through Electric Bike is a great option for anyone who wants to pick up speed without sacrificing comfort or control. The step-through bike comes with a motor, which you can use to access speeds up to 40 miles per hour—meaning you can tackle both hills and long rides with ease. That balance is part of what makes the Townie Go! 7D such a great pick for first-time e-bike riders.

When you’re not in the mood for a motorized ride, you can use your Townie Go! 7D like a classic bike. The step-through boasts seven speeds, so you can nimbly and fluidly shift gears while you ride. And it also comes equipped with a set of thick balloon tires, which promise to keep your rides smooth and comfortable on a range of different terrain. 

Although it is a significant investment, we feel that the ease this bike will bring to your daily commute is worth it.

Style: E-bike | Height Capacity: 4 feet, 11 inches to 5 feet, 11 inches | Weight: 47 pounds | Weight Capacity: Not listed

Best Electric Runner-Up

Aventon pace 350 step-through ebike.

Reaches speeds of up to 20 mph

Available in two sizes

Bright, full-color display

Aventon's sleek, user-friendly Pace 350 Step-Through EBike is our other recommendation for an electric bike at a slightly lower price. It comes with some impressive features, including an LCD display that syncs with (and can charge) your smartphone and five levels of pedal assist. A headlight and tail lights offer safety during dusk or nighttime rides, while a throttle helps the bike reach speeds of up to 20 miles per hour.

The bike comes in two sizes to accommodate riders between 5 foot, 1 inch, and 6 foot, 4 inches. Choose from two stylish colors: bright white or a subtle purple. The price point is higher than others on our list—but with a one-year warranty and 14-day returns, you can shop confidently.

Key Specs: Style: Electric | Height Capacity: 5'1" to 6'4" | Weight: 49 pounds | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

Best for Casual Riding

Vilano step-through city bike.

Stops with linear pull brakes

Seven twist grip gears for controlled rides

Budget-friendly

Gears marked by dots rather than numbers

The Vilano Step-Through City Bike is an urban-style hybrid bike and our top pick for casual rides. The bike’s lightweight steel frame will help you nimbly navigate your neighborhood, while its strong tires will keep you in control as you gain speed. The bike’s seven-speed drivetrain allows you to flexibly shift gears as you maneuver different portions of your route, and its linear-pull brakes provide a smooth, efficient stop. 

The Vilano Step-Through City Bike comes in a single size, which is suitable for riders between 5 feet and 5 feet, 6 inches—though the seat is adjustable to accommodate a greater height range. But while we love the budget-friendly price, the gearshift may be difficult to read at times.

Key Specs: Style: Hybrid | Height Capacity: 5 feet to 5 feet, 6 inches | Weight: 32 pounds | Weight Capacity: Not listed

How We Selected the Best Bikes for Women

First, we asked Tyler Jones , store manager at Erik's Bike Shop in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, which qualities to look for when purchasing a bike. Then, we reviewed dozens of bikes from the most trusted and popular retailers. We evaluated each bike based on its riding style, gears, and durability. We also considered the weight of each bike, style, portability, and ease of assembly to compile our final list of recommendations.

What to Look for in Bikes for Women

Riding style.

There are several different kinds of bikes, and each kind is designed for a different style of riding. Road bikes are equipped to handle smoother surfaces, like sidewalks and city streets. Mountain bikes are equipped to handle more rugged terrain, like off-road trails. And hybrid bikes are designed to handle both. Consider the type of riding you intend to do, and shop for a bike that accommodates your riding style. 

You'll want to look for a bike that matches the type of riding you plan on doing most often. Are you riding for fitness or recreation? Will you be taking your bike on long morning commutes or simply riding it around the block? If you’re an avid cyclist, you may want a performance option that’s built to last, like  Royce Union's RMT All-Terrain Mountain Bike.  If you’re a first-time or recreational cyclist or enjoy an  indoor exercise bike  and want to give riding outside a try, you may prefer a budget-friendlier option that’s a little easier to use, like  Electra’s Cruiser 1 Step-Through Bike .

Women's bikes usually have one of two types of frames: a regular (also known as a step over) frame or a step-through frame. Visually, they look different—regular frames typically have an extra piece of horizontal metal between the seat and the handlebars that you have to step over in order to get on the bike. Step-through frames don't have this piece, which means they're easier to get on and off of. The type of frame doesn't affect the bike's performance.

One note: If you are thinking about attaching a child seat to your bike, you'll want to make sure the seat is compatible with your bike's frame. A rear frame-mounted seat will only work with a regular frame bike. Rear rack-mounted and front-mounted seats are compatible with both types of frames.

Bike gears are designed to help you comfortably navigate different kinds of terrain. If you intend to bike a lot, you may want a bike with plenty of gears you can nimbly shift between. If you prefer to go on shorter, more recreational rides, you may not need as many gears to choose from.

Frequently Asked Questions

“A good, high-quality bike is relative to the shopper's desired cycling discipline and what their expectation of performance is,” says Jones. Generally, you should expect to pay between $300-$600 for a recreational bike for adults. Some high-performance bikes, like  Aventon's Pace 350 Step-Through EBike , may start around $1,000. Less expensive bikes may not have as many useful features, and likely won't be as durable. More expensive options may have a more modern design and added features like easy-to-read displays.

The cheapest bike on our list,  Vilano's Step-Through City Bike , is often available for less than $200. And our top overall pick,  Schwinn’s Women's GTX 3 Hybrid Bike,  was $550 when we last updated this list.

In general, you can use the bicycle manufacturer’s sizing chart to determine the right size bike for your height. For bikes that need very specific sizing, such as road bikes, the sizing process may be more involved, so you should work with a local bike shop for the best fit.

“We measure the rider's inseam, torso, arm lengths, overall height, and flexibility to determine exactly which size would be best for the rider,” says Jones.

The main difference between women’s and men’s bikes is the size and fit. Women, on average, are shorter than men and have proportionally shorter torsos and longer legs, so women’s bike models generally have shorter stack heights and shorter reach lengths.

Some women-specific commuter and cruiser bikes are built to accommodate wearing a skirt, so the top tube is much lower than the tubes on men’s versions. The right bike for you will be the one that fits you best, regardless of which gender it’s intended for. 

As a seasoned health and fitness writer,  Lindsey Lanquist  understands how vital quality product recommendations can be. She is careful to recommend products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them.

Additional reporting contributed by Sarah Felbin

With over two decades of dance experience,  Sarah Felbin  loves diving into the latest wellness research. As a health and fitness writer, she's passionate about finding products that are of great value and make life easier. She's enjoyed cycling outdoors since she was little—her favorite bike to ride is a beach cruiser, like Electra’s Cruiser 1 Step-Thru bike.

Celis-Morales, C.A.  et al.   Association between active commuting and incident cardiovascular disease, cancer, and mortality: Prospective cohort study.   BMJ  [Preprint]. doi:10.1136/bmj.j1456

Roser M, Appel C, Ritchie H. Human height . Our World Data .

Cycling made Simple.

Made By Cyclists

Best Bikes For Rail Trails

December 27, 2022

This article may contain affiliate links where we earn a commission from qualifying purchases.

Whether you are commuting, exercising, or joyriding, rail trails provide cyclists with amazing riding opportunities, but which bikes are best for rail trails?

With cycling being more popular than ever, rail trails continue to expand across the country - with upwards of 15,000 miles of track for riders to take full advantage of. Although rail trails are accessible for riders of all experience levels, you want to make sure that you pick a bike that is going to be comfortable and suitable for your riding style and trail terrain.

The best bikes for rail trails are:

• Specialized Allez
• CANNONDALE CAAD13 Disc 105
• Trek Domane AL 2
• Specialized Sirrus 2.0
• Trek FX 3 Disc
• Batch The Fitness

If you are craving a long and peaceful bike ride, hitting a rail trail is a perfect place to cycle. These trails are scattered throughout the country, and there seem to be more and more of them popping up. With that said, if you have your eyes set on your local rail trail, you need to buy the right bike before you can start riding. There are a lot of options for bikes on the market that are great for rail trail riding, and you will find that some are considerably better than others. To help you understand this further, we are going to take a closer look at the best bikes for rail trails.

After extensively researching cycling forums, I have been able to gather enough information to determine the best bikes for riding rail trails. My research has indicated that you should always select a bike that is suitable for your riding style and trail terrain.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

‍ Specialized Allez (Best All-around Road Bike)

Specialized is one of the biggest names in the cycling industry, and their road bikes stand out amongst the competition. Rail trail riders who want a versatile and dynamic bike can’t go wrong with buying the Specialized Allez .

The Allez is not the most advanced bike from Specialized, but it ticks a lot of boxes for any rider that wants to hit their local rail trail. This road bike has well-rounded specs and is suitable for a variety of different riding conditions, which is why a lot of entry-level cyclists tend to lean towards the Allez when starting out.

With that said, the Specialized Allez can be purchased in a few different models. Depending on whether you want a bike equipped with the highest grade parts and components or something that is more basic, you can choose to opt for one of the following variations of the bike:

• Allez Sprint LTD
• Allez Sprint
• Allez Sport
• Allez Elite

The style and design of each Allez model are quite similar, but you will see upgraded parts with the Sprint series in particular. Regardless of which model you choose, the performance that you get out of your bike will be suitable for just about any rail trail that you hit. The nice thing about the Allez is that it is very easy to customize later on, so you can always upgrade components to improve performance down the line.

Each Allez is built with Shimano parts which can be found in the derailleur, levers, crankset, and bottom bracket. The fork is full carbon, but the frame is actually made out of Specialized's custom E5 Premium Aluminum. Depending on your riding style and the terrain of your rail trail, this could be a benefit or a drawback.

For smooth and paved terrain, a carbon fiber frame would increase the speed and performance of the bike. However, if your rail trail has any kind of adverse terrain, the aluminum frame is going to increase the durability of the bike considerably.

All in all, this is one of the most versatile and adaptable rail trail bikes on the market. Specialized has designed the Allez with a variety of different models so that riders can select an option based on their budget, as well as the performance that they want to achieve on the trail.

With the most affordable option of the Allez starting at just $1,000, this road bike is within reach of most budget shoppers. On the other hand, if you want an Alez with top-notch capabilities, you are much better off going for the Sprint series, which costs upwards of $6,800.

Cannondale CAAD13 (Best Performance Road Bike)

Cannondale's CAAD series is legendary in the cycling industry. The manufacturer has continuously pumped out amazing bikes, and the CAAD13 is an upgrade from the CAAD12.

The aim of this project was to make the CAAD13 not only faster than its predecessor but also more comfortable, which is why this is one of the best performance bikes for rail trail riders. The stellar design of the CAAD13 has resulted in a top-notch bike that is suitable for just about any rail trail.

Many riders regard this machine as the fastest and best-performing road bike in the world, which is not far off. One of the main reasons behind the success of the CAAD13 is the exceptional design and also superior frame. Cannondale’s custom Ultralight SmartForm C1 Premium Alloy Frame is one of the lightest aluminum frames ever built, which has been a key feature behind a lot of the manufacturer’s best bikes.

The aluminum frames that Cannondale builds are superior to the majority of what the competition has in their bikes, and it makes the CAAD13 incredibly lightweight and durable. When you add a full carbon fork to this equation, you get a top-of-the-line road bike that is built for agility, handling, and - of course, speed!

The Cannondale CAAD13 also features a Shimano 105 hydro disc group and a Cannondale 1 crank. You will also find that the majority of the components used in the design of the bike are either Shimano or Cannodale’s custom parts.

Cannondale’s CAAD13 is not a bike that a casual rail trail rider should buy. The CAAD13 is built for peak performance and it may be too much bike for someone interested in leisure riding. On the other hand, the CAAD13 is perfect for rail trail riders who want a high-end machine that is suitable for racing and insanely fast commuting.

Depending on the specs that you want your CAAD13 to have, you can find this road bike in a few different model variations. The most basic option starts at just $1,800, which is a remarkable price point for a bike of this caliber. Whereas the high-end models of the Cannondale CAAD13 can be as high as $6,000. If you are looking for a rail trail road bike that will deliver you the best performance imaginable, look no further - the CAAD13 will not let you down.

Trek Domane AL 2 (Best Budget Road Bike)

If you are just starting out as a cyclist and want an intro-level road bike that can still deliver on performance, the Trek Domane AL 2 is a great option for beginners. Trek designed this bike to be easy and fun to ride - with speed and durability being key characteristics of this machine.

The 100 Series Alpha Aluminum is super lightweight and tough compared to carbon fiber. If you are not aiming to set a land speed record, this will be a great fit for any rail trail rider. This Trek road bike also features Shimano parts in the crankset, cassette, derailleurs, and chain.

Unlike a lot of road bikes that are solely focused on speed, Trek designed the Domane AL 2 to offer balanced performance, which is complemented by increased comfort. Beginner cyclists who want to get a feel for road biking will find that the Domane AL 2 is a great starting point, as you get solid performance at a very reasonable price.

The great thing about the Domane AL 2 is that Trek made it very easy to customize. This implies that if you want to make adjustments or changes to your machine down the line it will not be an issue.

Buying a top-notch road bike is never cheap, and they are often $3,000 - $4,000+. However, Trek built this bike with the intention of keeping costs low so that it is within reach of the budget shopper, which is why you can buy yourself a Domane AL 2 for just $1,129.

Specialized Sirrus 2.0 (Best Overall Hybrid Bike)

Specialized hybrid bikes are a force to be reckoned with. You should not expect to hit speeds as you would on a road bike, but you will have much more versatility on a rail trail - especially if the terrain is not paved.

The Sirrus 2.0 is one of the best hybrid bikes on the market, and it is perfect for rail trail riding. Specialized designed this bike to deliver the perfect balance between speed and durability. If your rail trail’s pavement is rugged or if the terrain is gravel or dirt trail altogether, the Sirrus 2.0 is going to be much better suited for your trail than a standard road bike.

One of the main focuses behind the Sirrus 2.0 was to make it a great fitness bike, which is why it is particularly popular among riders who want to use their rail trail for exercise. With that said, the excellent performance capabilities and versatility of this hybrid bike also make it a great choice for any who wants to commute to work.

The Sirrus 2.0 features a Specialized A1 Premium Aluminum frame that is lightweight and incredibly durable. The steel fork does add quite a bit of weight but this is actually ideal for a hybrid bike that was designed for trail riding. Specialized did not hold back on using premium Shimano parts when building the Sirrius 2.0, which can be found in the cassette, shift levers, and, derailleur. In addition, this hybrid bike also has high-quality Promax F1 hydraulic disc breaks with excellent stopping power.

One of the best characteristics of the Specialized Sirrus 2.0 is that you can ride this bike anywhere. If you want to ride through the city, you can hop onto a gravel trail without worrying about your bike taking a beating. This is often a selling point for a lot of rail trail riders that want a versatile bike that they can ride in a variety of different terrains and conditions.

Despite the top-notch specs, the Sirrius 2.0 is actually very reasonably priced at just $775. This bike is perfect for any intro rider, and it is also a great addition for experienced riders who need a change-up from their go-to road or mountain bike.

Trek FX 3 Disc (Best Performance Hybrid Bike)

The Trek FX 3 Disc is the ultimate rail trail bike for any commuter that wants to be able to ride in every type of weather condition. This hybrid bike is built for speed, durability, and adaptability.

If your rail trail has adverse terrain with changing seasonal conditions, the Trek FX 3 Disc is a bike that you can rely on through thick and thin. This hybrid bike features a lightweight yet incredibly durable Alpha Gold Aluminium frame, which is complemented by a full carbon fork.

One of the key characteristics that make the Trek FX 3 Disc such a reliable bike for adverse weather conditions is the superb hydraulic disc breaks. The stopping power is precise and you can ride in both wet and dry conditions with total confidence.

While a lot of hybrid bikes on the market will often weigh upwards of 29lbs, the Trek FX 3 Disc is a bit lighter at 25lbs - making it a speedier option for riders that want to get from point A to point B efficiently. This is attributed to the carbon fork and high-quality aluminum that Trek used when building this bike.

With that said, Trek also designed this bike to be comfortable, which is perfect for long rides on rail trails. The geometry and seating position will enable you to ride for hours on end without feeling any kind of stiffness. If comfort, performance, and dynamic riding capabilities are qualities that you desire out of your rail trail bike, the Trek FX 3 Disc is the way to go.

Trek also lets you customize and personalize your FX 3 Disc so that you can add features that are necessary for your riding style. Commuters particularly like to give their bike more utility by adding fenders, racks, and a bottle cage, as this makes the FX 3 Disc so much more practical for riding to work and running errands. However, if you want to keep things simple, you can leave the bike as is for a minimalistic aesthetic.

Whether you want to optimize your commute or find a new fitness companion, this hybrid bike is perfect for both. Although this is not necessarily a budget bike, Trek has listed this at a starting price of $1,050, which is solid for the specs and performance that you get.

Batch The Fitness (Best Budget Hybrid Bike)

There are a lot of casual intro-level riders out there who just want to hit their local rail trail without breaking the bank. If that sounds like you, then you probably want to find yourself a budget-friendly bike - with hybrids being particularly good for beginners.

Luckily, affordable does not mean that you have to opt for a low-end bike with poor performance capabilities. A popular and dependable budget hybrid bike on the market is Batch The Fitness . This hybrid bike ticks a lot of boxes for intro riders who are just starting out and you get a lot for what you pay for.

This is a relatively lightweight bike that features a 6061 aluminum frame, which will enable you to get up to speed, but it can also take a beating. The manufacturer used quality Shimano parts throughout the machine and installed a 21-speed shifting system - enabling you to take on different grades with ease.

Much like the name implies, this bike is intended to primarily be used as a fitness bike. If getting some exercise is one of your priorities while cycling, this is going to be a great option for you. With that said, although fitness is the focus behind this bike, its features and characteristics also make it great for commuting.

Rail trail riders that want to get to work, run errands, or burn some calories on a budget are going to find that this is one of the best-value hybrid bikes on the market. You can pick up a Batch The Fitness hybrid bike for just $500, which is an absolute steal for a bike with these specs and characteristics.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Rail Trail Bike

As we have just covered, you have a lot of different options to consider when buying a bike for rail trails. Every rail trail is a bit different, but even more importantly - so is every rider.

Given that most rail trails are usually quite flat and smooth, you can select any number of bike types for this kind of terrain and surface. The most important thing that you need to evaluate when picking out a rail trail bike is what your riding style is and how you want to use your bike.

To help you find the right bike, we are going to break down some key factors that you should keep in mind when picking out a bike for rail trail riding.

Trail Terrain

The primary trail terrain that you will be riding on is the best starting point for picking out an ideal rail trail bike. Although rail trails are commonly characterized as flat and smooth, that is by no means always the case.

There are a lot of rail trails that have either gravel, dirt, or asphalt terrain - or a combination of each. If you know the type of terrain that your local rail trail has, you can pick out a bike accordingly. However, if your rail trail has a variety of different types of terrain, you may be better off getting a dynamic bike such as a hybrid.

Riding Distance

Rail trails are usually quite long - with most being well over 20 miles and some as much as 200+ miles. With that said, you should expect to cover a lot of ground when hopping on a rail trail.

Some rail trail bikes are much better suited for long-distance riding - especially if you are commuting. If achieving long distances on your rail trail rides is a critical part of your riding style, then you should opt for a road bike or hybrid bike.

Whereas short distances and casual rides do not require such a specific type of bike, which implies that you can prioritize comfort first. In this case, and comfort bike is going to be the way to go.

Grade & Gears

When you are long-distance cycling, even the slightest change in grade can be an obstacle on your rides. While most rail trails are flat, you will find that the grade can change at times, which can make your cycling less efficient.

When rail trail riding, make sure that you always have a bike with at least 12 gears so that you can adapt to changes in grade. This is not only going to be important for optimizing your bike to changes in grade but also to improve your performance.

After hours on the trail, we all get fatigued, which is when gear transitions play an important role in how efficiently we can continue cycling. If your rail trail has a lot of grade changes, you may want to buy a bike that has more gears - with 20 to 27 being preferable.

The types of tires that your bike has can be a critical component of how adaptable you are when on the trail. Rail trails that have consistent terrain throughout are easy to predict and prepare for.

Naturally, if your rail trail has smooth surfaces that are paved, a road bike with thin tires is going to deliver optimal performance. However, if the terrain is rugged and unpaved, wider tires are going to be considerably more comfortable and reliable.

The great thing about buying a bike for riding on rail trails is that you can always change the tires later on. Whether you want to adapt to seasonal changes or to a different rail trail altogether, you can always swap out tires when needed to match the terrain.

Frame & Fork Material

The material that your bike's frame and fork are made out of will massively influence your riding performance. Bikes are made out of several different types of materials such as aluminum, carbon fiber, and titanium.

Each material offers different qualities, but for rail trail riding, you really want to keep your bike lightweight. Carbon fiber is one of the most dependable types of materials that money can buy. It is lightweight and relatively durable - making it perfect for rail trails.

Aluminum on the other hand, is even more durable, but it is heavier, which is going to be an issue for long-distance rides and commutes. Titanium bikes, on the other hand, are durable and lightweight, but they can get quite pricey.

Parts & Components

You should always carefully weigh out your bike’s parts and components when shopping. Each bike is going to have different specs, and this will ultimately affect your ride performance.

There are some big-name brands, such as SRAM and Shimano, that have built a solid reputation within the industry and are regarded for their reliability. However, some bike manufacturers make all of their parts and components from scratch.

Custom parts can be a sign of quality, but you want to make sure that you are buying a bike from a recognized and respected brand if that is the case.

Versatility

One of the most important factors that you want to keep in mind when shopping for the perfect rail trail bike is versatility. Rail trails can vary across the board, and if you are planning on riding on more than one type of trail and terrain, you should buy a versatile bike.

Naturally, if you know exactly which kind of rail trail you are going to be riding on consistently, selecting a bike is not going to be difficult. For smooth and paved surfaces, road bikes are going to be ideal. Whereas for rough and rugged terrain, mountain bikes are much better suited.

With that said, if you do not know which kind of terrain you will be riding on, you are better off buying an adaptable bike. Hybrid bikes are great options for riders that want to hit rail trails with changing terrain, as they are the most versatile bikes that we mentioned.

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About THE AUTHOR

Danny Lawson

Mountain biking is more than just a hobby for me - it's a way of life. I love the challenge and excitement that comes with it, and I'm always pushing myself to go faster and ride harder. Some people might think that mountain biking is dangerous, but I see it as the only way to live.

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About PedalChef

PedalChef is a blog on all things cycling. We are a group of people who love bikes, and we want to share the joy that comes with the experience. You can read more about us here .

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Experts Recommend The Best Affordable Bikes For Casual Bike Riders

Shopping Writer for HuffPost

The unofficial pastime of good weather may very well be bike riding. No matter if it’s a breezy errand run around town or just a way to get in some exercise that’ll take you outdoors , having a good bicycle this season is probably something you should consider.

Dean Mullin, co-owner of Portland, Oregon’s Clever Cycles and creator of the bike tube matching service Biketubes.com , refers to these kinds of practical no-fuss bikes as “sunny weather bikes.”.

After speaking with Mullin and others, we’ve learned that even if your biking ambitions only extend to casual bike rides and not the Tour de France, you should still expect to invest at least $500 or more if you want something that will last you for ages, be as low-maintenance as possible and offer you a safe ride.

Isaac Denham is the owner of Befitting Bicycles near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with over 15 years of bike industry experience. According to him, you should also factor in the costs of bike accessories, which can cost a few hundred dollars.

“You’ll need things like a pump, helmet and flat repair kit. It may seem like [we’re] upselling you, but the first time you get a flat and have to walk home, you’ll understand why you needed that pump,” Denham said.

Both Denham and Mullin used their combined experience to help create the following list of investment-worthy entry-level bikes that are among some of the most affordable options in this quality caliber. And because we always like to factor in the opinions of real-life shoppers, we’ve included a couple of other highly rated bicycles that can fit your basic cycling needs.

HuffPost and its publishing partners may receive a commission from some purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently curated by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

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10 Best Bikes for Seniors in 2024

The love for cycling knows no bounds, and your age shouldn’t stop you from engaging in your favorite activity. I invested more than 30 hours in research and can tell you with a great deal of confidence that the best bike for older adults is the Co-op Cycles CTY 2.1 Step-Through . This is a very affordable hybrid bike with a frame suitable for seniors and incredibly good components.

What makes an excellent bike for seniors?

Comfortable and upright riding position: An upright position reduces strain on the back, neck, and wrists, ensuring seniors can ride comfortably for extended periods.

Step-through frame for easy mounting and dismounting: With a step-through frame, seniors can effortlessly get on and off the bike without lifting their legs over the top tube, enhancing accessibility and safety.

Low standover height for stability: Bikes with a low standover height allow seniors to straddle the bike with their feet flat on the ground, providing a stable and confident feel while stationary.

Comfortable saddle and wide, swept-back handlebars: A well-padded, wide saddle, coupled with wide, swept-back handlebars, promotes a relaxed riding experience, reducing shoulder and wrist strain.

Easy-to-use gears and optional electric assist: Simplified gear systems are user-friendly for seniors, and an electric assist option can provide extra help, enabling longer rides and conquering hills with ease.

Co-op Cycles CTY 2.1 Step-Through

-best bike for seniors 2024-.

Brakes:  9.5 |  Handling:  8.9 |  Drivetrain:  8.5

What’s good 👍

• Easy Mounts and Dismounts : The lower crossbar is designed to allow users to mount and dismount the bike with ease. This design feature is a major benefit for those who may have mobility issues or who prefer a less strenuous process of getting on and off their bikes.
• Upgraded 2x Drivetrain : The upgrade from a 3x to a 2x drivetrain helps provide smoother and less frequent shifting. This not only improves the overall riding experience but also reduces wear and tear on the gear mechanism, potentially leading to longer bike life and lower maintenance costs over time.
• Suspension Fork for Comfort : The bike comes with a 63mm travel suspension fork which is capable of smoothing out rough roads. This feature provides a comfortable ride, reducing the impact and discomfort that could otherwise result from bumps or potholes.
• Quality and Durability : Users have widely praised the bike’s overall quality and durability. A high-quality, durable bike can withstand rough usage and adverse conditions, providing a reliable ride for a longer period of time. This characteristic also signifies a good return on investment for the buyers.

What’s not so good 👎

• Costly : One of the significant drawbacks of this bike is its higher price point. The cost may be a barrier for some potential buyers, especially those on a tight budget or who are unwilling to invest a significant amount in a bike.

Co-Op CTY 2.1 Step-Through bike , overall, is an excellent investment for both trail and road use. With its low crossbar, the bike offers easy mounting and dismounting, making it a practical choice for riders of different fitness levels.

One significant upgrade from the previous model is its 2x drivetrain, which provides smoother shifting, thereby enhancing the riding experience considerably.

The bike’s suspension fork is another standout feature, offering 63mm of travel to navigate rough terrains effortlessly. This makes the bike versatile and suitable for various roads and trails. Safety is also well-considered in this model, with reflective sidewalls for enhanced visibility, and the reliable Tektro hydraulic disc brakes that ensure secure stopping power in all weather conditions.

Read more: Overview of Co-Op Cycles

On the ergonomic front, the riser handlebar and grips offer comfortable and natural hand positioning, reducing the strain on longer rides. Users have also praised the bike’s double chainrings that simplify front shifting and offer plenty of gear options for flat or hilly terrains.

Schwinn Wayfarer

-best hybrid bike for seniors-.

Brakes:  6.9 |  Handling:  7.7 |  Drivetrain:  7.8

• Rigid Steel Step-Through Frame : The bike’s step-through frame is made of rigid steel, which provides enhanced strength and durability. This frame design also makes mounting and dismounting the bike easy, particularly for individuals who might struggle with high-top-tube bikes.
• Schwinn 7-Speed Twist Shifters : Equipped with Schwinn 7-speed twist shifters, this bike offers a range of gear options for different terrains. The twist shifters allow for quick and easy gear changes, improving the riding experience, especially on hilly routes or variable road conditions.
• Rear Carrier for Groceries : This bike comes with a rear carrier, a convenient feature for those who need to transport items such as groceries. This can make the bike a useful tool for short errands or commutes, eliminating the need for a car or public transport for small-distance travel.
• Value for Money : Users have appreciated the bike’s “bang for the buck” – a term used to denote getting a lot of value for the price. This suggests that despite its affordable price, the bike does not compromise on the quality or features it offers.
• Weight : Weighing in at 42 lbs., this bike is on the heavier side compared to many other models. This might make it more challenging to carry up stairs, transport on a car rack, or maneuver during rides. It could also affect speed and efficiency, particularly on uphill routes.

Schwinn Men’s Wayfarer is an exceptionally looking bike with a step-through design! Its retro look and feel leave very little to be desired! With precision alloy brakes , a nice upright seat , and its quality steel construction , I can easily say that this bike is one of my favorites within the Schwinn brand (I’m known for the retro taste, sorry 🙂 ).

Read more: 65 Best Bike Brands

We at YesCycling love it for the comfortable ride and the affordable price tag. It rides very nicely and has minimal difficulty in turning sharp corners. Some of the complaints we must mention are the average quality tires and the shifting, a standard twist shifter. If you are OK with those, you will have no problems with the Wayfarer.

Also, remember that you get only seven gears , and if you live in very hilly locations, you might need to check for another bike.

PRIORITY TURI

-best low-maintenance bike for seniors-.

Brakes:  9.3 |  Handling:  7.9 |  Drivetrain: 8.8

• Infinity Shifting Enviolo City CVT Gearing : This bike is equipped with an innovative Enviolo City Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) gearing system. This enables smooth, seamless gear shifting, providing an infinite range of speeds and enhancing overall ride comfort and efficiency.
• Low Maintenance, Low Hassle : This bike is designed to be low maintenance, reducing the amount of time and effort needed for regular upkeep. This can be a significant advantage for those who prefer a “ride-and-forget” bike experience, without the need for frequent tuning or adjustments.
• Tektro or Promax Hydraulic Disc Brakes : The inclusion of either Tektro or Promax hydraulic disc brakes ensures reliable and effective stopping power. These brakes perform well under various conditions, including wet weather, providing safety and control during rides.
• Kenda Puncture Resistant 700×35 Tires : The bike comes with Kenda puncture-resistant tires, offering durability and peace of mind during rides. These tires reduce the risk of flat tires, allowing for worry-free commutes or leisurely rides.
• Expensive : This bike comes with a high price tag ( $949 ), which might be prohibitive for some potential buyers.

This mid-priced Turi comes highly recommended by senior citizens who love this bike’s handling, weight, and responsiveness. Crafted as “the ultimate low maintenance, low hassle, all day, comfort bicycle for lifestyle riders,” this is the ride active seniors look for but don’t always find, whether their usual activities are bike path fitness expeditions or just running errands. 

Like other Priority bicycles, the Turi offers riders its proprietary seamlessly shifting Enviolo hub and industry-leading, reinforced Gates Carbon Drive Belt that never needs grease. Gear confusion? Not likely, say reviewers who find everything about this bike ideal for folks over 50.

Read more: Best Electric Bikes for Seniors

Produced by a company that attracts faithful fans like New York City streets attract dust, this Turi tackles hills effortlessly, and when it’s time to bring the ride to a halt, the Tektro hydraulic disc brakes and puncture-resistant tires won’t let you down. 

PRIORITY COAST

-best for casual riding-.

Brakes:  7.3 |  Handling:  8.5 |  Drivetrain: 8.0

• Rustproof : The bike is 100% rustproof, ensuring longevity and durability.
• Puncture-Resistant Tires : Equipped with puncture-resistant tires, reducing the risk of flats.
• Gates Carbon Drive Belt : Features a Gates Carbon Drive Belt, known for its low maintenance and quiet operation.
• Affordable Price Tag : Despite its quality features, this bike is affordably priced.
• Limited Hill Performance : This bike may not perform well on steep hills ( only 3 gears ), limiting its versatility in varied terrains.

Priority Coast is one of our favorite cruise bikes for a reason. Called “The Ultimate, Low-Maintenance, Life-Proof Beach Cruiser ” by reviewers prepared to deliver the good, the bad, and the ugly, so consumers don’t choose the wrong bike; this stunning ride is affordably priced, weighs just 30 pounds , and it’s an ideal choice for seniors who are hell-bent on remaining active into the future.

Featuring a Shimano Nexus 3-speed internal hub and the brand’s signature Gates Carbon Drive belt system , the Coast is the first choice of cyclists who ride in coastal areas and don’t want their bikes to rust out before their time.

Cruiser-style handlebars play host to a right 3-speed twist shifter and left front-hand brake . Sealed bearings, water-resistant grips, a comfy saddle, and Kenda puncture-resistant tires are ready to take you where you need to go.

Read more: Best Belt-Drive Bikes

The double kickstand ensures you don’t have to continually pick your bike up from where it has fallen, just in case you’re rushing to get to your early bird dinner with your active fellow retirees.

Trek Verve+ 2 Lowstep

-best ebike for seniors-.

Brakes:  9.1 |  Motor:  9.2 |  Drivetrain:  8.5 |  Range:  8.3

• Bosch Active, 250-Watt Motor : Features a Bosch Active motor, offering reliable and efficient power.
• Shimano Alivio Drivetrain : Comes with a 9-speed Shimano Alivio drivetrain, allowing for versatile gear shifting.
• Comfortable Low-Step Frame : The low-step frame design promotes easy mounting and dismounting.
• Shimano MT200 Hydraulic Disc Brakes : Equipped with Shimano hydraulic disc brakes for effective stopping power.
• Plastic Fenders : The bike has plastic fenders, which might not be as durable as metal ones.
• No Suspension Fork : It lacks a suspension fork, potentially reducing comfort on rough terrain.

I think you are probably shocked by my suggestion, but let me explain. Starting is tough if you are a senior and need to be in shape. The truth is electric bikes are an excellent option for seniors. That’s why we recommend a lot of excellent electric bikes for seniors in our dedicated blog post. This e-bike made by Trek won’t be difficult at all.

With this Trek Verve+ 2 Lowstep, your daily training or commute to the local market will be helped by the great Bosch pedal-assist system, which is one of the best on the market right now.

You can cruise on the streets or in the park with assisted speeds of up to 20 mph . The motor is a 250-watt Bosch Active Line with 40nm of torqu e. The ride will be more comfortable due to the suspension seat post, which is rarely included in an electric bike. It will also be safe due to the powerful Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes .

The best feature of the Trek Verve+ is the geometry of the frame. It’s a nice low-step frame made for comfort and is easy to hop on and go. Not many electric bikes these days come with such a nice low-step frame. The Trek Verve+ comes fully equipped with fenders, lights ( front and rear ), and a rear rack. In conclusion, Trek Verve+ 2 is an excellent bike for seniors who want to have more fun and train for their health.

Retrospec Critical Cycles Parker Step-Thru

Brakes:  7.1 |  Handling:  8.1 |  Drivetrain: 7.5

• Retro Aesthetics : The bike features a vintage design that’s appealing to those who favor a classic look.
• Leather Seat : It includes a leather seat for enhanced comfort and style.
• Single-Speed Ride : The simple single-speed operation is ideal for flat terrains and uncomplicated rides.
• Very Affordable : Despite its style and features, the bike comes with a very affordable price tag.
• Coaster Brake Only : The bike uses only a coaster brake, limiting braking options.
• Limited Hill Performance : Not suitable for climbing hills, limiting its versatility.

I truly enjoy the look of the Parker Step-thru as it has a retro design with minimalist features that I want. This bike is an excellent option for seniors with its steel step-thru frame that offers easy mounting and dismounting. Plus, it provides a more attractive design without wires and cables running throughout the bike.

It’s a single-speed bike designed for cruising the neighborhood while getting a low-impact workout, so you’ll only move as fast as you can pedal.

Another reason the Parker step-thru’s ideal for seniors is because of its KT Coaster brake hubs. These hubs allow you to break with your feet and have no cables or wires to get caught upon. This bike has 32mm deep-v rims, and 32 spoke front and rear wheels designed to grip the surface as you ride for better stability.

This bike has many comfort features you’ll want, like leather handgrips and mustache handlebars that’ll keep the strain off your wrists and put you in a natural upright position to ease back pain. With the leather-covered, padded saddle , you’ll stay comfortable without painful seat sores throughout your ride.

Maxfoot MF-30 Electric Trike

-best electric trike-.

Brakes:  7.5 |  Handling:  8.2 |  Drivetrain: 7.9

• High-Torque Motor: The Bafang 750W Hub Motor ensures ample power, which is especially useful for hauling cargo or navigating uphills.
• Long Range: With a SAMSUNG 48V 17.5Ah battery, the trike offers an impressive range of up to 50 miles, which is great for both urban and longer journeys.
• Huge Storage Capacity: A waterproof basket bag with a 48L capacity is perfect for shopping trips or carrying essentials.
• Generous Weight Capacity: Able to carry up to 450 lbs in total, this trike can comfortably support both the rider and cargo.
• Weight: At 90-100 lbs, the trike itself is on the heavier side, which could pose challenges in manual handling when not in use.
• Saddle Comfort: The saddle is not very comfortable for a trike.

Maxfoot MF-30 Electric Trike offers an innovative combination of power, style, and utility. At its heart lies a Bafang 750W Hub Motor paired with a high-capacity SAMSUNG 48V 17.5Ah battery, ensuring a significant range of up to 50 miles per charge .

This makes it an ideal companion for those lengthy outdoor excursions or urban errands. Its unique design is characterized by a step-thru frame, crafted from resilient 6061 Aluminium-Alloy at the front and 7A19 Aluminium-Alloy at the rear. The trike’s ample storage solution comes in the form of a waterproof basket bag boasting an impressive 48L capacity, making it perfect for transporting groceries or other essentials.

Safety and user experience have been given paramount importance. Dual disc brakes, including a 180mm disc at the front and two at the rear, offer optimum stopping power, while the Shimano 7-speed gear system ensures smooth transitions across terrains.

Additionally, the trike comes equipped with a user-friendly 5-inch LCD display with a USB port , allowing riders to monitor their journey and charge their devices on the go.

a total carrying capacity of 450 lbs ( 350 lbs on the trike and an additional 100 lbs on the rear rack) and a weight of 90-100 lbs, it promises durability and robustness. If you’re seeking a blend of power, safety, and utility, this electric cargo trike is worth considering .

Salsa Warroad Carbon Apex 1

-best road bike for seniors-.

Brakes:  8.4 |  Handling:  8.1 |  Drivetrain: 9.3

• Warroad Carbon Frame : The bike features a comfortable carbon frame with endurance geometry, supporting long rides.
• SRAM Apex 1 Components : Comes equipped with high-quality SRAM Apex 1 components, ensuring reliable performance.
• Mechanical Disc Brakes : Includes capable mechanical disc brakes for effective stopping power.
• Vibration Reduction System : The Class 5 Vibration Reduction System offers a smoother ride.
• Expensive : Despite its high-end features, the bike’s cost might be prohibitive for some buyers.

Endurance road bikes are perfect for seniors because of the more relaxed riding position and comfortable wider tires. Salsa Warroad Carbon Apex 1 is a fantastic endurance road bike we like. Yes, it’s expensive at around $2500, but you get a lot of high-quality components for what you pay.

The carbon frame is exceptionally light and comfortable for extra-long rides on paved roads in the countryside or gravel roads. The exceptional SRAM Apex 1 drivetrain delivers smooth and silent shifting ( 10 gears ), and the mechanical TRP Spyre-C flat-mount disc brakes are best-in-class.

Read more: Best Affordable Road Bikes

The all-day comfort in the saddle ( WTB SL8 142 Comp ) is guaranteed by the good Teravail Rampart 700c x 28 mm tires and the Class 5 Vibration Reduction System. If you’re a senior looking for a fast, lightweight, and comfortable road bike, the Salsa Warroad Carbon Apex 1 is the perfect match.

Trek Verve 3 Low-step

-best bicycle for senior women-.

Brakes:  8.5 |  Handling:  8.8 |  Drivetrain: 9.1

• Exceptional Comfort : The bike is designed for maximum comfort, which can enhance the riding experience.
• Lightweight Aluminum Frame : Features a lightweight aluminum frame that makes the bike easier to handle.
• Rack and Fender Mounts : Equipped with rack and fender mounts, enhancing utility and versatility.
• 2×9 Shimano Drivetrain : The bike has a 2×9 Shimano drivetrain, providing a wide range of gear options for different terrains.
• Wide 45c Puncture-Resistant Tires : Wide, puncture-resistant tires reduce the risk of flats and offer stability and control.
• Size/Weight : The bike may be too big or heavy for some riders, making it difficult to handle or transport.
• Suspension System : The suspension system may not meet the expectations of some users, particularly those who frequently ride on rough terrains.
• Not Built for Speed : This bike is not designed for high-speed performance, which may disappoint riders who prioritize speed.

Categorized as an “easy-riding hybrid,” the Verve 3 is engineered to deliver a smooth ride on all terrains. While classified as Trek’s highest-end model in the Verve family, there is no shortage of high-quality components. We love the fact that this ride costs less than $1000.

The upgraded drivetrain, stable puncture-resistant tires, vibration-reducing handlebars, and excellent grips all rock, but the easy mount and dismount design gets the most positive reviews. Need we repeat the word “affordability” when describing this product?

Co-op Cycles DRT 1.1 Bike

-best mountain bike for seniors-.

Brakes:  9.2 |  Handling:  8.0 |  Drivetrain:  7.6

• Versatile 3×7 drivetrain: This offers a wide range of gear options, suitable for different riding conditions, whether on flat roads or steep hills.
• 2.1” wide Kenda tires on 27.5-inch wheels: These provide good traction and control on various terrains, enhancing the bike’s overall performance.
• Powerful Tektro hydraulic disc brakes: These provide reliable and efficient stopping power, ensuring rider safety, particularly in wet and slippery conditions.
• Value for money: The bike offers a lot of features at a reasonable price, making it an excellent choice for those looking for performance without breaking the bank.
• Shimano Tourney rear derailleur is not optimal: Although functional, this type of derailleur is often considered an entry-level component and might not offer the same level of performance or durability as higher-end models.

The 60-year-old senior with the spirit of a 20-year-old boy will find his match in this mountain bike. The 3 x 7 drivetrain makes it versatile for off-road adventures, but riders enjoy hydraulic disc brakes that provide all control they need when exploring new territory!

Co-op Cycles DRT 1.1 is quick, reliable, and smooth as butter on the trails – you will love it. We also love that this mountain bike costs only $599 at REI, and if you join the Co-op club , you will get an estimated $59.90 back on this item.

How to choose the best bike for seniors?

• Seniors spend between $500 and $800 on a new bicycle.
• Seniors should get a bike with a step-through frame, padded extra-wide seat, comfortable handlebars, fenders, and puncture-resistant tires.
• Hybrid bikes and beach cruisers are among the most popular choices. Electric bikes are also trendy but expect to spend at least $1200 for a decent one.
• Most popular bikes have been sold out since April 2021.

Older adults are bicycling and walking instead of driving more than ever before. [ 1 ] And that’s excellent news for everyone, but how do you choose the best ride for your needs? Let’s find out.

Some bikes are made for speed and performance, while others are for comfortable cruising. To find the bike suitable for you, you’ll need to evaluate each component to determine if it’s the right option.

Which bicycle frame is best for seniors?

It would be best to look for a bike that’s easy to move around without being too bulky. The wrong frame could turn your pleasant ride into an unpleasant nightmare. Look for a bike made from lightweight materials that offer the durability you need when riding on various terrain.

Most bikes consist of steel, aluminum, or carbon fiber. The lightest materials used in bike frames are carbon fiber or aluminum. However, they tend to have a higher price tag. A steel frame packs more weight but offers a cheaper price tag if you can handle a heavier bike. An aluminum frame is the best option for most seniors.

Aside from its weight, you want to choose the proper frame design. If you have trouble lifting your leg and maintaining your balance, a standard bike frame won’t work.

Read more: At What Age Should You Stop Riding a Bike?

The risk of falling due to difficult mounting or dismounting could cause severe injury and end your cycling adventure before it ever starts. Instead, you should look for a bike that features a step-thru frame .

A step-thru frame also called a low frame or open frame, doesn’t have a top tube that connects the upper frame near the handlebars to the bar under the saddle. This requires you to take a small step over the frame without trying to clear the high cross-bar.

What is an upright riding position?

When searching for a bike, you should look for one with an upright position . An upright bike puts you in a natural position that keeps your body weight off your joints and evenly distributes it from the pedals to the handlebars.

Plus, with an upright position bike, you’ll easily maneuver it without putting stress on your neck and back. With better weight distribution and proper positioning, these bikes offer more stability than your traditional bike.

It will tip over on you more easily on unstable terrain when moving at a relaxed pace. During your ride on an upright bike, you’ll use the muscles from more body areas than on a regular bike, helping you strengthen your body and burn calories faster.

What is the most comfortable saddle for seniors?

The saddle, also known as the seat, is a rider’s primary source of comfort during any ride. The right saddle helps keep pressure off your groin area and prevents painful saddle sores. You should look for a saddle compatible with your ischial tuberosities, commonly called your sit bones.

This video by Bicycle Lab explains why choosing the right saddle’s important and what the wrong saddle does to your body. Another essential factor to consider on the saddle is the material it’s made of. You want a moisture-wicking material or high-quality leather to prevent uncomfortable chafing. Under the material, it should have a gel pad or medium-firm padding, giving your backside cushion.

• Best Bike Seats for Overweight Riders

What type of bike is easiest to ride?

There are many different types of bikes and even more sub-types that make it hard to narrow down the best choices. We made a guide of all the different types of bikes to help riders find the right one to suit their needs.

Despite the large selection of bikes, a few offer the most benefits to seniors and baby boomers compared to other bikes: mountain bikes, hybrid/commuter bikes, recumbent bikes, and trikes.

Mountain Bikes

Mountain biking is one of the most popular outdoor activities for a reason. It’s fun, good for your health , and will make you feel like a kid again. Mountain bikes come in different styles, but they all have the same concept in mind. They’ve all been enhanced for maximum durability and performance, allowing you to ride through rough terrain.

They’re ideal if you ride through pothole-ridden streets, over curbs, or on pathways with large rocks, roots, and other obstacles. With a mountain bike , you’ll have either front or front+rear ( full suspension ) to minimize the roughness of your ride and large knobby tires that firmly grin your riding surface.

Low gear ratios are typical for climbing steep hills, and the handlebars sit in a position with you leaning forward. They often offer powerful mechanical or hydraulic disc brakes and wider knobby tires.

Hybrid/Commuter Bikes

A Hybrid bike , also known as a comfort bike, takes all the best features found in mountain and road bikes to create an entirely new bike. By putting these features together, you’ll create a hybrid with tons of comfort features like thickly padded seats and shock absorbers.

Related: Most Comfortable Bikes for Men and Women

They offer various handlebar options, brake and shifter levers, and up to 27-speed. The hybrid bike is suitable for casual riding around your neighborhood, back and forth to work, or a relaxing ride around town, with the chance to take it on trails or down gravel paths.

These hybrids have medium-width tires and tread that allow them to grip and cushion any surface you ride on, unlike other bikes that only perform well on specific terrain. It’s designed to glide smoothly over any surface and keeps you upright for pain-free cycling.

Recumbent Bikes

A recumbent bike looks different from your traditional bicycle. These bikes sit very low to the ground, featuring a comfortable padded seat with a backrest, similar to a chair. As you sit on a recumbent bike, you are placed in a relaxed, reclined position that eliminates the aches and pains associated with riding a regular bicycle that has you hunched over the handlebars.

Several varieties of recumbent bikes allow you to choose which style offers you the most comfortable and convenient ride. Depending on the cycling you plan to do, they offer short, medium, and extended configurations and two or three-wheel versions. In addition, they provide either a handlebar in front of you or underneath you, giving you a choice of which versions are the easiest for you.

An adult tricycle offers a variety of styles to choose from, allowing you to pick the one that suits your needs. It’s become a popular choice for many baby boomers and seniors who suffer from disabilities or balance issues.

Unlike a regular bike, you can ride as fast or slow as possible without falling over. Most tricycles have all the same components as a traditional road bike and offer a step-thru frame for quickly getting on and off your bike.

They offer an upright sitting position for less body pain and three wide wheels for better shock absorption. An adult tricycle designed for comfort with extra padded saddles, wide handlebars, leather grips, and a rear basket.

Let’s chat now that we have shared our thoughts on the best rides for seniors and a few other top picks from different categories. We want to know which bikes you think are the best! Please let us know in the comments below, and after reading this blog post, you can share it with your friends who also love biking.

What is the purpose of the bike?

When choosing a bicycle for seniors, it’s crucial to identify the primary purpose for which the bike will be used.

Leisure riding involves casual, shorter trips on relatively flat terrain, while fitness riding focuses on longer distances and more challenging workouts.

On the other hand, commuting requires a bike that can handle various conditions and provide a comfortable and efficient ride to and from destinations.

Identifying the main purpose of the bike will help in selecting the appropriate style, such as a cruiser, hybrid, or even an electric bike.

Gearing options can significantly impact the ease of cycling for seniors. Bikes with a wide range of gears allow riders to tackle hills and maintain a comfortable pedaling cadence on various terrains.

Depending on individual preferences, seniors can choose between traditional derailleur systems or internally geared hubs, which offer low maintenance and clean shifting.

What breaking system to choose?

A reliable and easy-to-use braking system is essential for seniors’ safety. Linear-pull (V-brakes) and disc brakes provide good stopping power and control, with disc brakes performing better in wet conditions. Seniors with limited hand strength may want to consider hydraulic disc brakes , which require less effort to apply and are considered the best option.

Do I need a suspension?

Suspension can enhance ride comfort on uneven terrain, but it may add weight and complexity to the bike.

Front suspension forks can help absorb impacts from bumps and obstacles on the road or trail, while full suspension bikes offer additional rear shock absorption.

Seniors should consider their preferred riding surfaces and whether the benefits of suspension outweigh the added weight and maintenance.

Bike Weight

A lightweight bike is easier for seniors to maneuver, lift, and carry. Aluminum and carbon fiber frames offer lower weight without sacrificing strength and durability.

However, carbon fiber bikes can be more expensive than their aluminum counterparts.

When choosing a bike, seniors should consider their strength and mobility levels about the bike’s weight.

I think the best option in terms of weight is the aluminum frame.

Passionate cyclist since 1991

Alek Asaduryan is the founder of YesCycling and has been riding bikes and in the cycling industry since 1991. Since then, his mission is to make cycling more accessible to everyone.

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Almost all of them have the same fault – the pedals are too close to the front wheel. That is dangerous to steering at low speed. The foot is blocking the steering.

“Great article! I noticed that the article primarily focuses on traditional bikes for seniors. I’m curious if you have any recommendations or insights specifically for seniors interested in electric bikes? Are there any particular features or models that you would suggest for seniors looking to explore the world of ebikes? Thanks!”

Absolutely, Mark. We even have a dedicated article for seniors. You can read it here – https://www.yescycling.com/best-electric-bikes-for-seniors/

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Best hybrid bikes - Fast bikes for leisure and commuting

The best hybrid bikes will get you around town fast and keep going into the countryside when it's time to relax

What to look for in a hybrid bike

The best hybrid bikes are designed for a relaxed, upright riding position, that still maintains handling and lets you ride fast.

Sometimes called fitness bikes, hybrid bikes make some of the best commuter bikes . Their upright position helps you to see and be seen as you ride and makes it easy to stop as well as mount and dismount. 

The flat bars, brakes and trigger gear shifters on a hybrid bike are easy to use, while most models will allow you to fit mudguards for protection in wet weather riding and a rack to help carry luggage.

Often there are multiple frame shape options, so you can find a bike to suit your riding style and preferences. 

That makes the best hybrid bikes super-versatile, but if you plan to use public transport, the best folding bikes may be easier to use. We've also covered the best women's hybrid bikes as well as the best hybrid bikes under £500 if you're looking for more choices.

Here's our pick of the best hybrid bikes, while towards the bottom of this page is our buyer's guide to what to look for in a hybrid bike.

Best hybrid bikes available today

You can trust Cyclingnews Our experts spend countless hours testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

1. Cannondale Quick 4

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

With a respectable lightweight aluminium frame, every decal and logo on the Cannondale Quick is reflective, so it lights up a Christmas tree to help you be seen in low-light conditions.

The frame itself has rack and fender mounts, and the rear end has flex tuned into the stays to keep you comfortable as you ride — Cannondale call this SAVE Micro-Suspension. Cannondale has specced a Shimano Altus / Acera 1x9-speed drivetrain, complete with a wide range 11-42T cassette and a 38T narrow-wide chainring on the Quick 4. Not only does this simplify shifting while still providing a wide gear range but it also helps make dropped chains a thing of the past. Other specs get a double chainring for a wider range of gears.

We rated the Quick's lively, comfortable ride and responsive handling, while the 35mm tyres provide some extra comfort on potholed roads and the hydraulic disc brakes provide confidence-inspiring stopping power.

Like the Cannondale Treadwell, which we've also reviewed, there's Cannondale's wheel-mounted sensor that lets you record ride data on the Cannondale app and you can mount your phone to the bars to use it as a cycling computer . 

There's a specific women's model as well as the unisex Quick, giving you lots of size range.

You can read more in our full review of the Cannondale Quick hybrid bike.

2. Cannondale Treadwell 3

Cannondale's Treadwell features a sloping top tube to create a low standover height and has what the brand classes as an 'easy geometry,' with either a kinked or dropped top tube making for quick on and off mounts and dismounts. 

With BMX-inspired flat bars and an aluminium frame, the bike features urban armour bumpers to protect the tubing from dings when you lean your bike against a pole or rack. As with the Quick, Cannondale also specs its speed and cadence sensor and an intellimount stem which will securely hold any SP connect compatible phone case, so you can track your rides through the Cannondale App. You're even reminded when the bike is due for a service. 

The Treadwell's big 47mm tyres and 13kg weight make it sluggish to get up to speed, but if you're after a bike for easy rides around town and short weekend excursions, it fits the bill without breaking the bank and its simple mechanical components should be low maintenance. 

You can read more in our full review of the Cannondale Treadwell 3 .

3. Trek FX 2 Disc (Equipped)

Coming out of the big red barn in Waterloo Wisconsin, the FX range makes up Trek's hybrid bikes. The FX 2 Disc is available in two options: Standard or Equipped, the latter of which comes equipped with a pannier rack, mudguards, lights and a kickstand as standard. The frame is made from Trek's Alpha Gold aluminium and features internal cable routing and mounts galore. 

The FX 2 Disc isn't a particularly flashy bike, nor is it particularly lightweight for its price point, but despite this, the ride is responsive and enjoyable, making us look for errands to run just so we could ride it again. 

Trek opted for hydraulic flat-mount disc brakes on the FX 2 Disc, so braking will always be confident, and with little to no maintenance required. For those seeking more of a fitness bike, the standard (non-equipped) FX 2 Disc is a good option, but it would possibly benefit from an upgrade from the Acera groupset. The next step up - the FX 3 Disc - comes with a 2x10 Shimano Deore, which is a big step up if you can stretch the budget. 

4. Cube Hyde Pro

Cube's Hyde Pro is built around a lightweight, robust aluminium frame and fork. Unlike our other recommendations, it sees a Gates Belt drive so no need to worry about regular maintenance. The belt drive does away with a regular chain and sprockets and uses a belt and toothed cogs for a quiet, low-maintenance transmission. Flat-mount Shimano MT200 hydraulic brakes paired with 160mm rotors, mean the Hyde can stop on a dime and should stay that way with little additional attention. 

The Schwalbe Big Apple tyres are well armoured to prevent punctures - they are also tubeless. So, should you roll through a patch of broken glass, you won't be left stuck on the side of the road faffing with tyre levers. What's more, at 55mm wide, there's a huge amount of cushioning to keep you comfortable for your entire ride, so uneven roads and potholed surfaces needn't worry you.

5. Ribble Hybrid AL

Our favourite thing about Ribble Bikes is that its bike builder area of the website allows you to customise your ride to meet your exact specifications. Want 650b wheels and tyres instead of 700c? No problem. How about a parcel rack and mudguards? For sure. Do you think that the front derailleur should be put to bed once and for all? No worries, you can have a 1x drivetrain. 

The Hybrid all-rounder is designed for speed and efficiency but with the ability to customise the components, Ribble has used a versatile geometry that allows it to be adapted for your intended use. With rack and fender mounts, front and rear, the bike uses thru-axles and sees dropped seat stays for added levels of compliance. 

You don't have to customise it though, there are well-considered off-the-shelf packages available too. There's an electric version, the Ribble Hybrid AL e, that we rate among the best electric bikes for commuting .

6. Ridgeback Speed

Ridgeback's hybrid bikes are an excellent and popular gateway into urban cycling for many. They're practical and comfortable, often come with a full set of mudguards and a rear rack already fitted, and can be an excellent choice for someone who just wants to get going the moment it's built.

It features a 3x7 Shimano Tourney drivetrain, and Promax V-brakes which, while they're not disc brakes, are very easy to maintain at home, replacement pads are also cheap. It comes stock with cushy 42mm tyres that will soak up many of the bumps on the road and maintain grip when the weather takes a turn.

As a brand, Ridgeback offers a huge range of hybrid bikes, starting as low as £299 and increasing in price by £50 increments, with only one or two prominent changes to the build. This means that if the Speed isn't quite up to scratch for your needs, it's incredibly easy to find a Ridgeback hybrid bike that has what you need at a price point you're comfortable with.

7. Vitus Mach 3 VRS

Well specced for the price, the Vitus Mach 3 VRS is the mid-spec bike from a three-model line-up. It comes with 2x9-speed Shimano Sora shifting, although the combination of a 50/34T chainset and 11-28T cassette means that the available gear range is a bit less than many other hybrid bike options. This marks it out as a slightly more speed-orientated hybrid, and Sora is a road-gearing groupset. It's easily upgradable to a cassette with a 32-tooth largest sprocket though, if you do want more range for hillier rides.

The 38mm wide tyres are lightly treaded and give plenty of grip without sacrificing rolling speed, so the Mach 3 would serve for both faster city riding and a trip out onto tracks and trails. With rack and mudguard mounts, it's a bike that's easy to weatherproof too. 

At 10kg claimed weight for the size medium bike, the Vitus Mach 3 isn't too onerous to carry up stairs and over obstacles either, while the sloping geometry and one-piece bar and stem give the bike a modern, sporty look.

8. Marin Larkspur 2 2021

Whether you're looking for something that prioritises comfort and mobility, or you just want something a bit different, take a closer look at the Marin Larkspur. This unique-looking bike takes the step-through concept and turns it into some modernised goofy fun, adding in a dropper post for easy remounting in traffic, as well as chunky 650b x 2.35in tyres. 

The Larkspur is at home on paved roads and gravel paths alike, cushioning the blows from uneven surfaces and leaving you to float over potholes without care. The swooped handlebars put the rider in an upright position that makes it possible to see further ahead in traffic, the step-through frame makes mounting and dismounting a breeze, and extremely low gearing will make hill-climbing light work for most. It also makes the Larkspur a solid option for anyone with mobility or joint issues.

9. Tern Eclipse X22

Not everybody has room to store a stable of bikes, but that doesn't mean that two-wheeled transport is out of reach. Tern's Eclipse X22 finds the right balance between folding capability and riding efficiency. With 26in wheels and tyres, the bike is vastly more energy efficient over long distances than its smaller wheeled folding cousins but still compactly folds down to 38 x 90 x 81cm.

The geometry is also considerably more aggressive than many folders, and it boasts a 2x11 Ultegra drivetrain and Shimano SLX hydraulic disc brakes - quality components that help to justify the Tern's bigger price tag than the majority of hybrids here. 

10. Giant ToughRoad SLR 2

The ToughRoad, as the name suggests, is designed to keep you going regardless of whether you're riding on glass-smooth tarmac, rough gravel or bone-rattling cobblestones. Made from the brand's ALUXX SLR aluminium, the ToughRoad also has a carbon fork to reduce weight and absorb some of the vibrations coming through the front end. To keep your rear end sitting pretty, Giant has opted to use its D-fuse seatpost for improved compliance, 50mm Giant Sycamore tyres for grip, and plenty of damping too.

The flat-bar geometry keeps the rider in a comfortable position that finds the right balance between comfort and pedalling efficiency, and the frame sees heaps of mounts, as well as an integrated fender on the down tube. With a mix of Shimano Acera, Alivio and Altus components, the bike has a 9-speed, 11-36T cassette and 44/28T chainrings. 

11. Specialized Sirrus 2.0

Made from Specialized's A1 alloy, the Sirrus 2.0 features internal cable routing and plug-and-play fender and rack mounts front and rear. The dropped chainstays at the rear promote a bit of flex at the seat cluster to take the edge off of square hits which combined with the 32C tyres provide for a smooth rider — there is room for 42C rubber should you want a higher volume tyre.

Hydraulic disc brakes provide heaps of power and modulation regardless of the weather and should stay that way for years to come with maintenance. The 2x8 Shimano Acera/Tourney drivetrain with an 11-32 cassette and 46/30T chainrings allow for plenty of range to get you through that hilly commute, without sweating through your shirt. 

12. Orbea Vector 15

If you need a workhorse that can do pretty much everything you want, from commuting to work to carrying the shopping home, but you can't be bothered to figure out all the additional accessories you need to go with it, then you're in luck. The Orbea Vector 15 is ready to roll, complete with front and rear mudguards, a rear pannier rack and front and rear dynamo lights. All you need to do is don your helmet, grab your best bike lock and start riding to the office.

What's more, the Vector is built around Orbea's Body Sport Geometry, which prioritises comfort, placing the rider in a relaxed and more upright position so that you can see clearly in traffic and ride for as long as you need to without feeling discomfort.

Chances are, if you're on the lookout for a hybrid, you may be about to buy your first bike as an adult. If that's the case, there's a lot of choice out there and it can be easy to feel overwhelmed by all the options. To make life easier for you, we've listed some of the key considerations for choosing the right hybrid bike for your needs.

What is a hybrid bike?

A hybrid bike, as per the definition of the word hybrid; is "a thing made by combining two different elements" and is a combination of road and mountain bikes. 

For example, flat handlebars are usually seen as a defining feature of a mountain bike or fitness bike. This is not only because the wider width makes for manageable steering and an upright riding position, but also because hybrids typically have a geometry with a longer reach than a traditional road bike.

The wheels are typically 700c in size - the same as road bikes - with slick or semi-slick tyres that are somewhere between the two when it comes to the width. The handlebars are more akin to a mountain bike style, being flat in shape, as opposed to the drop bar shape found on a road bike. The geometry sits in the middle of the two, putting you in a fast position, but still one that's upright enough to remain comfortable and safe in traffic. 

If you're more interested in riding off-road and gaining a bit of speed, check out our Gravel bike vs hybrid bike feature.

Are disc brakes worth it on a hybrid bike?

There is no question that disc brakes provide better performance than rim brakes. They offer superior power and modulation, and performance is much less affected by wet weather. Depending on the price, hybrid bikes will either come with hydraulic or cable-actuated discs. While they cost a bit more, hydraulic discs require less maintenance and less force at the lever to achieve more braking power, because more leverage can be engineered into the system. In general, try to look for hydraulic disc brakes if you are shopping for a new hybrid bike. 

What gearing do I need?

When we talk about gearing, what we're really referring to is the bike's drivetrain.

The main drivetrain choices for hybrid bikes are belt-driven drivetrains and or internally geared ones. 1x (one-by), 2x (two-by) or a triple chainset which uses regular chains and sprockets. Belt drive systems replace a metal chain for a belt and internally geared drivetrains package all of the gears inside the rear hub, meaning they require very little maintenance. And all the shifting is done with a single lever. The downside is they are anything but light and the total gear range is usually less broad than a derailleur-geared system. 

1x, 2x and triple systems are the traditional chain and derailleur-operated drivetrains, with the difference being the number of chainrings at the front. 

A 1x drivetrain can offer the same, or even a wider gear range than a 2x system, and will feature a clutched rear derailleur to handle chain slack and a narrow-wide chainring which will prevent your chain from falling off the chainring. Shifting is operated with a single lever. The downside is they are a bit more expensive, and sometimes the jumps between the gears can be pretty big.

A 2x drivetrain is usually more budget-friendly, and will generally offer the widest spread of gears, but with extra components comes extra maintenance, which can also complicate shifting for beginners. 

Some bikes even offer a 3x system, but these are few and far between nowadays as the need for the smallest inner chainring was replaced by larger cassettes (the sprocket at the back) offering the same low gears. 

What other features should I look for in a hybrid bike?

Hybrid bikes are often used in all weather conditions and most frames will have mounting points for mudguards , even if the bike is not fitted with them.

A rear rack can be useful for carrying stuff. Again, look out for the mounting points at the rear, both on the dropouts where the wheel's hub fits into the frame and higher up on the seat stays.

Lights are also a useful addition for safety and essential if riding at night. Again, some hybrids will have these fitted, while you may need to budget for them as an extra if not.

Many hybrid bikes will come fitted with a bell, which can be useful when riding in town. This may be a basic number though. For something altogether more flashy, check out our guide to the best bike bells .

A kickstand is another option which may or may not be present, but can be useful, particularly for urban riders.

Do I need a suspension fork?

Lots of hybrid bikes come with suspension forks, but we believe that these should largely be avoided. Not only are they heavier and more expensive than a rigid fork, but those fitted to hybrid bikes are often very cheap and don't provide much in the way of efficient shock absorption. Low-end forks like this usually ride like a bouncy mess, and over time are likely to seize anyway. If you are worried about riding comfort, prioritise a bike with lots of tyre clearance, wide tyres and possibly 650b wheels, which allow even wider tyres. 

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Mildred joined as Reviews Writer for Cyclingnews and BikePerfect in December 2020. She loves all forms of cycling from long-distance audax to daily errand-running by bike, and does almost everything on two wheels, including moving house, and started out her cycling career working in a bike shop. For the past five years she's volunteered at The Bristol Bike Project as a mechanic and session coordinator, and now sits on its board of directors.

Since then she's gone on to write for a multitude of cycling publications, including Bikeradar, Cycling Plus, Singletrack, Red Bull, Cycling UK and Total Women's Cycling. She's dedicated to providing more coverage of women's specific cycling tech, elevating under-represented voices in the sport, and making cycling more accessible overall. 

Height: 156cm (5'2")

Weight: 75kg

Rides: Stayer Groadinger UG, Triban RC520 Women's Disc, Genesis Flyer, Marin Larkspur, Cotic BFe 26, Clandestine custom bike

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Most Popular

Green Deals

First discounts on new goal zero power stations, $500 off gotrax everest e-dirt bike, and more.

Today’s Green Deals are lead by the fourth official discount on the GoTrax Everest Electric Dirt Bike that is back at $500 off . It is joined by the first official discounts on Goal Zero’s newest power stations, the Yeti 300, 500, and 700 models that start from $240 , as well as dual one-day Best Buy sales on the WORX 40V PowerShare 14-inch Cordless Electric Chainsaw for $189 and the WORX LeafPro Universal Collection System for $36 . Plus all of the other days’ Green Deals that are still going.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course,  Electrek ’s best EV buying  and  leasing deals . Also, check out the new  Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories .

First deals live on latest Goal Zero Yeti power stations

The official Goal Zero Amazon storefront is taking up to $120 off its three newest power station models, with the biggest amount of savings being on the  Yeti 700 Portable Power Station for  $479.89 shipped . Down from $600, this is the very first chance to save on these new models after riding their MSRP since their release back in January. Today’s deal comes in as a 20% markdown off the going rate – for all three models – and lands them at new all-time lows going forward. For the Yeti 300 you’ll be saving $60, while the Yeti 500 scores you $100 in savings. The  Yeti 300 is going for  $239.89 shipped , while the  Yeti 500 is going for  $399.89 shipped . There are also bundle options which you’ll find below.

These three 6th generation power station models were designed for your casual outdoor explorations, like camping trips, tailgating parties, occasional nights spent under the stars, or more. All three share the same general designs and features while simply differing in capacity size and output levels; with the  Yeti 300  sporting a 297Wh capacity, the  Yeti 500  sporting a 499Wh capacity, and the  Yeti 700  sporting a 677Wh capacity. All three have been given fast-charging capabilities via a wall outlet, with the Yeti 300 recharging in 50 minutes, the Yeti 500 in 90 minutes, and the Yeti 700 in under 2 hours. All three can be hooked up to a solar panel with a max input level of 200W, with recharging ranging from 1.7 hours to 4 hours, depending on your model. All three offer the same output options: two ACs, two USB-As, two USB-Cs, and a car port.

You’ll also find bundle options for the two larger power stations, with the Yeti 500 being bundled alongside a  Nomad 50W Solar Panel for  $600 . The Yeti 700 has two different bundles to choose from, the first being with a  Boulder 100W Solar Panel for  $720 , and the second being with a  Nomad 100W Solar Panel for  $720  as well.

GoTrax Everest Electric Dirt Bike now $5,999

Best Buy is offering the  GoTrax Everest Electric Dirt Bike for  $5,999 shipped . Normally fetching $6,500, this model has only seen three previous discounts since its release in the summer of 2023, with two of them bringing costs down to $6,000 during August and December’s Christmas sales, and a one-day sale last month that saw it fall to a new $5,500 low. Today’s deal comes in as a repeat of its first two discounts, taking $501 off the going rate and returning it to the second-lowest price we have tracked.

The  Gotrax Everest electric dirt bike  comes equipped with a 4,000W (8,000W peak) rear-drive motor and a removable 72V battery that work together to reach top speeds of 53 MPH and travel up to 50 miles on a single charge. It fully recharges from empty in just four hours, and features dual-shock suspension, rugged deep-tooth off-road tires, hydraulic disc brakes, dual headlights, a taillight with turn signal functionality, multiple speed modes, an LED digital display, mudguards, and a surprisingly light 172-pound weight thanks to its aluminum-magnesium alloy frame.

WORX 40V 14-inch Cordless Electric Chainsaw hits $189

Best Buy is offering the  WORX 40V PowerShare 14-inch Cordless Electric Chainsaw with two 2.0Ah batteries for  $188.99 shipped  through the rest of the day. Normally fetching $270, this chainsaw saw regular ups and downs over the last year mainly keeping above $199, with drops as low as $170 after the start of the new year. Today’s deal comes in as a 30% markdown off the going rate that gives you $81 in savings and lands at the fourth-lowest price we have tracked – $37 above the all-time low from 2022. Equipped with a brushless motor alongside a 14-inch bar and chain that automatically adjusts tension levels to their optimal points,  this chainsaw  also sports a quick-stop chain brake to keep you in control and prevent accidental cutting. Its two 2.0Ah batteries are compatible across the WORX PowerShare ecosystem, allowing you to interchange batteries between 20V, 40V, and 80V cordless tools. It even has a battery indicator that tells you at a glance how much juice is left for the tasks at hand. You’ll also receive a dual-port charger and a sheath along with your purchase.

Best Buy is also offering the  WORX LeafPro Universal Collection System for  $36 , down from $55 through the end of the day. With this attachment you’ll be able to severely cut down on the time you spend collecting leaves around your yard. You can hook it up to most leaf blowers and leaf vacuums on the market, including Black & Decker, Husqvarna, Poulan, Craftsman, Ryobi, Toro, Murray, and many more. It has an 8-foot hose with a tear-resistant collection hood at one end and a multi-fit adapter that forms tight seals with the output valve of your leaf blower/vac. Do keep in mind, however, that this model is not compatible with WORX’s TURBINE Fusion blower.

Spring e-bike deals!

• Super73 RX Electric Motorbike: $2,999 (Reg. $3,695)
• Juiced JetCurrent Pro Foldable e-bike: $2,499 (Reg. $2,799)
• Juiced’s HyperScrambler 2: $1,999 (Reg. $3,499)
• Vanpowers UrbanGlide Ultra e-bike: $1,899 (Reg. $2,499)
• Aventon Aventure.2 All-Terrain e-bike with free extra battery: $1,799 ($2,499 value)
• Aventon Abound Cargo e-bike with $372 in free accessories: $1,799 (Reg. $2,199)
• Hover-1 Altai Pro R750 e-bike: $1,632 (Reg. $3,000)
• Heybike Brawn Fat-Tire e-bike: $1,449 (Reg. $1,800)
• Electric Bike Co. Model J e-bike: $1,299 (Reg. $1,499)
• Lectric XPress 750 High-Step e-bike with extra battery: $1,299 (Reg. $1,799)
• Lectric XPress 750 Step-Thru e-bike with extra battery: $1,299 (Reg. $1,799)
• Vanpowers UrbanGlide Pro e-bike: $1,299 (Reg. $1,899)
• Velotric Nomad 1 e-bike: $1,299 (Reg. $1,799)
• Velotric Discover 1 e-bike: $1,099 (Reg. $1,599)
• Vanpowers UrbanGlide Standard e-bike: $999 (Reg. $1,299)
• Schwinn Ridgewood Electric Mountain Bike: $800 (Reg. $1,500)
• Schwinn Ingersoll Electric Hybrid Bike: $700 (Reg. $1,500)

Other new Green Deals landing this week

The savings this week are also continuing to a collection of other markdowns. To the same tune as the offers above, these all help you take a more energy-conscious approach to your routine. Winter means you can lock in even better off-season price cuts on electric tools for the lawn while saving on EVs and tons of other gear.

• Lectric lightning deal offers foldable XP e-Trike with $333 in free gear for $1,499 ($1,832 value)
• Husqvarna’s Automower 115H robotic lawn mower with smart controls now $599 (Reg. $700)
• Jetson’s Canyon folding electric scooter with 22-mile range falls to $380 ($520 in savings)
• Greenworks 40V 12-inch compact chainsaw tackles storm cleanup for $124 (Reg. $180)
• Sun Joe’s 1,450 PSI electric pressure washer with detergent tank falls to $142, more from $59
• Amazon Basics 2,000mAh rechargeable AA NiMH battery 16-pack falls 33% to $18
• NIU’s Earth Day Sale takes up to 40% off e-scooters including new KQi Air X pre-orders
• Jackery’s Earth Day sale takes up to $1,800 off power stations, bundles, more starting from $100
• ALLPOWERS Pet Day sale has power stations from $79, solar panels at $99, and bundles at up to $1,600 off

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. How we test gear.

2024’s Best Road Bikes

15 Fabulous Bicycles for Riding or Racing on the Road

Each year, Bicycling ’s test editors choose the Best Bikes from the thousands available across dozens of categories. Our process starts with analyzing price, features, and how each bike solves a rider’s needs. We also monitor cycling trends, research emerging riding categories, and closely follow new technologies. Then we tighten our focus on the bikes with the most potential, get them, ride them extensively, and discuss them rigorously amongst the test team and with other cyclists.

Almost no one uses a bicycle only how it’s portrayed on bike brands’ websites. So we test bikes in ways our readers ride them. We go to group rides and events, dig through social media posts, and dive into the minutia to give us insight into obstacles riders face and how they use their bikes to solve them.

Ritte Esprit

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Bikes that fill the space between dedicated road and gravel bikes are often termed all-road or endurance bikes. In short, the category‘s basic premise over the last two decades is to take a road bike, add a bit of tire clearance, give it lower gearing, and tweak the geometry to make it somewhat more upright and comfortable.

It sounds simple and appealing enough, but as road bikes became more capable (with increased tire clearance, disc brakes, and wide-range gearing) over the years, the appeal of this middle ground has diminished for many. The main drawback of these all-road or endurance category bikes is that brands stripped away too much of what I liked and wanted from a road bike in a quest for versatility.

That’s precisely why I am so smitten by the Fray. Here is a bike optimized around 31 to 35mm tires but with clearance for up to 40mm (in a 1x configuration, max 2x clearance is 38mm), which honestly feels conservative. It’s also impressively light at 17 pounds with tires measuring 38mm and deep-section Enve aero wheels. While these numbers are impressive, the two things that clinched the Fray for me were how it rode, which is like a road bike—Confidence-inspiring, precise, and dynamic.

Appearance is subjective, and if you didn’t like how the Melee looks, you probably won’t be into the Fray. The two bikes are nearly indistinguishable from one another. But I think it’s good that Enve matched the styling of the two bikes. After all, consumers often desire to ride what the pros are racing—it is why race bikes are so popular, even among riders who don’t compete.

After riding Enve’s race bike, the Melee, and the Fray back-to-back, the difference in “feel” between the two is very minor. A size 56 Fray has a 0.7º slacker head tube, 16mm longer wheelbase, and 20mm more stack, compared to the Melee. The differences are certainly there, but on the road, even with very plump 35mm tires (labeled 35mm but measuring 38mm) on the Fray, it just felt like a typical road bike.

I had to push the Fray to my limit in the corners to glean its differences from the Melee. Using the same tires and wheels in the Melee for comparison, the differences were similarly minor. The Melee feels a hair faster initiating a turn and needs slightly less input to hold my desired line. The bottom line is that I would still prefer to race a crit on the Melee, but I certainly wouldn’t be held back that much doing one on the Fray.

Uphill, the Fray’s performance is excellent. The bike’s massive down tube, bottom bracket, and chainstays provide the power transfer you’d expect from a top-tier race bike. Even the tiniest injection of effort into the pedals resulted in an immediate surge forward.

My favorite thing about riding the Fray was how often it tempted me to take a dirt cut-through or see if a random trail would connect to the fire road I wanted. The big, 38mm (measured) slick tires constantly turned my rides into little adventures—even when most were on pavement. The Fray also can turn even the roughest asphalt into a magic carpet ride. And this makes sense—I praised the Melee for being exceptionally comfortable when I reviewed it in 2023. With its extra-large tires, the Fray turns that up to another level. — Dan Chabanov

Best All-Around Road

The best new bike I rode in the last year was the Ritte Esprit. I liked it so much that Elijah from Ritte needed to travel to Pennsylvania and practically rip it from my hands to get it back. After my test bike left with him I kept the tab open on my browser for months and hovered over the “Add to cart” button with my cursor dozens of times—but I’m still unsure which color I want.

The Esprit changed my perceptions of what I want and expect in a road bicycle for 2024—and probably for the next several years. I think about the Esprit almost every time I pedal a different bike on the road. So many of the things that annoy me about other road bikes, Ritte gets right with the Esprit.

Road bike development led us down two distinct evolutionary branches over the past twenty years (and lots of niches and specialization along those branches). Unfortunately, a model like the Esprit cannot exist for many brands. Big brands need rigidly defined race and endurance categories to market and sell bikes.

Such is the current landscape of high-end, production carbon road bikes. Race bikes are low, long, and fast. They are lightweight, have skinny tires, and prioritize efficiency over comfort. Race bikes are at the razor’s edge of everything. Endurance bikes are upright, short, and compliant. They sacrifice speed to fit wider tires and fenders for versatility. Endurance bikes are practical.

Ritte took those rules and set them ablaze. The Esprit is low, long, and fast. It’s also amazingly comfortable, fits decently wide rubber (up to 35mm—or room for fenders if you want,) and has forward-looking component compatibility without using proprietary parts or standards.

Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love race bikes—my daily driver is a Specialized Allez Sprint aluminum criterium bike. Something is alluring about products crafted with the singleminded purpose of traveling ruthlessly fast. Race bikes show no mercy. They force you to ride faster, be efficient, and hone your skills—and the reward is speed and handling.

Endurance bikes don’t elicit the same feelings in me. Some ride quite well and many are brilliantly engineered with features that provide riders with more comfort and confidence than they might get from a race bike. Yet when I ride most endurance bikes I do the shrug emoji because they don’t have that little edge I like from a road bike. But some of the features of endurance bikes could appeal to me and benefit me on my everyday rides (the 90-plus percent of miles I pedal in a year).

Wider tires are great for added comfort and traction, plus they allow you to explore some dirt roads or take that shortcut home on that road with notoriously bad pavement. Component fitment standards like T47 BB, UDH, 27.2mm post, and 1-1/8” round steerer tubes make sourcing, changing, and maintaining parts easier, cheaper, and less time-consuming. Plus, bikes with standard parts can be built slightly more robustly, but remain generally lightweight.

These features are exactly the things that make the Ritte Esprit great. It weaves together the elements I love about road race bikes with a sprinkling of endurance bike flourishes into a sublime package. The extra tire clearance, universal standards, and overall comfort make the bike better for my daily riding and training without detracting from its speed or crisp handling.

The Esprit’s handling is not an accident or stroke of luck. It was developed for Ritte by frame-building legend Tom Kellogg (of Spectrum Cycles, Seven, and Merlin fame). And in a word the handing is “quick” and most certainly inspired by top-level racing bikes. The bike turns extremely fast, perhaps twitchy to some if you’re more accustomed to bikes with more relaxed feeling endurance geometry. The Esprit rewards riders having strong bike handling skills and full commitment with exit speed and acceleration

The Esprit’s chainstays are a touch long (415mm on an XL frame). With the bike’s quick handling, the longer stays help provide stability and keep the rider’s weight centered when cornering. The Esprit feels very balanced front-to-back.

In addition to the ride feel and handling, Ritte’s purchasing experience is another key win for the Esprit. The buying process better resembles working with a custom builder than buying a production bike. Riders can select from five stock colors in five frame sizes (XS to XL), then pick the built-tier (One = SRAM Red or Shimano Dura-Ace, Two = Force or Ultegra, Three = Rival or 105).

The choices don‘t end there—Ritte offers an incredible 16 configurations of its one-piece Othr cockpit, 0mm or 25mm offset posts, power meters, and wheel upgrades. But that’s only scratching the surface: If you don’t see what you need or want on Ritte’s dropdown menus, shoot them a message and they will bend over backward to get you sorted with your ideal bike.

Custom-builder level of attention usually comes with a boutique price. Yet, Ritte’s prices for complete-build Esprits make even recently deeply discounted prices from some mainstream brands look super pricey. Hell, Ritte’s pricing even gives notably low-priced Canyon a run for its money. Our raw finish, Level Two Ultegra Di2-equipped, 16.6 pound, XL-size test bike prices out at $6,595—Level Three models start at $5,995 and framesets are $2,950.

As much as I loved the Esprit, I failed to scream about it from the rooftops until now. But why?

It’s almost like seeing your favorite upcoming independent artist play a small show in your local club right before that track you love becomes the hot new song everyone knows about. Perhaps a part of my subconscious wanted to hold onto that feeling for as long as possible and have the Esprit be my little secret.

Now it’s time for others to hear about and appreciate the Esprit. But don’t just hum along to this tune, scream about it at the top of your lungs like no one is listening and dance to it like no one is watching. Race bike fit and geometry with endurance bike comfort and versatility is the soundtrack to the summer of 2024. Throw in service and attention to detail unmatched by almost any other mid- or large-sized bike brand and Ritte has a smash hit. — Tara Seplavy

BEST BUDGET ROAD BIKE

Only a few years ago, aluminum road race bikes were prevalent and cheap. Many riders, including myself, started their cycling journey on these bikes—and a few riders even raced them into the elite ranks. Long-running model lines such as the Cannondale CAAD, Trek’s various ALR models, and, naturally, the Specialized Allez were the bikes of choice for many new cyclists.

Unfortunately, the era of the aluminum-framed road bike with high-end groupset seems behind us. But Specialized recaptures the essence of what made these bikes so great with its latest incarnation of the Allez. It is a near-perfect blend of performance, upgradability, and price consciousness.

The most noticeable change for the Allez is that it is now disc brake only. Disc brakes improve the bike’s overall versatility, though they are heavier than rim brakes. The Allez clears tires up to 35mm wide. Plus, the bike can run full-wrap fenders with 32mm tires. The mounts allow for the use of a rear rack and panniers and add more utility.

While the Allez Sport is an entry-level bike, Specialized did a great job getting many of the bike’s small details right. For example, the Allez Sport uses the same thru-axles and alloy bottle cage bolts included on S-Works bikes that cost thousands of dollars more.

Shimano’s Tiagra 10-speed groupset manages the Allez Sport’s shifting and braking duties. And it performs great—as good as any generation of 105. Honestly, I would go so far as to say it’s as good as any Shimano 10-speed groupset, including previous iterations of the brand’s flagship Dura-Ace components.

The most obvious low point of the Allez build kit is the wheels and tires. At almost 2,000 grams, Specialized paired these wheels with nearly 450-gram Specialized Roadsport tires. While this combination offers a ton of durability and puncture protection, their ride qualities leave a ton desired. Arguably, the tires (primarily) are responsible for making the Allez Sport feel “entry level.”

The Allez Sport is worth upgrading because Specialized nailed the most important elements like the geometry and ride quality. And the alloy frame is light for what it is. If your budget is tight, the best place to start is with a set of tires. My recommendation here would be the folding bead, 700x32c Panaracer GravelKing Slick. These tires are reasonably priced ($60 per tire) and ride great. At 290 grams a tire, swapping in a set of these will drop 320 grams (0.7 pounds) of rotating weight from the Allez.

The Allez is perhaps the best enthusiast-level road bike I’ve tested. It’s simply a great bike, even if you don’t factor in the price. It accomplished the most important task of a bike like this: making me want to ride and keep riding. And that makes the Allez the perfect bike for riders looking to get into road cycling or racing. — D.C.

BEST VALUE ROAD BIKE

The Émonda ALR borrows its geometry (down to the millimeter) from its much pricier (and lighter weight) carbon fiber version of the Émonda—riders get the same, proven, race-winning geometry of the spendier carbon model for around $1,000 less.

While the cost savings might be the most enticing feature of the ALR for many riders, the updated aluminum frame is the showstopper here. Much like its carbon version, the Émonda ALR features a mix of aerofoil (Kammtail) shaped tubes along with more traditional round profiles. Trek uses its 300 Series Alpha aluminum for the frame, and it weighs in at 1,257 grams (claimed) for a painted size 56cm. It’s combined with a full carbon fork that adds 406g to the total package. This weight is impressive—weighing a mere 34g more than Trek’s carbon Émonda SL variant of the frame (which sells for $1,000 more than the ALR).

Alloy-frame aficionados have divided opinions about the appearance of welds. Some prefer to see the handy work of the welder and how tidy they can make the welds, while others don‘t want to see them at all. Fans of chunky welds will be disappointed as Trek employed its Invisible Weld Technology on the Émonda ALR. This technique creates an incredibly seamless look to the frame. At arm's length (and particularly with the black frame), riders can easily mistake the Émonda ALR for a pricier carbon bike.

Trek Émonda ALR

Trek modeled the ALR on the carbon Émonda (a bike intended to win mountain stages in Grand Tour races), so the ALR has all-day comfort in mind. This all-day riding focus makes the overall ride more relaxed and comfortable compared to the Allez Sprint and should be a plus for many riders.

There’s nothing gimmicky about the Émonda ALR. It’s a classic road bike in the simplest sense of the term. Riding it for the first time felt familiar and reassuring. The geometry didn’t require me to adjust to the bike—I could just get on and go. Even on that first ride, I felt like I could dive into corners with the assurance of knowing what the Émonda ALR would do when I leaned in. The geometry was a perfect mix of stability and responsiveness with a dash of that springiness that good metal bikes have.

Overall, the Émonda ALR gets way more things right than it does wrong. While it's easy to nitpick things like its tires and wheels, Trek uses these parts to get the Émonda ALR to its modest price. And the ALR is up there with some of the best aluminum race bikes. It’s an impeccably finished and thoroughly well-designed aluminum bike that’s only a few grams heavier than its mid-tier carbon version. Plus, the Émonda ALR shares geometry with its pricier siblings and uses no proprietary standards or parts. With the ALR, Trek made a bike that nails all the things that have always made me love aluminum race bikes. — D.C

BEST RACE BIKE

With the Tarmac SL8, you can see Specialized rethinking the balance of race-bike characteristics. The company that once declared “Aero is everything” and backed that up by building an in-house wind tunnel is now taking a more nuanced approach to aerodynamics and reaffirming the importance of weight and stiffness.

The result is a bike that prioritizes leading-edge aerodynamic efficiency that helps very-fast riders—the faster you go, the straighter the headwind the rider encounters—but is perhaps less aerodynamically efficient in greater wind angles an amateur rider would experience.

By prioritizing leading edge aero efficiency, Specialized can forgo some of the large and complex airfoil shapes in other parts of the frame—the SL8’s down tube is notably round‑which helps bring down the frame’s weight.

This frame is extremely light: Specialized claims the S-Works frame is just 685 grams (fork: 358 grams), which is currently the lightest frame in the professional peloton and one of the lightest in the world, period. Light frames make for light bikes: Our 54cm test sample with Shimano Dura-Ace Di2, a power meter, and 51/60mm deep rims weighed just 14.6 lb./6.6 kg.

And it’s more than just light: The SL8 is also very stiff in the right ways, so it feels crisp and reactive while also providing the rider with a buttery (for a race bike) ride that’s all day comfortable.

It’s hard to pick any singular thing about the SL8 that stands out more than any of its other excellent attributes, but if forced to name my favorite thing about it, I’d say it is the handling. It is a sharp and aggressive bike with light and quick steering. It is among the most reactive bikes I can remember. Yet, I never found it darty or nervous, and a blustery crosswind or broken pavement never caught me out. It displays no significant juddering or skipping in lumpy corners either.

When I review race bikes, I usually come to a point where I must discuss the compromises necessary to realize their speed. And while some compromises are present in the SL8, they’re handled better than many.

The front end is one example. As is standard for a road race bike in 2024, Specialized hides the brake hoses from the wind. But while they do enter through the upper headset bearing, they’re not internally routed through the bar or stem. Riders can replace broken parts or change bar and stem sizes without disconnecting hydraulic lines.

And if you’re fit-conscious, the one-piece Roval cockpit on the S-Works model is offered in 15 sizes (although there’s no official program in place to support riders who need a different-from-stock-cockpit size). If you prefer a two-piece cockpit, the SL8 works with Specialized’s “SL7” road stem and almost any handlebar.

The maximum official tire clearance is 32mm, less than the 34mm clearance offered by some of the SL8’s competitors like Cannondale and Cervelo. As road tires creep ever wider, that 32mm limit may be, er, limiting for some riders, although it doesn’t seem like it will be a concern in the pro ranks for a while yet.

The SL8 is a race bike made for the fastest racers. If you want a bicycle that’s easy to work on with common component standards and fat tire clearance, you don’t want a race bike. If you want the fastest and best-feeling machine for riding on (good) pavement, that is a race bike. And right now, there isn‘t a speedier, finer-riding, or better-feeling race bike than the Tarmac SL8. — Matt Phillips

BEST ENDURANCE ROAD

The endurance bike exists in a nebulous space.

At one time, it was a road-focused category that prioritized a compliant ride and a more upright fit. But as bike brands tried to market them as performance bikes designed for the rigors of racing at the highest level in events like Paris-Roubaix, they became more like—well—race bikes.

But today, teams use the same bike they race in every other event —save for wider tires—at Roubaix and the other cobbled classics. Meanwhile, along came gravel bikes with tons of tire clearance, a focus on compliance, a more upright fit, and multi-surface capability.

So, where does that leave endurance bikes today? It puts them right back where they started—pavement-oriented bikes with a more upright fit and an emphasis on a compliant ride. And there may be no finer example of the modern endurance bike than Canyon’s Endurace.

The model name obviously comes from the era when brands were trying to put a race shine on their endurance bikes. Canyon does bake some performance features into this bike, most notably aerodynamics. The new Endurace claims a seven-watt improvement over the previous model (at a rather speedy 45 km/h).

While it is somewhat aerodynamic and offers crisp and quick-feeling acceleration, this bike’s beautifully smooth ride makes it unique. It is one of the most complaint road bikes I’ve ever sampled. Better, it offers that comfort without a diluted or uninspiring ride.

Striking a balance between a bike that feels fast and snappy while simultaneously delivering a buttery ride poses a tough challenge for frame engineers. But Canyon seemed to crack the code, and the Enduraces’s blend of characteristics makes it a special bike. — M.P.

BEST CRITERIUM BIKE

Do all performance road bikes look the same to you? Do you miss the classic round tube frame silhouette? Do you like aluminum? If you answered “Yes” to any of those questions, perhaps the Standert Kreissäge RS is the bike you’ve been waiting for. For those unfamiliar, Standert is a Berlin, Germany-based brand specializing in steel and aluminum bikes. The brand’s round-tubed steel and aluminum Dedacciai frames are designed in Germany and welded in Italy. It’s a refreshingly simple formula.

In many ways, Standert’s Kreissäge RS is a bit of a throwback. It is an unapologetically stiff-as-hell race bike. The Kreissäge RS is also mostly uncomplicated by current road bike design trends yet still feels modern. While many big brands’ race bikes aim to balance ride comfort with performance, the Kreissäge RS seems most interested in getting the watts you put into the pedals directly to the rear wheel.

The Kreissäge RS's almost singular focus also means that, for the most part, it’s a gloriously simple bike. Component standards are straightforward—a 27.2mm seatpost, a threaded T47 bottom bracket shell, flat-mount disc brakes, and a tapered 1 ⅛-1 ½-inch fork steerer. The bike isn’t aero-optimized, with the frame’s tubes only strategically ovalized in certain areas for strength and stiffness.

Standert Kreissage-RS

But this simplicity does not make the Kreissäge RS a retro homage. The bike’s lack of visible cables instantly betrays it as a modern bike. Plus, the Kreissäge RS fits contemporary-width tires—officially, it clears up to 30mm. But this guidance seems rather conservative as in my testing, tires measuring 32mm tire fit without any issues. And riders less risk-averse than myself can probably fit even wider tires depending on the bike (depending on the particular rim and tire combination.)

This bike presents riders looking for an aluminum bike with an appealing alternative to a mainstream offering like the Trek Emonda ALR, Specialized Allez Sprint, or Cannondale CAAD13. And if you were a collegiate cyclist or criterium racer at the heyday of Cannondale’s old CAAD 8, 9, and 10 models (mid-00s to mid-10s), then the Kreissäge RS probably will tug at your heartstrings a little too. Standert even offers the Kreissäge frame in a rim brake variant if you want the full-nostalgic experience. — D.C.

BEST STEEL ROAD BIKE

The Ritchey Road Logic (most likely) is not for you if you shop for a bike based purely on the listed weight or aerodynamic claims. The claimed weight for a size 55cm frame (without a thru-axle) is 1,940 grams, and the carbon fork adds another 420g (also sans axle). That’s hefty by modern carbon standards, but it’s pretty reasonable for a steel-framed disc brake frameset.

As far as aero claims, there are none. Besides some very slight ovalization of the seat tube, as it joins the bottom bracket, plus some minor shaping of the chainstays, every tube on the Road Logic is straight and round.

The eschewing of modern trends continues with a complete lack of wonky standards. A straight 1-1/8th steer tube sits inside a machined headtube on the frame’s front end. That HT features the Road Logic’s only slice of modern component integration: headset bearing races machined into the frame. The Ritchey fits a standard 27.2mm seatpost and uses a gorgeous fastback-style seat cluster to hold it in place. Naturally, the bottom bracket is threaded, and—unless you use one of the latest Shimano Di2 groups–the cables get routed externally. And yes, the frame has all the cable stops needed to run any mechanical-shifting groupset you prefer.

In a world of carbon superbikes, a bike like the Road Logic can take some time to appreciate. As you pedal along on the Ritchey, it doesn’t beat you over the head with its light weight or stiffness. There is no wooshing noise characteristic of an aero bike. What the Road Logic lacks in “wow factor” it makes up in simply being, for lack of a better word, “great.” And evaluating it on the same criteria as one might, a carbon competitor would be to sell the Road Logic short.

Like all truly great bikes, you cannot get a true sense of the Road Logic after just a few rides. It’s simply a bike with too much personality to quickly and fully grasp its character. The steel frame is flexier than carbon, but simultaneously, it’s buzzier and more dynamic. The overall character of the Road Logic is fluid and hard to pin down.

In many ways, the Road Logic is a throwback. That’s certainly true of its classic appearance with its skinny steel tubes and external routing. But none of this means the Road Logic is locked in the past.

The updated Road Logic Disc frameset features appropriately modern tire clearance. 32mm tires fit easily—wider rubber potentially clears, depending on the rim and tire used. However, Ritchey lists official clearance at 30mm. This space allows the Road Logic to morph from wonderfully snappy and alive yet smooth with 28mm tires to supremely comfortable with 32s.

The Road Logic is ideal for someone seeking the sublime ride of a classic steel frame without going down the sometimes lengthy and costly custom bike route. Sure, it’s a bike you might buy for its performance and ride quality. But it is also purchased because of the things that are hard to summarize in a review—factors like aesthetics, vibes, and a long cycling history to which Ritchey is so clearly tied. It’s a bike that you get for emotional reasons instead of logical ones. — D.C.

BEST SUPER BIKE

Few things with wheels are more associated with speed than a Formula 1 car. And that association is one reason why BMC partnered with Red Bull Advanced Technologies—who help shape the Red Bull Racing F1 cars—to help them create its most complete race bike ever: the Teammachine R.

The TM-R has a strong aerodynamic story like all modern road racing bikes. The standout feature is the wide-stance Halo fork. This fork helps deal with turbulent air around the spinning wheel and directs air around the rider’s legs.

While the fork is the most attention-grabbing, the TM-R also features a deep headtube, wide and truncated downtube—with an integrated bottle cage (standard cages also work)—dropped seatstays, an airfoil-shaped seatpost and seat tube, and a massive triangle of carbon around the bottom bracket.

The result is a bike that incorporates the familiar profile of a modern racing bike. It also has a look all its own.

But while aerodynamic considerations are mandatory if you’re designing a race bike for the highest levels of competition, so are many other factors. They include stiffness, responsiveness, lightweight, and compliance enough for racing all out for five to six hours—or, in a word, balance.

And the TM-R’s balance is what makes it such a superbike. There are certainly lighter bikes in the pro peloton and probably more aerodynamic ones. But few bikes are as aggressively fast, crisp, and handle as well as the Teammachine R. While the TM-R is not the smoothest race bike, it offers a just-right combination of feel and feedback paired with isolation from the spikiest of shocks to the body.

The TM-R looks fast and feels fast—but most importantly, it is fast. And that makes it a superbike. — M.P.

Best Climbing Bike

As race bikes became more complicated, Orbea returned its long-running Orca model to its roots. For a model conceived and created in the hilly Basque country, that means designing for pure climbing prowess instead of aerodynamic efficiency. No visual clue is more telling of the Orca’s renewed focus on weight and ride quality than the absence of dropped chainstays. The lack of this nearly ubiquitous modern race bike feature almost makes the Orca look, dare I say, classic.

In a way, the new Orca treads down a similar road as the much-loved Specialized Aethos. But while the Orca prioritizes ride quality and low weight, it is decidedly more modern than the Aethos. It’s nothing groundbreaking, but things like hidden cable routing, a minimalistic seat clamp, a press-fit bottom bracket, and some aggressive tube shaping are all present. Granted, those tube shapes are there to improve comfort, power transfer, and optimize weight rather than cheat the wind. Still, the new Orca is a far cry from the simple round tubes of the Aethos, even though the two bikes are certainly related in spirit.

While the top-end Orca we tested is certainly not cheap at $11,600, it’s very price-competitive with high-end models from other brands. For riders on tighter budgets, the Orca is available as a Shimano 105 build starting at $3,800.

What sets Orbea apart from other brands is that riders can fully customize the paint scheme of their new Orca and select things like bar width, stem length, seat post setback, crank length, and even gearing combinations, all at no extra charge. Even wheel depth is an option. But what makes Orbea stand out is that much of this personalization is available even on the $3,800 Shimano 105 build of the Orca, including custom paint.

As for ride quality, the Orca is simply magnificent. It’s been ages since I’ve jumped on a bike, and from the first few pedal strokes, I was immediately in love with what it offered. Everything about the Orca is perfectly poised to deliver an exceptional riding experience. There are no extra features to distract you from how beautifully this bike glides uphill. Sure, there are more aerodynamic and faster race bikes out there, but if you’re after an exceptionally smooth riding and ultra-lightweight bike, the Orca is it. — D.C.

BEST ELECTRIC ROAD BIKE

The Rouvida caught me off guard. It wasn’t because it is an electric bike or that Cervélo—a brand known for its lightweight, Grand Tour-winning road race machines—went and made an e-bike. No, the surprise in the Rouvida is that it was the first electric road bike I wanted to add to my fleet when I finished my testing.

I love e-bikes of all sorts. However, I never personally connected with previous electric road bikes I rode. The others weren’t bad bikes—they simply didn’t feel quick and nimble in ways I expected from a performance-inspired road bike. The Rouvida changed that perception for me.

Some of that change for me comes down to appearance. With a sleek carbon frame that incorporates the usual bevy of aerodynamic flourishes, aside from the slightly chonky downtube and changeable dropouts, the Rouvida looks the part of a modern high-end road race or fast gravel bike. Plus, it doesn’t have a shorty stem or suspension, and the motor tucked behind the crankset gets easily overlooked at a passing glance.

Thanks to the Fazua motor, the Rouvida delivers beyond only its race bike-like appearance. The 250-watt/60 N/m Fazua Ride 60 motor has a smooth feel and good power, especially in Rocket mode, the highest of Fazua’s three settings. The unit produces a tiny amount of noise, but it’s less than many other e-bike motors—it’s audible enough that you hear it working, but it’s not annoying or distracting.

Cervelo Rouvida

However, don’t let the motor fool you. The Rouvida is still very much a road bike, and you must pedal to engage the motor assistance (there is no throttle). The benefit of the motor is you can ride more miles in the same time as a non-assisted bike or use it to provide a little extra boost on longer climbs. While the Fazua motor provides extra assistance it will not completely turn you into Sepp Kuss or Jonas Vingegaard. For example, on a particularly steep and challenging local climb, I beat my personal best time by over 6 minutes. But I was still 40 seconds slower than the climb’s overall fastest unassisted time (and 15 seconds slower than my colleague Trevor Raab).

The Rouvida uses Fazua’s 430Wh battery, which nets a ride time between 2 and 5 hours depending on your weight, terrain, and power setting. Riding with healthy doses of the two highest power settings, I drained the battery to approx 20% charge on a hilly 45-mile ride. Being more conservative with my power-assist usage probably would net a range of 60 miles. For rides longer than five hours (or rides with tons of climbing,) the Rouvida might not be your best option. If you want to get in some longer miles, Fazua has a range-extender battery in development for the Ride 60 system (it’s why Cervélo located the charge port near the bottle mount). Hopefully, it will launch later in 2024.

Cervélo offers the Rouvida in four models—two in road configuration, two in gravel—priced from $6,200 to $13,000. Road and gravel Rouvida models share the same frame. The bike’s removable dropouts (available and installed through Cervélo dealers) tune the ride feel and geometry, and provide additional tire clearance on gravel models. The road Rouvidas come equipped with 30mm Vittoria road tires and standard drop bars, while gravel models have 40mm WTB Vulpines and flared dropbars. — T.S.

BEST TITANIUM ROAD BIKE

This Mosaic is the most difficult bike review I’ve ever done—so much so that I’ve dragged my feet to put words on (virtual) paper about this RT-1 iTR. But the reasons are not what you might expect.

I’ve been at this bike reviewer gig a long time, and one of the more curious wrinkles I’ve discovered is the bikes you love most are the hardest to review. The more you love a bike, the harder it becomes to explain why. Plus, when I write a review, I know it is time to let go of a bike and send it home.

I wish I never wrote this review. Because, my many gods, I love this bike. Love it more than any road bike I can remember. Love it in ways that make me realize that I never knew how deeply I could love a bike.

The RT-1 isn’t a perfect bike. But it is the right bike for me and where I am as a rider.

As I’ve tested many, many bikes along the race, road, all road, and gravel continuum, I’ve come to realize that what I want for my “road” riding (which includes dirt and occasional gravel roads) is a bike that feels, reacts, and fits like a race bike, but fits big tires. But that’s a tricky combination of traits to achieve in a single product because, as clearance for big tires gets added, it often bleeds away the crisp feel of a race bike.

This Mosaic gets closer than any bike I’ve yet ridden. With 35mm tires—the widest it officially fits—it feels crisp when I press the pedals, and the steering is light and fluid. It’s quick and reactive to my inputs—just to the good side of jumpy and nervous, right where I like it.

While I dream of it fitting larger tires——if I sacrifice grit clearance, I can shoehorn bigger into the frame—I haven’t yet found another bike that, with 35s, feels, reacts, and handles like this RT-1 iTR and also fits bigger tires.

Mosaic RT1 iTR

For those needing wider rubber, Mosaic also offers the GT-1 iAR that fits up to 40mm tires. But adding that clearance adds length: one-centimeter longer chainstays, two-centimeter longer wheelbase, and slightly longer trail dimension. Length takes the edge off a bike’s handling, so I’m happy to ride a frame that fits smaller tires since that helps give this RT-1 iAR its quick moves. And, at least for now, I find 34 to 36 tires offer the best blend of performance, feel, and comfort for my road and “road” riding.

Another thing this Mosaic gets perfect is its balance of compliance and ride feel.

Complimenting a titanium bike for its ride seems almost as obvious as saying water is wet. But I’ve had complex interactions with the many ti road bikes I’ve tested.

One was the harshest, most uncompliant road bike I’ve ever ridden was titanium. But most of the others I’d call “meh”—uninspiring, dull, and lifeless. Smooth, yes, but they lacked the grit and feedback that helps a bike come alive under the rider—I prefer a bike with a little whippiness. So, it wasn’t that I found these ti frames too soft but, rather they lacked the tang of buzz I want in a frame. I like it when my road bikes feel a little bit angry.

And that’s one of the reasons this Mosaic is so truly special. It is a titanium bike that is alive. A titanium bike that feels slightly bright and buzzy but is still supple. For sure, there are smoother riding titanium frames, but none I’ve ridden offer the mythical titanium ride with as much energy as this Mosaic. There’s just enough tartness to balance the sweetness.

There’s much else to like about this bike. It’s gorgeously constructed in Boulder, Colorado, custom fit, and custom finished—Mine in purple, the most regal of colors. Yet Mosiac offers all that in a very reasonable timeframe (about six weeks).

My only complaint is the brake hose in the down tube was not foam-wrapped and buzzed occasionally, but it wasn‘t enough to annoy me (and I like very quiet bikes). The price, though high, doesn’t seem outrageous in 2024 when off-the-shelf carbon bikes with the same parts sell for $15,000. However, a power meter should be included in the Mosaic’s price.

Of the thousands of bikes I’ve ridden and reviewed in my career, none have felt as right or brought me as much joy as I feel riding this Mosaic; None have made me love a bike as much as I love this one. And that is why this is the hardest and happiest review I’ve written. — M.P.

BEST USA-MADE RACE BIKE

What makes the Allied’s Alfa special is that it exists at all. A mass(ish) produced carbon bike with the features and performance of the big brands’ bikes, but the Allied is made in the USA and priced in line with—and in some cases, significantly less than—its overseas-made competition. Plus, Allied offers an extensive menu of options and upgrades that the big brands typically don’t.

This second generation of Alfa is a step forward for Allied. It feels livelier, smoother, and stiffer on the road than the already good, first-generation Alfa. It also gets more tire clearance (up to 32mm) and some aerodynamic tuning. Plus, it has the clean, integrated look modern buyers want.

But more than anything, the new Alfa offers the performance modern road riders expect. It is damn fast, with precise handling and a well-damped ride. And for reasons I can’t explain, this bike feels especially efficient when pointed uphill—even more so than lighter bikes.

Based on the other race bikes I’ve ridden, the new Alfa is competitive with the bikes in use by pros at the highest level. Some of those bikes are lighter, and some are more aerodynamic—and some are maybe both—but the fact that Allied built a bike that meets race bike benchmarks and got here so quickly, in the USA—a place where the infrastructure for creating such a bike had vanished—is a monumental achievement. — M.P.

BEST ITALIAN ROAD

In an alternate universe where steel was still the dominant material, the modern race bike would look like Battaglin’s Portofino R.

The profile of the Portofino is the same as countless carbon race bikes: Large tubes, dropped seat stays, oversized bottom bracket, hidden seat binder, and internal brake hose routing. Tire clearance is, officially, a spare 30mm.

While the profile is the same as those countless carbon race bikes, the material is not. The Portofino R is made of Columbus steel, joined three ways. Massive chrome lugs at the head tube and seat cluster, TIG welding at the bottom bracket, and fillet brazing join the seat stays to the seat tube.

Custom made in Morostica, Italy—Battaglin limits its worldwide custom frame output to only 99 per year—the Portofino R provides tailored geometry, build, and finish. And you can even order a Portofino R with rim brakes if you’re traditionally minded. Current delivery time is “usually” three months after parties lock in the geometry, says Alex Battaglin.

And that finish, wow. Cromovelato—a veil of paint over polished chrome plating—is brighter and shinier than anything else on the road. It is also a bit of a throwback, a popular way to finish high-end Italian bikes in the 1980s. The resulting bike is beautiful, proud, audacious, and unmistakably Italian. I also found it extremely endearing and different than any other road bike I’ve recently sampled.

The Portofino R is, compared to a carbon race bike, a fair bit heavier (19.3 lb.), and the geometry prescribed to me is longer—my Portofino’s wheelbase is a full 40mm longer than the wheelbase of a Specialized Tarmac SL8 in my size—and stability biased.

As a result, the bike is not quick, and it does not feel quick. It is fluid and efficient, however. And devastatingly fast. Once up to speed, it is like being aboard a runaway train with the precision of a fighter jet. Down a steep and sweeping descent, I don’t know if there’s any other bike I’d want to be aboard.

Unsurprisingly, the Portofino R’s specialty is not the steepest climbs. But it does offer a solid platform to throw your legs and weight against and rolls up and over hills with surprising efficiency.

Its feel is buzzy and alive, with a taut ride that is nonetheless more complaint than expected. Steel can be stiff, and this bike features sizable frame tubes and a large-diameter seatpost: Details that telegraph a jarring ride. But even rolling on the 28mm tires and deeper section wheels it arrived with, I found the ride of steel that (I think) the target audience of this bike expects.

Who that audience is, specifically, I don’t quite know. I suspect the Portofino R is a bike that captures its buyers’ hearts in deeply personal ways. A bike that, once it’s in your heart, can’t be dislodged. It is a bike you will know you want because you just know it and somehow you’ve always known. And once you ride it, it will be everything you’ve ever wanted. — M.P.

Ridley knows a few things about making fast bikes. And the Belgian brand’s latest Falcn RS road offering excels in that department. With aggressive geometry, aero optimization, and feathery weight, it’s easy to cast the Falcn RS off as “just another race bike”. But this bike also packs enough comfort for long days in the saddle.

Like some new road race models that hit the market in the last two seasons, Ridley made the Falcn RS aero enough but didn’t go over the top making the bike an overly stiff and heavy aero bike. At 16.01 lb. (size L with Shimano Ultegra Di2) the bike is light but responds like an even lighter bike when the road pitches upward.

Ridley’s aerodynamic tuning is evident on open roads where the bike performs almost on par with full-on aero bikes. The Falcn gets up to pace quickly and holds it well, yet it seemingly always has more speed on tap. It also has explosive acceleration at the ready (providing you have the watts in your legs). The bike absolutely flies on rolling roads and across wide-open farmland. It clicks off the miles with surprising ease and efficiency.

Ridley offers stock Falcn RS models in two colors, with Shimano 105, Ultegra, or SRAM Force builds. It also has 1x12 SRAM Rival and Force kits paired with Classified’s Powershift 2-speed rear hub for a stealthy, front derailleurless look. But for a more unique and personalized bike, Ridley’s Configurator allows buyers to select from nine graphic designs, dozens of paint colors, SRAM or Shimano component groups, and other bike details. It’s a level of personalization that few other brands offer. We ended up with two Falcn RS bikes in our hands—both were among the best-looking bikes to come through the office in a long time. — T.S.

More of the Best Bikes of the Year:

Gravel | mountain | commuter.

As Deputy Editor, Tara Seplavy leads Bicycling’s product test team; after having previously led product development and sourcing for multiple bike brands, run World Championship winning mountain bike teams, wrenched at renowned bicycle shops in Brooklyn, raced everything from criteriums to downhill, and ridden bikes on six different continents (landing herself in hospital emergency rooms in four countries and counting). Based in Easton, Pennsylvania, Tara spends tons of time on the road and trail testing products. A familiar face at cyclocross races, crits, and bike parks in the Mid Atlantic and New England, on weekends she can often be found racing for the New York City-based CRCA/KruisCX team. When not riding a bike, or talking about them, Tara listens to a lot of ska, punk, and emo music, and consumes too much social media.  

A gear editor for his entire career, Matt’s journey to becoming a leading cycling tech journalist started in 1995, and he’s been at it ever since; likely riding more cycling equipment than anyone on the planet along the way. Previous to his time with Bicycling , Matt worked in bike shops as a service manager, mechanic, and sales person. Based in Durango, Colorado, he enjoys riding and testing any and all kinds of bikes, so you’re just as likely to see him on a road bike dressed in Lycra at a Tuesday night worlds ride as you are to find him dressed in a full face helmet and pads riding a bike park on an enduro bike. He doesn’t race often, but he’s game for anything; having entered road races, criteriums, trials competitions, dual slalom, downhill races, enduros, stage races, short track, time trials, and gran fondos. Next up on his to-do list: a multi day bikepacking trip, and an e-bike race. 

Test Editor Dan Chabanov got his start in cycling as a New York City bike messenger but quickly found his way into road and cyclocross racing, competing in professional cyclocross races from 2009 to 2019 and winning a Master’s National Championship title in 2018. Prior to joining Bicycling in 2021, Dan worked as part of the race organization for the Red Hook Crit, as a coach with EnduranceWERX, as well as a freelance writer and photographer. 

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