HomeOutdoorGreatest Commuter Bikes of 2024

Greatest Commuter Bikes of 2024


Commuting by bike is an effective way to keep away from site visitors, get exterior, and get some train in your approach to and from work. Not solely can it prevent cash, however bike commuting can probably prevent time with the added bonus of being each enjoyable and rewarding. With regards to selecting a commuter bike, there are a stunning variety of choices.

Would you like a motorcycle that can get you to and from the workplace and completely satisfied hour wanting fly? Or do you favor a motorcycle that’s additionally rideable on trails in your native open house, parks, or nationwide forest lands? Do you want it to retailer simply, or be straightforward to restore? Do you favor to pedal with your individual energy, or would you prefer to have an electrical help?

With all of those issues in thoughts — and with a watch towards a variety of costs — we rounded up our favourite commuter bike choices. From budget-friendly fashions to tricked-out electrical commuters, our group has been using, testing, and reviewing commuter bikes for years. Whether or not you’re simply embarking on a commuter way of life or in search of a brand new on a regular basis trip, we’ve obtained suggestions to fit your wants and finances.

To see the fashions we examined at a look, take a look at our comparability chart. In our purchaser’s information, we focus on an important info to ponder earlier than heading to your nearest native bike store or on-line retailer, and we’ve obtained solutions to frequent questions in our FAQ part.

Editor’s notice: We refreshed this assessment on June 12, 2024, with the addition of a number of new fashions, together with the electrical Rad Energy Radster Highway and Aventon Soltera.2, and the budget-friendly Electra Loft 7i. We additionally added our favourite electrical cargo bike for commuting, the Tern HSD P5i.

The Greatest Commuter Bikes of 2024


Greatest General Commuter Bike

  • Bike Kind
    Metropolis/commuter
  • Body
    Aluminum
  • Suspension
    None
  • Wheel Measurement
    27.5″
  • Tire Width
    47 mm
  • Variety of Gears
    12


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The Best Commuter Bikes of 2024The Best Commuter Bikes of 2024


  • Pinion gearbox and Gates Carbon Drive

  • Low upkeep

  • Dynamo hubs even have a USB function — cost your cellphone on the go

  • Killer construct

  • Absolutely-featured

  • Versatile

Greatest Price range Commuter Bike

  • Bike Kind
    Metropolis/commuter
  • Body
    Alloy
  • Wheel Measurement
    700c
  • Tire Width
    37 mm
  • Variety of Gears
    7


The Best Commuter Bikes of 2024The Best Commuter Bikes of 2024


  • Affordable value

  • Nice wanting

  • Comes with fenders and a rear rack

  • Low upkeep inside hub drivetrain

  • Easy rolling and steady

  • Comparatively light-weight

  • Gear vary could also be limiting for these with steeper hills

  • Narrower tires are finest for smoother paved surfaces

Greatest General Electrical Commuter Bike

  • Bike Kind
    Electrical commuter
  • Body
    Aluminum
  • Suspension
    80 mm suspension fork
  • Wheel Measurement
    29″
  • Tire Width
    2.2″
  • Variety of Gears
    8
  • Motor
    750W rear hub
  • Battery Measurement
    720 Wh
  • E-bike Class
    3


Product Badge
The Best Commuter Bikes of 2024The Best Commuter Bikes of 2024


  • Easy, steady dealing with

  • Nice vary

  • Able to Class 3 speeds as much as 28 mph

  • Nice e-bike controls and show

  • Comes with rear cargo rack, lights, and fenders

  • Affordable value

  • Very heavy

  • Inexpensive however nonetheless not low cost

Greatest Price range Electrical Commuter Bike

  • Bike Kind
    Electrical metropolis/commuter
  • Body
    Aluminum
  • Suspension
    None
  • Wheel Measurement
    700c
  • Tire Width
    38c
  • Variety of Gears
    7
  • Motor
    350W rear hub
  • Battery Measurement
    345 Wh
  • E-bike Class
    2 (may be modified to class 3)


The Best Commuter Bikes of 2024The Best Commuter Bikes of 2024


  • Simple to assemble and trip

  • Respectable vary

  • Built-in charging, detachable battery

  • Flip alerts, brake lights, and headlight included

  • Nice value

  • Mechanical brakes

  • Twist shifting

Greatest Electrical Cargo Commuter

  • Bike Kind
    Electrical cargo commuter
  • Body
    Aluminum
  • Suspension
    70 mm suspension fork
  • Wheel Measurement
    20″
  • Tire Width
    55 mm
  • Variety of Gears
    5
  • Motor
    Bosch Efficiency 75Nm torque
  • Battery Measurement
    545 Wh
  • E-bike Class
    1


The Best Commuter Bikes of 2024The Best Commuter Bikes of 2024


  • Compact for a cargo bike

  • Pedal help as much as 20mph

  • Low upkeep inside hub gearing and belt drive

  • Good vary

  • May be saved upright and match into smaller areas

  • Rear rack can assist as much as 176 lbs.

  • Costly

  • Small wheels do not deal with in addition to bigger ones

Greatest Folding Commuter Bike

  • Bike Kind
    Folding
  • Body
    Aluminum
  • Suspension
    None
  • Wheel Measurement
    24″
  • Tire Width
    2.0″
  • Variety of Gears
    7


The Best Commuter Bikes of 2024The Best Commuter Bikes of 2024


  • Folds up for simple storage at dwelling and on the go

  • Inside gear hub means much less upkeep

  • Nice for commutes that embrace bus and prepare rides

  • Comes with fenders and rear rack

  • Some commuters would possibly need extra gear choices

  • Not as compact as some folding bikes

Better of the Relaxation

The Easiest Electrical Commuter Bike

  • Bike Kind
    Electrical commuter
  • Body
    Aluminum
  • Suspension
    None
  • Wheel Measurement
    700c
  • Tire Width
    40 mm
  • Variety of Gears
    Single velocity
  • Motor
    250W rear hub
  • Battery Measurement
    360 Wh
  • E-bike Class
    1


The Best Commuter Bikes of 2024The Best Commuter Bikes of 2024


  • Pedal help motor for speeds as much as 20 mph

  • Easy, low upkeep design

  • Gentle for an e-bike

  • Would not seem like an e-bike

  • Battery can’t be eliminated

  • No gearing so some begins or greater hills can get athletic

One other Nice Price range Commuter Bike

  • Bike Kind
    Metropolis/commuter
  • Body
    Metal
  • Suspension
    None
  • Wheel Measurement
    700c
  • Tire Width
    32 mm
  • Variety of Gears
    8


The Best Commuter Bikes of 2024The Best Commuter Bikes of 2024


  • Inexpensive

  • Is available in three body sizes and shade choices

  • Comfy upright using place

  • Tires are vast sufficient for bumps, however not too vast to sluggish you down

  • Vast gear vary that may nonetheless deal with hills however isn’t overkill

  • Extra of a metropolis bike than a health bike

  • Greatest for paved surfaces solely

  • Caliper brakes have restricted energy

  • Restricted options

Greatest Single Pace (or Fixie) Commuter Bike

  • Bike Kind
    Mounted gear or single velocity
  • Body
    Metal
  • Suspension
    None
  • Wheel Measurement
    700c
  • Tire Width
    25 mm
  • Variety of Gears
    Single velocity


The Best Commuter Bikes of 2024The Best Commuter Bikes of 2024


  • Very inexpensive

  • So simple as it will get – fastened gear or single velocity

  • Additional-small body possibility for shorter people

  • Customization and add-on choices

  • Streamlined look

  • Minimal upkeep

  • Mounted gear bikes may be difficult to trip

  • Very naked bones

A Sturdy Touring/Commuter Bike

  • Bike Kind
    Touring/commuter
  • Body
    4130 CroMoly metal
  • Suspension
    None
  • Wheel Measurement
    26″ (sizes 42 to 56 cm) or 700c (sizes 56 to 64 cm)
  • Tire Width
    26″ x 2.1″ or 700c x 47mm
  • Variety of Gears
    27


The Best Commuter Bikes of 2024The Best Commuter Bikes of 2024


  • Sturdy metal body

  • Monumental gear vary

  • Good bike for commuting and lengthy excursions

  • Tubeless tire functionality makes for nice dealing with, particularly on gravelly surfaces

  • Loads of braze-ons for all of your hauling wants

  • Drop bar setup might not attraction to everybody

A Nice Entry-Degree Metropolis Bike

  • Bike Kind
    Metropolis/commuter
  • Body
    Aluminum
  • Suspension
    63 mm suspension fork
  • Wheel Measurement
    700c
  • Tire Width
    40 mm
  • Variety of Gears
    16


The Best Commuter Bikes of 2024The Best Commuter Bikes of 2024


  • Inexpensive

  • Step-through or step-over frames accessible

  • Bump-absorbing entrance shocks

  • Wider tires and shocks permit for mild off-paved using

  • 16 gears gives ample vary

  • Suspension fork provides a bit weight

  • Extra gears than could also be crucial for flatter terrain

  • Restricted options

Commuter Bike Comparability Chart

Scroll to the fitting to see extra specs.

Why You Ought to Belief Us

The crew at GearJunkie loves biking in all its kinds, even when it’s merely a way of transportation. Not solely can we care in regards to the setting and lowering our dependence on autos and fossil fuels, however commuting and working errands by bike can be a lot of enjoyable and provides us one other excuse to be exterior getting some train. Since we’ve got expertise commuting by bike and have been testing an enormous vary of bikes of every kind, we’re sharing our favourite commuter bikes right here with you.

This purchaser’s information consists of fashions examined by authors Jeremy Benson and Alyssa Kohn, together with a number of examined by GearJunkie editors Adam Ruggerio and Sean McCoy. Benson is an editor at GearJunkie and has been professionally testing and reviewing bikes of every kind for the previous 8 years. He’s an avid mountain and gravel rider and racer who would slightly pedal a motorcycle to and from city than drive his truck. Though he works from dwelling, he rides a commuter bike 4+ miles every method each day when working errands or assembly up with associates. Up to now a number of years, Benson has examined over 100 completely different bikes, together with commuters, electrical cargo bikes, mountain bikes, and the finest gravel bikes.

Alyssa Kohn is a full-time bike commuter and endurance bike owner residing in Minneapolis, Minn. She’s been carless for 8 years — sure, even within the arctic winter. She’s ridden many a motorcycle and doesn’t suppose one type is healthier than one other. She loves all of them and thinks what issues most is that you simply benefit from the bike you’re using. She additionally owned a motorcycle tour and rental enterprise, Minneapolis by Bike, for 9 years — she is aware of a factor or two about sustaining 30+ bikes at a time. She completely enjoys seeing individuals enthusiastic about moving into biking and even probably making it their transportation mode of selection.

Purchaser’s Information: Easy methods to Select a Commuter Bike

Realistically, any bike can work as a commuter bike, however there are types of bikes and options that make some bikes higher suited to the duty than others. As you dream up your excellent commuter bike, contemplate these elements: the place you’ll trip, the way you’ll use the bike, the required upkeep, and your finances. And, with electrical bikes persevering with to develop in reputation, contemplate whether or not you wish to pedal with your individual energy or with the help of a motor.

Riding the Rad Power Radster Road electric commuter bikeRiding the Rad Power Radster Road electric commuter bike
Electrical commuter bikes just like the Rad Energy Radster Highway add the help of a motor and may make your commuter simpler and extra enjoyable; (photograph/Heather Benson)

Electrical vs. Non-Electrical

Electrical bikes have exploded in reputation in recent times. In lots of locations, they’re most likely much more standard than non-electric bikes. Whereas loads of individuals nonetheless select to trip a motorcycle beneath their very own energy, it’s straightforward to see why others admire the help of a motor to maneuver quicker and extra simply. Relying on the size of your commute, the terrain, or your health degree, you might wish to contemplate an electrical commuter bike.

What works finest for you comes down to non-public desire, as there are many nice commuter bike choices that include or with out motors. Both method, you’re nonetheless getting exterior, spending much less on gasoline, and conserving your car off the roadway.

Above, we cowl a number of of the perfect inexpensive electrical commuter bikes that we’ve examined. Whereas they’re just like non-electric fashions in some ways, they set themselves aside by having a motor, a battery to energy that motor, and e-bike controls. These elements add weight to the bikes, though that’s sometimes offset by the pedal help they supply.

Electrical Bike Motors

A look at the rear hub motor on the Rad Power Radster Road electric commuter bikeA look at the rear hub motor on the Rad Power Radster Road electric commuter bike
Many electrical commuter bikes have rear hub motors just like the 750W motor on the Rad Energy Radster Highway; (photograph/Jeremy Benson)

Electrical bikes require a motor that gives assist to your pedaling efforts and, in some instances, can propel you ahead utilizing a throttle. Normally, most e-bikes have a number of pedal help ranges that present growing ranges of assist that the rider can select between relying on the scenario and how briskly you wish to go. The help degree is often modified by urgent buttons close to the left grip to shift up and down via them, whereas the help degree, velocity, and battery life are proven on a show.

E-bike motors fall into two primary classes: rear hub and mid-drive. Because the title suggests, rear hub motors are contained within the hub of the rear wheel and add energy to the wheel when the pedals are turning. They arrive with various ranges of energy, with most falling someplace between 250W and 750W. The upper the quantity, the extra torque and energy output they supply.

Rear hub motors additionally present the choice for e-bikes to have a throttle that may propel you ahead with out pedaling, which may be helpful when ranging from a cease or if you’re simply feeling lazy. Normally, rear hub motors are inexpensive and simpler to interchange than mid-drive motors, however additionally they really feel a bit much less refined. The Rad Energy Radster Highway, State 6061 eBike Commuter, and the Aventon Soltera.2 all have rear hub motors.

The mid-drive Shimano EP6 motor on the Xtracycle Swoop cargo bikeThe mid-drive Shimano EP6 motor on the Xtracycle Swoop cargo bike
Mid-drive motors sit close to the underside bracket of a motorcycle’s body and ship energy immediately into the cranks; (photograph/Cameron Martindell)

Mid-drive motors are completely different in that they’re positioned in the course of the bike by the cranks. The crank spindle passes via the motor system and gives pedal help immediately into the drivetrain on the cranks. These methods sometimes use extra superior torque sensors, which ends up in a extra natural-feeling energy supply.

The motor’s location is low and centered within the bike, which additionally gives a greater weight stability for pure dealing with. Mid-drive methods don’t present the choice of utilizing a throttle, so that could be a consideration if that’s necessary to you. Usually talking, mid-drive motors are a bit dearer and located on higher-priced electrical bikes just like the Tern HSD P5i.

Electrical Bike Batteries

Charging the battery on the Rad Power Radster RoadCharging the battery on the Rad Power Radster Road
Batteries like this one are a key element of electrical bikes to supply energy for the motors. They must be charged, clearly, and their storage capability pertains to the gap you possibly can journey on a cost; (photograph/Jeremy Benson)

Electrical bike motors are depending on batteries for energy. The scale of the battery is the primary issue that influences a motorcycle’s vary, or the gap you possibly can trip on a single cost. In fact, different elements affect vary, reminiscent of your pedaling effort, terrain, the extent of pedal help, temperature, and extra. A battery’s dimension additionally performs a task in a motorcycle’s weight, as batteries are dense and fairly heavy.

Battery capacities are sometimes listed in Watt-hours (Wh). That is primarily a battery’s Volts x Amp-hours. The extra Watt-hours, the bigger the storage capability. The fashions we examined vary between 345 Wh for the Aventon Soltera.2 as much as 720 Wh for the Rad Energy Radster Highway. Usually talking, most electrical bikes even have a show that gives a tough estimate of the remaining battery life as you trip.

When contemplating an electrical commuter bike, it’s useful to contemplate how far you commute so you will get one with a battery that can get you there and again once more. Most electrical bikes will simply get you 20 to 30 miles on a cost, and sometimes fairly a bit extra relying on how a lot energy you employ and the storage capability of the battery.

General Terrain

The Aventon Soltera.2 electric commuter bike parked by a chainlink fence on a bike pathThe Aventon Soltera.2 electric commuter bike parked by a chainlink fence on a bike path
Take into account the place and the way you wish to use your bike to seek out the fitting one to your wants. For city environments, the Aventon Soltera.2 electrical commuter bike is a superb selection; (photograph/Sean McCoy)

For many who must commute strictly on highway and paved bike paths, contemplate how hilly the routes will probably be. Will you want to climb usually, up steep sections, or for lengthy intervals? Will you largely cruise throughout flats? The broader the vary of gears in your drivetrain, the simpler your bike will probably be for pedaling up steeper hills. When you’re largely simply using round on flat floor, a easy single-speed may go simply high-quality.

Additionally, take into consideration the situation of the bottom. Is the pavement easy? Will there be a smattering of potholes, cracks, or sidewalk drops? Some riders may additionally want or favor to pedal dust roads, gravel, and hard-packed or bumpy trails throughout their commute.

When you’ll be masking a large mixture of terrain and surfaces, you would possibly wish to have a look at bikes with wider tires and entrance suspension to assist soak up the jolts and supply extra stability. In excessive instances, a fats tire bike would possibly even be the most suitable choice. In any other case, barely narrower tires and a completely inflexible body really feel good at excessive speeds on easy and agency surfaces.

Main Objective

Irrespective of the place you plan to trip, make a purchase order that helps the situations and the way you pedal nearly all of the time. That method, you’ll be snug and have extra enjoyable within the saddle. Additionally, contemplate precisely the way you prefer to trip. Do you wish to be extra upright? Then, you might have considered trying a hybrid or mountain bike. Do you wish to be extra aerodynamic and don’t thoughts being extra bent over? A motorbike with drop-bars for highway or gravel using would possibly finest fit your wants and preferences.

Some bikes are well-made for the game of highway biking, downhill mountain biking, or comfortably moseying round small cities. Most commuter bikes aren’t that. We’ve summarized a handful of various commuter bikes made for easy, environment friendly, reliable journeys from level A to level B. A few of these designs are additionally a match for using straightforward or reasonable trails or for lengthy bikepacking excursions, just like the Surly Disc Trucker.

The rear rack on the Electra Loft 7iThe rear rack on the Electra Loft 7i
Some commuter bikes, just like the Electra Loft 7i proven right here, include a rear rack that makes it straightforward to mount some panniers or a basket to hold your gear; (photograph/Jeremy Benson)

If you want to transport cargo in your bike, you’ll must get one with a rack or mount factors (braze-ons) so you possibly can add racks. Some bikes, just like the Electra Loft 7i and Rad Energy Radster Highway, include rear racks, so you possibly can simply add a basket or panniers to hold some gadgets. If you actually need to haul some gear, an electrical cargo bike just like the Tern HSD P5i can deal with heavier and bulkier masses. Even then, dialing in your cargo-carrying setup usually entails paying a bit further for equipment however could make your life a lot simpler for getting your gear to and from work or when working errands round city.

Outline Your Price range

As with every large buy, you’ll want to find out the boundaries of your finances. The aim ought to be to purchase the perfect bike you possibly can afford, so it’s hopefully one you’ll love and use for a few years. With commuter bikes, and most different bikes for that matter, you get what you pay for.

Larger-end bikes are often dearer due to better-quality elements like lighter and stronger frames, longer-wearing elements, or nicer wheels. They can be pricier as a result of they’re decked out with further equipment just like the lighting and fenders on the PRIORITY 600. Or, they’re novel and extra difficult to create, just like the Tern Node D7i Folding Bike. Including batteries and motors to electrical bikes just like the Rad Energy Radster Highway or the Aventon Soltera.2 additionally provides to the general value of a motorcycle.

The appropriate bike is the one that gives the utmost consolation and performance to your day by day journey. It must also suit your bandwidth and talent for upkeep (some pricier bikes may be simpler to take care of).

A commuter bike can final a few years and, due to this fact, ought to be seen as a long-term funding. Purchase a motorcycle that matches your finances but in addition provides room to accommodate the terrain you’ll must cowl in your approach to and from work.

Make sure you ponder any further equipment you’ll wish to buy, reminiscent of fenders, racks, bike lights, or upgraded seats and pedals. Observe that most of the bikes we’ve included on our checklist include a few of these options included within the buy value.

Retail vs. On-line Buy

Unboxing the Rad Power Radster Road electric commuter bikeUnboxing the Rad Power Radster Road electric commuter bike
If you are going to buy a motorcycle from a consumer-direct model like Rad Energy, it should arrive in a big field with protecting packaging and solely a small quantity of meeting required to get it able to trip; (photograph/Jeremy Benson)

When you’re buying your new bike domestically, you’ll usually have the choice to demo the bike before you purchase it. Professionals will probably be available to supply further suggestions and completely different elements to higher fit your expertise and ambitions.

Nevertheless, in case you stay in a rural, distant space with out a bike retailer close by, you’re in luck — buying on-line is less complicated than ever. Many manufacturers have polished up their customer support for direct-to-consumer gross sales, so you possibly can attain out with questions in regards to the match and elements.

When you can’t demo a motorcycle, ensure the producer provides a no-questions-asked return coverage. If a motorcycle is the mistaken dimension, you’ll need to have the ability to swap it out with out getting charged.

You additionally might have to contemplate your bike mechanic expertise. If buying a motorcycle out of your native bike store, they are going to have already got assembled your bike for you. If buying on-line, your bike will are available in a field and would require some meeting (kind of relying on the kind of bike you buy).

Bike Match

Adam Ruggerio standing with his Priority 600 commuter bike on a city streetAdam Ruggerio standing with his Priority 600 commuter bike on a city street
Getting the fitting dimension bike is important. The Precedence 600 is available in three body sizes, together with the Giant we examined; (photograph/Adam Ruggerio)

Whether or not you’re shopping for in-store or on-line, you will want to know what dimension bike matches you. The perfect eyeball measurement for bike match is that the seat of the bike hits the highest of your hips. Additionally, you need the highest tube of the bike (supplied it’s a diamond body, or what most individuals name a step-over or “males’s bike”) to present an inch of clearance out of your crotch.

If buying on-line, you possibly can comply with some normal dimension charts supplied on the producer’s web site. Our expertise has proven these sizing charts to be fairly correct. Keep in mind that bike sizing is a really particular and particular person science. It might probably fluctuate relying in your torso dimension, inseam, and so on. Common pointers might not at all times be appropriate.

Inflexible Body

A design with out suspension is known as a inflexible bike. These static frames are usually inexpensive in comparison with different frames.

They supply stability if you want to haul weight in your bike body (like groceries or gear for work) as a result of the dearth of suspension eliminates bounce, which may make pedaling much less environment friendly. That stated, they supply much less forgiveness over tough terrain and may really feel harsh on tough or cracked pavement.

Hardtail Bike

The suspension fork on the Rad Power Radster RoadThe suspension fork on the Rad Power Radster Road
Entrance suspension generally is a enormous profit and add consolation and management over tough surfaces or cracked pavement; (photograph/Jeremy Benson)

A hardtail bike has entrance suspension however no rear suspension. The entrance shock compresses and extends as you trip to soak up uneven contours. Hardtails are sometimes dearer than bikes with out suspension however are cheaper than full-suspension bikes.

Hardtails are an ideal possibility for routes with a mixture of easy and bumpy pavements, a lot of curbs, or uneven dust paths. Hardtails generally is a good selection for each highway commutes and easy gravel trails, so long as the rider doesn’t thoughts not having a full-suspension configuration.

Body Supplies and Weight

The Electra Loft 7i commuter bike parked in the middle of a roadThe Electra Loft 7i commuter bike parked in the middle of a road
Non-electric commuter bikes just like the Electra Loft 7i weigh a lot lower than their electrical counterparts. This dimension Medium weighs in at 32 kilos, so it’s pretty straightforward to hold up stairs or load onto a motorcycle rack; (photograph/Jeremy Benson)

Commuter bike frames are sometimes manufactured from aluminum or metal. Metal is heavier and lasts longer, however aluminum can also be a sturdy possibility. The commuter bikes on our checklist vary from 26 to 34 kilos for the non-electric fashions and as much as a whopping 74 kilos for the electrical Radster Highway.

Weight is an enormous consideration for a lot of commuters who want to select up their bikes and carry them for any motive. All bikes are comparatively straightforward to roll on their tires, but when you want to haul your bike up or down a flight or two of stairs to retailer it, then a lighter bike will make that simpler. Many of the non-electric fashions we examined are fairly straightforward to deal with.

The electrical fashions are a unique story. The larger the battery and extra highly effective the motor, the extra an e-bike weighs. Most individuals will probably be hard-pressed to hold the 74-pound Rad Energy Radster Highway nearly wherever. On the opposite finish of the spectrum, the Aventon Soltera.2 is relatively a lot simpler to deal with at 46 kilos.

The Aventon Soltera.2 in yellow parked on a bike pathThe Aventon Soltera.2 in yellow parked on a bike path
The Aventon Soltera.2 is comparatively light-weight for an electrical bike at simply 46 kilos; (photograph/Sean McCoy)

Drivetrain and Gears

As of late, most commuter bikes include a 1x drivetrain with a single chainring within the entrance and a variety of gears within the rear. This type of configuration means you’ll have one shifter as a substitute of two, which simplifies issues and retains the handlebar/cockpit setup wanting clear.

Some bikes, just like the Co-op Cycles CTY 2.1, have a 2x or 3x drivetrain. Meaning there will probably be two or three chainrings within the entrance plus the vary on the rear. Finally, this gives the rider with extra gear choices managed with two shifters mounted to the handlebars.

The commuter bikes with gears in our information function wherever from seven to 27 gears. The perfect setup relies on the terrain you’ll be using and your private desire.

Among the geared bikes we examined use various drivetrains within the type of the interior geared hub on the Electra Loft 7i or the Pinion GearBox on the Precedence 600. Taking the derailleur out of the equation makes for a cleaner-looking bike, and each methods additionally are typically low upkeep, comparatively talking.

Single Speeds

You’ll additionally come throughout single-speed bikes, a design with one gear and no shifters. Not all single-speeds are the identical.

The facility a bike owner can switch right into a single-speed bike is decided by the entrance chainring and rear cog’s circumference and the variety of enamel. The variety of enamel on the entrance divided by the quantity within the rear offers us a ratio, which is a metric used to know the general cadence and talent to speed up or preserve velocity. For example, the State Bicycle Co. Wulf has a 44 x 16 gear ratio that enables for simpler acceleration.

Given the dearth of different gears, nonetheless, single-speed bikes are finest suited to flatter terrain. They’re easy and low-maintenance, however using them up hills requires important effort if you don’t have any simpler gears to shift into.

Fixies are single-speed bikes with a hard and fast rear cog. They’re about so simple as it will get, however using them takes a bit apply and probably extra effort than a geared bike; (photograph/Kendra Smith)

Fixies

A set-gear bike, or a fixie, is a selected kind of single-speed bike. The drivetrain of a fixie has one gear, and it’s fastened to the rear wheel so the rider has to constantly pedal if the wheels are in movement. There’s no freewheel mechanism. Basically, this implies you possibly can by no means coast in case you prefer to let your legs relaxation on the downhills.

However if you wish to carry out some cool tips, grasp a observe stand, or apply your skids, a fixie will carry all of the enjoyable. The State Bicycle Co. Wulf has the flexibility to be a single-speed or a fixie, because it has a flip-flop hub. It relies on who you ask, however some even say that using a fixed-gear bike can change your life.

Wheel Measurement

Comparison of 29-inch wheels and tires versus 20-inch wheels and tiresComparison of 29-inch wheels and tires versus 20-inch wheels and tires
Not surprisingly, completely different wheel sizes deal with a bit otherwise, too. For swift, steady dealing with, 29-inch or 700c wheels (left) are a sensible choice. Many cargo bikes have 20-inch wheels (proper) to decrease the middle of gravity for hauling heavier masses; (photograph/Jeremy Benson)

Commuter bikes are usually fitted with 24, 26, 27.5, or 29-inch wheels, which refers back to the diameter. You’ll usually see 27.5-inch wheels known as 650b and 29-inch wheels referred to as 29ers or 700c. Electrical cargo bikes usually have 20-inch wheels with the aim of conserving the bike’s heart of gravity decrease which may be massively helpful when loaded up with a lot of weight.

The wheel dimension can change how a motorcycle feels for the rider. A bigger wheel diameter can really feel extra steady, has extra floor contact and traction, and sometimes rolls over obstacles extra simply for a smoother trip. Smaller wheels are nimble, simply maneuverable, and require much less drive to speed up. The first downside of smaller wheels, just like the 20-inch wheels on the Tern HSD P5i electrical cargo bike, is that they will really feel a bit much less steady at velocity and when turning.

Wheel dimension is a serious contributor to the best way a motorcycle will trip, but it surely isn’t all the things. The body and geometry of any bike work along with wheel dimension to supply completely different strengths and traits. For that reason, wheel dimension by itself isn’t a very good motive to decide on a motorcycle, particularly for newer riders.

Tire Width and Tread

Comparison of wider and narrower commuter bike tires Comparison of wider and narrower commuter bike tires
Totally different tire widths and tread designs will present completely different efficiency traits. Each of those tires work effectively on paved surfaces and even hard-packed gravel, however the wider one provides a bit extra cushion, whereas the narrower possibility feels a bit extra agile; (photograph/Jeremy Benson)

Tires could make an enormous distinction in the best way your bike rides and handles the terrain and surfaces that you simply’ll be encountering in your commutes or pleasure rides. Matching your tires along with your meant use is an effective way to optimize your trip. Tires are additionally a comparatively cheap half to interchange, so you possibly can at all times change them out down the road to higher align along with your wants.

The tire widths on our chosen commuter bikes vary from 25 to 61 mm vast. For comparability, most highway bikes are outfitted with tires which have a 23-30mm width. Skinnier, firmer tires are likely to roll a bit quicker and really feel extra nimble, however the discount in rolling resistance often comes at the price of consolation. A width above 30 mm will present a barely extra snug trip. As tire width will increase, so does the air quantity and, due to this fact, the quantity of cushioning they supply.

Photo of the knobby tread of the Vittoria Mezcal gravel tirePhoto of the knobby tread of the Vittoria Mezcal gravel tire
A tire with some knobby tread like this Vittoria Mezcal gravel bike tire could also be a very good possibility in case your commutes take you off of paved surfaces; (photograph/Jeremy Benson)

That stated, there are not any hard-and-fast guidelines, and tire selection relies upon loads on rider desire and the surfaces you plan to trip on. When you’re solely using on easy paved roads or bike paths, a fast-rolling road tire will probably be the perfect wager for effectivity. When you enterprise onto gravel roads, dust trails, or tremendous tough, damaged pavement, then a tire with a bit extra girth and a few knobby tread could also be higher so as to add some grip, stability, and luxury.

One other consideration for tires and wheels is tubeless compatibility. Tubeless tires usually end in fewer flats and faster puncture fixes. In addition they present extra management and higher dealing with, significantly on gravel and dust surfaces. Each the PRIORITY 600 and the Surly Disc Trucker boast tubeless compatibility.

Upkeep

A close look at the Pinion gearbox and Gates belt on the Priority 600 commuter bikeA close look at the Pinion gearbox and Gates belt on the Priority 600 commuter bike
The Pinion gearbox and Gates belt drive on the Precedence 600 are a low-maintenance various to a standard derailleur drivetrain system; (photograph/Adam Ruggerio)

Once you’re counting in your bike for day by day commutes, it’s good for it to be as low upkeep as attainable. It’s nice to have the ability to depend in your bike to get you to and from the workplace or on journeys round city with out having to present it an excessive amount of thought or take it to the bike store regularly. Alternatively, upkeep will not be an enormous deal in case you’re a succesful bike mechanic and you have already got a high quality bike restore stand in your house workshop.

We regularly recommend a gearbox or inside hub-geared bike for individuals who need much less upkeep. These bikes have all of the gears within the rear hub (suppose the rear axle) or a gearbox on the backside bracket (the half your cranks and pedals connect to) versus a derailleur — the shifting system most bikes are outfitted with, which has a number of chainrings on the rear wheel. These embrace the PRIORITY 600, which has a 12-speed Pinion gearbox, and the Electra Loft 7i, with a 7-speed inside geared hub.

The Nexus 7-speed internal geared hub on the Electra Loft 7iThe Nexus 7-speed internal geared hub on the Electra Loft 7i
The Electra Loft 7i comes with a 7-speed Shimano Nexus inside geared hub as a substitute of a standard derailleur. Not solely does it have a extra streamlined look, however it is usually comparatively low upkeep; (photograph/Jeremy Benson)

The benefit of an inside hub or gearbox is that the gears are all contained in the hub or gearbox and, due to this fact, get much less soiled. Additionally, you don’t threat bumping them and messing up the alignment. Single-speed drivetrains are additionally very low upkeep, given the dearth of a shifter, cable, and derailleur.

A derailleur system requires extra frequent changes of cable stress to maintain shifting and performing effectively. Preserving the chainrings clear and lubing and cleansing the chain can be a job. Additionally, you will want to interchange the chain and cogs as they put on. With some effort, that is simpler to be taught and preserve by yourself, however greasing/oiling an inside hub is extra specialised.

A look at the Shimano Acera derailleur on the Rad Power Radster Road electric commuter bikeA look at the Shimano Acera derailleur on the Rad Power Radster Road electric commuter bike
Derailleur drivetrains often work effectively sufficient, however they require occasional cleansing and changes to maintain working easily; (photograph/Jeremy Benson)

A couple of primary upkeep practices will extend the lifetime of your elements and enhance your bike’s efficiency (and your enjoyable). Lube your drivetrain recurrently with bicycle-specific lubricant. Bike lube cleans the chain by eradicating grit and dirt whereas additionally lowering put on and friction. It’s finest to depart lube on the chain in a single day. Earlier than you trip the next day, spin the pedals backward when you maintain a rag in opposition to the chain to take away extra lube and sludge.

Be sure your tires have enough air in them earlier than each trip. In contrast to automobile tires, bike tires lose air extra rapidly. Every tire has a really helpful psi (pound-force per sq. inch) printed on its facet. Sustaining applicable air stress in your tires reduces the danger of flat tires and is simple and fast with a high quality bike pump.

FAQ

There are many high-quality commuter bike manufacturers to select from. Among the big-name manufacturers which can be well-known and respected embrace Trek, Surly, Rad Energy, and Aventon.

As a substitute of the model, attempt to give attention to what your wants are as a rider. The perfect commuter bike will go well with the place you trip, suit your finances and upkeep wants, and really feel enjoyable to pedal the place you reside and play.

The value of commuter bikes can fluctuate a ton. On this checklist, we’ve thought-about worth, high quality, and professionals and cons to compile the perfect choices between $500 and $2,499.

Some bikes preserve an inexpensive price ticket and nonetheless embrace high-quality options like disc brakes and entrance suspension. We contemplate the entire bikes on this checklist to be a very good bang to your buck. And, whereas even the finances choices on this checklist will undoubtedly serve you higher than no bike in any respect, we sometimes discover that the dearer fashions have elements and options that work higher and assist to boost our expertise.

Take into account the area the place you’ll be using your bike to and from work or round city. When the panorama is stuffed with hills, you’ll need extra gears or probably a pedal-assist motor to assist make the climbs simpler.

If the terrain is easy and you plan to hold gear in your bike, a inflexible bike is an efficient selection for agility and stability. Tough topography — like potholes and chunky, deteriorating pavement — is dealt with effectively by entrance suspension and wider tires that assist soak up the bumps and unevenness.

You’ll additionally want to find out a finances to your new bike. When you intend to hold gadgets on the bike body, search for a motorcycle that comes with racks or has mount factors for equipment so you possibly can add racks and fenders to construct it out the way you want.

Some top-tier bikes have particular options just like the sealed, weatherproof, internally geared 12-speed Pinion gearbox on the PRIORITY 600 — however they arrive at a premium.

There are professionals and cons to using electrical and non-electric bikes, and it actually comes down to non-public desire.

For a lot of, commuting by bike is all in regards to the human-powered expertise of mixing train and transportation. Relying on the size of the commute, one can successfully kill two birds with one stone and get your day by day train on the best way to and from work. Not solely are you saving cash on gasoline and car bills, however you’re additionally probably saving time by not needing to do further cardio exterior of your day by day rides. Non-electric bikes are lighter in weight, they don’t must be charged, they usually usually value lower than comparable bikes with motors and batteries.

For others, the exertion or time required to commute by bike could also be a deterrent to doing it in any respect. If you wish to velocity up the commute, sort out hills with much less effort, or present as much as the workplace with much less sweat, then an electrical bike could also be a greater possibility. The pedal help could make it so that you exert your self much less, trip quicker, and generally even make it locations extra rapidly than you’ll in case you selected to drive a car or take public transportation. And, in case you nonetheless wish to get a exercise, you possibly can! By altering the extent of pedaling assist, you possibly can select how a lot of your individual effort you want to use when using.

riding a commuter bike in the daytime with lights on for safetyriding a commuter bike in the daytime with lights on for safety
Even when using in broad daylight, a very good set of motorcycle lights may help you be seen by motorists and add a margin of security to your commutes; (photograph/Heather Benson)

Commuting by bike generally is a enjoyable and carefree expertise, however there are a number of different gadgets that you could be wish to contemplate for security and carrying your gear. A high quality bike helmet is arguably an important piece of protecting gear you possibly can probably put on whereas using. There are many commuter bike helmets in the marketplace, however mountain bike helmets and highway bike helmets may also do the trick.

Being seen by motorists and different riders can also be vital to your security if using on the highway. Moreover, having the ability to see whereas using earlier than daybreak or after sundown is a necessity. Some commuter bikes include built-in lights. The Precedence 600 has dynamo hub-powered lights that by no means must be charged. Equally, most electrical bikes, just like the RAd Energy Radster Highway, Aventon Soltera.2, and Tern HSD P5i, include built-in lights that run off the bike’s battery. In any other case, you should purchase a set of aftermarket bike lights so as to add to any bike so you possibly can see and be seen.

When you stay in an space with variable climate or you’re prepared to commute within the rain, fenders generally is a enormous profit. Fenders cut back the quantity of spray coming from the tires that hit you when you trip and may help maintain you from displaying as much as work with soggy pants and sneakers. Many commuter bikes include fenders included, but when not, they will sometimes be added on after the very fact.

Carrying gadgets like laptops or further clothes to work may additionally be crucial, so discovering a good messenger bag or high quality laptop computer backpack could also be extremely useful. When you’d slightly carry gadgets in your bike, then contemplate a mannequin that comes with a rear rack or has mount factors so as to add one. This provides you the choice so as to add a basket, panniers, or different equipment to customise it to your cargo-carrying wants. If you actually need to haul some gear, there’s an enormous variety of wonderful electrical cargo bikes in the marketplace that may haul all the things from youngsters to groceries and extra.


Our editors locked down the perfect bike locks of 2024. From the wearable Hiplok to our budget-friendly choose, we’ve obtained you coated.


Our consultants discovered and examined the perfect bike pumps of 2024. Whether or not for highway using, mountain biking, or fats biking, we’ve obtained you coated.