We know a bicycle is a major purchase — one that might require a pros and cons list, months of research, visits to local bike shops and a separate piggy bank. It’s one that you (and we) don’t take lightly. This is especially true if you’re planning to use your bike as a daily commuter. Just think of all the hours you’re going to spend on it. From road bikes to mountain bikes, where do you start?
We’re here to help you out. We rounded up a list of the best commuter bikes to help get your search moving in the right direction.
THE BEST BIKES FOR COMMUTING
THE HYBRID - JAMIS CODA S3: $429
A cross between a mountain bike and a road bike, the Jamis Coda S3 is a hybrid bicycle ideal for most bike commuters. It’s comfortable, thanks to the relaxed upright position, and zippy to get you in and out of traffic in no time. If you live in the city, you’ll appreciate the Coda S3’s steel frame that’s built to withstand city street conditions. Hybrids are also excellent because they’re versatile enough to use for weekend fitness excursions.
THE UPRIGHT - BROOKLYN BICYCLE CO. FRANKLIN 3: $500
Brooklyn Bicycle Co. has designed one of the most beloved commuter bicycles on the market. The Franklin 3 is a 33-pound three-speed upright bike that looks stylish and, with puncture-resistant tires, is rugged enough for daily riding. Its step-through design allows for effortless mounting no matter your outfit and an internal gear hub for smoother shifting. Buy online and have it shipped fully assembled. You’ll be on the road in no time. (Our lightweight bicycle helmets look pretty cool paired with the Franklin 3, too. Hint hint, nudge nudge.)
THE CONVERTIBLE - BROMPTON M6L FOLDING BIKE: $1224
When your cycling commute also involves public transit or you live in a tiny studio apartment with minimal storage space, a convertible bicycle option could be the best route. The Brompton M6L Folding Bike is on the pricey side, but consider it a worthwhile investment. Despite its small size, the M6L doesn’t skimp on maneuverability, acceleration and agility. You can also custom design it just for you; we’re talking color, gearing, accessories and more.
PHOTO COURTESY OF @MINIMALEAP
THE E-BIKE - CANNONDALE TREADWELL NEO EQ ELECTRIC BIKE: $2,544
Enjoy longer journeys on an e-bike that doesn’t really look like an e-bike. Cannondale, maker of road bikes, mountain bikes and now e-bikes, pedals one of the most connected bicycles of them all: the Treadwell Neo EQ. It features a 250-watt rear hub motor and hidden 250-watt battery to assist your travels, and the integrated wheel sensor tracks speed, distance and calories burned through the free Cannondale app. Its frame design and seat position put you at just the right angle for all-day comfortable cruises.
THE FIXIE - STATE BICYCLE CO. 4130 MATTE BLACK 6: $460
For more advanced cycling commuters and bike messengers who want to opt for a fixed-gear bicycle, look no further than the State Bicycle Co. 4130 Matte Black 6. It’s one of their bestsellers for good reason. Riders can shift from fixed to single speed instantly, and the 2020 design shed a whopping two pounds making it lighter and more convenient when walking up and down stairs.
Ready to head out on the road?
Just don’t forget your helmet. Shop our vintage-inspired bicycle helmets for a lid that’s sure to match your ride.
