Make your daily commute a breeze with the best bikes for commuting. Discover the top picks for speed, comfort, and practicality to revolutionize your daily ride. Get ready to say goodbye to traffic and hello to a seamless, efficient, and eco-friendly journey.
Discover the ultimate commuting machines with our carefully curated list of the best bikes. With hundreds of hours of research, we present the reliable, speedy, and comfortable Giant Escape 3 as our top pick. But we also offer options for those looking for a foldable or electric bike for their daily commute.
Let’s get started.
Giant Escape 3
-Best Commuter for Everyone-
- Ready for commuting, fitness riding, or just for fun
- Flat handlebar and upright rider position
- Shimano Tourney drivetrain
- Simple alloy linear-pull brakes
Giant is one of the top-rated bicycle brands and the largest bike manufacturer in the world.
The latest iteration of this commuter bike family is the Giant Escape 3, a contemporary ride ready to do more than get you to work: It’s a fitness machine, and the wheels stand ready for weekend adventures.
The frame is crafted of lightweight ALUXX aluminum that provides confident handling, and the fast-rolling 700c wheels and puncture-resistant tires won’t let you down. In addition to solid construction, this model is loaded with features that deliver comfort and style, and it’s the least expensive commuter bike on this list.
Pilot the Escape with ease courtesy of the elegant flat handlebar that positions you in an upright position that aligns your body while exuding a sporty feel suitable for city streets or country roads. Within the sleek aluminum frame, a tidy internal cable routing system will keep you and the bike clean, and there are no restrictions on extras like a mounting rack and fender mounts.
The Escape 3 commuter bike welcomes all the necessary accessories to get to work and back. A wide range of responsive gears responds to your need for speed and elevation challenges, and you couldn’t find a competitor ride offering more control for the price.
Read more: Giant Talon 3 Review ( The Verdict! )
Specialized Sirrus X 4.0
-Quick City Hybrid-
- Ready for riding on asphalt and gravel
- Specialized A1 SL Premium Aluminum frame
- Shimano Deore drivetrain
- Shimano BR-MT200 hydraulic disc brakes
If you were frugal last year, you could bankroll the Sirrus X 4.0, a handsome commuter bike that stands out from the herd. Specialized calls the 4.0 the brand’s most comfortable, capable, “let’s do stuff” machine offering limitless ride options.
Expect perks in pricier models: Ergonomic design positions you in the proper upright riding position, broad range 1×10 Shimano Deore shifting produces a super intuitive ride, and this model includes rack and fender mounts. This ride performs like a champ on the pavement or the gravel, so that that terrain won’t be a problem.
Are you seeking cutting-edge comfort plus bells and whistles? The Sirrus X was scientifically tested to fit riders of all body types and weights. The Shared Platform, Body Geometry saddle is comfortable, as are the handgrips and pedals. Future Shock is the proprietary feature that mediates the bumps and potholes commutes throw your way.
The carbon fork and A1 SL alloy frame configuration contribute to a bike that is 1.6 pounds lighter than the company’s 3.0 model. “No heavy hybrid featuring a mountain style suspension fork comes close,” say designers who remind shoppers that they get what they pay for.
Read more: 10 Best Women Hybrid Bikes for 2023 [ All Reviewed ]
Priority 600
–Fully Equipped Urban Commuter-
- Pinion 600% gear range gearbox
- Quick WTB 650B Road Plus tires
- Rust and grease-free Gates Carbon Drive belt
- Tektro Hydraulic Disc
The Priority 600 bike is “automotive-inspired”; an all-road model featuring a 12-Speed, 600-percent Pinion Gearbox with DS2 rotary shifter that appeals to a wide range of bikers: commuters, road warriors, and gravel grinders. Former Porsche engineers in Germany created the transmission, so it’s designed to impress.
There is no gear overlap; it’s sealed for all-terrain riding yet controlled by a simple twist-shift mounted on the bike’s center. The WTB 650B Road Plus platform enables the 600 to mimic the ride of a traditional road bike but stands up to gravel and hard-packed trails, too.
Read more: Best Belt-Drive Bikes
Rust and grease concerns? Not if you own this bike. The Gates Carbon Drive belt is protected within the frame, and you don’t have to worry about stopping because the 600 comes with Top-of-the-line Tektro hydraulic disc brakes known for delivering all-weather stopping power.
Small details like 360-degree reflective decals, a carbon fiber seat post, and integrated, hub-powered dynamo front and rear lighting with USB charging capabilities put this bike in a class all its own.
Expect to spend 5 times as much as you would for the Sirrus 4.0, but Porsche’s involvement with this bike’s design and handling could efficiently mediate momentary pain when handing over your plastic.
Pure Cycles Urban Commuter Bike
-Comfort and Durability-
- Simple and durable stainless-steel frame with a timeless design
- Tektro M280 mechanical disc brakes
- WTB extra-padded saddle
- Sram mid-range drivetrain
Well-reviewed and more affordable than the Priority 600, this ride flies off retailer shelves, so finding one could be your first big 2021 challenge. Are you looking for a niche bike?
This 8-speed Urban Commuter bike is it.
Featuring a frameset built for speed and strength – plus big 700c x 32mm WTB Slick Comp tires – understand that this isn’t the quasi-adventure bike other commuter models brag about. Crafted of lightweight 4130 Chromoly steel that is stronger than aluminum, road vibration is minimized, even if you travel rough roads to and from work.
No worries about safe stops; Tektro M280 mechanical disc brakes rock, and the dual guard keeps the chain stable, even on bad roads. Swept-back upright handlebars come with all-weather grips, so you’re in control of whether you climb or weave through traffic.
The WTB extra-padded saddle is bum-friendly, so even though this bike has no suspension system, you’ll be comfy. This model comes in three sizes (S, M, and L; fitting riders between 5 feet; 2 inches and 6 feet; 3 inches), so you don’t have to settle for a bad fit just because you’re short or tall.
At just 31 pounds, if you’re pretty fit, you could easily carry it to safety if you don’t want to leave it out.
Schwinn Collegiate
-A Great Classic Revived-
- A classic 1965 bike revived with a 2020 model
- Hand-welded Chromoly steel frame
- Shimano 1×8 drivetrain with twist shifter
- Ergonomic grips and swept-back handlebar
Must you show up at your favorite bike store with a report card to test drive the Schwinn Collegiate? Nope. Just tell them that you’re smart. This classic U.S. commuter bike comes with a legendary brand name, and its construction is undertaken at two of the nation’s biggest cities.
Designed in Madison, Wisconsin (home to the leading U. of Wisconsin campus) and frame welded in Detroit, home turf of America’s car industry, product developers incorporated a vintage vibe and Chromoly steel to fashion a ride that emulates the company’s iconic 1965 Collegiate Deluxe.
Read more: Best Comfort Bikes
Lithe aluminum rims and Shimano components come standard with this bike, and you get a limited lifetime warranty for the ride’s life. Don’t worry about fit. This bike comes in both men’s and women’s styles. Guys enjoy 8 speeds, 700c wheels, and a choice of medium or large sizes.
Ditto the women’s line offering the same outstanding features and materials in a more petite frame. Both versions sport a simple 1×8 drivetrain with a twist shifter plus derailleur that shifts fast, conquers hills, and comes to crisp stops delivered by the caliper brakes. What’s the best feature of both? They’re so much more comfortable than the 1965 version!
Batch Bicycles E-Commuter
-Best Electric Commuter-
- Pedal-assist commuter powered by a Bosch motor
- Shimano Altus 8-speed drivetrain
- The maximum range of about 80 miles
- With plastic fenders and a rear rack included
Put this Batch of beauty into the same category as the Priority 600. Both are pricey, distinct, and high-performance, as you would expect from a manufacturer committed to excellence.
Experience the ultimate commute on this eBike with credentials that impress: Pedal-assist travel powered by a Bosch motor promising to give you stellar everyday rides while making steep hills feel flat when you engage the power-assist feature. Construction is outstanding: this E-commuter bike features a 6061 aluminum frame and aluminum fork, so you enjoy stability and a lightweight ride.
The Bosch Active Line Gen 3 motor invites you to go the distance, yet the battery only takes around 6.5 hours to charge completely. Minimum and maximum distance range? Travel between 30 and 80 miles, depending upon the model.
Tektro hydraulic disc brakes perform like crazy and wet weather doesn’t scare them. This bike has no shortage of quality components. Get double-wall alloy rims, Kenda Kwick Twenty 5 Sport tires with K-Shield for enhanced flat protection, and Shimano Altus 8-speed drivetrain plus cassette with an 11-32-tooth gear range that won’t let you down.
Plastic fenders and a rear rack collaborate to help you get all of your gear to your office. This is not lightweight, so pack a lock to secure this 47-pound bicycle, so it remains safe when you’re not around.
Kona Dew
–Affordable and Reliable-
- Affordable all-rounder
- 2×8 Shimano Altus drivetrain
- WTB Horizon Comp tires
- Tektro M280 Mechanical disc brakes
Are you seeking a commuter bike with sizes S, M, L, and XL, but you fear size options will drive up the price? Think again. This Kona Dew is not just fantastic looking but fits the quintessential description of a classic all-around commuter/townie option for anyone seeking style and comfort.
Kona has modernized an older design by adding upgrades like a sweet new 2×8 Shimano drivetrain plus integrated brake and shifter levers. Whether your goal is hopping curbs, frequenting bike paths, or just getting to work effortlessly, the Dew will do, especially when you try out the Kona Commuter saddle that ups this ride’s comfort level big time!
This model is fabricated of Kona 6061 butted aluminum and features a Kona Project 2 fork plus a Kona Commuter 27.2mm seat post. The cockpit consists of a Kona aluminum riser, control stem, and key grip. Both the crankset and drivetrain come from the Shimano Altus line.
Enjoy 8-speed control, and when it’s time to wrap up your commute, the Tektro M280 Mechanical braking system featuring 160mm front/160mm rear rotors will stop the double-wall alloy 650b wheels and WTB Horizon Comp 650x47c front and rear tires on dime.
Cannondale Quick CX 3
–MTB Inspired Hybrid Bike-
- Bump-absorbing SR Suntour NEX suspension fork
- Big 40mm multi-surface tires
- Shimano drivetrain with 16 gears
- Cannondale Quick CX Ergo saddle
Commuters seeking a 16-gear bike that rides like a mountain bike will have to up their search game because this Cannondale Quick is hard to find. It’s easy to understand why. This ride is crafted with a bump-absorbing SR Suntour NEX with lockout suspension and big, grippy multi-surface tires that promise control, no matter how many surface changes they endure.
The aluminum frame is light, and while big 40mm multi-surface tires do the hard work by pairing speed with dirt and pavement grip, count on the front suspension to mediate vibration.
The Quick CX3 internal cable routing system protects components from the soil, so your Shimano crankset, Easy-Fire shifters, front and rear derailleurs, and Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes and levers never let you down. Lest you think all components were made by Shimano, Cannondale makes the double-wall w/eyelets disc rims that host Kenda Piedmont 700×40 tires.
The 6061 double-butted, 25mm rise, 680mm riser handlebar plus Cannondale CX Ergo saddle, stem, and platform pedals complete this bike’s profile. Designed for men or women, this 29-pound bike has plenty to recommend it, especially the weight!
Raleigh Redux 1
-Amazing Value-
- Clean yet stylish look
- Shimano M310 8-speed Trigger Shifter
- Tektro MD-M280 Mechanical Disc with 160mm Rotors
- Reflective Decals, Rack, and Fender Mounts
The Raleigh Redux 1 paid tribute to the brand’s 1913 origins when it was the largest bicycle manufacturing company on the planet. Get lots of nostalgia at a price that could take you back in time, but there’s nothing vintage about performance.
This machine invites unpredictable surfaces by performing like a mountain bike. Called the ultimate multi-use ride due to a lightweight aluminum frame and fork, the Redux 1 is loaded with the stamina required to dodge potholes and other urban obstacles.
While Redux 1 is an homage to the past, engineering is futuristic. This bike features a single cog up front and 8 gears, and the mechanical disc brakes won’t let you down. Raleigh fans describe this bike as a smooth-shifting, low-maintenance ride that provides serious braking power, even when on wet and dirty roads.
Count on beefy all-terrain tires to crush anything in the bike’s path, and if you can’t stand bicycle designs that include too much self-serving artwork, the clean lines that are a benchmark of this bike will delight you – especially once you check out that affordable price tag.
Brompton M6L Folding Bike
-Best for Small Apartments-
- Best-in-class folding mechanism
- 6-speed gearing range made by Brompton
- Included fenders
- Handmade in London
Leave it to the Brits to design a folding bike that is handsome to look at and loaded with manufacturing integrity. The Brampton brand name is iconic, so expect nothing less than excellence. This bicycle adapts to so many small spaces once it’s collapsed; your boss may not know you’ve stashed it in an office closet.
This Brompton rivals the aforementioned Specialized Sirrus X 4.0 in price. Still, since the X4.0 doesn’t fold down, this Brompton delivers more value and utility, and in return for a reasonable price tag, you get steel construction, 6 gears, and sturdy 16-inch wheels.
Related: Pros and Cons of Folding Bikes – Are They Worth It?
Assume a healthy, correct riding position thanks to this folding bike’s design angles, and since fenders come already installed, look forward to keeping your office clothing dry and devoid of mud and debris.
Once it’s folded down, this bicycle measures only 23- x 22.2- x 10.6 inches, so even if your digs are small, you’ll find a place to stow it when you’re not out and about. This clever, practical bike is hand-made in London, so you get the pleasure of knowing that you pilot one exotic ride.
Tern Link C8 Folding Bike
–Value Folding Bike-
- Shimano Tourney TX drivetrain with 8 gears
- Folds compactly in 10 seconds
- Quick Impac BigPac tires
- Rack and fenders included
If space priorities are a big concern, this racy red bike may be exactly what you seek at a price so affordable you could buy two for less than the cost of one Brompton profiled above. Distinguishing features include a stiff 3D-forged handle post, versatile gearing, and sturdy tires –the basics you require for safe, dependable performance.
Depend on the wide 8-speed gearing system to conquer hills and flats, and once you arrive, this handy bike folds down in 10 seconds. Think of the time you’ll save if you choose this affordable bike over competitors, and rack and fenders are included.
The stiff, strong Physis™ 3D handle post is 3D forged from a single piece of aluminum, so welds are eliminated. What this ride lacks in a suspension system is countered by the hi-tensile steel fork, forged 6061 T6 aluminum frame, 52t crankset, Shimano shifters, and rear derailleur. No worries about breaking.
This system consists of V-brake/aluminum/linear spring brakes and levers, and the 20-inch wheel size pairs nicely with Impac BigPac, 50-406 Reflex tires. Finishing touches include the 6061 flat aluminum handlebar, oversized seat post, Velo Comfort saddle, and folding alloy pedals. Best of all, the Tern Link meets sustainability criteria since some raw materials used have been recycled.
Read more: Best Folding Bike for Urban Commuting
Marin Presidio 1
-Simple Bike, High-Quality Components-
- High-quality aluminum frame with Internal Cable Routing
- Marin Fitness 700Cx35mm puncture-resistant tires
- Tektro HD-M275 Hydraulic Disc brakes
- Shimano Altus rear derailleur
As one of the least expensive bikes on our list, this Marin Presidio 1 will outperform pricier products, and the manufacturer stands behind the innovative design and material integrity. Fabricated with lightweight 6061 aluminum tubing with internal cable routing, rack, and fender mounts, this bike comes with hydraulic, flat-mount disc brakes and forged slider dropouts for internally geared hubs.
Slider dropouts are among the best technological features any commuter bike can have. The dropouts slide to tension belts and chains while incorporating flat-mount disc brakes and a direct-mount rear kickstand to support the bike.
Choose from black or grey models in sizes XS, S, M, L, and XL, and enjoy the ride atop an aluminum body engineered to be enjoyed rather than toiled over: It’s low maintenance yet delivers on a dedicated commuting range thanks to 700C wheels with puncture-resistant tires.
The high-performance belt drive or corrosion-resistant chains are designed to conquer city streets with the help of a fork forged of Cr-Mo steel. You can count on the rear Shimano Altus Derailleur and a full complement of Tektro hydraulic brake elements to bring you to a halt.
Commute in the proper riding position courtesy of the Marin alloy flat handlebar, stem, seat post, and grips, and the Marin Fitness Plush saddle plus commute platform pedals deliver comfort, too.
Trek Verve 2 Disc
-Great comfort from a premium brand-
- Hybrid bike ready for commutes, cruises, and fitness rides
- Suspension Seatpost and padded saddle
- Tektro HD-M275 hydraulic disc brakes
- Zippy Bontrager H5 Comp 700x45c tires
Brand new for 2021, the Trek Verve 2 Disc commuter bike gets high reviews from shoppers who know a cutting-edge product when they see it.
In addition to getting the owner to and from work, this bike moonlights as a cruiser, and fitness vehicle, and it’s loaded with features that turn a complicated ride into a comfortable one thanks to the suspension seat post, padded saddle, and disc brakes that perform in any weather.
Is this bike right for you? It is if you seek a hybrid bike with a wide range of gears for hills plus powerful brakes.
Related: Best Trek Bikes
Included in the Verve 2 package are a lightweight aluminum frame, mounts for a rack and fenders, and a reliable drivetrain with 24-speeds, yet Trek didn’t skimp on features that make a commute comfortable.
These items include an adjustable stem, padded saddle, wide tires for extra stability, road-smoothing suspension seat post, and geometry for a healthy, upright riding posture. According to Trek, this bike was specifically designed to bring people together. That means you’re not limited to your work commute – and since Trek’s Lifetime Warranty backs it, you get a companion for the bike’s life.
Benno Boost E 10D Speed
-Best for Carrying Stuff-
- Rigid aluminum frame and big 24” x 2.6” custom tires
- Bosch Performance Line/CX/Speed Electric motor
- Assisted Speed: USA 28mph
- Extraordinary cargo capabilities
Don’t waste time searching for sales or bargains if you’ve got a Benno Boost E 10D speed on your radar. This eBike is loaded with credentials, components that run the gamut from Shimano to Bosch, and the other brand names found on high-end rides. If the route to your office includes challenging terrain or your job entails carting heavy loads, this uncompromising, award-winning Boost E has you covered.
This Etility® bike features a rigid aluminum frame, Bosch Performance Line/CX/Speed Electric motor, Bosch Purion On-Board Computer (5 riding modes), and the power behind the ride is a Bosch Powerpack 500Wh Lithium-Ion Battery.
It takes 4.5 hours to charge this bike fully. Once in the saddle, enjoy the optimal upright riding position and ergonomic handlebar design that treats your body to a comfortable ride where maneuvers are no sweat. An intelligent, interchangeable rack and rail system is the epitome of versatility.
The first choice of professional rescue team workers, this eBike caters to adventurists, bike couriers, and “everyday suburban explorers.” Unlike other eBikes, you won’t have to trade the ability to transport a heavy load for maneuverability. You get both. And you also get color choices. Would you expect less from the priciest, sexiest cargo bike on this list?
Aventon Pace 350
–Best Value Electric Commuter-
- 350W, 36V Brushless Rear Hub Motor
- LCD Smart Easy Read Display with Backlight
- Range of 25-40 Miles
- Shimano Tourney drivetrain with 7 Speed
Seeking an eBike that won’t require you to get a second job? ( Read more ) This Aveton Pace 350 step-thru eBike is your solution. It comes in two sizes (S; M) and gets you where you need to go thanks to throttle and pedal-assist features that allow you to travel up to 20 MPH and between 25 and 40 miles depending on your bike’s setting.
Built with a 500W (peak); 350 (sustained) motor, mechanical disc brakes outfitted with a cut-off safety sensor, and a backlit, easy-to-read LCD display are conveniently located on the handlebar, and you don’t have to sacrifice comfort: this affordable ride has a wide, comfortable saddle.
Both pedal assist and throttle modes allow you to adapt your commute to whatever terrain you cover. A higher setting gets you up hills. Use the throttle if you don’t want to pedal. Weighing just 46 pounds, this eBike is light enough to strap to your car rack or carry it upstairs.
Nimble handlebar controls are easy to manage on the go, and you can gather statistics when you ride if you want to keep track of your speed, distance, and battery level. You’ll have to put this bike together, but for the price, you may want to take it to a bike shop and have the work done for you.
How to Choose the Best Commuter Bike
KEY
POINTS
- The average amount spent by a commuter on a new bike is between $400 and $1000. Most people aim to spend less than $600.
- The hybrid bike is the best option for most people. Electric commuter bikes are perfect for longer distances or hilly areas. Folding bikes are great if you need to bring them into your office or home.
- The quickest bikes come with 700×35 or 700×38 tires.
Which bike type is best for commuting?
A hybrid bike is a great option for commuting because:
- They adapt to an assortment of terrains
- Hybrids are designed for proper body positioning
- Most feature 700c wheels with wide tires
- Quality hybrids are built with rigid forks
- You will find prices comparable to features
- Cheap hybrids are available with heavy, low-end forks
- High-quality hybrids are made with disc brakes rather than rim brakes
- It’s straightforward to customize a hybrid
- The hybrid accessory market is vast
- Hybrid commuters are fairly quick and agile
Want more power? Consider an electric commuter bike for these reasons:
- Technology has come a long way, baby
- Prices are dropping, and so are eBike weights
- Due to demand, they are getting more stylish
- Commuters can travel further distances
- Owners can still get in pedal time if they wish
- Folks eager for independence from cars are converting to them.
The third fastest-growing commuter bike niche is the folding bike, a boon for commuters who fear for the safety of bikes left in the open. Owners enjoy these benefits:
- You can take this bike anywhere you go – literally
- eBikes are getting lighter all the time
- They’re ideal for folks using several transport methods (e.g., bike and bus)
- Prices are dropping, and features are expanding in this niche.
How much money should you spend on your commuter bike?
When we talk about prices, we always consider the MSRP ( manufacturer’s suggested retail price ), which is the price manufacturer recommends. MSRP often differs from retail prices due to supply/demand and other factors.
The average amount a commuter spends on a new bike in all three categories is between $500 and $1000. Models in this list range from $420 to $5000, with many in the $500 to $800 range. The entry-level fitness/hybrids like Giant Escape 3, Kona Dew, or Marin Presidio 1 are priced between $500 and $600.
Read more: How Much Should You Spend on Your First Bike
If you raise your budget to $800, you could get a mid-priced upgraded commuter with higher-quality components. This includes hydraulic disc brakes, a better Shimano/SRAM drivetrain, and a high-quality saddle.
Folding bikes start at around $700 and can go up to $1600 for best-in-class British best-seller Brompton M6L.
Electric bikes on this list start at around $1100 for the Aventon Pace 350 and go up to $5000 for the premium Benno Boost E 10D Speed.
Are you having problems finding a commuter bike?
You’re not alone. The Covid pandemic has triggered a bike shortage. According to MarketPlace.com, “the pandemic has rearranged so many parts of this economy …and bike parts have fallen victim to this shortage”.
Frustrated manufacturers and bike shop owners are all impacted. With bike theft up and supply down, delays in factory shipments are impacting the industry. The reason for this phenomenon? Adults got bored during the quarantine, and bike rides were one of the few ways they could justify getting out.
“The industry wasn’t running with lots of spare capacity to start with,” said Chris Rogers, supply chain analyst, but he believes that if people stay patient, things will improve in 2021. “As far as bikes go,” he said, “they’re coming. They’re just coming late.”
When can you expect the stock to start being replenished? At the beginning of the summer.
