Commuter Bike

Not to mention, there are tons of exercise benefits that come with biking. You’ll stay in shape and won’t pollute the environment!

The only potential disadvantage to commuter bikes is their limited terrain. They can last a long time in the city, but they shouldn’t be taken out like cross-country bikes. Many commuter bikes aren’t made for that strain and could break down. There are trekking bike models with the correct tires for the job, too, because having the wrong front or rear wheel can mean punctured tires and a long walk home. As with all the bikes in our guide, just make sure you’re using the bike for its intended purpose.

Road Bike

Mountain Bike

But it’s no city bike. Ironically, mountain bikes are so optimized for rough roads that they have trouble on gentle paths. Because of how stiff concrete is, a mountain bike has trouble riding around town. Also, mountain bikes take more energy to move, so it’s harder to ride them around town.

Generally speaking, the tougher the bike, the heavier it is, and the more gears it has. The higher the gears go, the harder it is to rotate the pedals. Even with their flat handlebar design, mountain bikes don’t end up being as useful in the city.

Some people may think they need a tough bike so it lasts longer, but that isn’t always the case. The bicycle you need depends on the terrain, not how long you want to use it. With proper maintenance, city bikes can last a long time, and mountain bicycles will get you through the off-road for years to come.

(See also “Gravel Bike.” A gravel bike is specially designed for rough road riding! They’re equipped with special tires to take on gravel, loose rocks, and other tricky surfaces. This bike type saves riders tons of trouble when they’re out on the road.

(The same goes for the dirt bike, which helps riders tackle mud and loose dirt with ease. For whatever offroading you need, the dirt bike is here to help!)

Electric Bike

Racing Bike

Models

GMC Denali Bike

The GMC Denali bike is an awesome budget pick for road bikers looking to start an adventure. It’s a well-balanced vehicle that offers tons of speed flexibility, which lets you ride as fast or slow as you like. 

Its aluminum frame allows you to easily maneuver it through all the obstacles on the road. Although it’s heavier than similar bikes (30 pounds), its weight provides additional safety. When traveling downhill, since you won’t lose control of the bike and drift off course. For its price, the GMC Denali offers a lot. It’s versatile, durable, speedy, and offers great control. 

Cannondale CAAD10

As part of Cannondale’s elite biking series, Cannondale CAAD10 Track 1 is a serious ride for serious bikers. The bike’s handling is stiff to make sure it keeps pedaling throughout difficult conditions. 

Also, it comes with lots of customizability. The CAAD10 Track 1 series encompasses several awesome vehicles specialized for different riders. The bikes all use an SRAM Ominium, 48T crankset and SRAM PC-1, ⅛” cassette, but the frame and geometry vary depending on which model you choose.

Like the Denali, it has surprisingly good components for its price. Its strong budget-wise principles, combined with the flexible sizes the bike comes in, make the Cannondale a strong contender for the road.

Specialized Sirrus Bike

Specialized is a bike manufacturer that helps people get in shape. The Sirrus Sport is built for tough treks on rough roads, outfitted with eyelets so you can install mudguards. In addition, the bike sports Shimano and microSHIFT technology, so you come to a clean stop every time.

Additionally, its geometry doesn’t sacrifice comfort. Although sport bikes are usually positioned in ways that make them harder to ride, the Specialized Sirrus doesn’t have that problem. Its tight, comfortable geometry lets you steer clear of roots, rocks, and weeds while staying comfortable on your adventure.

Granted, that doesn’t mean the Sirrus is a beginner bike. We recommend the Sirrus for expert bikers looking to improve their times on an epic TT bike (“Time Trial”). With great handling and exhilarating speeds, the Specialized Sirrus bike will be zooming around roads near you!

Surly Cross-Check

As the name implies, the Surly Cross-Check is a no-nonsense riding machine. The Cross-Check is a cyclocross bike that balances well between open road, city commuting, and just about anything else you could take it on.

The Cross-Check breaks the stereotype of mountain bicycles that can’t go in the city. Although it’s heavy, it’s not so heavy that it’s unmanageable, so you can still take to the city streets. It also has LOTS of customizability for any kind of biking you can imagine. The Cross-Check is geared for expert bikers who know what they’re doing with customization. But if you’re up for the challenge, it’s not a bad beginner bike because it covers almost every type of terrain you can ride on. For the all-around expert, the Surly Cross-Check is the bike to beat.

Kestrel Bikes

Out of all the Kestrel bikes out there, the Kestrel Talon X is one of the best for racing. Kestrel bikes have been serving cyclists since 2007, and the Talon X is the latest iteration in an impressive line. The Talon X seeks to break down the budget barrier that often accompanies racing bikes, too.

Giant Defy

Out of the Giant series comes another spectacular bike. The Giant Defy 5 lives up to its name by putting pressure on the competition. It’s optimized to come out on top in high-demand, high-performance scenarios without giving up comfort or other features. With great features, excellent construction, and a need for speed, this Giant will defy the odds and emerge victoriously.

Why Should I Get A Stationary Bike?

What Should I Look For When Buying A Stationary Bike?

What Is The Best Exercise Bike?

Make sure you get an indoor stationary bike today. It is well worth the initial expense, so you can have the freedom of not having to go to the gym and being able to work out whenever you’d like from the comfort of your home. Coupled with the numerous health benefits that cycling provides, it’s a no-brainer that you’d want to begin your fitness journey right away with a new stationary bike that will give you countless hours of exercise and fun. We look forward to helping you find the best stationary bike for all of your cycling needs as you continue on your journey to be healthier and happier!

What is a Recumbent Bike?

What are the benefits of a recumbent bike?

What muscles do a recumbent bike work?

Kinds of Workouts You Can do with a Recumbent Exercise Bike

The Best Brands of Recumbent Bikes

The Stamina Elite Total Body Recumbent Bike has a seat in the semi-reclined position to get a workout in your hips, legs, and glutes. It has the added feature of rotating handlebars to work out your arms, shoulders, and back at the same time. The Stamina Elite Total Body Recumbent Bike has eight resistance levels.

Price: $1,199.99.

The XTERRA Fitness SB120 Recumbent Bike has a step-through design that makes getting on and off easier. The frame has built-in transportation wheels that make it easy to move. The SB120 Recumbent Bike handles are padded, and the pedals are oversized – both to give you a more comfortable ride. There are eight levels of resistance that you can choose from.

Price:$239.99

 The XTERRA Fitness SB150 Recumbent Bike also has a walk-through frame for easy access on and off the bike. It also has a small footprint, which means you don’t need a bunch of space to set it up. The SB150 has twelve preset programs along with four programs that you can customize according to your needs. It also gives you 24 levels of resistance to keep you on track with your fitness goals.

Price: $349.99

The XTERRA Fitness SB250 Recumbent Bike offers premium features like a large 5.5” console, twelve preset programs, and four customizable programs. It also offers 24 levels of resistance.

Price: $499.99

 The XTERRA Fitness SB2.5 Recumbent Bike also has a walk-through design. The hand grips have integrated pulse sensors, and the oversized pedals are self-leveling. The SB2.5 Recumbent Bike has twelve preset programs, four customizable programs, and 24 levels of resistance.

Price: $599.99

The XTERRA Fitness SB500 Recumbent Bike has a large (6.5”) blue backlit LCD screen. It also has speakers and MP3 cable support. The seat bottom is molded to ensure your comfort, while the backrest is made from mesh to encourage airflow and keep you cool while working out. It has seven preset programs along with two customizable programs.

Price: $899.99

Model SF-RB4954: Evo-Fit Cardio Recumbent Bike

Model SF-RB4954 has twenty-four levels of electro-magnetic resistance and twelve programs that you can work through.

Price: $702.82 discounted to $599.00

Model SF-RB4936: Cross Trainer Magnetic Recumbent Bike with Arm Exercisers

Model SF-RB4936 has eight levels of magnetic resistance. It also has full motion arm exercisers to work upper training into your session.

Price: $548.33 discounted to $384.99

Model SF-RB 4953: Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike with Silent Belt Drive, Performance Monitor, BMI Calculator

Model SF-RB 4953 has front-mounted handle grips that allow you to hold on, similar to an upright exercise bike. There are eight levels of dial-controlled magnetic resistance levels.

Price: $469.00 discounted to $369.00

Model SF-RB 4876: Magnetic Recumbent Bike with Soft Support Seat

Model SF-RB 4876 has a quiet belt drive system and eight levels of magnetic resistance.

Price: $279.00 discounted to $209.98

Model SF-RB4806: Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike with Easy Adjustable Seat, Device Holder RPM, and Pulse Rate

Model SF-RB4806 features a belt-drive mechanism that can be adjusted to eight magnetic resistance levels.

Price: $359.99 discounted to $239.99

Model SF-RB4616: Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike, 300LB Capacity & Easy Adjustable Seat

Model SF-RB4616 can hold up to 300 lbs, has eight magnetic resistance levels, and built-in pulse sensors on the hand grips.

Price: $269.99 discounted to $209.98

Model SF-RB4708: Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike, 350LB High Weight Capacity, Arm Exercisers, Monitor, Pulse Rate

Model SF-RB4708 has arm exercisers connected to the pedals. These arm exercisers move back and forth while you pedal, giving you a full-body workout. This model can take a maximum weight of 350 lbs and has eight resistance levels.

Price: $599.99 discounted to $389.49

Model SF-RB 4631: Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike, 350LB High Weight Capacity, Arm Exercisers, Monitor, Pulse Rate

Model SF-RB 4631 has handlebars that you can rotate or ‘pedal’ while working out your legs. It can handle a maximum weight of 350 lbs and has eight resistance levels to incorporate into your training program.

Price: $569.99 discounted to $389.98

 Model SF-RB4905: Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike

Model SF-RB4905 has handlebars beside the seat as well as mounted on the front. It has eight resistance levels.

Price: $299.00 discounted to $274.23

Model SF-RB4850: Stationary Recumbent Bike with Programmable Display, 16 Level Magnetic Resistance & iPad/Device Holder

Model SF-RB4850 has a 300 lbs user weight capacity and sixteen levels of automatic magnetic tension. These can be controlled via the console. It also has twelve preset workouts.

Price: $399.99

 Model SF-RB4958: Endurance Zone Training Recumbent Bike

Model SF-RB4958 has eight levels of magnetic resistance and a 265 lbs maximum user weight limit.

Price: $399.99

Model SF-RB4703: Magnetic Recumbent Desk Exercise Bike 350LB High Weight Capacity, Monitor

Model SF-RB4703 has a workstation incorporated in its design. The work tray is 15 x 22” and fully adjustable. It also has eight resistance levels.

Price: $429.99

Model P8400: Magnetic Recumbent Bike Exercise Bike, 220LB Capacity, Monitor, Pulse Rate Monitoring

Model P8400 is pink and white. It features eight levels of resistance.

Price: $ 249.99

Model SF-RB4880: Recumbent Bike Exercise Bike, Self-powered Cycling for USB Charging Function

Model SF-RB4880 has ergonomic handlebars mounted next to the console along with seat-level grips. This model is powered by pedaling and thus does not require a power supply. It has twenty-four levels of magnetic tension that can be controlled with a dial.

Price: $969.99 discounted to $699.99

Recumbent bikes are all about rider comfort. They give you an excellent cardio workout and can easily be combined with lightweight training if you want to work out your arms at the same time. Because of the reclining position, a recumbent bike is perfect for persons from all fitness levels. The best part is that you can do your workout at home, reading a book or watching TV.

What is a folding exercise bike?

Are folding bikes slow?

Can you lose weight using a folding exercise bike?

Magnetic resistance bikes

Spin bikes

Why would you want a seat back or backrest on your foldable exercise bike?

If you have a bad back, whether from an injury, age, or some other reason, you will want a backrest on your bicycle seat. While every bike will come with its own adjustable seat, most bikes don’t have the right cushioned seat, so it’s a good idea to look into buying your own. 

If you have a weak back, it is especially important to make sure you have a padded seat with a backrest. A good seat will give your back the support it needs and help you keep a good posture while cycling. 

A bad seat can result in bad posture and won’t distribute your body weight well, leading to back pain and injury.

Again, this is just something you need to look out for when buying a bike. Some foldable exercise bikes may come with a backrest for the seat, but most probably won’t. When looking for an exercise bike to buy, check the seats that are available for that type of bike. It’s worth it to buy a nice seat instead of dealing with a weak seat without a backrest.

Advantages of a folding exercise bike

At-home, stationary bikes are incredibly convenient and easy to use. They are the best way to try to get into the habit of doing any kind of aerobic exercise or cardio workouts. Unlike outside bikes, you can use a foldable exercise bike whenever you want. You don’t have to wait for good weather, and you don’t have a designated time frame.

You can always cycle inside; you don’t have to worry about rain, snow, wind, or extreme weather temperatures. You can control the temperature that you workout in because it’s your own home. 

You can also workout inside whenever you want. Especially for women, it can be dangerous to workout outside at night. With a foldable exercise bike, you can always be assured of a safe place and good lighting to exercise your fitness.

The most obvious benefit of a foldable exercise bike is that it is foldable. The problem most people run into with creating an at-home gym is space. Most stationary bikes don’t take up a huge area, but it still requires a sizable chunk of the room. However, with a folding exercise bike, you can store it and only take it out when you need to use it. You don’t need a dedicated area for your exercise bike.

Another benefit to a folding exercise bike is that it is very low impact and easy on your joints, just like any other stationary bike. It is a very easy workout that is very effective for losing weight but isn’t hard on your body.

You can go here for more information on the benefits of stationary bikes.

How much space will a folding bike take up?

Most folding bikes will take up a few square feet of space once set up and even less when folded away for storage. The wider the base, the more stable the bike will be, so try to get as big as you can fit in your workout space. Even the wider bikes will still fold up pretty small to store.

Disadvantages of a folding exercise bike

What to know when purchasing an exercise bike

Electric mountain bikes are an ever-growing trend. They combine a mountain bike with the convenience of an electric motor and battery pack. There are many benefits to choosing an electric mountain bike over other mountain bikes, including:

• Travel further: Bikers can cut down on transportation costs with an electric mountain bike. Whereas biking to work or to run errands with a traditional mountain bike might be intimidating, the addition of an electric motor makes it more doable. Some electric bikes are even foldable so you can store them at your destination.

• Go faster: Electric bikes allow you to trade in public transportation costs, and you can still get to work in a reasonable amount of time.

• Navigate more difficult terrain: The addition of an electric motor allows bikers to explore new terrains which might otherwise be too difficult to explore.

• Entertaining: There is no question that when you place a motor on an already enjoyable activity, it becomes even more entertaining. This is a great way to motivate your own biking habit, and encourages biking in less enthusiastic children and teens.

Even with these added benefits, electric mountain bikes are still considered stylish. In many cases, you might not even be able to recognize that someone is using an electric bike versus a traditional mountain bike. Electric mountain bikes are good for all types of riders. There are bikes available for skill levels and both adults and children.

Simply put, an electric mountain bike is a regular bicycle that runs on electric power. It runs on a motor, which can come in several varieties (mid-drive, hub, etc.). The motor helps the cyclist to pedal, allowing for better flexibility and strength on untamed mountain trails. In some models, the electric motor can reach speeds of up to 28 miles per hour when the rider pedals.

Because of that extra electric push, e-MTBs can tackle tougher terrain with ease. Putting power into the pedals means that it’s not just your own strength that’s driving the device. The e-MTB works just like a regular bike, but with the added strength of a small but powerful motor.

It can be useful to know how electric mountain bikes work when deciding if one is right for your biking hobby. E-bikes come equipped with a battery and an electric motor. When the rider pedals the bike, the motor activates. The motor gives the bike a boost, which can help the rider tackle steep hills and rougher roads. Depending on the type of motor, it automatically switches on when pedaling. 

All models are different, so please keep that in mind. However, plenty of electric mountain bikes can provide power to the motor as the cyclist pedals. In these cases, the device charges much like a hand-cranked flashlight works and is called regenerative pedaling. Regenerative pedaling converts kinetic energy from the pedals’ motion into electricity, which is absorbed by the lithium-ion battery inside your motor. 

Obviously, this method is not 100% efficient, as kinetic energy is lost by friction into the bike itself. The wires also will wear down over time and lose their efficiency, or the battery may not store as well as it used to. The rate at which the bicycle charges depends on the model and make; in fact, not all of them even charge on the go. But most high-end models will do so, allowing you to ride for longer and further on the bike of your choice.

This question depends on how fast you want to take your bike, as well as what its electric motor’s rating is. The motor rating essentially determines how fast the motor vehicle can go on its own power. Whether it requires pedaling or not to reach that speed depends on the type that your e-MTB sports. If your electric bicycle is classified as a Class 1 e-bike, that means it can reach top-assisted speeds of up to 20 miles per hour (it also lacks a throttle). Class 2 e-bike motors also have a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour but reach that mark on throttle-assisted mode without pedaling. That’s the biggest difference between Class 1 and Class 2: whether the rider had to engage the throttle to reach the 20-mile mark. But a Class 3 e-bike takes the cake in terms of self-motorization and pedal assist: The pedal assist and throttle can take you up to 28 miles per hour. (In fact, any faster than 28 miles per hour, and the vehicle becomes either a moped or motorcycle.)

So there are the speeds your mountain bike can have. Many models sport a regular Class 1 e-bike motor and do just fine on all types' trails and terrain.

But the real speed advantage to an electric mountain bike isn’t going forward, but up. Every hiker, mountain biker, and lover of the great outdoors has had to endure their fair share of tough climbs. The climb can make or break both the rider and their equipment, causing them to replace important parts that get fractured in the process, such as a fork or rear shock. 

A traditional bike with a traditional front and back wheel requires an experienced rider, good terrain, and a steady hand. Electric bikes lower the experience threshold and allow both experienced and new riders to climb aboard and get going. This includes helping riders to scale difficult terrain by taking some of the exertion out of the experience. With pedal assist, your bike’s motor will help the internal machine to pedal. It’s a little like power steering in a car: it’s not autopilot, but pedal assist reduces the strain on your body and improves your performance. Electric power also helps in turning and braking, but be sure to inspect your model of choice for particulars. Your motor is a powerhouse and can pump out tons of output for each charge, helping your electric road bike enjoy a slick, sweet ride up rough terrain.

Perhaps one of the biggest myths of electric bikes is that once you decide to choose a mountain bike with a motor, you can no longer take advantage of manual pedaling. Fortunately, this is not the case. Electric riders can still manually pedal an electric bike. Instead of thinking of the electric motor as an easy way to mountain bike, consider it as a feature that assists.

In fact, the bike draws power from the motor when pedaling. Some bikes also allow riders to disengage or deactivate the motor when pedaling. Pedaling efforts can also be adjusted between low, medium, and high power assistance.

This also means that electric bikes do not move without pedaling. You will need to pedal to ride, whether you are going straight, uphill, downhill, or making numerous turns. You don’t have to pedal as hard as you would with a traditional mountain bike, which can make a big difference when navigating terrain that is bumpier or rockier than you’re used to or has steep inclines or declines.

This also brings the question of whether or not you can use your electric mountain bike without the battery. Bikers can use their e-bike, even without the battery. This will not damage the electric motor but might make it more difficult for the rider to use the bike, especially on steep inclines.

This may seem like a silly question, but it’s something you’ll need to figure out for your area. Most of the time, it comes down to the difference between motorized trails and non-motorized trails. As you might guess, a motorized trail allows bikers with e-bikes to ride freely. Riders can enjoy the great outdoors on trails that allow it, but some are meant for pedestrians, horses, and slower traffic. Non-motorized trails are strict about their limitations, and using an e-bike on one of these could land you a huge fine. Taking an e-bike down a traditional bike path can end up being a huge mistake.

On top of that, some communities have a general dislike for motorized vehicles. Like it or not, electric mountain bikes are held responsible for some of the damage on trails. Some people see them as too accessible to inexperienced riders who aren’t likely to use them well. But a regular mountain bike can cause trail damage, as well, so it doesn’t seem as if banning an electric bike model changes too much. Not to mention, some of the legislation dates back to the days before fat tires, which allow for softer landings and less damage to the trail. 

Perhaps in the coming years, there will be loosened laws around what types of bikes are allowed on certain trails. But nevertheless, it’s vital to get familiar with the laws and regulations of the community you plan to take your electric mountain bike. Do your research and find out whether the trails you’re looking for are motorized or non-motorized. Perhaps over time, regulations on electric mountain bikes will subside. But until then, learn safe habits and plan ahead.

And above all, don’t give electric mountain bike haters another reason to ban them. Show respect to others on the trail, including the people who work hard to maintain them. Show the world that mountain bikers are willing to keep the trails clean for others’ enjoyment. Practice proper trail etiquette and help keep mountain biking alive.

This is a great question, but the answer is simpler than you’d think. First, all top-notch bikes are expensive. Prices for regular, non-electric bicycles run only a little lower than e-bikes’ price tags. Because of how reliable the materials need to be, and how sturdy the construction has to be, manufacturers are in their right to charge quite a bit to make up for labor and material costs. Many models are also imports from other countries, which significantly add to shipping, handling, and tariff costs.

Secondly, and more specific to electric mountain bikes, is the motor. It’s expensive to make and required a lot of ingenuity to mass-produce. Think about a car motor, or a motorcycle motor. Now imagine installing one of those onto a bike—not just duct taping it onto the top, but integrating its wires and pathways with a bicycle that was already expensive to begin with. E-bikes need everything a regular bike has—great materials, reliable construction, foreign import costs, etc.—on top of lots and lots of research and development. 

How do you balance the motor? How do you keep the bike relatively lightweight while still protecting its precious electrical parts? How do you prevent wind, rain, dirt, and the elements from stopping the motor mid-ride? Researchers have worked hard to answer these and other questions in order to bring e-bikes to the popular market. Without their work, we wouldn’t be able to enjoy all the advantages that this novel technology affords. Naturally, these developers are well within their right to cover their costs by bumping up the price on their e-bike models. It’s a new product, bringing with it all the hype and excitement that new things bring, and it’s a difficult product to make. A good e-bike defies the stereotype that electric devices are haphazard and unreliable.

The parts that get worn out the most on e-MTBs are batteries, brakes, chains, and tires. Remember that these will need replacing on a regular basis to keep your rides safe. It’s essential for you to trust the materials you’re riding on; otherwise, you could find that a fun weekend on a back trail suddenly goes sour when something breaks apart.

And the most significant among these is the battery. You may not notice battery wear at first, but aging electric devices will eventually drain their charge faster or not retain a charge properly. At this point, it’s time to get a new one. An average bike battery is rated for 10,000 miles, and mountain bike batteries tend to last between three and five hours for each charge. If you’re not sure what to expect from your bike, check out the owner’s manual, and find people who have experience with the bike. Ask them questions. Let them know what you’re considering and what type of terrain you are planning on going through. Because the strain put on the bike varies greatly between paved roads and untamed trails, you may need to adjust your replacement plans and fix things more often than the manual requires. It all depends on how much service you plan to put your parts through.

With good maintenance and proper handling, a well-made electric mountain bike can last for years to come. Of course, with how recent the product is, it might be difficult to say. 

There are more ways than ever to enjoy the great outdoors. Thanks to e-MTBs’ rising popularity, the number of models you can purchase has increased significantly. Gone are the days of poor variety and limited choices. Electric mountain biking has caught on with those who are serious about their playtime and ready to take action. Go through rough terrain, scale treacherous mountains, and master everything these bikes have to offer. Because of how well it balances personal experience and raw power, electric bikes are leagues ahead of their competition when it comes to efficiency and practicality.

A bike’s power and torque are two characteristics that you might look at when choosing an electric bike.

• Power: A bike’s power output is usually somewhere around 250 watts, whether it is continuous or nominal.
• Torque: A bike’s torque output measures its rotational force. Higher torque will often translate to better acceleration and speed.

Understanding the difference and what each one does for the e-bike will help you choose one that meets your terrain and biking style needs.

In addition to choosing an e-bike based on things like battery and suspension, you can also narrow down your options with the following characteristics:

• Age: Determine whether you will need an adult or child-sized electric bike. Adult e-bikes also come in different sizes and weight limits.

• Terrain: The terrain you frequent most often is also important to consider. Whether you’re riding on open roads, dirt trails, city roads, or gravel and backroads, you will find it easier with the right bike.

• Recreational type: The type of riding you do most often also makes a difference when choosing an e-bike that will make you comfortable. Determine your riding style between sport and fitness, recreation, performance or racing, and triathlon types.

• Price: Of course, you will also want to choose an electric bike that fits within your budget.

• Bike restrictions: Most e-bikes have weight limits between 220-300 pounds. When choosing the right e-bike, you will also want to consider your overall cargo weight.

E-mountain bikes continue to be improved to better meet the needs of bikers. They are one of the fastest-growing sectors in the biking industry, opening the market for new riders. Whether you plan to meet your fitness goals or want to take your current biking hobby to the next level, an e-bike is a good option.

How much should I spend on a commuter bike? 

There’s more to finding the perfect commuting bike than budget. The best commuter bike is something that not only matches your individual needs, but offers you the speed, comfort, and support you’re looking for too. However, once you’re done researching things like average bicycle speed, you will want to consider the price of your bike for sale. 

With good city bikes, you can often get what you pay for. While commuter bike choices are comfortable and efficient, the best way to think of your city bikes is as an investment. If you want a good fork, excellent brake technology, and a range of gear options, you need to spend a little more. 

On average, good bikes will set you back between $500 and 1,500 dollars. If you’re looking for an electric option, rather than a standard cycling bike or touring bicycle, then you might spend a little more. 

Remember, when budgeting, it’s essential to carefully assess all the components you need from a high-quality bike. Different types of bicycles come with separate price tags, depending on the gear options, saddle, hub, and fork. 

However, if you’re new to cycling in the city or don’t think that you’re going to be using your bike to commute every day, you probably won’t need to spend too much of a fortune. Create a list of your favorite commuter bikes based on:

• Number of gear options
• Extra features, like flip-flop hubs
• Types of bicycles, like touring bicycle options, a step-through bike, and general cycle city bikes
• Safety options, like brake design 
• Speed and performance on the road

Once you have your list, compare your options based on the commuting ride you’re looking for. Remember that there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to commuter bikes. You need to find the city bike that’s most suitable for your needs. 

Time to Change Gear on Your Commute?

Ultimately, if you’re looking for an excellent way to shake up your daily travel routine, there’s no better way than to search for the best commuter bike. There are plenty of options to choose from, ranging from hybrid bicycles to electric options. Your choice will depend on the journey that you plan to take each day and the unique requirements you have. 

Our advice is to keep things simple. Look for a comfortable, easy-to-use bike, and doesn’t require a lot of maintenance. The more comfortable you get using your bike for your daily ride, the more you can begin to look into more advanced products when it’s time to upgrade your cycle.

To gain maximum leverage on a pedal bike, your child should stand on the ground on tiptoes while seated on the saddle. See if you can find a saddle with an adjustable seat height as your young rider gets older. Your child should also be able to stand flat-footed when straddling the bike and get on and off the bike comfortably.

As kids grow relatively quickly, you want to get a bike where your child's inseam falls in the lower range for the bike size to extend the length of time that your child can use the bike. Although it might be tempting, it is best not to buy a bike that is too big with the idea that your child will grow into it. A bicycle that is too big might not only be frustrating for your child to ride (where is the fun in that?), but it could also be dangerous.

*(For our complete guide on adult bike sizes, check out “What Size Bike Do I Need?”)

All kids' bikes are not equal

It is a good idea to take your child with you when looking at purchasing a kid's bike for them. Let them sit on the bike and try it out if possible.

Do your research and ask questions from knowledgeable salespeople and make sure that the person who will be assembling your kid's bike is a trained bike mechanic. This will all add to your child's riding experience and safety in the end.

Some manufacturers offer lifetime warranties to the original owner of their kids' bikes—something that you're unlikely to get if you purchase Walmart or Target bicycles.

A bicycle is not just made up of a frame, handlebars, pedals, and wheels. Other components can, and likely will, influence how comfortable your kid is on their bike, how quickly they get tired, and how much fun they will have when out riding.

Different kinds of brakes

Most 20″ bikes come with hand brakes to squeeze brake pads against the rim of the bike wheel to slow down the rotation. Bikes from children's bike manufacturers will have brake levers (and other contact points) that are better suited for smaller hands. Specially designed Handbrakes for children's hand sizes are more effective than coaster brakes and thus are safer.

Some bikes come with both coaster brake and hand brake systems. If you want to get your young rider a bike with a coaster brake, it is a good idea to look for a dual braking system bike. This way, your child can gradually get used to using the hand breaks, which they will be using once they move on to bigger, multi-speed bikes with derailleurs.

As far as hand brakes go, there are different types, including cantilever, u-, side -, center-, and linear-pull brakes. These braking mechanisms work somewhat differently, and you need to assess which will suit you and your child's needs best. The most critical aspect to consider is whether the brakes will effectively slow the bike with your child's weight on it if they were to ride at top speed.

Lighter bikes are better

Lightweight frames are most often crafted from aluminum, titanium, or a different alloy. Steel bikes are strong and durable—but they are heavier. You could balance out the weight with lighter wheels and other parts.

What are the best brands to look at for a 20 inch bike?

While lighter bikes are more expensive, they are also strong and durable. So, why are more lightweight bikes better? They are easier to maneuver, and your child doesn't stand the risk of having half of their weight fall on them if they topple over on their bike. Lighter bikes require less energy, which will allow your family to enjoy longer rides and bike paths without your little one getting too tired.

Lightweight frames are most often crafted from aluminum, titanium, or a different alloy. Steel bikes are strong and durable—but they are heavier. You could balance out the weight with lighter wheels and other parts.

What are the best brands to look at for a 20 inch bike?

Burley Piccolo

Burley Piccolo is a 7-speed trailercycle that helps your child to learn to ride a bicycle. The Piccolo trailercycle is an excellent way to involve your child on longer (or faster) rides without being on their own bike and getting tired part of the way. The adjustable gears teach children to easily change gears and gradually learn new skills.

It can mount onto the back of most adult bikes and is stable and secure, even when cornering. The stability comes from it being attached to an included rack instead of the seatpost. Plus, it is lightweight and easier to pull than a trailer.

Your child is seated behind you and might want to lean to either side to see what is up ahead—this could throw off their balance.

Cannondale Trail 20 Kids' Bike

Cannondale bikes are on the heavier side when it comes to kid's bikes—although they are still lighter than steel bikes. It has a lightweight aluminum frame, while the bars, stems, and rims are made from alloy. The 20″ comes with a suspension fork, which adds a bit to the bike's weight and works well if your child likes to do manuals and bunny hops.

Their kid's bikes have a just-right reach to the handlebars with narrow-stance cranks. When it comes to color scheme and design, they have gone directly to the source and asked kids what they want in bikes.

Cleary bikes Owl

The Cleary Bikes Owl 20 inch 1-speed bike is lightweight, tough, and sleek. It is perfect for kids who love to go (and stop) fast, go off-road, do tricks, and cruise around while bike riding. The 20″ tires give clearance for wider jumps and bigger stair drops.

It has internal brake cable routing, dual hand brakes, and a rigid fork. The Owl is a lightweight bike with a 1020 alloy steel frame and fork.

The geared bike's 3 Speed's shifting mechanism is inside an aluminum shell, which protects the gears. It allows for your little one to go faster on long flats and climb steep hills. The tires are 1.95″ wide, which makes them heavier and better for off-road riding.

It is one of the lightest 20 inch bikes on the market, but it's tricky to assemble.

The Owl is a great bike that's stable and gives riders confidence while riding on various terrains.

Co-Op Cycles REV 20

Made by REI, Co-Op Cycles makes most of their bikes trail bikes.

The REV 20 is a 20 inch bike with 6 speeds. The front suspension has 40 mm travel, and the bike comes in 4 colors: red hot, teal blue, dark blue, and white.

If you purchase the REV 20 from a brick-and-mortar REI shop, it will come already assembled. If it is purchased online, you will have to do some assembly and perhaps readjust the brakes and derailleurs. Most of the time, you will only have to attach the handlebar, wheels, and pedals.

Early Rider Limited

Early rider focuses on kid's bikes and has a wide range of bikes, from a balance bike (which doesn't have a crank arm or pedals) to an adjustable geometry full-suspension bike.

The Belter comes in a range of sizes from 14 inches to 24 inches. The Belter 20 has a Sturmey Archer 4-speed hub gear. It has a grip shifter.

The Seeker is designed for dirt tracks and off-road riding. It is fitted with off-road tires, especially for this. The Seeker also comes in sizes from 14 to 24 inches. The Seeker 20 has cable disc brakes, an SRAM GX 10-speed drivetrain, and an X% shifter.

The Hellion model ranges in sizes between 16 and 24 inches and is good for mountain biking and cycling on rough terrain. It has ridged tires that are joined by suspension forks. The Hellion X range includes rear suspension. The Hellion 20 has an RST SPEX fork which gives 80 mm of travel. It has 10 speeds, a hydraulic disc brake setup, and a Zee rear derailleur.

Electra 20 inch Bikes  

Electra's 20″ bikes all incorporate the company's patented Flat Foot Technology®. Electra has changed the frame geometry, adjusted the seat angle, and moved the pedals forward. This enables riders to sit upright with their feet flat on the ground. The lower center of gravity provides more comfort and control, and the pedals give you proper leg extension.

They have a range of unisex 20'' bikes instead of traditional boys 20 inch bike or girls 20 inch bike. Instead, they focus on incorporating the design and quality of their adult bikes into their kid's bikes.

The Enchanted Jungle 1 20 and Firetail 1 20 ranges are one single-speed bike with caliper brakes in the front and rear coaster brakes. Their Pocket range has a single speed and 7D models. Both models have front and rear linear-pull brakes. The brake levers and crank arm can be adjusted to accommodate your child comfortably as they grow. The 7D model has a Shimano Revo 7-speed twist with an optical gear display.

Salsa Timberjack 20

The Salsa Timberjack 20 has 3″ wide plus-sized tires providing more traction control, which is ideal for riding on dirt or snow. It has fork mounts, mechanical disc brakes, and grip shifters to work the 1 x 8 Narrow Wide drivetrain. As far as a kids' mountain bike goes, the Timberjack has you covered. Your child will easily feel like a big kid whenever they get on this bike.

Raleigh Lily

The Raleigh Lily 20 is one of several girls bikes on the market. It has 2.125-inch tires that work well on the road and trails while rear twist shifters work through 6 gears.

Trek Roscoe 20

The Trek Roscoe 20 has 2.8″ mid-fat tires with a 1x drivetrain. It is based on the adult Roscoe but built especially for kids and designed to build confidence on trail rides. The brake levers are adult-size so a bit big for little hands.

Trek has the Precaliber 20 7 speed for girls and boys. The Precaliber 20 has a front suspension fork and is lightweight.

A good quality 20 inch bike will give your child the freedom to take on a variety of bike paths. By involving them in the buying process, the fun and excitement can start long before putting their feet on the pedals.

The perfect ride and best bike to buy is the one that your kid likes the most. It could mean the difference between a child who reluctantly goes riding or one who begs you to hit the trail.

Bestselling Bike Seats with Backrest 2021

Why a Backrest?

If you are an avid bicyclist and do not want something as easily avoided as back pain ruining your enthusiasm for the open road, then you want to consider installing a bike seat that comes equipped with a backrest for additional support. These bike seats are made to be comfortable, whether you are on a long cross-country ride or simply going to a friend’s house for a social gathering. The use of a backrest allows the rider to relax back into the seat at a more ergonomically correct position for riding, reducing the strain felt in the muscles and the joints from being in a seated position for an extended period of time.

Riding Preferences

One of the most important factors that should weigh in your decision of what bike seat with a backrest to purchase is whether or not you plan to spend large amounts of time using a bicycle. Are you an avid bicyclist who ventures off the beaten path to forge your own trail? Do you enjoy bicycling, either alone or as part of a group, but only rides on marked trails, paths and roadways?

The answer to that question can determine what type of bike seat is best for you before even considering the attached backrest. Flooding the market today when it comes to bike seats and their functions are:

Materials Used in Construction

The backrest should be made from the same material as the bike seat itself to ensure the overall structural integrity of the product and prevent one part of the seat aging before the other. You want to make sure that the bike seat and backrest are covered with a material that will not irritate the skin while riding your bicycle and a bonus would be a material that is naturally moisture-wicking to prevent uncomfortable situations.

You do not want to be on a long bicycle ride with others or by yourself and find that natural body sweat has compromised the stability of your ride. If you are slipping and sliding all over the seat and backrest, then it is easy to lose control of your bicycle and suffer from injury or even jolt your back into a position while trying to regain control that strains muscles or slips joints out of place to increase the overall pain level that comes from physical activity.

While leather is a common material used in the covering of bike seats with backrests, it can be rather pricey and on long rides during hotter conditions, it can heat up to the point that it actually burns the skin it touches. Look into bike seats with backrests with synthetic or strongly woven material covers that will not chafe along the seams and split open during exposure to weather conditions to expose the foam underneath.

Customer Service – Shipping/Delivery

With any product that you purchased, whether it be through a local retailer or an online store, make sure you research or look into how they treat their customers. Customer service is a big part of maintaining a business and gaining new customers through reviews and word-of-mouth.

Make sure that your local retailer or online store has positive reviews on the following: