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Last updated: July 28, 2022
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Hybrid bikes are efficient in both urban and rural areas because of their versatile design. That also makes choosing the perfect model more daunting since there are more factors and use cases to consider. The best hybrid bike should strike a perfect balance between the nimbleness of road bikes and the stability of mountain bikes so that it is ideal for commuting, light off-roading, and even racing.
We’ve created a list of the eight best hybrid bikes. In this list, we have bikes that have different characteristics, are built for different target audiences, and, in the end, belong to different price categories. There’s also a Things to Consider section, where we look at all the factors to keep in mind before making a final decision.
"This ultra-comfortable bike has one of the most thoughtful designs on the market, making it perfect not only for seniors but also everybody who wants to enjoy a comfortable ride."
Other features: shock-absorbing suspension fork, padded seat, alloy suspension seat post
Our Editor’s Choice is the Schwinn Discover 2 700c because of its versatility and durability that come at a fair price point. With an aluminum frame, it is lightweight, yet the construction is sturdy. This bike comes with 21 speeds, so you can easily adjust your pedaling to suit the terrain. The front and rear linear-pull brakes provide great stopping power. The shock-absorbing suspension fork ensures a smooth ride, even on bumpy roads. The padded seat is comfortable for long rides, and the alloy suspension seat post absorbs bumps for an even smoother ride. Overall, Schwinn Discover 2 700c is an excellent hybrid bike that is perfect for both casual riding and commuting.
The Schwinn Discover 2 700c remains a highly acclaimed hybrid bike because of the brand’s popularity and its robust build. It stacks up well against popular hybrids like the Vitus Dee VR City bike. It comes in two different versions, for men and women, and has better value for money as it offers a fantastic set of features at an attractive price point. Its design is also more attractive.
Other features: ergonomic riding position, synthetic leather saddle and grips
The sixthreezero EVRYjourney Women’s Hybrid Bicycle is a great option for women who are looking for a comfortable and smooth riding experience. This bikes comes with 26″ wheels, making it the perfect size for city riding, while the aluminum frame ensures that it’s light for its category. The front and rear V-brakes provide great stopping power. The ergonomic riding position and incredibly comfortable leather saddle and grips make it a joy to ride. The design is truly remarkable, and the assembly is relatively easy. This bike is also great for seniors who want a comfortable seat and a step-through design.
Sixthreezero is not a popular brand but it is building a name for itself with top-quality bikes. The sixthreezero EVRYjourney Women’s Hybrid Bicycle is just as good as the Schwinn Discover 2 700c for women. It offers better ergonomic riding and is more attractive than the Schwinn Discover. However, if you need a more powerful performance, you’d be better off with the Schwinn Discover.
What are its best features?
From color options and materials to engineering -- the design is remarkable
Incredibly comfortable riding experience, even if you're a senior
Great value
Easy to find a perfect fit with sixthreezero's website
Other features: mudguard mounts, rack mounts, custom-butted aluminum
The Fuji Absolute 1.7 is a hybrid bike that is perfect for those who want a premium, versatile bike that can handle various terrain types. The frame is made from custom-butted aluminum, which makes it lightweight, at least for this type of bike. Disc brakes have proved to be a great option for their stopping power, so you can feel confident in this bike. The 2×9 gearing is perfect for those who want low gear for climbing hills or high gear for cruising on flat terrain. This bike also comes with mudguard mounts, so you can ride in all types of weather and still stay clean. Overall, this model’s quality and versatility make it a worthy investment.
The Fuji Absolute 1.7 is not the cheapest bike on this list, but its unmatched versatility and sturdiness make it a worthy buy. It is pretty similar to the Fuji Absolute 1.9 in design and functionality but has a few better components like a hydraulic disc brake type. Nonetheless, the huge price difference between the Fuji Absolut 1.7 and 1.9 is not worth the few feature differences.
Why did it make our list?
Thoughtful design provides increased stability on all types of terrain
Other features: upright riding style, synthetic leather saddle and grips
If you’re looking for a hybrid bike that’s perfect for seniors, the sixthreezero EVRYjourney Men’s Hybrid Bicycle is a great option. It features a sturdy 19″ aluminum frame and 26″ wheels. It can be bought in either 1 or 7 speeds, so if you need a bike that’s more versatile and adaptable to a wide range of riding conditions, there’s an option for you. Plus, the synthetic leather saddle and grips have a stylish look and provide incredible comfort. This bike is also easy to assemble, so you’ll be riding in no time. And with its upright riding style, you’ll enjoy a relaxed and comfortable ride.
The sixthreezero EVRYjourney Men’s Hybrid Bicycle is just as good as the Schwinn Discover 2 700cc. Unlike the Schwinn Discover, it offers added comfort with its synthetic leather saddle and grips, thus ideal for seniors or anyone interested in nothing but a comfortable cycling experience. Although it offers similar sturdiness and better aesthetics, it still cannot match up to Schwinn Discover’s power.
What are its best features?
The riding experience is extremely comfortable for people of all ages
This bike is sturdy and well-built
The saddle is not only beautiful but also really comfortable
What could be improved?
There are multiple reports that this bike can be easily damaged during shipping
Frame: aluminum frame w/ 49, 53, and 57 cm options
Wheels: 700c
Gearing: 3×8
Brakes: disc
Weight: 26.5 lbs.
Other features: upright handlebar
The Vilano Diverse 3.0 is a hybrid bike that is perfect for anyone looking for a versatile bike with a good value. When it comes to technical details, this bike comes with an aluminum frame, 700c wheels, and 3×8 gearing for extra versatility in various conditions. The disc brakes provide plenty of control and stopping power, while the upright handlebar makes it easy to ride over long distances on varied terrain. Finally, this is one of the best bikes under $500, so all its amazing capabilities come at a fair price.
The Vilano Diverse 3.0 is one of the best budget-friendly hybrid bikes on the market. Just like the Vitus Dee VR City bike, it is perfect for commutes and occasional out-of-town rides on the weekends. It is also relatively lighter than most bikes on this list, thus perfect for longer rides. The Vilano Diverse 3.0 stands out because it has simple features that make its maintenance a breeze.
Other features: Schwalbe Land Cruiser Plus tires, low-maintenance
The Vitus Dee VR City Bike (Nexus – 2021) is a low-maintenance bike that is perfect for those who want a robust and versatile bike. This bike comes with 29″ wheels, which make it easy to roll over rough roads or trails. Additionally, the bike has 3-speed internal hub gears, which make this bike incredibly easy to maintain. Hydraulic disc brakes give you plenty of control and confidence. Finally, the Schwalbe Land Cruiser Plus tires make it comfortable enough to ride over any terrain. Overall, is model is a great choice for every cyclist who values simplicity and ease of use.
If you cannot get the Vilano Diverse 3.0, get the Vitus Dee VR City Bike. Vitus Dee bikes are popular for their high-quality build and longevity, and this city bike is no exception. Just like the Vilano Diverse 3.0, the Vitus Dee VR city bike is incredibly lightweight and low maintenance. The only difference is that it has a more robust Schwabe land cruiser plus tires that allow you to cycle on different terrains.
Why are we impressed?
Low-maintenance experience
Robust construction
Excellent hydraulic disc brakes
What negatives must you be aware of?
Even though this bike is suitable for off-road use, there are better options out there
Brakes: Tektro dual-piston hydraulic brakes w/ an electric cut-off sensor
Weight: 62 lbs. (with rack and fenders)
Other features: 48V Geared Hub Bafang motor (28mph), padded saddle
The Ride1UP 700 Series e-bike is a great choice for those who want a hybrid e-bike that is packed with features at an affordable price. The aluminum frame comes in step-through and step-over options, so you can choose the one that best meets your needs. The upright riding position and padded saddle make this e-bike comfortable to ride, even for longer distances. The Tektro dual-piston hydraulic brakes with an electric cut-off sensor provide great stopping power, while the 48V Geared Hub Bafang motor offers plenty of power to get you up to speed. The rack and fenders come standard, so you can carry your belongings with you or add panniers for extra storage. With a weight of just 62 lbs., this e-bike is surprisingly lightweight for all that it offers. The Ride1UP 700 Series is also coming at half the price of some other e-bikes, so the value it offers is unmatched.
Very few Hybrid e-bikes within Ride1UP’s price range pack a punch with as many top-tier features. The 700 series is a worthy upgrade from the 500 series as it is better looking, has a faster cruising speed, and comes with extra features. Its only downside is that it is pretty heavy and bulky compared to all the bikes on this list. Otherwise, it should be a top priority if power is what you need from a bike.
Why is it special?
Two frame styles
Comfortable even on longer distances due to padded saddle and upright riding position
Other features: retro-style frame, fenders, rear carrier
The Schwinn Wayfarer is an affordable hybrid bike that is perfect for commuters. It features a 18” steel frame and 700c wheels. Front and back pull brakes provide enough stopping power for you to feel confident and safe on your ride. This bike also comes with fenders to protect you from getting dirty, and a rear carrier to store your belongings while you’re on the go. The vintage look of this bike will turn heads as you cruise down the street. Whether you’re looking for an affordable way to get around town or just want a stylish ride, the Schwinn Wayfarer is a perfect choice.
If you are on a tight budget and are desperate for a Schwinn bike, the Schwinn Wayfarer is your best bet. It is more affordable and more attractive than the Schwinn Discover 2 700c. You will still get to enjoy Schwinn’s durability at a convenient price tag. However, if you care for some power, dig a little deeper into your pockets for the beastly Schwinn Discover 2 700c.
What are its best features?
Excellent value
Stylish retro looks
What could be improved?
The seat could be more comfortable
Hard to assemble
Things to Consider
When it comes to choosing the perfect hybrid bike for your needs, there are a few things you need to take into consideration. The frame of the bike is important, as is the type of wheels and tires it has. You’ll also want to think about the gearing and brakes, as well as whether you prefer a derailleur or internal gear hub. And finally, the suspension is important, especially if you plan on riding on bumpy terrain. Let’s take a deep dive into all of these aspects.
Frame
Hybrid bikes usually have an aluminum or steel frame, each of them with its own pros and cons
There are a few different materials commonly used in bike frames. The most common are aluminum, steel, and carbon fiber. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Aluminum frames are strong and lightweight, making them a great choice for cyclists who want a fast and agile bike. They are also relatively affordable, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious cyclists. However, aluminum frames do have a few drawbacks. They can be stiffer than other types of frames, making the riding experience harsher. Aluminum frames are also more susceptible to damage from impacts, such as potholes or rocks.
Steel frames are durable and strong, making them a good choice for heavier riders or those who plan on using their bike for more intense riding. However, steel frames are much heavier than other options, so these bicycles may be more difficult to maneuver and transport. These frames also tend to corrode over time, if not maintained properly.
Carbon fiber frames are the lightest and strongest option available, making them ideal for racing or other high-performance activities. However, carbon fiber frames come with a hefty price tag.
Since we’re talking about hybrid bikes in this article, our list only contains models with aluminum or steel frames. We believe that these are the great materials for a hybrid bike, offering an excellent balance of strength, weight, and durability.
Frames on hybrid bikes can also come in a variety of shapes. In our article, we present bikes with step-trough and step-over frames. The step-through frame makes it easy to get on and off of the bike, and it provides a comfortable ride. The step-over frame is more efficient for pedaling and gives the rider more control.
When it comes to choosing a hybrid bike, the most important factor is how you intend to use it. If you’ll be doing a lot of city riding, then a step-through aluminum frame is a good choice. If you plan on using your bike for longer rides or for racing, then a step-over frame is a better option.
Hybrid bikes come with a range of wheel sizes, with 26″ and 700c being the industry standards. The size of the wheels will affect the bike’s handling and how easy it is to roll over obstacles. Smaller wheels are easier to maneuver but may get bogged down more easily in loose terrain. Larger wheels can handle rougher terrain but can be more difficult to maneuver around tight turns. Overall, the wheel size you choose should be based on the type of riding you’ll be doing most often.
Tires can also affect your bike’s performance. Wider tires will provide more stability and traction, while narrower tires will be lighter and faster. Again, it’s important to choose the right tire width based on the type of riding you’ll be doing.
If you’re mostly riding on paved roads, then you’ll want to choose a hybrid bike with 26″ or 700c wheels and relatively narrow tires. If you plan on doing a lot of off-road riding, then you’ll want a bike with larger wheels and wider tires.
Gearing
Multiple gears allow you to adjust the speed of a bike, which is useful for those who plan to ride on different types of terrain
Bikes come with different gears to allow the rider to adjust the speed at which they are traveling. Most hybrid bikes have multiple gears, which can be changed by turning a shifter on the handlebars, though some bikes only provide a single gear for extra simplicity.
The number of gears on a bike is determined by the number of chainrings on the front of the bike multiplied by the number of cogs on the rear wheel. For example, a bike with two chainrings and ten cogs will have 20 gears.
Here’s the mechanism of how gearing in bikes works. The front chainring is attached to the crankset, while the rear sprocket is attached to the wheel. When the rider pedals, they turn the crankset, which in turn spins the front chainring. The front chainring then turns the rear sprocket, which makes the wheel turn. The size of the chainrings and sprockets affects how hard the rider has to pedal to make the bike go faster or slower. Smaller chainrings and sprockets make it harder to pedal, but they also result in higher gearing, which means the bike can go faster. Larger chainrings and sprockets make it easier to pedal, but they also result in lower gearing, which means the bike can go slower.
Most cyclists use the higher gears when they are traveling uphill, as this gives them more power to push against the pedals. They use the lower gears when they are traveling downhill or on flat ground, as this allows them to pedal faster without having to pedal too hard.
When choosing a hybrid bike, it is important to consider the gearing that you will need for the type of terrain that you will be riding on. If you are mostly going to be riding on flat or mild terrain, then you won’t need as many gears or can even opt for a bike with a single speed.
Brakes
There are three most common types of brakes found on hybrid bikes: rim brakes, disc brakes, and coaster brakes.
Rim brakes are the most common type and use a metal brake pad to press against the bike’s rim to slow it down. These are lower in cost and require less maintenance than disc brakes, but they are not as effective in wet or muddy conditions. V-brakes are a type of rim brake that uses two pads to press against the side of the bike’s rim. V-brakes are less common than other types of brakes, but they offer good stopping power and are easy to maintain.
Disc brakes are more powerful and work by pressing a metal disc (or rotor) against the wheel to stop it. This type of brakes is more expensive than rim brakes and requires more maintenance, but they perform better in all conditions. If you’ll be riding in wet or muddy conditions, disc brakes are a good option because they won’t get clogged with mud as rim brakes can.
Coaster brakes are found on some older bikes and work by pedaling backward to engage the brake. Coaster brakes are simple to use and don’t require much maintenance, but they can be less effective than other types of brakes.
Derailleur or internal gear hub
Derailleur bikes are the most common type of hybrid bike. They have a derailleur system at the front and rear of the bike which moves the chain between the sprockets to change gears. This system is efficient and allows for a wide range of gears, but it can also be complicated and requires regular maintenance.
Internal gear hubs are becoming increasingly popular on hybrid bikes. They are enclosed within the hub of the wheel and are much simpler than derailleur systems. This means they require less maintenance and are more reliable. However, they usually have fewer gears than derailleur bikes.
Overall, both derailleur and internal gear hub bikes make great hybrid bikes. It just depends on your personal preferences and your readiness to maintain your bike as to which one you choose.
What Is a Hybrid Bike?
Hybrid bikes combine features of road and mountain bikes
A hybrid bike is a bicycle that combines the features of a mountain bike and a road bike.
Road bikes are designed for pavement use and have thin, smooth tires and lightweight frames. They typically have drop handlebars, which allow the rider to position their hands in a variety of comfortable positions for efficient pedaling. Road bikes are fast and efficient, making them ideal for commuting or racing. Check out our comprehensive guide for the best road bike.
Mountain bikes are designed for off-road use and have thicker tires with deeper treads for increased traction. They also have stronger frames and suspension systems to absorb the impact of rough terrain. Mountain bikes typically have straight handlebars, which provide a more upright riding position. This makes them more comfortable for long rides on trails or rough roads. You can also check out our list of the best mountain bikes out there.
Hybrid bikes have lightweight frames and tires that are narrower than those on mountain bikes, making them faster and more efficient on paved roads. Hybrid bikes usually have upright handlebars, which provide a more comfortable riding position than drop handlebars on a road bike.
Choosing the Right Size
When choosing the right frame size, it’s important to consider your height and inseam. To find your inseam, measure from your crotch to the ground. Once you have these numbers, we recommend using size guides provided by bike manufacturers, as they will have more specific measurements.
The right frame size will also depend on your riding style and preferences. If you prefer a more aggressive riding position, you may want a smaller frame size. Conversely, if you want a more relaxed riding position, you may want a larger frame size.
As a rule of thumb, if you are between sizes, we recommend choosing the smaller size. This will ensure that the bike is more comfortable and easier to control.
Maintaining Your Bike
Like any other type of bike, hybrid bikes need to be maintained in order to perform their best and last longest. Here are some tips on how to keep your hybrid bike in good condition.
Regularly check your bike’s tires, chain, and brakes to ensure that they are in good working condition. If any of these parts are worn out or damaged, they can cause accidents or make riding your bike more difficult.
Tire pressure is important for both safety and performance. Check your bike’s tires regularly to make sure they are properly inflated. Under-inflated tires can cause flats, while over-inflated tires can make riding uncomfortable and decrease traction.
Chain lubrication is also crucial for a smooth ride and long-term durability. Apply lubricant to your chain whenever it starts to feel dry or gritty. Be sure to clean off any excess lubricant, as it can attract dirt and grime.
Brake pads wear out over time and need to be replaced periodically. Check your brake pads regularly to see if they need to be replaced. If they are excessively worn, they can cause decreased braking power and may damage your bike’s wheels.
In addition to these regular maintenance tasks, you should also have your bike professionally serviced at least once a year.
This will ensure that all of your bike’s parts are in good working condition and that any potential problems are caught early.
A hybrid bike is a great option if you’re looking for an all-around bike. They are perfect for commuting and offer a versatile riding style that’s great for casual weekend rides, too. If you’re looking for a bike that can do it all, a hybrid may be the perfect choice for you. Otherwise, if you have a more specific use for your bike in mind, like off-roading or racing, a hybrid might not be the best option for you.
There are a few good reasons why you might want to use professional help to put your new bike together. For example, if you’re not mechanically inclined, have never assembled a bike before, or simply don’t have the time, it’s probably best to let someone else do it. Also, most professional bike shops offer a free first tune-up after you purchase a bike from them. If you plan on doing any serious riding (commuting longer distances, racing, mountain biking, etc.), then it’s worth it to pay someone to make sure everything is set up correctly and safely.
All cyclists should wear a bike helmet when riding, regardless of experience or skill level. They protect your head in the event of a fall or collision and can help reduce the severity of injuries sustained. We also recommend wearing reflective clothing, especially when riding at night or in low-light conditions.
You should also be aware of your surroundings, including other vehicles on the road, and be cautious when riding near traffic. Whenever possible, stick to dedicated bike paths or routes. Avoid riding on busy roads or highways whenever possible. Obey all traffic laws and ride in the direction of traffic.
Our Verdict
Our top choice is Schwinn Discover 2 700c. This bike is a great option for those looking for an all-around hybrid bike. It’s perfect for commuting and casual riding and comes equipped with features like a comfortable saddle and front suspension.
Our best option specifically for women is sixthreezero EVRYjourney Women’s Hybrid Bicycle. It has an incredible step-through design frame that makes it easy to get on and off, while also being one of the most stylish options on the market.
If you’re on the market for a higher-end option, we recommend Fuji Absolute 1.7. It’s a quality product for those looking for a bike that’s built to last.
No matter what your budget or riding style is, there’s a hybrid bike out there that’s perfect for you. With so many great options on the market, you’re sure to find the perfect one for your needs. We hope that our article has helped you in your search for the best hybrid bike.
