If you’re looking for one of the best hybrid bikes on the market today, then here’s the good news: there are so many different features and options available right now that you can find the perfect bike for your needs. Many hybrids are highly affordable, adapt to your personal needs, and give you a comfortable ride in urban or rural settings.
If you’re ready to go explore your community some more, then here are the bikes that will help to make that happen.
Picture | Name | Our Rating | Price |
---|---|---|---|
![]() | Schwinn Discover Men's Hybrid Bike | 4.1 | $$$ |
![]() | Sixthreezero EVRYjourney Men's 26 inch Hybrid | 4.7 | $$$$ |
![]() | Mongoose Men's Banish 2.0 Hybrid | 4.5 | $$$ |
![]() | Vilano Men's Hybrid Bike 700c Retro City Commuter | 4.0 | $$ |
![]() | Firmstrong Urban Man Beach Cruiser | 4.5 | $$ |
![]() | Schwinn Men's Network 3.0 700C Wheel Hybrid | 4.2 | $$$ |
![]() | Vilano Diverse 1.0 Performance Hybrid | 5.0 | $$ |
![]() | Schwinn Men's Volare 1200 | 4.1 | $$$ |
![]() | Firmstrong Bruiser Man Beach Cruiser | 4.1 | $$$$ |
![]() | Hyper SpinFit Men's Hybrid Bike | 4.5 | $$ |
Picture | Name | Our Rating | Price |
What Is a Hybrid Bike and Why Do I Need One?
The best hybrid bikes have combined the best features of a mountain bike with the best features of a road bike to create a machine that works almost everywhere. You can ride it comfortably down city streets. You can take it out on a mountain trail for adventure. It’s one of the few bicycles that can handle multiple terrain formats with ease.
The reason behind this flexibility is due to the unique configuration of a hybrid bike frame. You’ll find the structure of the frame is more relaxed than with most other bicycles. You’re given a lengthy head tube and a shorter top tube, which forces the rider into more of an upright riding position. This allows you to cycle with speed and maneuverability, but without the muscle strains that other bicycles tend to provide.
To accommodate that upright riding position, virtually all hybrid bikes come with a flat handlebar design instead of dropped bars. It forces the rider to use mountain riding braking and shifting skills, even on the road, but the levers are conveniently placed so that anyone can easily hop onto a hybrid bicycle to start riding it.
How Should My New Hybrid Bike Be Made?
The best hybrid bikes today are generally composed of three materials: steel, aluminum, and carbon. You’ll also find that the cheapest hybrid bikes tend to be made out of steel and the most expensive ones are made from carbon.
Why is this? Because of the weight of the bike. Steel hybrid bikes can give you a smooth ride, even if there isn’t a suspension with that particular model, because of its overall weight. The disadvantage is that if you need to ride up a hill for some reason, you’ll need massive quadriceps to power yourself up while staying in the saddle.
Carbon hybrid bikes are more of a professional style of hybrid bike. They are also the most expensive bike in this category, but they’ll also give you the most flexibility. If you’re just getting started with cycling and can afford this type of hybrid, then get it because your bicycle will be very forgiving.
For most riders, aluminum cycles are the best option. You have entry-level and professional models available, as well as everything in-between. They can be somewhat forgiving, handle some wear and tear, and still be light enough that you don’t have to walk your bike up a hill.
Your best value option: Look for the best hybrid bikes that combine a carbon fork with an aluminum frame. This will give you more power as you press through each pedal cycle while helping to cut down on the overall cost of the bicycle for you.
How to Find the Best Hybrid Bike for Me
Although hybrid bikes do take the best out of the road and mountain bicycle styles, there are variations within this category that must be considered. Here are just a few of the variations and the type of rider that the bicycle would be able to best support.
- Handlebar Drop Downs. Some hybrid bikes offer the rider to drop down like a road bike when it comes to control. This places the rider in less of an upright position. These hybrid bikes are best for those who live in rural areas and have long-distance riding requirements.
- Added tire width. You’ll generally find that the average hybrid bike will have a tire width that falls somewhere between 28-42 millimeters. Some models have wider tires than this, which make them suitable for riding on extremely rough surfaces. This type of bike is better for primarily riding down trails or gravel roads found in some rural areas.
- Gearing differences. In general terms, a hybrid bike with more gears is going to be more suited to riding in traffic or down park trails. Fewer gears are generally meant for off-road riding.
In addition to these alterations, you’ll notice that some hybrid bikes in this category have a full suspension equipped to them. Others may be more of a hardtail design. Some may not have a suspension at all. If you’re planning to ride on rough terrain, then a hybrid full suspension bike is going to be your best option.
Price Guide
Hybrid bicycles are priced on three factors: material composition, craftsmanship, and features. If you’re looking for an entry-level hybrid bike that can take care of light needs, like a short commute to work every day, then you can find a model for $150 or less right now.
On the other hand, if you plan to ride your new hybrid bicycle for several miles every day over changing terrain, then you’ll need a bike that can give you more flexibility. Expect to pay anywhere from $200-$1,000 for a bicycle with the features you want.
The best hybrid bikes also tend to be the most expensive. They’re lightweight, durable, and can be taken virtually anywhere. You’ll also pay anywhere from $1,000-$5,000 (and sometimes even more) for this type of bike.
Here’s Our Reviews:
Best Hybrid Bikes for Men
Schwinn Discover
This hybrid bike features a very comfortable city-style aluminum frame. The classic Schwinn suspension fork is also included; which people tend to love or hate. The allow crank is also from Schwinn, but the rest comes from Shimano or Promax. The swept-back handlebars are a classic touch for this hybrid model, giving you a fairly upright riding position. With 21 speeds to explore, this bike is perfect for seniors, teens, and everyone in-between.
Click here to view pricing on Amazon and get an awesome deal.
Six Three Zero
This step-through hybrid design looks just as good as a commuter bike as it does for cruising around your neighborhood. It’s a 7-speed design, so it won’t blow you away with options, but it also won’t cause your sitting bones to ache after a few miles either. The saddle is particularly comfortable and the frame itself is designed for easy on/off when needed. Riders are in a very upright position, which could be bothersome to a few people, but overall this is a pretty solid bike at a great price.
Click here to view pricing on Amazon and get an awesome deal.
Mongoose Banish
This isn’t your dirt-cheap bargain basement store Mongoose bicycle. With a lightweight aluminum frame and a front shock that is impressively resilient, you’ll have one of the most comfortable hybrids supporting your cycling efforts that is on the market today. It also features 3-piece cranks and a set of beach cruiser pedals to give it an interesting style. Disc braking is offered in the front and rear for effective stopping. We found it pretty easy to assemble, has a good set of features, and it handles changing terrain pretty well.
Click here to view pricing on Amazon and get an awesome deal.
Vilano
Retro is in, which means guys are going to love the classic style of this bike. It’s like riding a 1950s throwback, but offers the features of a modern hybrid. We’re particularly fond of the twist shifters and the casual rider positioning. You’ll also receive chrome fenders and a rear-spring loading rack if you want to turn this hybrid into a commuter bike. A locking kickstand, free pedals, and a 7-speed design round out the benefits of purchasing this awesome bike today. We loved the riding experience and think you will too.
Click here to view pricing on Amazon and get an awesome deal.
Firmstrong
Sometimes you ride a hybrid because you have changing terrain or environmental conditions. Then there are times that you ride a hybrid because it makes you look fantastic. This bike is more about the latter. Choose your color with this single-speed cruiser and then be prepared to make a positive first impression for an impressive price. It’s a little small as a 24-inch bike for some riders, but it can achieve consistent speeds of 15mph and it offers you a cable-free clean look. Optional fenders that match your preferred color are also available. Start your ride on this bike and you won’t want to look back.
Click here to view pricing on Amazon and get an awesome deal.
Best Hybrid Bikes for Women
Picture | Name | Our Rating | Price |
---|---|---|---|
![]() | Schwinn Discover Women's Hybrid Bike | 4.1 | $$$ |
![]() | Diamondback Bicycles 2016 Women's Vital 2 Hybrid | 4.3 | $$$ |
![]() | Schwinn Odana 700c Women's 16 Hybrid Bike | 4.4 | $$$ |
![]() | Diamondback Bicycles Women's Clarity 1 Complete | 4.0 | $$$ |
![]() | Schwinn Network 1.0 700c Women's 16 Hybrid Bike | 4.2 | $$$ |
![]() | Sixthreezero EVRYjourney Women's Hybrid | 4.8 | $$$$ |
![]() | Schwinn Network 2.0 Hybrid Bike | 4.0 | $$ |
![]() | Schwinn Siro 700c Hybrid Bicycle | 4.0 | $$$ |
![]() | Firmstrong Urban Lady Beach Cruiser | 4.5 | $$$ |
![]() | Vilano Women's Hybrid Bike | 5.0 | $$ |
Picture | Name | Our Rating | Price |
Schwinn Discover
This 21-speed aluminum city frame offers you a lot of versatility with its step-through design. A padded saddle and swept-back handlebar make riding this bike a simple task. Shifting is mostly consistent, though we had a little trouble with uphill shifts from time to time. The front suspension fork is clearly made for urban environments, considering how effective it is at absorbing impacts. It’s your classic women’s hybrid, designed for multiple tasks, but you as the primary rider.
Click here to view pricing on Amazon and get an awesome deal.
Diamondback Bicycles
This is a hybrid that gets all of the basics right. It looks great. The ride is pretty smooth in most circumstances, though you’ll feel large debris if you run it over. It has a comfortable saddle and the wheelset features a quick-release design. Like most hybrids, the positioning is more upright than a road bike, so there isn’t much stress placed on the back. The weight is a little heavy, but not overly bad, but keep in mind that you’ll need to purchase a kickstand separately if you want that feature on this bike.
Click here to view pricing on Amazon and get an awesome deal.
Six Three Zero
What happens if you combine the best hybrid features with cruiser styling, classic looks, and an effective 7-speed touring design? You get this back. It’s the classic cruiser style, but with the hybrid upright seating arrangement, and front/rear handbrakes that give you full control over the riding experience. The rear rack even allows you to turn this beautiful bicycle into a commuter if you prefer. Whether it’s for long distance riding or just a leisurely ride around the block, you’re going to love how you look and feel on this bike.
Click here to view pricing on Amazon and get an awesome deal.
Firmstrong
This is a hybrid bike that gets all of the basics right. It’s a single-speed bike, however, so that might be a dealbreaker for some. The frame offers that curvy cruiser style throughout its 17-inch steel design, while aluminum wheels help to offset some of the weight of the bike. The saddle is oversized and features a dual spring suspension for a remarkable level of comfort. Rubber grips on the handlebars make steering a reliable prospect and it’s available with 24-inch or 26-inch wheels.
Click here to view pricing on Amazon and get an awesome deal.
Vilano
This retro hybrid commuter gives you the traditional look of a steel-framed bike, but with all of the modern amenities you’d want in a modern bike. We’re particularly fond of the chrome fenders, but you can’t ignore the rear spring-loaded rack either. A kickstand is included so that you can set your bike up after taking advantage of the 7-speed twist-grip shifters during your ride. If you’re looking for an affordable and fun ride that lets you promote your personal style, then this is going to be the best hybrid bike for you.
Click here to view pricing on Amazon and get an awesome deal.
Best Hybrid Bikes Under $500
Picture | Name | Our Rating | Price |
---|---|---|---|
![]() | Diamondback Bicycles Insight 2 Hybrid | 4.4 | $$$$ |
![]() | Schwinn OR2 700c Hybrid Bike | 5.0 | $$$$ |
![]() | Pure City Classic Diamond Frame Bicycle | 4.7 | $$$$ |
![]() | Diamondback Trace Street Hybrid | 4.5 | $$$$ |
![]() | Sixthreezero EVRYjourney Men's 26 inch Hybrid | 4.7 | $$$ |
![]() | XDS Cross 300 Step-Through Bicycle | 5.0 | $$$ |
![]() | Schwinn Men's Network 3.0 700C Wheel Hybrid | 4.2 | $$ |
![]() | Sixthreezero EVRYjourney Women's Hybrid | 4.8 | $$$ |
Picture | Name | Our Rating | Price |
Diamondback Bicycles
This affordable hybrid design gives you the complete package. Home assembly is easy and only takes a few minutes. For its price, the weight is a superior 23 pounds, helping you to get a lot of versatility out of this frame. The saddle is pretty hard – pretty much like sitting on a rock. You can install several additions, like a fender or a water bottle holder on this bike, which is a nice feature. It turns well, the oversized wheels give you a lot of stability, and you’ll get plenty of speed out of this bike. Just beware that it has no suspension, so taking it off-road can be quite the experience.
Click here to view pricing on Amazon and get an awesome deal.
Pure Cycles
This traditional hybrid bike gives you a flat handlebar that is supported by a super strong hi-tensile steel frame. We really appreciated the addition of a Cromoly down tube, but it would be nice to have something a bit better than a steel fork at this price point. You’ve got 3-speed or 8-speed options with this diamond frame, caliper brakes for the front and rear, and a chain guard is in place so it can be an effective commuter bike. It’s practical, works as expected, but might be a little heavy for some users.
Click here to view pricing on Amazon and get an awesome deal.
XDS Step-Through
At 24-inches, this might technically be a women’s hybrid bike, but the design is perfect for guys too. The flat bar upright riding position does offer a bit of a curl to it so you can get a bit of a racing feel with this bike as well. The double-wall alloy rim offers you a smooth and stable riding experience, while the RST suspension fork takes care of what the wheels can’t absorb on their own. It’s a good all-weather bike, with corrosion-resistant materials throughout, and it offers a 24-speed cycling experience.
Click here to view pricing on Amazon and get an awesome deal.
Schwinn
If you’ve been wanting a modern hybrid bike that won’t cost you an arm and a leg, then this is definitely a model to consider today. With EZ-Fire shifters from Shimano and a 21-speed cycling experience, this bike is strong, light, and quick. The saddle is pretty comfortable as a stock option, while the swept-back handlebar gives you a fairly upright riding position for your all-purpose cycling needs. This bike can go almost anywhere and do almost anything, so it’s forgiving to beginners and enjoyable for experienced riders.
Click here to view pricing on Amazon and get an awesome deal.
The best hybrid bikes for men, women, or under your budget will help you be active and have fun while you explore the world of cycling. Maybe you need to commute to work. Or you’re looking for an alternative way to run your errands. Whether it’s around the block or around your city, you’ll find that these are the bikes that have been equipped to get the job done for a very fair price.