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Best Urban Bikes
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Use
The design of the bike is something you’ll want to consider because you need to make sure the bike will fit your body type and your skillset. For instance, if you are a beginner to cycling, or you are returning after a long break, then you’ll want a bike that is either single spend or designed for newbies or both. That will help you get back into the swing of things when you ride. Also, consider your body type and height. Some bikes are made for men, others are made for women, and height is also a factor because it will dictate how tall the bike needs to be to make things comfortable for you.
Many urban bikes are made out of either steel or aluminum frames, and they are usually designed to be lightweight as well so they are agile and easy to handle. The metal used in these frames adds to the overall durability of the bike. So, even though some of these bikes seem like they might not last long because they are light, they actually are quite durable.
Features
The features on bikes can vary a bit, although some are standard. For example, the materials used in the seat and handlebars can often be features that people might gravitate toward. Some people like the look of leather, so they might want a bike that has that particular look on the handlebars and seat. The handlebars and seat also dictate much about how comfortable the urban bike will be to ride, so you’ll want to check your comfort level there.
Some bikes come with extras as well, like bottle holders or other types of holders so that you can more easily pack your items along with you. What you feel you need with the features on your bike is really up to you, so you want to decide what you really need when you ride.
Durability
Durability has much to do with the materials that make up the bike as well as the components. The bikes on our list are all designed to be durable, and feature frames that are made out of steel or aluminum. That adds a lot of reliability to their usefulness, and you’ll be able to use them for a long time.
Value
The value an urban bike provides you with has much to do with its performance, how long it lasts, and also what it costs to provide all of that. Ensuring that you purchase a bike that will perform well for you will allow you to have a bevy of fun experiences on that bike. Also, you want something that is durable so that you’ll be able to use it for a long time. Affordability also becomes important if you are shopping on a budget, so make sure you find something that fits your budget.
Top Ten Urban Bicycles
1. Firmstrong Urban
Firmstrong, as a bike manufacturer, has built its name around manufacturing bikes that are not only fashionable and functional but also make urban rides much more enjoyable and effective. Firmstrong’s Urban Man Beach Cruiser Bicycle follows in this path, and like many of Firmstrong’s other creations, it fits the traditional classic cruiser and gives you a nice, comfortable ride. This bike comes with an affordable price and has a lot to offer you when you hit the streets.
Read moreDesign
Firmstrong’s Urban Man Beach Cruiser Bicycle is made to fit men between the heights of 5’4’’ up to 6’2’’ tall, providing a comfortable ride for male cyclists in that size range. The Urban Man Beach Cruiser comes designed with seven different gears, giving you a bike that can handle hills well, and also hit the streets with speed. The seat is also designed to be oversized, and with dual springs, you get plenty of comforts while you are on the go.
Features
Firmstrong’s Urban Man Beach Cruiser Bicycle brings several great features you’ll love using when you hit the roads. First, this bike is a great hybrid rider, equipped to handle the streets and light dirt trails like the beach because it is manufactured as a beach cruiser. This bike also has front and rear handbrakes, so you get all the control that you need.
Durability
Designed with a very sturdy 17-inch steel frame and 26-inch aluminum wheels, Firmstrong made this bike with a lot of high-quality metals that make it very reliable. Also, the adaptability of this bike, which allows it to ride on both light trails and roads, means that it can go in a variety of places and still perform effectively. That means you’ll be able to hit the trails and the city roads with this bike for a long time to come.
2. Raleigh Bikes Cadent 4
Raleigh is a popular manufacturer of bikes, and they’ve produced some high-quality products for 130 years. As a manufacturer, they became well-known because of their ability to produce both comfortable and reliable bikes. Raleigh’s Cadent 4 Urban Fitness Bike is a sturdy bike that is also affordable and will give you a comfortable ride through the city anytime you want to hit the streets.
Read moreDesign
Raleigh Bikes Cadent 4 Urban Fitness Bike will allow you to get a great ride throughout the streets with its comfortable set-up. This bike brings you a lightweight frame that is made out of durable aluminum, and you’ll also get plenty of speed with its carbon fork. With eleven speeds and easy shifting, you’ll be able to ride around town with plenty of ease and comfort.
Features
If you are looking for a durable, comfortable, and affordable bike that can take you on longer rides throughout the city, then you’ll love this product because it is made with all of that in mind. You’ll get Tektro Auriga hydraulic disc brakes on this bike, and the brakes also feature a 160 mm rotor. That means you’ll be able to stop with ease no matter what the weather is like outside.
Durability
With its durable frame design, you’ll get plenty of reliability because of the strong, high-quality aluminum used to construct this bike. With its carbon fork as well, you’ll get plenty of long-lasting use from this bike. Also, it features a lot of comfort and excellent brakes, giving you a lot of control as well.
Value
With its excellent features and nice high-quality materials, like its sturdy aluminum features, this bike is well-built and still comes at an affordable price. You’ll get plenty of use out of this bike, and a lot of long term action around town. With its comfort and nice design, it comes at an excellent price.
3. Schwinn Network 2.0
Schwinn is a popular brand in the biking community, and its well-known reputation is built on quality. Schwinn’s Network 2.0 700c Women's 16 Hybrid Bike certainly offers this because this bike is made from high-quality parts that are durable and long-lasting. You’ll get plenty of control with the front and rear alloy breaks and a lot of comfort with the hybrid seat.
Read moreDesign
With a great design, you’ll wind up with several gears that will help you get around the city easier, climb hills when you need to, and cruise around the streets when you are commuting. Schwinn’s Network 2.0 700c 16 Hybrid Bike also has a lot of high-quality components manufactured into it, including a strong Schwinn steel hybrid frame that features a very durable suspension fork. The suspension system in this bike will provide you with a smooth, easy ride.
Features
Schwinn’s Network 2.0 700c 16 Hybrid Bike provides you with variety, which means it has several great features packed into one bike. You’ll feel very comfortable as you ride in the bike’s hybrid seat, and the suspension system will keep you feeling smooth no matter where you go. Also, the bike comes with alloy wheels and full fenders.
Durability
Schwinn didn’t forget about durability when they designed this bike, since they used solid, sturdy materials and fantastic components. The hybrid frame is made out of steel that Schwinn designed, and the manufacturer also designed the smooth, sturdy suspension system. You also get alloy wheels with fenders, meaning the bike has many features that add to its durability.
Value
Considering the nice name brand here, this bike isn’t too overpriced. It’s pretty affordable, actually, and since it has a lot of durabilities built into it, you’ll utilize it for a long time. For example, the steel frame and the bumper adds to the bike’s strength. So this is a good value at a great price.
4. Redline MX24
Redline’s MX24 24 Inch Wheel BMX Bicycle brings you a versatile option in bikes, since it can handle outdoor trail riding but also allow you to cruise the city streets with ease. It has a very nice design that features strong aluminum alloy, and this durable bike is built to last. While it runs on the more expensive end of things, if you do have the money for it, it is a nice option.
Read moreDesign
Redline’s MX24 24 Inch Wheel BMX Bicycle was designed to be both versatile and durable. With its ability to handle mountain riding and cruising around on the urban city streets, you will be able to ride this bike wherever you want. It is also comprised out of very strong aluminum alloy and ABS material, this bike can get you racing around town with ease.
Features
Redline’s MX24 24 Inch Wheel BMX Bicycle brings you a lightweight aluminum frame that is also sturdy. The seat on this bike is ovalized and anti-flex, making it quite responsive. You’ll also love this bike if you are just starting out riding or returning to riding after a break.
Durability
While this bike feels very lightweight when you carry it, don’t let that fool you. This bike is still very sturdy with its strong, aluminum frame, and ability to handle both trails and streets. With its sturdy components and smooth ride, you’ll be able to use this bike for a long time.
Value
Redline priced this bike to be affordable, so you should be able to purchase it even if you are shopping on a budget. That’s always a great thing to hear, and we also love how durable this bike is overall, with its aluminum frame and sturdy design. With its cost-effective price and great features, this bike is a great investment.
5. Raleigh Bikes Alysa 3
If you are looking for a nice performing woman’s bike that can take you around town with ease, then you’ll love Raleigh’s Alysa 3 Urban Fitness Bike. It provides plenty of comforts when you ride, and you’ll get a lot of durability with the sturdy aluminum frame that is made to be lightweight and is manufactured to fit a woman’s body type easily. This bike gives you excellent control, well-developed brakes, and the ability to ride in any weather condition.
Read moreDesign
Raleigh’s Alysa 3 Urban Fitness Bike offers a nice design, with a very lightweight frame designed to be easy for women to handle. The bike is also lower in standover height, and made to match a woman’s body type, making it very comfortable as well. Also, the brakes on this bike are made out of hydraulic disc brakes, and that will give you plenty of control, and a lot of simplicity when you stop no matter what the weather is like outside.
Features
Raleigh’s Alysa 3 Urban Fitness Bike provides you with several great features that make this bike a great choice for women. You get tires that will keep you going strong and have a lot of stability as well as an excellent grip while you are on the go. You also get Promox hydraulic disc brakes for more control and a lightweight carbon fork.
Durability
We like the design of the lightweight aluminum frame here because it is very accommodating for women who want to hit the streets and do some urban riding. Also, although the aluminum frame is lightweight, it is also very durable and includes ProMax Solve Hydraulic Disc Brakes. All of this means you get a high-quality, durable product.
Value
Raleigh’s Alysa 3 Urban Fitness Bike is priced moderately, which means it has an average price, but it is a bit higher than some of the other options we’ve listed. With the bike, you’ll get plenty of durability and a bevy of great features, with a nice design that is made for a female rider. Overall, you’ll love what you get with this bike.
6. Critical Cycles Parker Step-Thru
Critical Cycles keeps making our list because this well-known manufacturer has the knack for making bikes that offer a great design at an affordable price, while still using very durable and lasting components. With an emphasis on making quality products and keeping customers happy, Critical Cycles has done another good job here with their Parker Step-Thru City Bike, since this product will provide you with versatility, allowing you to hit both the city streets and the sandy beaches.
Read moreDesign
Critical Cycles Parker Step-Thru City Bike brings you two different size choices, as this bike comes in both 38cm and 44cm styles. You’ll get plenty of fashion with this bike model since its appearance features a retro design. You’ll also get a bevy of high-quality, name-brand components built into this bike, like the Shimano Drivetrain, for example. Also, you get plenty of vegan leather to go around, since that material makes up the handlebars, leather grips, and the seat.
Features
Critical Cycles Parker Step-Thru City Bike brings you several neat features you’ll enjoy experiencing whenever you hit the trails or the streets. You’ll get a KT Coaster Brake, providing you with plenty of control, and a durable Shimano drivetrain. The coaster brake makes stopping the bike very simple and brings you an easy to use option while you ride.
Durability
Critical Cycles Parker Step-Thru City Bike is built with high-quality, name-brand components, so you get a lot of reliability with this product. For example, KT designed the Coaster Brake, you get a Shimano Drivetrain, and Promax Mustache Handlebars. With well-known and very reliable parts making up this bike, you’ll get plenty of durabilities here.
Value
We like that the components that make up this bike are all designed by name brand companies, so you’ll get very strong parts that are built to last. If you are looking for something that is easy to ride and simple to use, this would be a good bike for you. With all of these features and quite a bit of durability, it is pretty impressive that this bike is one of the most affordable on our list.
7. Critical Cycles Mixte 3-Speed
Another great manufacturer of high-quality, excellent, durable bikes is Critical Cycles, and their Mixte Coaster Commuter Bicycle brings you a lot more than what the price of this bike suggests. The Mixte Coaster Commuter Bicycle is one of the most cost-effective bikes we have on our list, and although the bike won’t drain your bank account, it is still very fashionable and sturdy. That means you should get what you need if you decide to purchase this product.
Read moreDesign
Critical Cycles’ Mixte Coaster Commuter Bicycle was constructed with a mixte design so the bike looks a bit different than your traditional bike, but it provides you with a lot of durabilities and excellent performance. You’ll notice that the top tube on this bike is not as large as what you’d normally see, but it is much more durable and also means you’ll wind up with less pressure towards your seat post area. That also means it is much easier to get both on and off this bike since it has a smaller height range.
Features
As far as features are concerned, the Mixte Coaster Commuter Bicycle offers you a strong steel mixte frame that is hand-built and also made so that you can step through the frame. The grip shifter is designed with an internal hub and grip shifter, so that way your hands can stay securely on your handlebars. The saddle and grips are also comprised out of faux leather, meaning you’ll get a lot of comforts each time you ride this bike.
Durability
Critical Cycles’ Mixte Coaster Commuter Bicycle offers you the mixte bike design, meaning it brings you a reliable and long-lasting ride. Made with sturdier features like the doubled top tube, you wind up with a lot of durabilities. Also, the frame is comprised out of high tensile strength steel, so you’ll wind up with a product that is built to last.
Value
This innovative bike is one of the most affordable products on our list, so if you are shopping on a budget, this is a great choice. With its unique design, which will make riding the bike much easier, you get several great features. Also, the mixte design of this bike comes with some other long-lasting features, like the steel frame, so you’ll get a lot of durabilities.
8. State Bicycle Domingo
If affordability, reliability, and durability are all important factors for you to have when you purchase your bike, then you’ll love States Bicycle Domingo. Manufactured by a well-known and popular bike making company, this bike comes off their redesigned City Bike line, so you are getting an updated bike with a bevy of modern features. This bike will give you a comfortable ride when you commute around the city, and provide you with everything you need when you ride.
Read moreDesign
You get a nice, stylish look with State Bicycle Domingo, with a nice, modern look that makes the bike look like a much more expensive ride. We like the saddle and grips, which are both leatherettes so they are more durable than leather, but still, give you an enviable appearance. The frame is made out of steel and a lugged fork, and you’ll also get wheels that offer you chrome spokes and hubs.
Features
State Bicycle Domingo packs in a ton of great features for its affordable price, including cargo racks so that you can carry along what you need. The cargo racks are finished with chrome, giving the bike a nice appearance. Also, you’ll get grips that feature a leather look and a saddle that does the same, so that the bike will always give you a stylish appearance. You’ll also get a mounted bottle opener so you’ll never have to search around for one while you are riding.
Durability
Comprised of high-quality parts and materials, this bike is very sturdy considering its affordable price range. The frame, for example, is comprised out of steel, which means you get a lot of durabilities when you ride since steel is rust-resistant and incredibly strong. The grip and seat are made out of leatherette, which is far more durable than leather. So, although you might think the price means this bike won’t last, that is clearly not the case since it is surprisingly well-built.
Value
This bike is surprisingly affordable considering how well-made it is, and the quality materials and parts built into its design. Also, the popularity of this bike does reveal a lot, since it is one of those products people keep purchasing, and that means people are very happy with it. With its great price and nice design, it is a great investment.
9. Raleigh Redux 1
Raleigh has a longstanding reputation for making high-quality, affordable bikes, and their Urban Series was created for those who want to commute to work or ride around town. Their Redux 1 Urban Assault Bike is part of the Urban Series and was manufactured to be lightweight but also very long-lasting. The Redux 1 Urban Assault Bike is comprised out of many high-quality parts, like Shimano shifters, and also offers a smooth ride around town.
Read moreDesign
Raleigh’s Redux 1 Urban Assault Bike comes in a variety of sizes to fit a wide variety of people, and those sizes include small, medium, large, and extra-large. So, you can get the perfect fit according to your height, which will provide you with more comfort. Also, this bike is made to help you stay upright with its urban assault geometry. Also, this bike is made with a very lightweight alloy frame, but it is also very durable.
Features
Raleigh’s Redux 1 Urban Assault Bike was made with many features that make its design wonderful on the streets, including alloy SPF blades that are built into the aluminum fork. Also, the brakes on this bike are made by Tektro Novela so you’ll get a lot of control when you need to stop. The drivetrain is manufactured by Shimano and comes with one cog and eight gears.
Durability
There was a lot of thought put into the making of this bike, and that dedication makes it very durable. The components on the bike are all made by name brands, so you know you are getting quality that will last. For example, Shimano drivetrain is very reliable and made by a great company. Also, the aluminum alloy frame on this bike adds to its durability.
Value
Raleigh’s Redux 1 Urban Assault Bike costs a bit more than some of the other options we have on our list, but it still is not an outrageous price overall. There is a lot of value to get out of this bike since it is well-built and has components that are made from name brands. It also comes with a warranty, so it is certainly worth the investment.
10. Pure Fix Original
If you have the need for speed when you are out cycling in your city, but you don’t like to think about changing gears often as you ride, then this might just be the option for you. Pure’s Fix Original Fixed Gear Single Speed Fixie Bike comes with a single speed and a fixed gear, and you can change that with ease. That’s not the only thing that is easy about this bike, you also get a front brake that is easy to remove, and a bike that offers an affordable price as well.
Read moreDesign
Pure’s Fix Original Fixed Gear Single Speed Fixie Bike is made to give you a fast ride that offers you some fashion while you are on the go, and also comes at an affordable price. This bike is excellent if you are new to the game, or have taken a few years off, and it will offer you a nice all-around product. It is also made to be simple, easy to use, and fun.
Features
Pure provides you with a lot of great features with this bike, and its simplicity and ease of use is a real plus. It is designed as a fixed gear single speed bike, but that makes it a great bike if you want something simply for enjoyment. Also, you get a wheel hub that is flip-flop in the rear, so you can change easily from the single speed option to the fixed gear when you want to. Also, you get a bike that is both comfortable and built for speed.
Durability
Pure’s Fix Original Fixed Gear Single Speed Fixie Bike is constructed out of high-quality parts that make it a long-lasting, reliable bike. The frame on this bike is made form Tig-welded steel, and that means it is reliable and can be utilized for a long period of time. Also, the components on this bike are all brand names like Kendra Tires, Tubes, Oury Grips, and KMC Chain. So, you know you are getting a product that is built with a lot of reliability.
Value
If you are looking for a cost-effective bike, then you might want to consider this product, because it comes at an affordable price and brings you a lot of options. You’ll wind up with an easy to use the bike that will help you cruise around the streets and enjoy the ride. Also, since you get a lot of reliability and durability here, you know that you are getting something that will last.
Sources
- , This Year’s Best Commuter Bikes for Any Budget, Informational Consumer Website
- , 10 Best Commuter Bikes of the Year, Informational Consumer Website
- , City Crushers: 10 Best Commuter Bicycles, Informational Consumer Website
