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Ready to buy your first bike? Tired of the endless city traffic? How about the tightly packed subways? You’re not alone. Fortunately, there’s another mode of transportation that you can take to and from work — your bike. Urban bikes are now getting a lot of attention because of the endless benefits it offers and the rising popularity of the bike to work lifestyle.
Forget the hype. Biking to work is not for the faint-hearted. And there’s a lot to consider before your first bike commute. Some of it is:
- The type of bike you’re using (terrain, distance, comfort, and frequency will affect your choice)
- Your safety (helmets, reflective clothing, etc.)
- Your bike’s security (bike locks, how to lock your bike properly, etc.)
- What to wear when biking (floral Instagram-worthy dress, or comfort?)
If you’re still not 100% about biking to work, here are 5 things you need to know first.
While you’re at it, we’ve compiled 11 of the best urban bikes you can get today. Check them out and see which one is perfect for you!
Best Urban Bikes to Buy in 2023
Critical Cycles Harper Coaster Urban Bike
The Critical Cycles Harper Coaster Urban Bike is every commuter’s dream bike. This commuter bike features a sleek fixie style with the ease and comfort of a cruiser. Hand-built and tag-welded, this urban commuter bicycle is made from durable, high-tensile steel. It comes in standard 30mm deep v-rims, Kendal commuter tires, a coaster brake, freestyle pedals, and KMC bike chain.
The Critical Cycles Harper Coaster Urban Bike comes in two colours, matte graphite and orange and retrospec matte black. This bike can carry riders up to 220 lbs.
Raleigh Bikes Cadent Hybrid Urban Bike
The Raleigh Bikes Cadent Hybrid Urban Bike is designed for bike paths and city streets. This fantastic urban bike is made from a lightweight yet durable aluminum frame while its fork is made from carbon. Offering a fast and comfy ride, the Raleigh Bikes Cadent Hybrid Urban Bike is powered by a Shimano Claris 16 speed drivetrain while its hydraulic disc brakes offer the ultimate stopping power — rain or shine.
Royce Union RMX Commuter Bike
The Royce Union RMX Commuter Bike offers superior performance and stylish comfort. This urban bike is made from a lightweight yet strong aluminum frame that is rust-free and easy to handle. Its Zoom suspension fork offers solid performance and stable ride.
Speaking of comfort, this commuter bike sports a premium padded VELO saddle with dual springs. The handlebar is slightly raised so you can ride in a more upright position. It also comes with ergonomic grips designed to follow the natural contour of your hand.
Power the Royce Union RMX Commuter Bike is a Shimano 3 speed drivetrain with twist shifting. This bike rolls on 700c tires while its linear, pull brakes offer unparalleled stopping power.
Detroit Bikes Sparrow
The Detroit Bikes Sparrow is the lightest single speed bike in its class. Weighing just 22 lbs, this urban bike is perfect for commuters who don’t want to lunge around a heavy, bulky bike on their way to the office. Made from premium aluminum steel all throughout, the Detroit Bikes Sparrow comes with SDG Duster saddle, color-matched aero rims, and CNC-machined brake tracks.
You can get the Detroit Bikes Sparrow in white with blue, white with red, black with grey, and black with green.
Montague Paratrooper Elite Urban Bike
The Montague Paratrooper Elite Urban Bike is a folding bike that directly connects the front and rear frames with a single click. With frame sizes that can suit riders up to 6’4” in height, the Montague Paratrooper Elite Urban Bike is one of the highest performance mountain bike in the world.
Also perfect for city riding, this urban bike rolls on 27.5 inches Mavic wheels and is powered by a Shimano XT drivetrain. Braking power is provided by Shimano XT hydraulic disc brakes.
EuroMini Zizzo Campo Commuter Bike
The EuroMini Zizzo Campo Commuter Bike is another folding bike. Made from a lightweight aluminum frame, this bike only weighs 28 lbs. It folds in seconds making it easy for you to carry it inside your office building and avoid bike theft. The EuroMini Zizzo Campo Commuter Bike also features folding pedals, a wide comfortable saddle, and a magnet catcher to securely hold the folded frame together.
Powering this urban bike is a 7-speed Shimano Tourney derailleur with a Shimano Revoshift Grip shifter. Braking power is supplied by front and rear aluminum alloy V-brakes.
EuroMini Zizzo Via Commuter Bike
Another quality product from Zizzo, the EuroMini Zizzo Campo Commuter Bike sports a lightweight aluminum alloy frame, stem, handlebar, seat post, kickstand, brakes, fenders, and more. It’s driven by the top class Shimano Tourney 7-speed derailleur while shifting is easily done through the Shimano Revoshift.
This urban commuter bike adapts to all types of riders up to 6’4” tall. It has a maximum capacity of 240 lbs. The bike itself weighs 27 lbs.
Schwinn Wayfarer Urban Bike
The Schwinn Wayfarer Urban Bike features a retro look that’s both stylish and comfortable. It’s powered by the Schwinn 7 speed twist shifter with a Schwinn rear derailleur. Stopping power is provided by front and rear linear pull breaks.
This urban bike also comes with front and rear fenders to protect you from splashes while on your way to the office. It’s also shipped with a classic rear carrier which provides ample storage space for your bags.
The Schwinn Wayfarer Urban Bike rolls on 700c wheels and is perfect for riders up to 6’2”.
Kent Springdale Women’s Urban Bike
Perfect for Instagram, you’ll fall in love with the Kent Springdale Women’s Urban Bike at first sight. Made from lightweight aluminum, this urban bike is comfortable and easy to control. The bike rolls on 700c alloy rims and is powered by a 21-speed Shimano Tourney rear derailleur. Braking power is supplied by linear pull breaks.
The Kent Springdale Women’s Urban Bike is designed for commuting around the city and recreational rides. It can tackle various road surfaces without a problem, thanks to its front suspension fork that offers 60mm travel.
Schwinn Huron and Mikko Cruiser Bike
If you love vintage, you’ll adore the Schwinn Huron and Mikko Cruiser Bike. It’s powered by a 3-speed internal drive train with a twist shifter for easy gear changes on the road. Stopping power is provided by a rear coaster brake while fenders keep your clothes splash-free when biking under the rain.
The Schwinn Huron and Mikko Cruiser Bike sports a classic handlebar that lets you ride in a comfortable, upright position. The bike rolls on 26” wheels and is perfect for adults up to 6’2”.
Schwinn Suburban Sport Bike
The Schwinn Suburban Sport Bike sports a steel frame and suspension fork that offers a responsive and comfortable ride. Powering this ride is a Shimano rear derailleur coupled with a 7-speed Schwinn Micro twist shifter. Linear pull brakes at the front and rear provide reliable stopping power on any given weather.
Designed for comfort, the Schwinn Suburban Sport Bike features a swept-back handlebar that lets you ride in an upright position so as not to strain your back. It also comes with Schwinn comfort seat and ergonomic handgrips.
Frequently Asked Questions About Urban Bikes
Urban riding is not as easy as people think. You have to brave the downtown traffic, watch out for opening car doors, stay away from dark alleys, and find the nearest bike lanes. Here are some common questions about urban bikes and bike commuting in general:
How should I keep my urban bike secure while I’m working?
Security is a big issue for bike commuters. Bike theft is rampant, especially in big cities. Fortunately, there is a wide range of bike locks available depending on your needs. If you want to learn more about bike locks as well as get the latest tips on locking your bike, check this guide.
Is a helmet really mandatory when riding in a city?
That will depend on your city’s regulations. But we at Bikehint, strongly recommend that you wear a bike helmet whenever you ride your bike. Bike helmets don’t only protect you from accidents, it also improves your vision especially in cold or rainy weather. Moreover, bike helmets today are equipped with reflective strips or light to make you more visible at night.
Check this post if you want to learn more about bike helmets and what they do for you.
How do I find the right urban bike?
Finding the right urban bike will depend on several factors. First, is your personal preference. Do you prefer functionality, style, or both? Second, your budget. How far are you willing to go? Obviously, more expensive bikes offer better features, construction, and comfort than their cheaper counterparts. Once you’ve answered these questions, you are well on your way.
Next to consider is the bike’s fit. Bike are usually sized according to the rider’s height. You don’t want an urban bike that’s uncomfortable to ride. You can find some valuable tips here on how to find the right size for you.
Urban biking is a green solution to the world’s major environmental and energy problems. Biking, in general, is a great habit too! We hope this list will help you find the best urban bike for your needs.
Happy biking!
