A range of mountain, road, and touring designs make up multiple types of hybrid bikes which offer features suited to a broad range of uses. The correct type of hybrid bike hugely relies on how you intend to use the bike. There are two main things to be kept in mind when looking to buy a hybrid bike. These are the bike features and components which include things such as the wheel size, suspension, gears, brakes, racks and fenders. These determine how the bike will perform. The next thing to look for is the bike fit to make sure you are comfortable while riding it.
5 Best Hybrid Bikes Under $500
You have to know what surface you would be riding on; roads in the city, riding paved paths and smooth streets for a workout or cruising on a mix of gravel and pavement. Next thing is the wheel size. 700c is the standard size wheel found on most hybrid bikes. Others come with 26 in. wheels. Gears should also be considered. They range from one to 27 or more.
You must also look at bike suspension. Many hybrid bikes do not offer suspension at all. These add weight which makes pedaling less efficient, so a lot of people tend to ignore it. Other bikes, usually the urban ones offer front suspension which help soak up impacts on the front wheel to even out the ride on rough streets.
Another thing to keep an eye out for is the rim brakes. They have pads which grip onto the wheel rims. Some benefits you have of this in comparison to red to disc brakes is that they are economical. It is easy to observe brake pad wear and to replace worn pads. But they also eventually wear out and are less effective in wet or muddy conditions. They also call for more finger effort on the levers to brake aggressively.
Disc Brakes come in two forms, hydraulic disc brakes provide more progressive and stronger braking with less finger effort, and they self-adjust for brake pad wear. Mechanical disc brakes need manual adjusting as the pads wear.
In the end you can choose the frame material which ranges from aluminum to steel and carbon fiber. Each material has pros and cons, so in the end it is up to you to decide. Aluminum is light, strong, stiff and affordable. It can often be harsh on rough roads, but newer construction techniques have helped improve shock absorption. Steel is heavier than aluminum, but its strength and amount of flex offer a comfortable, smooth ride. Carbon fiber is lighter than aluminum and stronger than steel, but it’s more expensive than both, making it a popular choice for high-end bikes. Some bikes feature carbon fiber forks and/or seat posts rather than a frame made entirely of carbon in order to keep the price down but still provide some of the benefits of the light, strong material.
A very important detail is the handlebars. There are 5 basic styles of handlebars on bikes. The drop bar is usually found on road bikes, drop-bar handlebars are occasionally offered on hybrid bikes. They are lightweight and aerodynamic, making them the preferred choice if you want to go fast. They also allow several riding and hand positions. Their downside is that they put you in a lower, more hunched over position that may put more strain on your back.
Flat bar are very common on hybrid bikes. They are heavier than drop-bar handlebars, but they let you sit up in a more relaxed position so you can better see the road and potential hazards. This upright position reduces strain on your hands, wrists and shoulders. Riser bar are common on hybrid bikes, riser bars extend slightly upward and back toward the rider. They allow you to sit more upright and farther back for excellent vision of the trail ahead and good control while steering the bike. Moustache bar look like drop bars but have a very little drop. They give you a variety of hand positions while allowing you to sit more upright than with drop bars. Moustache bars are found on some road bikes and hybrid bikes.
If you are looking for the best bike under the budget of $500, then you have come to the right place as we have narrowed it down to 5 of our favourite hybrid bikes.
1. sixthreezero EVRYjourney Women’s Step-Through Hybrid Cruiser Bicycle
This is available in 24-Inch and 26-Inch in the colors cream and black. Its seats comes with grips. It is a versatile Women’s hybrid cruiser bicycle with 17.5-Inch swooping step-through aluminum frame. It is perfect for cruise and leisure. Also perfect for the commute rides. Its upright riding style keeps your back and shoulders comfortable. Its foot-forward design helps maintain proper leg extension.
Features:
- It has high gloss chrome components and a frame with a glistening sheen
The hybrid cruiser looks like a sleek, modern showpiece. - Single-speed model for cruising can be chosen for easy-going rides on flat terrain.
- If you you’ve got hills to climb or want to cover more miles, the 3-speed and 7-speed models will get you to your destination with style and grace.
- The 21-speed model will help you tackle demanding street, trail, long distance, and uphill riding.
Verdict:
Its single-speed bike is great for flat terrain; front handbrake and rear coaster brake for easy stopping. It is stylish with a curvy frame and comfy dual-spring saddle. It includes matching fenders and rear rack for optional baskets and panniers. It has a 26-Inch, 1.95-Inch wide whitewall semi-slick tires which provide a cushioned, stable ride for easy rolling.
2. Schwinn Discover 700c Hybrid Bicycle with Full Fenders and Rear Cargo Rack, Men’s and Women’s Frame Styles
You don’t have to do a lot of prep before taking this one out, it will readily take you wherever you need to go. With its classic look, this Schwinn will match anything in your closet.
Features:
- Bottom of Form
- Comfort/hybrid bike with aluminum frame. Cushy grips with dual density construction and built in rack.
- Schwinn suspension fork. Schwinn alloy crank. City rise adjustable stem with back sweep handlebar. All the biking comfort details
21-speed SRAM grip shifter and Shimano rear derailleur mean that pedaling up a hill is easier. Alloy twist shifter compatible 4 finger brake levers. - Promax alloy linear pull brakes; gear carrier. Adjust the angle (rise) of the alloy Ahead stem.
- Swept-back upright handlebars, padded seat. The aluminum frame is lighter and yet durable, fenders keep dirt off the rider
Verdict:
With a frame made for urban riding, with a front suspension fork to make man hole covers and pavement patches easier to take. The rear rack is built in and ready to carry your bag or groceries back home with you. The coordinating fenders look snazzy but are also practical since they will keep the morning dew and splashes off your Armani.
3. Retrospec Beaumont-7 Seven Speed Lady’s Urban City Commuter Bike
This comes in a shorter size than the average one but still has large wheels and a mature looking style. The seat and handle bars are both adjustable so if you are a taller person, you have a pro right here. You can also have your feet touch the ground. You also get the curved bar to step through which makes it easier to get on and off.
Features:
- Lightweight hand-built step-thru steel frame design with an upright riding position designed for urban commuting, leisurely riding, and exercise
- Equipped with Shimano 7-Speed drivetrain and RevoShift twist shifters for ultimate precision, speed, and control
Front and rear Linear Pull brakes to keep you safe and in control of your ride at all times - Kenda 700x35C tires grip the ground for a smooth and sure footed ride every time
- Arrives 85% built and comes with assembly tools and instructions so you can easily finish putting together your bike!
Verdict:
The seat and handlebars are made of a faux leather material, or plastic that looks similar to leather. They are firm but still comfortable. If someone was riding really far they made need a more comfortable seat but this is a very nice seat for coming with a smaller priced bike. The back “saddle” area has a tension thing, so you could put a book or something under there. You can add on features such as a milk crate or a basket for your dog to ride in.
4. Schwinn Wayfarer 700c Women’s Hybrid Bike
Schwinn was established in 1895, in Chicago, IL. Remembered for iconic bikes like the Phantom, the Varsity, the Stingray and the original Krate and Picker series of children’s bikes, Schwinn has made it possible for riders of all ages to experience the thrill of riding a bicycle.
Features:
- Schwinn retro style steel frame and fork
- Swept back handlebars for upright riding position
- Schwinn 7 speed derailleur for smooth shifts
- Alloy brakes for precise stops
- Full fenders provide convenient riding in all weather
Verdict:
The joys of learning to ride for the first time, sharing an excursion with friends, proudly completing a new training regime or enjoying a local scenic route are all best enjoyed on a Schwinn. You can count on Schwinn.
5. Raleigh Bikes Women’s Alysa 2 Fitness Hybrid Bike
If you love the idea of a lightweight road bike but prefer the stable handling of a mountain bike and the extra stopping power of disc brakes, the Raleigh Alysa 2 is for you. This women’s bike makes a great city bike or commuter bike. The women’s specific bike frame is lightweight and durable with sizing that many women prefer over standard men’s sizing. This all-around fitness bike comes with wide 35c tires that are wider than standard road bike tires to provide extra traction.
Features:
- General sizing: XS=5′-5’3″, S=5’3″-5’6″, M=5’6″-5’9″, L=5’9″-6′. If you have questions about sizing, feel free to contact us for more information.
- Complete bikes will be partially disassembled and sealed in a factory box for shipping. Bikes arrive approximately 85% assembled and will require installation of parts and adjustment of components. If you are not comfortable with bicycle assembly or adjustments, we recommend bringing the the bike to a capable bike shop to be built.
Verdict:
The 700c wheels keep the ride quick and efficient while flat handlebars and sporty geometry make it stable and comfortable. Use it for putting in miles along the bike path, riding through the city on your way to work, and going everywhere in between. With full rack and fender mounts and strong double wall wheels, you’ll always be ready for your next two-wheeled adventure.