Choosing the perfect bicycle can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re aiming to commute to work, boost your fitness, or simply enjoy leisurely rides in the countryside, a bike is an excellent choice. However, the sheer variety of bike types available today can be confusing.
If you’re an adult looking to buy a bike and are unsure where to start, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through the different styles of bikes to help you pinpoint the best one for your specific needs and preferences.
The ideal bike for you hinges on what you plan to do with it and where you intend to ride. Your personal taste, the distances you want to cover, and the terrain you’ll encounter are all crucial factors. There’s a vast world of cycling and a multitude of bikes designed to match every goal and riding style.
Whether you’re navigating city streets as a daily commuter, craving the speed of road racing, tackling thrilling mountain trails, exploring gravel paths, or anything in between, there’s a bike perfectly suited for your adventures.
Investing in a bike is significant, so consider exploring bicycle insurance options to protect your new purchase.
Let’s delve into the different types of bikes to help you find your perfect ride:
Road Bikes: The Top Choice for Speed on Pavement
Male cyclist in green top riding the Trek Émonda SL 6 eTap road bike
As their name implies, road bikes are engineered for speed and efficiency on paved roads. They are characterized by lightweight frames and narrow, smooth road bike tires designed to minimize rolling resistance and maximize speed with each pedal stroke.
Road bikes feature dropped handlebars, curving downwards and back, which allow riders to adopt an aerodynamic riding position. This posture reduces wind resistance, allowing you to ride faster and more efficiently. The gearing systems on road bikes are also optimized for high speeds on flat and inclined roads.
Within the road bike category, endurance road bikes offer a slightly more relaxed geometry. These bikes are excellent for long-distance rides with friends and are also well-suited for commuting, thanks to their ability to cover ground quickly and efficiently. They provide a balance of speed and comfort, making them Good Bikes For Adults who want to ride longer distances without extreme discomfort.
However, the performance-oriented riding position of a road bike can be less comfortable for some adults, especially those new to cycling or preferring a more upright posture. Additionally, the lightweight wheels and tires, while fast, can be more vulnerable to damage from rough road surfaces, curbs, and potholes. If your routes involve less-than-perfect roads, this is something to consider.
Many dedicated road bikes, particularly aero road bikes designed for minimizing wind resistance and climbing road bikes built for uphill efficiency, may lack mounting points for racks and fenders. This limits their ability to carry luggage, making them less practical for commuting with bags or touring. For adults needing to carry gear, a pure road bike might not be the most versatile choice.
If the call of speed and efficiency on paved roads resonates with you, explore our comprehensive guide to the best road bikes to find the model that matches your needs and budget. Road bikes are undeniably good bikes for adults focused on fitness, speed, and enjoying the thrill of road cycling.
Pros: Fast, highly efficient, enjoyable to ride, great for fitness.
Cons: Can be less comfortable for casual riders, less durable wheels and tires, limited versatility for carrying cargo.
Mountain Bikes: Conquer Any Terrain Off the Beaten Path
Cyclist in red top riding the Canyon Spectral 125 CF 7 full suspension mountain bike
Mountain bikes are built to withstand the rigors of off-road riding, designed to tackle the most challenging natural terrains. They feature robust frames and aggressive, knobby mountain bike tires that provide excellent grip on loose dirt, rocks, roots, and mud.
These bikes are equipped with powerful disc brakes, similar to those found on cars and motorcycles, providing reliable stopping power in all conditions. Higher-end mountain bikes often feature suspension systems, either front suspension (hardtail) or both front and rear suspension (full suspension), to absorb bumps and improve control on rough trails. The gearing on mountain bikes is designed to handle steep climbs and descents, offering a wide range of gears to conquer varying gradients.
Even if you don’t plan on extreme mountain adventures, mountain bikes are good bikes for adults seeking a comfortable and durable option for general leisure riding or commuting on rougher roads. The more upright riding position is comfortable for many adults, and the robust construction can handle city streets with potholes and uneven surfaces.
However, while suspension is beneficial for off-road riding, it adds weight, increases cost, and can reduce pedaling efficiency on smooth surfaces. If you primarily ride on paved roads, a full-suspension mountain bike might be overkill.
If you’re drawn to exploring trails, pushing your limits, and venturing into nature, our buyer’s guide to the best mountain bikes will help you choose the perfect off-road companion. Mountain bikes are excellent good bikes for adults who prioritize durability, off-road capability, and a comfortable, upright riding position.
Similar to road bikes, mountain bikes are further categorized to suit different riding styles and terrains.
Cross-country mountain bikes are built for speed and efficiency, ideal for racing and fast trail riding. Trail mountain bikes and enduro mountain bikes offer more suspension travel, designed to handle more technical and challenging terrain. Downcountry mountain bikes bridge the gap between cross-country and trail bikes, providing a balance of uphill efficiency and downhill capability.
Hardtail mountain bikes, featuring only front suspension, are a more affordable option and are simpler to maintain due to the absence of rear suspension. They are good bikes for adults starting out in mountain biking or those who prefer less technical trails.
Pros: Powerful brakes, upright and comfortable riding position, incredibly durable, versatile for various terrains.
Cons: Heavier than road bikes, can be slower on paved surfaces, full suspension models can be expensive.
Gravel Bikes: The Versatile Choice for Mixed Terrain Adventures
Female cyclist riding the Vitus Substance VRS-1 HT Apex gravel bike
Gravel bikes have surged in popularity, and for good reason. They offer a compelling blend of versatility and practicality, bridging the gap between road bikes and mountain bikes. They are often considered good bikes for adults who want a single bike capable of handling varied riding conditions.
Gravel bikes share similarities with bikepacking bikes and all-road bikes, emphasizing their adaptability across different surfaces and riding styles. They combine the aesthetics and speed of road bikes with the capability to handle wider, knobby tires, offering enhanced traction and comfort on unpaved surfaces. Gravel tires are typically 40mm wide or wider, allowing you to confidently tackle everything from rough pavement and muddy paths to gravel roads and trails.
Gravel bikes are sometimes referred to as adventure bikes, highlighting their suitability for exploration and long-distance riding. They are constructed from various frame materials, including steel, aluminum, carbon fiber, and titanium, catering to a range of budgets and performance preferences.
Many gravel bikes include features that enhance their versatility, such as mounts for mudguards and pannier racks, making them practical for commuting and light touring. Disc brakes, often hydraulic for superior stopping power, are common, and the geometry is typically more relaxed than a road bike, providing better handling and stability on varied surfaces.
Gravel bikes are also excellent for road riding in less-than-ideal conditions, such as winter. Simply fit puncture-resistant tires, and you have a robust and reliable bike for all-weather riding.
Adventure bikes equipped for carrying luggage, such as frame bags, saddlebags, and handlebar bags, are popular for bikepacking, a form of lightweight touring that emphasizes off-pavement exploration.
The gravel bike category is rapidly evolving, with some models now incorporating gravel bike-specific suspension systems to further enhance comfort and control on rough terrain.
If you’re intrigued by the versatility of gravel bikes, our guide to the best gravel bikes can help you find the ideal model for your mixed-terrain adventures. Gravel bikes are undoubtedly good bikes for adults seeking a do-it-all machine capable of handling everything from daily commutes to weekend explorations on varied surfaces.
Pros: Fast on pavement, comfortable on rough roads, practical for commuting and touring, versatile for mixed-terrain riding.
Cons: Can be heavier than dedicated road bikes, may be attractive to thieves due to their popularity and value.
Hybrid Bikes: The Ideal Balance for Casual Riding and Commuting
Gary Walker riding Ribble Hybrid Leisure AL bike in Bristol
Hybrid bikes strike a balance between road bikes and mountain bikes, borrowing the comfortable riding position of a mountain bike and pairing it with a lighter frame and faster-rolling road bike wheels. They are often considered good bikes for adults looking for a comfortable and versatile option for commuting and recreational riding.
They are an excellent choice if you need to cover distances on roads but prefer a more upright riding position than a road bike offers. This upright posture, while less aerodynamic, provides better visibility in urban traffic and is well-suited for commuting to work and navigating city streets.
If you prioritize speed on good roads but prefer a more upright position or don’t favor drop handlebars, a hybrid bike is a great option. The primary trade-off compared to a road bike is reduced aerodynamic efficiency and slightly lower top speeds.
Hybrid bikes often feature powerful disc brakes, providing consistent braking performance in wet conditions, although they may add a slight weight penalty. They are also typically equipped with mounts for racks and fenders, enhancing their practicality for commuting and carrying cargo, such as pannier bags.
For adults needing a bike that bridges the gap between urban performance and confident handling, our guide to the best hybrid bikes provides all the information you need to make an informed decision. Hybrid bikes are excellent good bikes for adults seeking a comfortable, versatile, and practical option for commuting, fitness, and general riding.
Pros: Reasonably fast, versatile for various uses, comfortable upright riding position, good for commuting.
Cons: Typically heavier than road bikes, not as fast as road bikes for performance riding.
Electric Bikes: Power-Assisted Riding for Hills and Effortless Commuting
Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 eBike
Electric bikes, or e-bikes, provide pedal assistance thanks to a powerful motor and battery system. They are ideal good bikes for adults who want to commute without arriving sweaty, tackle hills with ease, or extend their riding range.
Electric bike regulations vary by region. In many areas, e-bikes with motors limited to a certain speed (e.g., 15.5mph or 25km/h) are legally considered bicycles, requiring no special licensing or helmet laws beyond standard bicycle regulations. These are often referred to as “pedelecs” because you must pedal to activate the electric assistance.
More powerful e-bikes, sometimes equipped with motorcycle-style throttles, exist, but in some regions, they may be classified as mopeds or motorcycles, requiring registration, insurance, and specific helmet types.
Most e-bikes are designed for comfort and practicality, often featuring flat handlebars, mudguards, and luggage-carrying capabilities. They are good bikes for adults who prioritize ease of use and practicality over pure performance.
E-bikes typically come with a higher price tag and weight compared to non-electric bikes due to the battery, motor, and electronics. However, as technology advances and e-bikes become more popular, prices are decreasing, and weights are coming down. The growing market includes more affordable cheap e-bikes, making them accessible to a wider range of adults.
Canyon Spectral:ON CFR electric mountain bike
Electric mountain bikes (eMTBs) are a rapidly growing segment, enabling riders to explore trails further and climb hills more easily. They are good bikes for adults who want to enjoy mountain biking with less physical strain or extend their trail riding adventures.
Electric road bikes are also gaining traction, allowing riders to cover longer distances and overcome health limitations that might otherwise prevent them from cycling. While still a niche market compared to eMTBs, they are increasingly appealing to adults seeking assistance for longer road rides.
Electric hybrid bikes and folding electric bikes are excellent choices for urban riding, combining the benefits of electric assist with the practicality of hybrid or folding designs.
Converting a non-electric bike to an e-bike is also possible using electric bike conversion kits, offering an alternative to purchasing a new e-bike.
Our comprehensive guide to the best electric bikes can help you navigate the e-bike market and find the right model for your needs and riding style. Electric bikes are becoming increasingly good bikes for adults of all ages and fitness levels, offering a boost for commuting, recreation, and fitness.
Pros: Easy to ride, comfortable, fun, excellent for hills and headwinds, extends riding range.
Cons: Requires regular recharging, heavier and more expensive than comparable non-electric bikes.
Touring Bikes: Built for Long Journeys and Carrying Gear
Dawes touring bike with pannier rack
While hybrid bikes excel in urban environments, touring bikes are designed for everything from daily commutes to continent-crossing adventures. They are robust and stable good bikes for adults who need to carry luggage and prioritize comfort over long distances.
Touring bikes typically use the same fast-rolling 700c wheels as road and hybrid bikes but are equipped with wider tires for comfort and versatility on mixed terrains.
“Hardcore” touring bikes built for heavy loads may opt for 26-inch touring wheels due to their greater strength and better spare parts availability in remote areas.
The relaxed riding position and stable geometry of a touring bike make it capable of handling diverse conditions, from mountain passes loaded with gear to quick commutes to work.
If you need a highly versatile all-rounder capable of handling heavy loads and long distances, our guide to the best touring bikes will help you choose the right model for your adventures, whether you’re exploring familiar routes or venturing off the beaten path. Touring bikes are excellent good bikes for adults who prioritize durability, stability, and load-carrying capacity for extended rides and travel.
Pros: Very durable, high load-carrying capacity, reasonably fast on pavement, comfortable for long distances.
Cons: Not as fast as race bikes, can feel sluggish without a load.
Cyclocross Bikes: Race-Ready for Off-Road Speed and Agility
Silver coloured cyclocross bike from Ribble
Cyclocross bikes share similarities with road and gravel bikes but are specifically designed for the demanding racing discipline of cyclocross. They are lightweight and agile good bikes for adults who want to race or ride aggressively off-road.
While they feature wider tires, drop handlebars, and often disc brakes, like gravel bikes, cyclocross bikes are typically more race-focused and may lack features like mudguard or pannier mounts.
Their geometry is generally more aggressive than gravel and adventure bikes, making them less ideal for long, leisurely days in the saddle. However, for adults seeking a fast and capable off-road racing machine, they are an excellent choice.
Our list of the best cyclocross bikes compiles top-performing models from recent tests, providing a resource for those interested in cyclocross racing or aggressive off-road riding.
Pros: Fast, designed specifically for cyclocross racing, agile handling, capable off-road.
Cons: Less versatile than gravel or adventure bikes for general riding, aggressive geometry may not be comfortable for long rides.
Fixed-Gear / Singlespeed Bikes: Simplicity and Low-Maintenance in Urban Environments
Jack
Popular in urban settings and essential for velodrome track cycling, fixed-gear bikes (fixies) or singlespeed bikes represent the ultimate in simplicity. They are good bikes for adults who value low maintenance, direct connection to the bike, and stylish urban riding.
A true fixie has no freewheel, meaning you must always pedal when the bike is moving. This creates a unique connection and control, although it can take some getting used to and may not be beginner-friendly.
Fixed-gear bikes are incredibly fast in the hands of experienced riders, and their lack of complexity translates to minimal maintenance. They are well-suited for confident commuters in relatively flat urban areas who appreciate direct control and low upkeep. However, they can be challenging in hilly areas and require a higher level of rider commitment.
Once you become comfortable riding a fixie, they are among the best commuter bikes, favored by cycle couriers for their reliability. A legal-minimum fixie with just a front brake has very few parts that can fail.
If you’re interested in minimalist cycling, our buyer’s guide to fixies and singlespeed bikes offers further insights.
Pros: Lightweight, simple design, quick and efficient in urban environments, low maintenance.
Cons: Requires some skill to ride, challenging in hilly terrain, not ideal for casual cyclists.
City Bikes: Practical and Hassle-Free for Short Urban Trips
Image alt text: A Mustang Dutch city bike is pictured in Copenhagen, Denmark, emphasizing its classic design and practicality for urban commuting and short trips in flat city environments.
Dutch-style city or town bikes excel at providing short-range transportation in flat urban areas. Their appeal lies in their simplicity, practicality, and robustness. They are good bikes for adults who prioritize comfort, ease of use, and practicality for short urban commutes and errands.
Single-speed city bikes offer minimal maintenance, while hub gear versions with up to 11 speeds provide some versatility while remaining durable.
Typical city bikes feature chainguards, kickstands, and flat pedals, allowing you to ride comfortably in everyday clothes. Built-in dynamo lighting and bike locks are common, reducing the need for additional accessories.
City bikes handle potholed streets with ease, and their upright riding position provides excellent visibility in traffic. However, they tend to be heavier, and while the riding position is comfortable, it’s not particularly efficient, making them less suitable for hills or longer distances.
Pros: Stylish looks, relaxed and upright riding position, highly practical for urban errands, ideal for everyday clothes, very durable.
Cons: Heavy and slow, not suitable for hills or longer distances.
Folding Bikes: Compact and Portable for Urban Commuters and Travel
Brompton P Line folding bike
If you need to combine cycling with urban portability, folding bikes are unmatched. They are best suited for shorter rides, especially where storage space is limited, and their portability makes them ideal for combining cycling with public transportation. They are excellent good bikes for adults who commute in cities and need to store their bike at home or in the office.
Folding bikes are exceptionally popular among city commuters. The most compact models fold down small enough to fit under a desk and are easy to carry.
While folding bikes don’t ride exactly like conventional bikes due to design compromises, modern folding bikes are surprisingly capable.
Our list of the best folding bikes will guide you to the top folding bikes worth considering for your urban commuting needs.
Pros: Extremely convenient to store, can be taken on public transport, small wheels accelerate quickly, great for urban commuting.
Cons: Heavier and slower than full-sized bikes, not as stable or pothole-proof as larger wheeled bikes.
Kids’ Bikes: Starting Young and Building a Love for Cycling
Black Mountain Hutto kids bike
When choosing bikes for children, remember that their needs vary significantly based on age and skill level. While not “adult” bikes, including information about kids’ bikes provides a complete overview of bicycle types.
A good starting point for finding the right size bike for a child is understanding kids’ bike wheel sizes.
Balance bikes are ideal for preschoolers, helping them develop balance and coordination before transitioning to pedal bikes. By the time children are ready for 16-inch wheel bikes, they will typically be pedaling without training wheels.
Moving up to 20-inch wheels, gears start to appear, and by the time they are around nine years old and riding 24-inch wheels, they are essentially riding smaller versions of adult bikes, often including features like disc brakes and suspension.
Our list of the best kids’ bikes and best cheap kids’ bikes provides resources for finding the right bikes for children of all ages and budgets.
Pros: Kids’ bikes come in various sizes and styles to suit different ages and abilities, encouraging early cycling.
Cons: Specific to children, not adults, but essential for families and comprehensive bike knowledge.
