Investing in a commuter bike is a fantastic decision for your health and wallet. The well-documented health benefits of cycling to work are undeniable, and freeing yourself from the costs and frustrations of car commuting is truly liberating. Rain or shine, a bike commute can be the perfect start and end to your workday, energizing you in the morning and relieving stress in the evening.
When choosing your commuter bike, several factors come into play. Ultimately, the best commuter bike for you is one that excites you to ride, offers comfort, and, above all, practicality. You might even discover some surprising benefits of bike commuting that you haven’t considered.
Commutes vary greatly. You might have a smooth, dedicated cycle path or need to combine cycling with public transportation. Some even use their commute for training, in which case our Best Road Bikes guide might be of interest. Regardless of your terrain, transport combinations, or distance, this guide will help you find the best commuter bike to suit your needs.
Best Commuter Bikes by Style: Quick Picks
- Specialized Sirrus X 2.0
Best Folding Commuter Bike
2. Brompton C Line
Best Vintage, Dutch & Classic Style commuter bike
3. Pendleton Somerby
Best Singlespeed commuter bike
4. Elops 500 City
Best drop bar commuter bike
5. Cube Nuroad FE
Best cargo commuter bike
6. Tern GSD S10
Best Commuter Bikes by Style
Best Hybrid Bikes For Commuting
A cyclist commuting to work on a flat bar hybrid bike equipped with disc brakes, highlighting the versatility of hybrid commuter bikes for urban environments.
Good For: Urban and suburban commutes, occasional canal paths, byways or unpaved tracks.
Traditionally, a hybrid bike blends the robustness of a mountain bike with the speed and gearing of a road bike. These qualities make them excellent commuter bikes: they are user-friendly, comfortable, and offer a helpful turn of speed for your morning ride.
Hybrid bikes encompass a wide range of styles. Some are designed for speed, resembling road bikes with narrow tires and high gear ratios. Others prioritize comfort and practicality, featuring suspension forks, wide gravel tires, racks, and mudguards as standard.
Practicality is a hallmark of hybrid bikes, making them ideal for commuting. They almost always accommodate pannier racks and mudguards or fenders, and often have ample space for accessories like lights, bottle cages, bells, or phone holders.
The Specialized Sirrus X 2.0 hybrid bike in yellow, a top pick for best hybrid commuter bikes due to its value and versatility.
Specialized Sirrus X 2.0
Best Hybrid Commuting Bike
Our expert review:
Specifications:
- Frame: Alloy with steel fork
- Drivetrain: microSHIFT Acolyte, 8-speed
- Ratios: 42t, 12-42t
- Wheels: Alloy 700c
- Tires: Pathfinder Sport, 700x42mm
- Brakes: Promax F1 hydraulic disc
- Weight: 12.08kg
Reasons to buy:
- Great value for a versatile commuter bike
- Impressive and reliable shifting
- Mounts for fenders and panniers
Reasons to avoid:
- Not the most agile bike
- Upright riding position may not suit all
The Specialized Sirrus hybrid, built with the brand’s A1 Alloy butted aluminum, is an excellent commuting companion for those seeking a reliable and efficient ride. It features 700c wheels with clearance for 42mm wide tires, making it comfortable on varied surfaces, from rough roads to light trails. Rack and fender mounts enhance its practicality, making it a top choice among commuter bikes for customization.
Testers praised the Shimano setup for its smooth gear shifting. While newer models feature rapid fire 2×8-speed, the wide gear range remains beneficial for tackling hilly commutes. Practical touches like the front chainguard are well-suited for daily commuting.
The Sirrus range has expanded significantly, now including models from 1.0 to 4.0, with the Sirrus X 2.0 offering a more off-road capable setup. Step-through versions are also available for both the X and standard models, and a variety of colors are offered. The 2024 lineup further expanded with a new frame design for the Sirrus 6.0 and the Sirrus X 5.0.
The Ribble Hybrid AL e in blue with tan wall tires, showcasing a stylish electric hybrid commuter bike option.
Ribble Hybrid AL e
Best Electric Hybrid Commuting Bike
Our expert review:
Specifications:
- Frame: Aluminum frame and fork
- Drivetrain: SRAM NX Urban 11-speed
- Ratios: 42t, 11-42t
- Wheels: Mavic Allroad EBM 700c
- Tires: Schwalbe Marathon 35mm
- Brakes: Rever Attack U hydraulic disc
- Weight: Not specified
Reasons to buy:
- Stealthy, lightweight hidden motor
- Customizable specs available
- Stylish and comfortable design
Reasons to avoid:
- Sizing may run small
The Ribble Hybrid AL e is a stylish electric option for commuting, featuring a discreet motor and internal battery for added assistance. Like all Ribble bikes, it offers customization options, with the Fully Loaded version including racks, lights, and mudguards for a complete commuter setup.
The motor and battery system adds only 3.5 kilograms, keeping the Hybrid AL e relatively lightweight for an e-bike. It provides a range of around 60 miles, and assistance levels are adjustable via the Mahle ebikemotion app, allowing you to prioritize range or power.
The components are well-chosen, including a SRAM NX 11-speed drivetrain with a wide-range cassette, quality Mavic wheels, hydraulic disc brakes, and a comfortable saddle, making it a top electric commuter bike.
Best Folding Bikes for Commuting
A man at a train station holding a folded bike, illustrating the convenience of folding commuter bikes for multi-modal commutes.
Good For: Combining cycling with public transport or car travel for long commutes.
Folding bikes typically feature small wheels and a folding mechanism on the frame for compact storage. Additional folding features like stems, pedals, or removable luggage options are often available to further reduce size.
Popular folding bikes often use 16 or 20-inch wheels. Larger wheeled folding bikes exist but are less common due to their increased folded size and weight, limiting their portability.
Folding bikes are ideal for combining cycling with public transport, shortening commute times. They are also a great alternative to touring bikes, especially when traveling by plane, train, or car. They are also popular among motorhome and caravan owners due to their compact storage.
The Brompton C-Line Explore folding bike in black, recognized as the best folding commuter bike for its compact fold and ride quality.
Brompton C-Line
Best Folding Commuting Bike
Our expert review:
Specifications:
- Frame: Steel, steel fork
- Drivetrain: 2 or 6 speed options
- Ratios: Not given
- Wheels: Alloy
- Tires: Schwalbe Marathon
- Brakes: Rim
- Weight: 11.3kg
Reasons to buy:
- Lightweight and portable
- Exceptional folding mechanism
- Good ride quality
Reasons to avoid:
- Small wheels can feel less stable at speed
- Proprietary parts and standards
Brompton, the market leader in folding bikes, consistently receives top marks in reviews for its range. Brompton allows customization of handlebar type, gearing, and accessories, making it challenging to review a single model.
Brompton bikes excel due to their lightweight design, rapid folding, and compact folded size.
Several versions are available, including electric and superlight (P-Line) models. The C-Line comes in ‘Explore’ (6-speed) and ‘Urban’ (2-speed) configurations, both offering handlebar and color choices.
For a more budget-friendly Brompton experience, the A-line offers a simpler single build with a mid-height handlebar, single color option, and reliable 3-speed hub.
The Eovolt Afternoon 16 Origin electric folding bike in sand color, a contender for best electric folding commuter bike with its unique features.
Eovolt Afternoon 16 Origin
Best Electric Folding Commuting Bike
Specifications:
- Frame: 6061 heat treated Aluminum
- Drivetrain: Shimano Tourney 7 Speed
- Wheels: Alloy
- Tires: Schwalbe Pick Up 16”
- Brakes: Shimano Hydraulic discs
- Weight: 16.5kg
Reasons to buy:
- Rear hub motor for better handling
- Chunky tires for puncture protection and comfort
- Hydraulic disc brakes
Reasons to avoid:
- Small wheels can be twitchy
- Heavier than some competitors, smaller battery
- Stability when folded can be an issue
The Eovolt Afternoon 16 Origin offers a compelling alternative to the Brompton Electric. Key differentiators include disc brakes for superior stopping power in all weather and traffic conditions, especially crucial on e-bikes due to added torque. Eovolt’s rear hub motor placement enhances handling compared to front-hub systems, contributing to safer riding, particularly in wet conditions.
The Afternoon 16’s folded size is slightly larger than a Brompton, but still compact enough for car boots or train luggage bays. One noted drawback is its folded stability, as the seatpost’s plastic protector isn’t ideal for supporting the bike when freestanding.
Best Vintage, Dutch & Classic Style Bikes for Commuting
A Dutch style bike parked at night, symbolizing classic commuter bikes ideal for stylish and leisurely urban commutes.
Good for: Short, flat urban and suburban commutes where style is a priority.
Vintage, Dutch, and classic style bikes share similarities with hybrid bikes, especially in specifications. They are practical, versatile, and excellent for city riding. Their signature “sit-up-and-beg” riding position is a major appeal, offering comfort for relaxed commutes in flatter urban areas.
Steel remains a popular frame material for Dutch and classic bikes, but lighter aluminum frames are becoming more common to reduce overall weight (often exceeding 15kg for steel models) and improve versatility. However, traditional steel bikes have proven durable and popular for decades in Northern Europe.
The Pendleton Somerby hybrid bike, a top vintage style commuter bike praised for its classic looks and practical features.
Pendleton Somerby
Best Vintage, Dutch & Classic Style Commuting Bike
Specifications:
- Frame: Aluminum, steel fork
- Drivetrain: Shimano Tourney 7 Speed
- Wheels: Aluminum
- Tires: Kenda Smooth Roll, 38mm
- Brakes: V-brakes
- Weight: 14.6kg
Reasons to buy:
- Classic aesthetic
- Includes rack and mudguards
- Step-through frame option
- Lightweight for its style
Reasons to avoid:
- Plated steel finish may pit over time
- Basket not included as standard
The Pendleton Somerby has proven reliable and durable in daily use. Replacing a heavier, unreliable bike, the Somerby demonstrates thoughtful design in affordable bicycles. Features like the metal chainguard, mudguards, and welded rack contribute to a quiet and low-maintenance ride.
At 14.5kg, the Pendleton is relatively lightweight for a classic-style commuter bike. Simplicity is key, with a reliable 7-speed Shimano drivetrain. The Somerby is highly recommended for its affordability, reliability, and build quality, ideal for short commutes with a touch of style.
The Electra Loft Go! 7D EQ vintage style bike in mint green, an electric vintage commuter bike blending classic looks with modern e-bike technology.
Electra Loft Go! 7D EQ
Best Electric Vintage, Dutch & Classic Style Commuting Bike
Specifications:
- Frame: Aluminum with a steel fork
- Drivetrain: Shimano Tourney 7 Speed
- Wheels: Aluminum, 700c
- Tires: Kenda Piedmont 700×40 mm
- Brakes: Mechanical disc, 160 mm rotor, flat-mount
- Weight: 21kg
Reasons to buy:
- Trek quality at a budget
- Optional range extender
- Aluminum frame with integrated battery maintains classic styling
Reasons to avoid:
- Mechanical disc brakes could be upgraded to hydraulic
- Low-output lights may be insufficient
- Limited size options
The Electra Loft Go! 7D EQ, a result of Trek’s acquisition of Electra Bikes, cleverly integrates e-bike technology into a classic beach cruiser style. Trek redesigned the bike to house a 250Wh battery within the aluminum frame, preserving the traditional slim tube aesthetic. The Loft Go! balances style with substance, featuring a 40Nm Hyena rear hub motor and 250Wh battery for adequate power and range while keeping weight reasonable.
While the Loft Go! offers excellent value, the mechanical disc brakes are a slight drawback. Upgrading to hydraulic brakes would be a worthwhile improvement. The simple LED display is functional, and the Elektra + Central App provides connectivity features.
Best Singlespeed and Fixed Gear Bikes for Commuting
A bicycle courier riding a pink singlespeed bike in a city, illustrating the efficiency and low maintenance of singlespeed commuter bikes.
Good For: Fast, flat, and low-maintenance commutes, popular for winter riding.
Simplicity is a major advantage in a commuter bike, and single-speed or single-gear bikes excel in this area. Geared bikes require more frequent maintenance and part replacements. Removing gears minimizes drivetrain wear and tear.
A well-designed singlespeed drivetrain can be exceptionally smooth, durable, and offer direct power transfer, as seen in track bikes. While singlespeed bikes are sold with a freewheel for legal reasons, many feature a flip-flop hub for fixed-gear riding.
Gearing is crucial for singlespeed bikes. Experiment with different ratios to find the best match for your commute’s terrain.
The Decathlon Elops 500 city bike, a budget-friendly singlespeed commuter bike known for its simplicity and durability.
Elops 500 City Bike
Best Singlespeed Commuting Bike
Specifications:
- Wheels: 700c alloy w/ flip-flop hub
- Tires: N/A
- Brakes: Dual-pivot caliper
- Weight: 11.6kg
Reasons to buy:
- Flip-flop hub for fixed or freewheel riding
- Durable steel frame
Reasons to avoid:
- Not the lightest option at over 11kg
Decathlon’s Elops City Bike 500, formerly B’Twin, remains a solid choice for a straightforward singlespeed commuter bike.
For an affordable price, you get a robust steel frame and fork with dual-pivot caliper brakes. The 44×18 gearing is suited for flat commutes, and the flip-flop hub offers fixed or freewheel options.
Ideal for short, flat commutes, the Elops features narrow handlebars for navigating traffic while maintaining stability. Given its price point and steel frame, it prioritizes durability over lightness.
Best Drop Bar Bikes for Commuting
Cyclists commuting in London, showcasing drop bar commuter bikes in an urban setting, suitable for longer and faster commutes.
Good For: Longer, hillier, or off-road commutes, combining training with commuting.
While budget gravel or budget road bikes can work for commuting, some are better suited than others due to practicality. Drop bar commuter bikes are designed with commuting in mind, often including or offering fittings for racks, mudguards, and lights. They typically feature more affordable, lower-maintenance components and practical details like frame protection and reflective accents. Their less flashy appearance can also deter theft.
Unless you plan to combine training with your commute, a carbon race bike is unnecessary. Endurance road and gravel bikes offer excellent options for commuting, balancing speed and practicality.
The Cube Nuroad FE equipped gravel bike in dark blue, selected as the best drop bar commuter bike with its ready-to-commute features.
Cube Nuroad FE
Best Drop Bar Commuting Bike
Specifications:
- Frame: Aluminum frame/ Carbon fork
- Drivetrain: Shimano Claris
- Wheels: Cube Alloy rims, with a Shimano Dynamo Hub
- Tires : Schwalbe G-One Allround, 40c
- Brakes : Tektro MD-C510
- Weight: 12.5kg
Reasons to buy:
- Ready to commute with mudguards/fenders and rack included
- Dynamo-powered lights, eliminating charging worries
- Value-oriented with included accessories
Reasons to avoid:
- Mechanical disc brakes, not hydraulic
- Cable clutter at the headtube
- Tires could offer better puncture protection
The Nuroad FE is the “equipped” version of Cube’s popular Nuroad gravel bike, sharing the same geometry, aluminum frame, and carbon fork. “Equipped” signifies factory-installed accessories like mudguards, racks, and lights, setting the Nuroad FE apart as an ideal commuter bike.
The integrated mudguards are well-designed and supported by the low-riding rack, enhancing stability for both fenders and cargo. This design also maintains a sporty handling feel by keeping weight low.
Dynamo lighting systems are making a comeback, particularly in endurance cycling. Modern dynamo hubs are efficient and minimize resistance, making them perfect for commuters as they are always available and never require charging.
Upgrading to more puncture-resistant Schwalbe G-One Allround tires with Double Defense casing would be beneficial. However, considering the dynamo setup, rack, and mudguards are included for a small price increase over the standard Nuroad, the FE version offers excellent value.
The Canyon Grizl:On Daily electric gravel bike in blue, designed as an assisted drop bar commuter bike for mixed terrain.
Canyon Grizl:ON CF Daily
Best Electric Drop Bar Commuting Bike
Specifications:
- Frame: Carbon
- Drivetrain: Shimano GRX RX822 12-Speed
- Wheels: DT Swiss HG1800 Spine 28
- Tires: Schwalbe Overland 45
- Brakes: Shimano GRX RX820
- Weight: 17.7kg
Reasons to buy:
- High-end, near-perfect commuter e-bike
- Comfortable Canyon flex seatpost
- Clean, integrated design
Reasons to avoid:
- Suspension fork may be unnecessary for road-focused commutes
- Bosch SX motor system is bulkier than competitors
- No kickstand compatibility
The Canyon Grizl:On CF Daily is a well-equipped version of the Grizl gravel bike, optimized for daily commuting. It features the Bosch Sx lightweight motor system, offering light assistance with bursts of power comparable to full-fat systems – ideal for commuting.
Canyon’s integration is excellent for busy commuters, with standard features including powerful lights, mudguards with ample tire clearance, and a 15kg-capacity rack. The integrated Fidlock frame bag mounts for Canyon’s LOAD frame bag are a thoughtful touch for easily accessible essentials.
The Grizl’s gravel DNA suits mixed-terrain commutes, and the Bosch motor handles technical terrain with ease. However, the suspension fork might be overkill for predominantly road commutes.
Best Cargo Bikes for Commuting
A Tern cargo bike, representing cargo commuter bikes as car replacements for families and those needing to carry larger loads.
Good For: Replacing cars for families and commuters with heavy or bulky loads.
Cargo bikes are designed as car replacements, especially for those needing to balance family life and commuting. Carrying people and cargo is simplified with modern cargo bikes. Cargo bike types include:
- Longtails: Extended rear for versatile cargo configurations, good for families and shopping.
- Front-load (Box bikes): Cargo space in front, better for heavier loads and multiple children, can be less maneuverable.
- Compact cargo bikes: More cargo capacity than standard bikes, easier to store, often with folding elements.
The Tern GSD S10 electric cargo bike, highlighted as the best cargo commuter bike for its car-replacing capabilities and versatility.
Tern GSD S10
Best Cargo Bike for Commuting
Our expert review:
Specifications:
- Max haul weight : 200kg (440lb) Inc rider
- Battery & Motor: Bosch Cargo line, Duel battery option
- Power settings : Four (excluding off)
- Range : 60 miles (claimed)
- Drive train: Shimano Deore 1×10 speed
- Brakes : Magura MT5 eSTOP, hydraulic disc
- Integration : Lights, lock, rack
Reasons to buy:
- Excellent ride quality even when loaded
- Customizable cargo options, including child seats
- Powerful Bosch Cargo Line motor
- E-bike specific brakes
- Adjustable fit for various riders
Reasons to avoid:
- High cost if not fully replacing a car
- Basic Purion display lacks features
The Tern GSD S10 is a top contender for replacing a car, offering exceptional versatility. It accommodates both children and cargo.
The Bosch Cargo system is well-suited for hilly terrain, especially when loaded. Battery options include 400Wh and 500Wh (LX model). The 400Wh battery requires daily charging for an eight-mile commute.
The Bosch Purion display is basic for the bike’s price, lacking a clock. However, the GSD S10 is a transformative bike for families.
The Raleigh Stride 2 cargo bike, recommended as a top car replacement cargo bike, particularly for families with young children.
Raleigh Stride 2 Cargo Bike
Best Car Replacement Cargo Bike
Our expert review:
Specifications:
- Max haul weight : 180kg (396lbs) inc rider
- Battery & Motor: Bosch CX Cargo line, Dual battery option
- Power settings : Four (excluding off)
- Range : 40 miles (claimed)
- Drive train: Enviolo – NuVinci
- Brakes : Magura CT, hydraulic disc
- Integration : Lights, lock, rack, mudguards
Reasons to buy:
- Maxi Cosi Car Seat compatibility
- Large front loading box
- Powerful Bosch CX motor
- Enviolo NuVinci stepless shifting
Reasons to avoid:
- Limited front wheel visibility
- Wide profile can be less maneuverable
- Sizing may be challenging for riders under 5’6″
The Raleigh Stride 2 excels as a car replacement, particularly for families. Its ability to carry an adult and up to three children is unique in the cargo bike market.
The large front loading tub is versatile for cargo. Front wheel visibility is limited, which requires adjustment. The Stride 2 is best suited for taller riders.
The Enviolo NuVinci gear shift is a standout feature, offering infinitely adjustable shifting even when stationary, a significant advantage for cargo bikes. Stepless shifting under load is also smooth and quiet.
You May Also Need…
Preparation is crucial for a successful and safe commute. Essential commuter cycling gear includes a good commuter helmet and bike lights. Weather protection is also vital. A waterproof jacket and trousers, along with mudguards or fenders, are essential.
Consider workplace facilities for cyclists, including bike storage. A bike lock is necessary even with secure storage. For carrying clothes, laptops, and lunch, a cycling backpack or pannier bags are highly recommended.
FAQs About Commuting By Bike
What bike is best for cycling to work?
The ideal bike depends on your commute’s terrain. Hybrid bikes are great for comfortable, flat rides. Road bikes suit fast, longer commutes. Gravel bikes offer versatility.
See our guide: what to look for in a commuter bike.
Is cycling a good way to commute?
Yes! Bike commuting offers physical health benefits and mental health benefits, plus financial savings compared to car or public transport. It can be the most enjoyable part of your day.
Is a 30-minute bike commute too long?
A 30-minute commute is often ideal. Our expert suggests “a commute under 30 minutes at a low intensity as the perfect addition to any training program”. Consider hills and distance. For longer commutes, a folding bike combined with other transport might be best. Bike commutes can surprisingly be faster than car commutes.
Are cyclists the happiest commuters?
Yes! A University of Auckland study shows cyclists are the happiest commuters. Bike commuting generally leads to greater happiness compared to car commuting.
Are road bikes good for commuting?
Road bikes are great commuter bikes, especially budget road bikes with mudguards. However, they are limited to paved surfaces. Gravel bikes are increasingly popular for commuting due to their versatility and ability to handle varied terrain while remaining efficient on roads.
Can mountain bikes be used for commuting?
Yes, any bike can be used for commuting, including mountain bikes. Terrain dictates bike choice. Gravel bikes offer a balance for on and off-road commuting, adding variety to your route while maintaining efficient commute times.
