Investing in one of the Great Commuter Bikes available today is a decision that pays dividends for both your well-being and your wallet. The 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, many find that their bike commute becomes a cherished part of their daily routine, energizing mornings and melting away stress in the evenings.
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 most importantly, is practical for your needs. You might even discover some surprising benefits to cycling to work that you haven’t considered.
Commutes are diverse – they might involve smooth, dedicated cycle paths or a mix of cycling and public transportation. Some cyclists even use their commute as a form of training, in which case our Best Road Bikes guide could be of interest. Regardless of your terrain, transport combinations, or distance, this guide is designed to help you make the best choice for your daily commute, focusing on the great commuter bikes available in various styles.
Best Bikes By Style Quick Menu
- Specialized Sirrus X 2.0
Best Folding Commuter Bike - Brompton C Line
Best Vintage, Dutch & Classic Style commuter bike - Pendleton Somerby
Best Singlespeed commuter bike - Elops 500 City
Best drop bar commuter bike - Cube Nuroad FE
Best cargo commuter bike - Tern GSD S10
Best commuter bikes by style
Best Hybrid Bikes For Commuting
Cyclist commuting on a flat bar hybrid bike with disc brakes, ideal for urban commuting
Good For: Urban and suburban commutes, occasional canal paths, byways, or unpaved tracks. Hybrid bikes are versatile great commuter bikes for varied terrains.
Traditionally, a hybrid bike blends the robustness and control of a mountain bike with the speed and efficient gearing of a road bike. These qualities are perfectly suited for commuting, making them user-friendly, comfortable for daily rides, and offering a helpful turn of speed for those morning commutes. They stand out as great commuter bikes due to their adaptability.
Hybrid bikes encompass a wide range of styles. Some models prioritize speed, resembling road bikes with narrower tires and higher gear ratios. Others emphasize comfort and practicality, often equipped with suspension forks, wider gravel tires, racks, and mudguards as standard features. This range ensures there’s a hybrid among the great commuter bikes for every rider.
Almost all hybrid bikes are practical choices, which is why they excel as commuter bikes. They are typically compatible with pannier racks and mudguards or fenders, and often provide ample space for accessories like lights, bottle cages, bells, or phone holders. Their practicality makes them truly great commuter bikes.
Yellow Specialized Sirrus X 2.0 hybrid bike, a top choice for hybrid commuter bikes
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:
- Excellent value for a versatile bike
- Reliable and smooth shifting
- Mounting points for fenders and panniers, enhancing its appeal as one of the great commuter bikes
Reasons to avoid:
- Not the most agile bike
- Upright riding position might not suit all riders
The Specialized Sirrus hybrid, built with Specialized’s A1 Alloy butted aluminum frame, is an ideal commuting companion for those seeking a reliable and efficient ride. It rolls on 700c wheels with generous clearance for 42mm wide tires, making it comfortable on varied surfaces, from rough roads to dirt paths and paved streets. Rack and fender mounts on the seat stays and fork, along with dual bottle cage mounts, make it highly adaptable for work commutes, solidifying its position among great commuter bikes.
During testing, the Shimano gear shifting was praised for its superb performance. While newer models feature rapid fire 2×8-speed setups, the wide gear range ensures easier tackling of hilly commutes. Practical touches like the front chainguard are thoughtful additions for a commuter bike.
The Sirrus range has expanded significantly, now including Sirrus 1.0 to 4.0 models, with the Sirrus 2.0 available in four versions. The Sirrus X 2.0 offers a more off-road-capable configuration, and step-through versions are available for both X and standard models. A variety of color options further enhances its appeal as one of the great commuter bikes.
The line-up expanded again in 2024 with a new frame design for the latest Sirrus 6.0 and Sirrus X 5.0, reviewed recently.
Blue Ribble Hybrid AL e electric hybrid bike with tan wall tires, a premium electric commuter bike
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 system
- Customizable specifications available
- Attractive design and comfortable ride, making it a stylish choice among great commuter bikes
Reasons to avoid:
- Sizing may run small for some riders
The Ribble Hybrid AL e presents 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 reviewed “Fully Loaded” version including racks, lights, and mudguards, making it ready for commuting straight out of the box. This customization and integrated tech make it one of the great commuter bikes in the electric hybrid category.
The motor and battery system weighs only 3.5 kilograms, keeping the Hybrid AL e light and manageable for an e-bike, while still providing a range of around 60 miles. Assistance levels are customizable via the Mahle ebikemotion app, allowing riders to prioritize range or power depending on their commute needs and riding style.
The bike features a well-considered component spec, including a single chainring SRAM NX drivetrain with a wide-range 11-42 tooth cassette, high-quality Mavic wheels, hydraulic disc brakes, and a comfortable saddle, all contributing to its status as one of the great commuter bikes.
Best Folding bikes for commuting
Man with folding bike at train station, highlighting the portability of folding commuter bikes
Good For: Combining cycling with public transport or car journeys, ideal if your commute is too long to cycle entirely. Folding bikes are excellent great commuter bikes for multi-modal commutes.
Folding bikes typically feature smaller wheels and a frame folding mechanism for compact storage. Additional folding features like stems, pedals, or removable luggage options are often available, further reducing their folded size. These features enhance their practicality as great commuter bikes.
The most common folding bikes use 16 or 20-inch wheels. Larger wheeled folding bikes exist but are less common due to their bulkier folded size and weight, which can limit their portability.
Folding bikes are perfect for combining cycling with public transport to shorten commute times. However, their versatility extends beyond commuting. They serve as excellent alternatives to touring bikes, especially for journeys involving planes, trains, or cars. They are also popular among motorhome and caravan owners for easy storage. Their adaptability makes them truly great commuter bikes.
Black Brompton C-Line Explore folding bike, the benchmark for folding commuter bikes
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:
- Extremely lightweight, especially within the Brompton range (excluding P and T lines)
- Unmatched folding mechanism for compactness
- Good ride quality for a folding bike, solidifying its place among great commuter bikes
Reasons to avoid:
- Small wheels can feel less stable at higher speeds
- Uses proprietary parts and standards, which may limit aftermarket options
Bikes from Brompton, the folding bike market leader, consistently receive high praise, and it’s easy to see why. Most reviews highlight the Brompton bike range with top marks. Brompton allows customization of handlebar type, gear setup, and accessories, making it challenging to review a single model comprehensively. This customizability makes Bromptons some of the great commuter bikes available.
Brompton bikes excel due to their incredibly light weight, fast folding action, and compact folded size. These features are crucial for commuters needing to store their bike in tight spaces or carry it on public transport, making them great commuter bikes.
Several versions are available, including electric models and the P-Line with a titanium rear end and super-light build. The C-Line comes in 6-speed ‘Explore’ and 2-speed ‘Urban’ builds, both offering handlebar and color options.
For those seeking the Brompton experience within a budget, the A-line offers a simpler, single-build option with a mid-height handlebar, single color choice, and reliable 3-speed hub, remaining a great commuter bike option.
Sand colored Eovolt afternoon 16 origin electric folding bike, a modern electric folding commuter bike
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 provides superior bike control
- Chunky tires enhance puncture protection, grip, and comfort
- Hydraulic disc brakes offer better performance than caliper brakes found on some competitors, making it a safer great commuter bike
Reasons to avoid:
- Small wheels can be less stable at speed
- Slightly heavier than competitors with a smaller battery
- Stability when folded can be an issue
While a full review is pending, initial impressions of the Eovolt Afternoon 16 suggest it’s a strong contender against the Brompton Electric. A quick test ride revealed key differences. Eovolt has made two notable choices setting it apart from Brompton, aiming to create great commuter bikes.
Firstly, disc brakes are used, offering superior braking in all weather conditions and heavy traffic. The added torque of an e-bike motor makes disc brakes particularly essential. Secondly, Eovolt opted for a rear hub motor drive system. Placing the hub in the rear improves handling by eliminating undesirable qualities associated with front-wheel drive systems and enhances safety, especially on wet roads. This system is similar to those used by market leaders like Mahle and FSA.
The folded size of the Afternoon 16 is marginally larger than a Brompton, at 0.15m³ compared to 0.09m³, both easily stowed in car boots or train luggage bays, maintaining its status as one of the great commuter bikes. However, getting the bike to stand independently when folded proved challenging due to the seatpost design, which might be an issue when needing to set it down temporarily in transit.
Best Vintage, Dutch & Classic Style Bikes for Commuting
Dutch style bike at night, showcasing classic style commuter bikes in an urban setting
Good for: Short, flat urban and suburban commutes where style is a priority. Vintage bikes are stylish great commuter bikes for leisurely rides.
Vintage, Dutch, and classic style bikes share similarities with hybrid bikes, especially in specifications. They are practical, versatile, and excellent for city riding. These bikes are known for their relaxed, upright riding posture, a key appeal for many. This comfortable style makes them ideal for leisurely commutes in flatter urban environments, positioning them as great commuter bikes for comfort and style.
Steel remains a popular frame material for Dutch and classic-style bikes. However, recent years have seen a push towards lighter designs. With total bike weights often exceeding 15kg, aluminum is increasingly used to reduce weight and enhance versatility. Despite the weight, these bikes have been popular in Northern Europe for decades, known for their reliability and comfort as great commuter bikes.
Cream and red Pentleton Somerby hybrid bike, a classic style commuter bike option
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 appeal
- Comes equipped with rack and mudguards
- Step-through frame for easy mounting
- Lightweight for its style, making it a practical choice among great commuter bikes
Reasons to avoid:
- Plated steel finish may pit over time
- Basket not included as standard
After two years of daily use, the Pendleton Somerby has proven reliable, even after a few minor accidents. It replaced a much heavier and unreliable bike. The Somerby demonstrates the value of thoughtful design in affordable bicycles, focusing on quality rather than just cost. Details like the metal chain guard, mudguards, and welded rack contribute to a quiet ride requiring minimal maintenance, enhancing its appeal as one of the great commuter bikes.
At 14.5kg, the Pendleton is not the lightest commuter bike overall, but it is lightweight for its style. A Pashley Penny, costing twice as much, weighs around 17kg. This weight efficiency is partly due to the simple, 7-speed Shimano drivetrain, which offers a noticeable advantage in simplicity and weight over a Sturmey 3-speed hub.
For maintenance and reliability, the Somerby is highly recommended for anyone seeking an affordable, dependable, and well-built bike. It’s excellent for short commutes and stylish enough for social rides, making it one of the great commuter bikes for everyday use.
Mint green Electra Loft Go 7D EQ vintage style electric bike with leather details, a stylish electric commuter bike
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 an accessible price point
- Optional range extender available
- Aluminum frame with internal battery maintains classic styling without added weight, making it a stylish great commuter bike
Reasons to avoid:
- Hydraulic disc brakes would be preferable
- Low-output lights may be insufficient on unlit streets
- Limited to two size options
Ten years after Trek acquired Electra Bikes, their influence is evident in Electra’s range of classic beach cruiser-styled bikes. The Loft Go! 7D EQ is a smart redesign, housing a small 250Wh battery within the aluminum frame to maintain the traditional slim steel tube aesthetic. It’s difficult to immediately recognize it as an e-bike, blending style with modern technology to be one of the great commuter bikes. The Loft Go! combines style with substantial performance. The moderately powered 40Nm Hyena rear hub motor and small 250Wh battery keep weight down while providing sufficient power and range for most commuting needs.
The inclusion of mechanical disc brakes is a slight drawback given the bike’s overall value; hydraulic disc brakes would be an improvement. Similarly, the low-powered lights are adequate but might require upgrading for night riding on unlit roads.
The simple LED display shows battery life and support level, supplemented by the Elektra + Central App for connected features, ride sharing, and range management, enhancing its appeal as a modern great commuter bike with classic looks.
Best Singlespeed and fixed gear bikes for Commuting
Bicycle courier on a pink singlespeed bike, highlighting the simplicity of singlespeed commuter bikes
Good For: Fast, flat, and low-maintenance commutes, popular for winter commuting. Singlespeed bikes are reliable great commuter bikes for simple routes.
Simplicity is a significant advantage in a commuter bike, and a single-speed or single-gear bike offers just that. Geared bikes require regular maintenance and replacement of wear parts. Removing gears eliminates a major source of drivetrain wear.
A well-executed single-speed drivetrain can be exceptionally smooth, durable, and provide direct power transfer, which is why it’s still used exclusively on track bikes. For safety regulations, single-speed bikes are sold with a freewheel, but many feature a ‘flip-flop’ hub for fixed-gear riding if desired. Their simplicity and efficiency make them great commuter bikes.
Gearing is crucial for single-speed bikes. Experiment with different gear ratios to find the best match for your commute and terrain.
Black Decathlon Elops 500 city bike, a practical singlespeed commuter bike
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 for longevity, making it a robust great commuter bike
Reasons to avoid:
- Not the lightest at over 11kg
Decathlon’s Elops City Bike 500, previously branded B’Twin, remains unchanged, which is ideal for those seeking a straightforward single-speed bike for daily commuting. It continues to be a reliable option among great commuter bikes.
For under $/£300, you get a robust steel frame and fork with dual-pivot caliper brakes. The 44×18 gearing uses a 44t chainring and 18t cog, fitted to a flip-flop hub, offering the choice of freewheel or fixed gear riding.
Best suited for short, flat commutes, the Elops single speed features relatively narrow 520mm alloy bars for navigating traffic while maintaining stability. Given its price and steel frame, it is not the lightest bike but offers durability and simplicity, making it a practical great commuter bike.
Best Drop Bar Bikes for Commuting
Cycling commuters in London, showcasing drop bar commuter bikes in an urban environment
Good For: Longer, hillier, or off-road commutes, and combining training with commuting. Drop bar bikes are versatile great commuter bikes for varied and challenging commutes.
While budget gravel or budget road bikes can serve as commuter bikes, some are better suited than others, and many are too valuable for daily commuting wear and tear.
Practicality is key. Drop bar bikes designed for commuting often include or have fittings for racks, mudguards, and even lights. They typically feature more affordable, lower-maintenance components and practical details like frame protection or reflective decals. Commuter bike aesthetics are often understated to deter theft, yet they remain reliable for daily rides, making them great commuter bikes.
Unless you plan to combine commuting with training, a carbon fiber race bike isn’t necessary. There are many great endurance road and gravel bikes that are well-suited for commuting and training, offering versatility as great commuter bikes.
Dark blue Cube Nuroad FE equipped gravel bike, a top drop bar commuter bike with integrated 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:
- Commute-ready with mudguards/fenders and a rack included
- Dynamo-powered lights eliminate charging hassles
- Excellent value considering included accessories, making it a practical great commuter bike
Reasons to avoid:
- Lacks hydraulic disc brakes
- 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 models with added accessories like mudguards, racks, and lights. The Nuroad FE stands out with these additions and its dynamo light setup, making it an ideal commuter bike, and one of the great commuter bikes in the drop bar category.
Close-fitting mudguards/fenders are essential for commuter bikes, and those on the Nuroad FE are integrated neatly with a low-riding rack for stability and cargo support. Keeping weight low maintains sporty handling.
Dynamo lights have seen a resurgence, especially in ultra-endurance cycling. Modern dynamo hubs are efficient at generating power with minimal resistance, perfect for commuters as they are always available and never need charging, enhancing the practicality of these great commuter bikes.
Upgrading to more puncture-resistant Schwalbe G-One Allround tires with DD double defense casing would be beneficial but is a minor cost if needed. Considering the dynamo setup, rack, and mudguards, the FE version offers excellent value over the standard Nuroad, making it a smart choice among great commuter bikes.
Blue Canyon Grizl:On Daily electric gravel bike, a premium electric drop bar commuter bike
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:
- Near-perfect specifications regardless of budget
- Canyon’s compliant flexy seatpost enhances comfort
- Clean, integrated design, making it a sleek and high-performance great commuter bike
Reasons to avoid:
- Suspension fork might be unnecessary for primarily road commutes
- Bosch SX motor system is bulkier than competitors for a ‘lightweight’ e-bike system
- No kickstand compatibility
Canyon’s Grizl:On CF Daily exemplifies bikes designed with specific user needs in mind. Like the Cube Nuroad FE, it’s a ‘well-equipped’ version of the Grizl gravel bike, optimized for daily use. The Grizl:On elevates this with the Bosch Sx lightweight motor system, making it an exceptional electric great commuter bike.
The Sx System provides light assistance most of the time but can deliver power comparable to ‘full fat’ systems like Bosch’s CX motor, ideal for commuters needing extra help on hills or accelerating from stops.
Canyon’s high integration level is practical for busy commuters, offering a jump-on-and-ride experience. Standard features include lights suitable for dark roads, mudguards for large tires, and a rack handling up to 15kg of cargo. The integrated Fidlock frame bag mounts for Canyon’s LOAD frame bag are a notable feature for easily accessible storage of essentials, making it a thoughtfully designed great commuter bike.
The Grizl’s gravel background suits mixed-terrain commutes, and the Bosch motor handles technical terrain. However, the suspension fork may be excessive for those mainly commuting on roads. For those sticking to paved routes, the suspension may be less necessary, but overall, it’s a top-tier electric great commuter bike.
Best cargo bikes for commuting
Tern cargo bike, showcasing cargo bikes as car replacement commuter options
Good For: Car replacements for those balancing family life and commuting. Cargo bikes are practical great commuter bikes for families and heavy loads.
Cargo bikes are designed as car replacements, especially for those with space. They are excellent for combining family needs with commuting. Carrying people and bulky items is simplified with modern cargo bikes. Cargo bike variations are numerous, but most fall into three categories.
Longtails extend the rear of the bike for extra cargo capacity, ideal for varied daily needs like carrying children in the morning and groceries later.
Front-load or ‘Box bikes’ place cargo space in front, better suited for heavier loads like multiple children or bulk shopping. Handling ‘Box bikes’ can be more challenging than Longtails.
Compact cargo bikes offer more cargo capacity than standard bikes but are easier to store than longtails or front-loaders, often with folding handlebars and pedals for compact storage behind sofas or in hallways. They frequently use mixed wheel sizes and low racks for balance, making them versatile great commuter bikes.
Side view of the Tern GSD S10 electric cargo bike, a leading cargo commuter bike model
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 fully loaded
- Customizable cargo features, including space for two child seats
- Powerful Bosch Cargo Line motor
- E-bike specific Magura brakes
- Adjustable fit for various riders, making it a versatile great commuter bike
Reasons to avoid:
- High cost may be prohibitive if not fully replacing a car
- Basic Purion display lacks detailed information
For a true car replacement, the Tern GSD S10 is a top choice. Its versatility is unmatched. Unlike many cargo bikes limited to either kids or shopping, the Tern accommodates both, making it one of the most versatile great commuter bikes.
The Bosch Cargo system excels on hilly terrain, especially when loaded. The tested GSD had a 400Wh battery, with a 500Wh option in the LX model for extended range. An eight-mile commute loop uses about a third of the battery, requiring daily charging.
The Bosch Purion display is basic for the bike’s price, lacking even a clock, necessitating a phone mount or smartwatch for timekeeping. However, this is a minor detail on a bike that significantly changes family transportation habits, establishing it as one of the leading great commuter bikes.
Raleigh Stride 2 electric cargo bike, ideal for families, especially those with young kids, and car replacement
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 for transporting children of all ages
- Large front box for easy grocery loading
- Excellent Bosch CX motor
- Enviolo gear shifting while stationary is revolutionary, enhancing its practicality as a great commuter bike
Reasons to avoid:
- Front wheel visibility is limited, which takes time to adjust to
- Width can be challenging for traffic filtering or narrow bike paths
- Sizing may be difficult for riders under 5’ 6″ (170cm)
Finding a true car replacement is easier than ever with the Stride 2. Its ability to transport a whole family (adult and up to three small children) is unique in the cargo bike market.
Beyond hauling people, the large front-loading tub is excellent for carrying various items. A common aspect of bucket-style cargo bikes is limited front wheel visibility, which requires adjustment. Riding confidence is needed due to its size. At 5’6″, reaching the ground while seated is challenging even with the saddle fully lowered.
The Stride 2’s standout feature is the Enviolo NuVinci gear shift, an infinitely adjustable system that is revolutionary for cargo bikes. Shifting gears while stationary and maintaining focus on handling a loaded bike at stops is invaluable. Step-less shifting also ensures smooth and quiet gear changes under load on hills, making it a user-friendly great commuter bike.
You may also need…
As Alexander Graham Bell said, “Preparation is the key to success,” and a successful commute involves safety. At minimum, consider a good commuter helmet and bike lights. Weather protection is also essential. A quality waterproof jacket and trousers will keep you dry and comfortable, while mudguards or fenders significantly reduce spray.
Consider workplace facilities for cyclists. Bike storage will likely require a bike lock, even with secure storage. Carrying a change of clothes, a laptop, or lunch may necessitate a good cycling backpack or pannier bags to simplify your commute with your great commuter bike.
FAQs About Commuting By Bike
What bike is best for cycling to work?
The terrain of your commute largely dictates the best bike. For easy, flat, or comfortable rides, a hybrid bike is suitable. For faster, longer commutes, a road bike might be better, or for versatility, consider a gravel bike.
Refer to our guide: what to look for in a commuter bike.
Is cycling a good way to commute?
As a cyclist, the answer is yes. Cycling to work is beneficial. Beyond physical health benefits of cycling, mental health benefits are often overlooked. The financial savings over car or public transport are also significant. A bike commute is often the most satisfying part of the day, regardless of weather, especially on great commuter bikes.
Is a 30-minute bike commute too long?
Coaching expert James Spragg suggests “a commute under 30 minutes at a low intensity as the perfect addition to any training program”. Commute duration depends on time availability and distance. A hilly 30-minute commute differs from a flat 5km cycle path. If distance is too far, consider a folding bike combined with car or public transport. Surprisingly, bike commutes can be quicker than car commutes due to direct routes and less traffic, especially on great commuter bikes.
Are cyclists the happiest commuters?
Yes! A University of Auckland study shows cyclists are the happiest commuters. Personal experience corroborates this – cycling is more enjoyable than driving, except perhaps in mid-winter.
Are road bikes good for commuting?
Road bikes are excellent commuter bikes. Budget road bikes with mudguards are a fast A-to-B option. However, road bikes are limited to paved surfaces. Budget gravel bikes are increasingly popular, offering versatility with wider tires for varied terrains while maintaining efficiency, making them excellent great commuter bikes.
Can mountain bikes be used for commuting?
Any bike, including mountain bikes, can be used for commuting. Terrain dictates bike choice. Varying commutes with easy trails adds interest. For many, a gravel bike balances off-road capability with efficient commute times, offering the best of both worlds as great commuter bikes.
