Finding the perfect ladies adult bike can feel like navigating a maze. The sheer variety in performance and price can quickly become overwhelming. Having personally put over 20 different Ladies Adult Bikes to the test, we’ve compiled a list of our top recommendations for various riding styles and budgets.
Whether you’re searching for a bike for leisurely neighborhood rides, family outings on local trails, stylish beachside cruising, or light off-road adventures with friends, we’ve tested bikes suited for all these scenarios. From ladies hybrid bikes to comfortable cruiser bikes and recreational mountain bikes, our team has dedicated hours to research and countless miles on the pedals to simplify your decision-making process. Curious about electric bikes for women? Yes, we’ve tested those too!
The primary focus of this article is to identify high-quality bikes perfect for casual to intermediate, non-technical ladies riders. We’ve thoroughly explored the world of casual, cruiser, hybrid, commuter, and fitness bikes to pinpoint models that offer exceptional durability and performance for their price points. Given the ongoing challenges with supply chains, bike availability has also been a significant factor in our recommendations.
Technical bikes, such as full-suspension mountain bikes and road bikes, have been intentionally excluded from this guide as they are generally too advanced for the average everyday lady rider.
Unsure about the type of bike that best fits your needs? Jump to our ladies adult bikes buying guide to determine the ideal bike style for you.
Top Ladies Adult Bikes
| Bike | Why We Love It | Price |
|---|---|---|
| CRUISER & COMFORT BIKES | ||
| Retrospec Chatham | Affordable 1, 3, or 7-speed options | $279 |
| Priority Classic Plus | Low-maintenance belt drive, easy 3-speed shifting | $599 |
| Electra Townie 7D | Exceptionally easy to balance | $599 |
| Electra Loft 7D | Top cruiser for extended rides | $499 |
| LADIES HYBRID BIKES | ||
| REI Co-op Cycles CTY 1.1 | Reliable REI Service & Quality | $599 |
| Priority Turi | Seamless Enviolo gear shifting | $949 |
| Cannondale CX 3 | High-performance hybrid | $725 |
| RECREATIONAL MOUNTAIN BIKES FOR LADIES | ||
| Polygon Xtrada 5 | Excellent quality at an unbeatable price | $499 |
| Trek Marlin 4 | Versatile and high-quality mountain bike | $579 |
| LADIES EBikes | ||
| Aventon Pace 500.3 | Fun, fast, and lightweight ebike | $1,599 |
| Priority e-Classic Plus | Exceptionally Natural Electric Ride Feel | $1,799 |
| For a deeper dive into electric bikes designed for ladies, explore our dedicated article. Green Prices = Sales Prices |
Choosing the Right Style of Ladies Adult Bike for You {#h-what-style-of-womens-bike-is-best-for-me}
The first step in selecting the best ladies adult bike is narrowing down the type of bike that suits your needs. While versatility is a feature of many bikes, choosing a bike style that aligns with your primary riding activities is generally the most effective approach.
Step-through vs. Regular Frame: Many ladies adult bikes feature a step-through frame, characterized by a sloping top tube. Step-through frames offer ease of mounting and dismounting, as they require less leg lift compared to traditional frames. Functionally, however, both frame styles perform similarly.
For riders planning to use a child-bike seat, step-through bikes are often preferred due to the easier accessibility when the bike is carrying extra weight. Step-through frames are typically compatible with rear rack-mounted child bike seats. Regular “triangle” frames usually accommodate both rack and frame mounted rear bike seats. Both frame styles are equally compatible with front-mounted seats.
Ladies Adult Bike Styles: Details and Riding Experience
EXPLORE DIFFERENT BIKE STYLES:
- Hybrid Bikes for Ladies – Ideal for medium to long-distance paved riding
- Comfort and Cruiser Bikes for Ladies – Best for short, comfortable rides on paved paths
- Recreational Mountain Bikes for Ladies – Suited for basic dirt trails and mixed-surface riding
- Ladies EBikes – Diverse models to match various riding preferences
Ladies Cruiser Bikes and Comfort Bikes
As their names suggest, ladies cruiser bikes and comfort bikes are designed for comfortable, leisurely rides, typically over shorter distances. Here are the typical features you can expect from these bikes:
Key Features of Ladies Cruiser Bikes
- HANDLEBARS: Comfort and cruiser bikes usually feature swept-back handlebars. This design promotes an upright riding posture.
- RIDING POSITION: Upright, with a straight back. Many casual riders prefer this upright position over leaning forward to reach the handlebars. It’s a matter of personal comfort and is ideal for relaxed riding.
- WHEELS AND TIRES: Tires have a smooth street tread, but their widths vary. Wider tires are a hallmark of cruiser bikes, offering enhanced cushioning compared to narrower tires.
- SADDLE: Wide, cushioned saddles are designed to support and prevent discomfort often associated with narrower standard bike saddles. These saddles often include springs for a touch of suspension, primarily for aesthetics rather than significant cushioning.
- BIKE TRAILERS AND CHILD BIKE SEATS: Many cruiser and comfort bikes are compatible with bike trailers and child bike seats. However, the upright riding position can make pedaling less efficient and more tiring, especially when carrying a child. For longer distances or hilly terrain, a hybrid bike is highly recommended.
- For more options, explore our article on the 7 Best Beach Cruisers and Cruiser Bikes.
Various speed options for leisurely rides.
Retrospec Chatham Step-Through Beach Cruiser
$289 – $389
SIZING: One size, suitable for ladies 5’0″ to 6’0″
BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: Not recommended for coaster brake models
CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Front frame compatible, but not ideal with coaster brake models
About the Chatham Step-Through
For those on a budget seeking a beach cruiser, the Retrospec Chatham step-through models are an excellent choice in the 26-inch ladies adult bike category. Available in a wide array of fun colors and configurations including single-speed, 3-speed, and 7-speed, there are options for various needs and budgets.
Having tested numerous, more expensive ladies adult bikes, we were pleasantly surprised by the comfort and ease of riding the Retrospec Chatham cruisers. They truly offer exceptional value for money. We tested the Chatham single-speed with a coaster brake and the Chatham Plus 7-speed with dual handbrakes.
Single-speed bikes are perfect for flat terrains, boasting fewer components that can break or require maintenance. Assembly is also remarkably straightforward, even for those less mechanically inclined.
Most single-speed beach cruisers use a coaster brake (back pedal brake). Coaster brakes are low-maintenance, but they require more effort to engage and prevent backpedaling for balance. If simplicity is your priority and you want a low-maintenance bike, the Retrospec Chatham single-speed is a great option.
The 7-speed Chatham Plus is slightly pricier but better suited for hilly areas or windy beaches. Riding a single-speed bike uphill or against strong winds is challenging! Gears and dual handbrakes offer more versatility and reliable stopping power for enjoyable rides. However, assembly is more complex than the single-speed, and professional bike shop assembly is recommended if you’re not experienced.
WHAT WE LOVE:
- Affordable and low maintenance
- Single-speed option for simple, casual riding with minimal upkeep
- 7-speed options for hilly terrains and enhanced hand braking
- Dual v-brakes provide solid stopping power, superior to some pricier cruiser bikes with pivot-style brakes
- Wider tires offer more cushioning than thinner tires on other ladies cruiser bikes
- Extensive range of fun color choices
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING:
- Retrospec Chatham models come in standard and “Plus” versions. Plus models are slightly more expensive but feature upgraded components. The main upgrades are aluminum frames (vs. steel), which are lighter and rust-resistant, and wider BigWave tires for enhanced cushioning. The difference in cushioning is noticeable.
- For beachside use, the aluminum frame (and some components) of Plus models are better for rust prevention. (Some components can still rust.)
- We advise against using bike trailers or child bike seats with coaster brake-only bikes (single-speed and 3-speed). The stopping power required when hauling kids is demanding for a single coaster brake.
- Coaster brake-only bikes are cheaper but offer less speed control, requiring backpedaling to slow down.
- 7-speed model assembly is more involved than higher-priced bikes and may require bike shop assistance.
AVAILABLE MODELS:
Easy to maintain for casual riders.
Priority Classic Plus
$599
SIZING: 3 sizes, for inseams from 26″ – 36″
BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: Requires a special hub adapter
CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Front frame, rear rack, (rear frame on diamond-frame only, not step-through)
About the Priority Classic Plus
The Priority Classic Plus delivers exceptional quality in a low-maintenance package. If you’re seeking a ladies cruiser or comfort bike with gears, the 3-speed Classic Plus offers ample range for casual riding and is simpler to manage than bikes with more complex gear systems.
While you might be accustomed to coaster brakes from childhood bikes, all models of this bike feature front and rear hand brakes and no coaster brake.
We highly recommend considering a bike without a coaster brake. Dual hand brakes provide a more natural and easier riding experience, offering enhanced stopping power, especially useful when carrying a child in a bike seat.
WHAT WE LOVE:
- Bike maintenance is significantly reduced with the Priority Classic Plus. Its grease-free belt drive and internally geared hub require minimal maintenance. Most bikes have chain drives and derailleurs, which are more prone to issues and bike shop visits.
- 3 speeds provide simple shifting while offering flexibility for moderate hills and flat roads.
- Assembly is streamlined and straightforward.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING:
- Thinner “hybrid tires” ensure smooth pavement rolling but offer less cushioning than wider tires.
- Available in ladies step-through and men’s diamond frame options. Choose based on preference and height.
- A special adapter is needed for bike trailers due to the internally geared rear hub.
- For rear child bike seats on the step-through model, a rack and rack-mounted seat are required. The diamond frame is compatible with both rack and frame-mounted rear child bike seats.
AVAILABLE MODELS:
Comfortable and balanced cruiser.
Electra Townie 7D
$599
SIZING: One size, suitable for 4’11” – 6’0″
CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Front frame, rear rack (but not ideal for either)
View on Electra View on REI Our Review
About the Electra Townie 7D
The Electra Townie ladies adult bike is the ultimate in comfort cruising, particularly ideal for riders who are less confident. Unlike traditional bikes, the Townie allows riders to lower the saddle to easily place their feet flat on the ground when stopping and starting. This feature makes the Townie exceptionally user-friendly for those who may be hesitant riders.
The key to the Townie (and many Electra bikes) is their Flat-Foot Technology. This isn’t about electronics; it’s about the frame design, which positions the pedals forward, not directly beneath the rider.
This design allows for full leg extension with each pedal stroke in a forward motion, rather than straight down. Consequently, the seat doesn’t need to be as high, enabling riders to place their feet flat on the ground for stability when starting and stopping.
This setup is excellent for riders with balance concerns or those who simply prefer more foot contact with the ground. However, pushing forward on the pedals, rather than straight down, reduces power transfer, making it less ideal for hills, long distances, or carrying children in bike trailers or seats.
WHAT WE LOVE:
- Flat-foot technology is the primary advantage of this ladies cruiser bike. The comfort and ability to plant feet flat on the ground are remarkable!
- 7 speeds offer greater flexibility for hills compared to single-speed cruiser bikes.
- 2″ wide tires enhance stability and cushioning.
- Available in a wide array of fun colors.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING:
- The Townie features dual handbrakes and no coaster brake, unlike many ladies cruiser bikes with coaster brakes. Coaster brakes are lower maintenance but require more force to stop and don’t allow backpedaling.
- Offered in one size, but it accommodates a wide range of heights effectively.
- While child bike seats or trailers are attachable, this isn’t the best bike for that purpose. Hybrid bikes are better suited for frequent family rides.
AVAILABLE MODELS:
Best for longer, relaxed rides.
Electra Loft 7D
$499
SIZING: Two sizes, fitting ladies 5’0 – 6’3
BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: Yes
CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Front frame, rear rack
About the Loft 7D
If you prefer an upright posture but need to cover longer distances or carry kids, the Electra Loft 7D ladies adult bike is our top recommendation. With 7 speeds, adjusting for the weight of a child while tackling hills or flat roads becomes much easier.
While the Loft 7D is categorized under Electra’s “flat-foot technology,” its effect is minimal compared to the Townie—hardly noticeable. For truly flat-footed stops, the Townie is the better choice. But for an upright riding position with efficient pedaling, the Loft 7D’s pedal position is more standard, offering better leverage. This makes longer rides and family outings more manageable.
WHAT WE LOVE:
- Efficient pedaling, upright posture, and 7 gears create a unique combination.
- The split top tube design adds a stylish touch to this ladies comfort bike.
- Functional and aesthetically pleasing pedals.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING:
- Forward-placed pedals and large wheels can cause toe overlap during tight turns. This is a minor drawback of flat-foot technology with larger wheels.
- Leather grips are stylish but can be slippery. Grip tape can easily resolve this.
- Electra ladies bikes may not be compatible with all racks. The compatible rack is the Electra MIK Rear Rack.
AVAILABLE MODELS:
Budget-friendly cruiser option.
SixThreeZero Around the Block
$250
SIZING: One size, suitable for ladies 5’0″ to 6’0″
BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: Not recommended for coaster brake models
CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Front frame, rear rack, but not ideal with coaster brake models
We tested the single-speed, 26″ wheel “Around the Block” ladies cruiser. While we prefer the higher overall quality of Retrospec Chatham bikes, the SixThreeZero is a decent and affordable alternative.
Ladies Hybrid Bikes
Hybrid bikes blend features of road and mountain bikes. They offer smooth-rolling, low-resistance tires like road bikes, combined with the upright position and flat handlebars of mountain bikes. Ladies hybrid bikes truly offer the best of both worlds. They are ideal for riders primarily on smooth, paved surfaces.
For those planning to ride mainly on paved surfaces with occasional all-terrain sections, consider a hybrid bike with a suspension fork (typically on higher-end models). If most of your riding will be on dirt or gravel trails, a recreational mountain bike is likely more suitable (see the mountain bike section below).
Distinguishing Features of Ladies Hybrid Bikes:
- HANDLEBARS: Hybrid bikes feature flat, mostly straight handlebars varying in height and width. They are generally wider than road bike handlebars but narrower than mountain bike handlebars, offering a comfortable middle ground.
- RIDING POSITION: Riders are positioned semi-upright. Less leaned-in than on a road bike but more upright than on a comfort/cruiser bike. This position optimizes pedal power, making them more efficient for use with child bike seats or trailers compared to comfort or cruiser bikes.
- WHEELS AND TIRES: Like road bikes, hybrid bike tires are thinner and inflated to higher pressures to minimize rolling resistance on pavement. This makes them fast and efficient on paved surfaces but less cushioned than recreational mountain bike tires.
- SUSPENSION FORK: With minimal tire cushioning, suspension forks help absorb bumps on rough roads or gravel and dirt trails.
- GEARS: Gears range from 3 to 27. The number needed depends on the terrain’s elevation changes. More gears are needed for steeper hills. However, most riders find 3 to 10 gears sufficient.
- BIKE TRAILERS AND CHILD BIKE SEATS: Ladies hybrid bikes are generally the best option for pulling a bike trailer or using a child bike seat in urban environments.
Seamless shifting experience.
Priority Turi
$949
SIZING: 3 sizes, for heights 5’0 – 6’1
BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: Not compatible without a special hub adapter
CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Front frame, rear rack
SUSPENSION FORK: No
About the Priority Turi
We’ve long appreciated Priority bikes for both adults and kids. The Priority Turi is the most high-end model we’ve tested and quickly became our preferred bike for commuting to school with our kindergartener.
Like all Priority bikes, the Turi features a low-maintenance, grease-free belt drive. Avoiding the chain maintenance and derailleur adjustments of traditional bikes is a significant advantage.
However, the standout feature is its Enviolo shifting system. Integrated within the rear wheel hub, Enviolo gearing provides seamless shifting via a grip twist. Unlike stepped gears, Enviolo offers a continuous range, adapting smoothly to inclines and flat stretches, much like an airport moving walkway.
WHAT WE LOVE:
- The Turi exclusively features the Enviolo gearing system, offering a wider gear range than other Priority bikes, making it suitable for hilly areas. (For frequent hills, the Polygon Path 2 offers an even wider range.)
- Hydraulic disc brakes provide superior stopping power, even in wet conditions.
- The dual-leg kickstand is significantly more stable than traditional kickstands.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING:
Easy to maintain and reliable.
Priority Classic Plus – Gotham
$599
SIZING: 3 sizes, for inseams 26″ – 36″
BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: Not compatible without a special hub adapter
CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Front frame, rear rack, (rear frame on men’s diamond-frame only)
SUSPENSION FORK: No
About the Classic Plus Gotham
The Priority Classic Plus Gotham Edition has been a staple in our bike collection for years. From family bike rides to quick city commutes, this Priority bike offers a smooth ride with virtually no maintenance.
Designed in New York City, Priority Bicycles are built to withstand urban riding challenges. Our team has owned eleven Priority bikes over the years, all proving durable, including Priority kids bikes that endure rough handling from young riders.
WHAT WE LOVE:
- The grease-free belt drive minimizes maintenance. Traditional bike chains are more delicate and prone to damage.
- 3 speeds offer simple shifting with enough range for moderate hills and flat roads.
- Lightweight build, beneficial for hills, carrying children, and longer distances.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING:
- Thinner “hybrid tires” are smooth on pavement but less cushioned than wider tires.
- Available in ladies step-through and men’s diamond frames. Choose based on preference or height.
- A special adapter is required for bike trailers due to the internally geared rear hub.
- For rear child bike seats on the ladies model, a rack and rack-mounted seat are necessary. The diamond frame fits both rack and frame-mounted rear seats.
AVAILABLE MODELS:
REI guaranteed quality and service.
REI Co-Op Cycles CTY 1.1
$599
SIZING: 3 sizes, for heights 5’0 to 5’9
BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: Yes, but requires a longer rear axle skewer.
CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Front frame, rear rack. Limited clearance for frame-mounted rear seats.
SUSPENSION FORK: No
About the Co-Op CTY 1.1
Buying a ladies adult bike from REI offers numerous benefits beyond quality and fair pricing. Order online and pick up fully assembled in-store, plus enjoy a year of free adjustments and basic maintenance!
A more forward-leaning posture and trigger shifters make this city bike closer to a “fitness” bike than other hybrids. This position allows for more pedal force, ideal for workouts.
With 24 gears, the CTY 1.1 offers the widest gear range of the hybrids tested. If you regularly encounter steep inclines, this Co-op Cycles bike is a top contender.
WHAT WE LOVE:
- Order online, pick up assembled at your local REI store.
- Free adjustments and basic maintenance for a year, including brake and derailleur adjustments and chain lubing (for everyone, not just REI members).
- Easy returns and exchanges at local stores.
- REI members get free flat tire repairs (forever)!
- Lightweight aluminum frame.
- Smooth-shifting rear Shimano Altus derailleur.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING:
- 24 gears and trigger shifters offer wide range and smooth shifting but may take time to adapt to.
- Handlebars and stem are lower and flatter than other ladies hybrid bikes. While suitable for many, a riser stem can be installed at REI for a more upright position (around $40).
- For bike trailers, a longer rear axle skewer is needed. Request this when ordering online for in-store assembly.
- Available in diamond or step-thru frame styles.
AVAILABLE MODELS:
Suspension for added comfort.
Cannondale Quick CX 3
$750
SIZING: 5 sizes, for heights 4’10” to 6’5″
BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: Yes
CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Yes, but smaller ladies models may not fit frame-mounted rear seats. All sizes fit front-mounted and rear rack-mounted seats.
SUSPENSION FORK: Yes
About the Cannondale Quick CX
The Cannondale Quick CX is excellent for primarily paved surfaces with occasional gravel or dirt trails. CX stands for “cyclocross,” a riding style across grass, dirt, and pavement. While not a full cyclocross bike, the Quick CX combines CX functionality with hybrid bike comfort.
WHAT WE LOVE:
- 1×8 drivetrain with responsive trigger shifters.
- Incredibly smooth ride on paved surfaces. Pedal strokes are efficient, making ascents and descents easy.
- Included tires with slight knobs are suitable for gravel or compact dirt trails, unlike smoother hybrid tires.
- Front suspension fork smooths out bumps and rocks.
- Available at REI with free assembly and tuning upon online order and easy returns.
- Free adjustments and basic maintenance for a year from REI!
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING:
- Lower CX model numbers (CX 1, 2) indicate higher component quality (suspension, brakes, drivetrain) and higher price.
- Seat tube water bottle mounts may limit frame-mounted rear bike seat compatibility on smaller models.
- All CX models have tires suitable for varied smooth terrains (paved to compact dirt trails).
- Standard (diamond frame) models generally accommodate more rear bike seats than step-through models.
AVAILABLE MODELS:
Ladies Recreational Mountain Bikes
If you plan to ride frequently on basic dirt trails, with occasional paved surfaces, a recreational mountain bike is ideal. These bikes are not as specialized as true mountain bikes for aggressive trail riding but offer ample cushioning and traction for basic non-paved trails.
A key difference between hybrid and recreational mountain bikes is tires. Wider mountain bike tires offer more traction and cushioning off-road but are slower on paved surfaces compared to hybrid tires. Riding a mountain bike on pavement requires more effort than a hybrid bike.
The distinction between trail bikes and recreational mountain bikes lies in components and build. True trail bikes with hydraulic disc brakes and air suspension forks (not essential for casual riders) typically start around $1,200.
- HANDLEBARS: Wide and straight with a slight rise, mountain bike handlebars position hands wider for stability and comfort.
- RIDING POSITION: Similar to ladies hybrid bikes, recreational mountain bikes offer a semi-upright position, slightly leaned towards the handlebars.
- WHEELS: Wheel sizes range from 26″ to 29″, varying widely between models and frame sizes. For basic riding, wheel size is not a critical factor.
- TIRES: Knobby, wide, and softer than other bike tires, mountain bike tires provide grip and cushioning on uneven terrain.
- SUSPENSION: Most recreational ladies mountain bikes have basic coil spring forks for smoother rides. Suspension fork quality significantly impacts mountain bike price. Quality air suspension forks, better for larger obstacles, can double bike costs.
- GEARS: More gears aren’t always better. Simpler 8 to 12 gear systems with one shifter are preferable but pricier than 20+ gear systems with two shifters.
- BIKE TRAILERS AND CHILD BIKE SEATS: Recreational mountain bikes usually work well with rear-mounted child bike seats (rack and frame). Lower-end mountain bikes often fit traditional front-mounted seats, but higher-end models may not. Mid-mount “mountain bike” child bike seats are generally a good choice for mountain bikes.
Excellent entry-level MTB.
Polygon Xtrada 5
$799
SIZING: Four sizes, for heights 5’1″ to 6’4″
BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: Yes
CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Rear-mounted rack seats not compatible
SUSPENSION FORK: Yes
About the Polygon Xtrada 5
The Polygon Xtrada 5 is a true entry-level mountain bike that allows you to hit trails without breaking the bank. Designed for both casual riding and trail adventures, the Xtrada handles paved paths and single-track trails comfortably.
Available in Xtrada 5, 6, and 7 models, with higher numbers indicating higher-end components. For more trail riding, higher models are recommended.
We tested the Xtrada 5 on basic green MTB trails. For more advanced trails, the Xtrada 7’s 1x drivetrain (single rear derailleur) and air fork (vs. coil on 5 and 6) are worth the extra cost. The Xtrada 6 is a great mid-range option for mixed riding.
WHAT WE LOVE:
- Semi-upright geometry comfortable for casual cruising and aggressive trail riding.
- Available in 4 frame sizes and 2 wheel sizes (27.5″ and 29″).
- Tektro hydraulic disc brakes for strong braking in all conditions.
- Easy-to-use trigger shifters with wide gearing (2×10 drivetrain).
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING:
- Wider 2.25″ MTB tires are great on dirt trails but have higher rolling resistance on pavement than hybrid tires.
- Coil-spring fork with 120mm travel smooths out small bumps but is not for aggressive trails.
- Wheel sizes vary by frame size: S (27.5″ only), M and L (27.5″ or 29″), XL (29″ only).
- Seat tube water bottle mounts may limit frame-mounted rear bike seat compatibility on smaller models. No rear rack mounts.
AVAILABLE MODELS:
Best beginner MTB option.
Trek Marlin 4
$579
SIZING: 6 sizes, for heights 4’9” to 6’8”
BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: Yes
CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Front frame, rear rack. Seat tube eyelets may interfere with frame-mounted rear seats.
SUSPENSION FORK: Yes
About the Trek Marlin 4
The Trek Marlin 4 is a popular ladies mountain bike, praised for its comfortable ride, precise braking, and smooth shifting, all at a reasonable price for trail riding beginners.
The Marlin 4 is categorized as a “recreational” ladies mountain bike due to its versatility. It’s great for neighborhood rides and suitable for mild dirt trails.
Our “mom bike tester” has ridden her Trek Marlin for two years, praising its comfort. Currently used on paved trails with a rear child bike seat, it’s ready for dirt trails as she and her boys explore mountain biking.
WHAT WE LOVE:
- Exceptional MTB geometry for a comfortable, stable ride.
- 2.2” wide tires provide great traction and cushioning.
- Mechanical disc brakes.
- Coil-sprung front fork offers light suspension, smooths bumps, and can be locked out for efficient hill climbs.
- Ergo grips are comfortable, reducing hand and wrist fatigue.
- Kickstand mount is a plus. Kickstand can be easily added.
- Even online purchases can be assembled at local bike shops.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING:
- The Marlin series includes Marlin 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8, with Marlin 5 being the most popular.
- Trigger shifters are ideal for mountain biking, allowing quick gear changes. They may require a short adjustment period.
- The Marlin series bikes are easily upgradable. Start with the Marlin 4 and upgrade components later as needed and budget allows for more serious mountain biking.
AVAILABLE MODELS:
Ladies EBikes
EBikes are available in every ladies bike style, from cruiser to mountain. This article focuses on ladies e-bikes ideal for city riding, offering great value, and suitable for carrying children. Electric bikes have a wide range of options that significantly affect riding experience.
If you are new to e-bikes, see our Ladies Electric Bikes Buying Guide. It covers features, bike classes, and more, providing essential information before purchasing, and includes more bike recommendations. Key differences to note:
- USE: Choose a bike for your intended use. City bikes with thin tires are not suitable for dirt trails, while fat-tired all-terrain bikes are heavy and slow on pavement.
- CLASS: EBikes are classified into 3 classes: 1, 2, and 3, differing in motor speed and throttle presence. Throttles (class 2 or 3) may be restricted in some areas, so check local laws.
- THROTTLE: A throttle propels the bike without pedaling. Pedaling is optional on throttle-equipped e-bikes.
- TORQUE SENSOR: Higher-end bikes with torque sensors allow pedal-based speed control, similar to regular bikes. Lower-end bikes typically use throttle-based speed control, braking, and coasting.
- MOTOR: Higher Watt motors provide more power for hills. Lower Watt motors are sufficient for city riding.
- WEIGHT: EBikes are heavy, often too heavy for car-mounted bike racks. Consider heavy-duty hitch racks for car transport.
- BIKE TRAILERS AND CHILD BIKE SEATS: We DO NOT recommend bike trailers with e-bikes (unless speed can be limited, like the Priority e-Coast). Most trailers have a max speed of 10-15 mph, easily exceeded on an ebike, risking tipping. With speed caution, many e-bikes are compatible with front or rear rack-mounted child bike seats.
Fun and affordable e-bike option.
Aventon Pace 500.3
$1,799
SIZING: Two sizes, fitting ladies 4’11” to 6’1″
BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: No – trailers are not recommended with e-bikes
CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Rear rack seat and some front-mounted options
About the Aventon Pace 500.3
Testers consistently praised the Aventon Pace 500 for its comfort, ease of use, affordability, and fun riding experience. Whether for short trips, longer rides, or rekindling a love for biking, the Aventon Pace delivers.
What makes the Pace enjoyable? Unlike other similarly priced e-bikes, the Pace accelerates smoothly without jolts or lag, offering a “natural” feel and rider control, even using the throttle without pedaling. The motor integration is smoother than other e-bikes, feeling less mechanical and more graceful.
Versatile and practical, the Pace accommodates a rear rack for cargo or child seats and includes front and rear fenders and integrated frame lights for visibility.
The Aventon e-bike app tracks miles, speed, and provides a helpful community for tips, ride inspiration, and maintenance advice.
If Class II e-bikes (throttle-equipped) are restricted in your area, the Pace’s throttle is easily removable without affecting pedal assist modes.
WHAT WE LOVE:
- The Pace 500 is incredibly fun to ride, with or without the throttle! It’s a clear winner in “fun” compared to other e-bikes tested across price points.
- Comfortable, upright riding position.
- Thickly padded saddle is comfortable for all riders.
- Removable throttle for compliance in throttle-restricted areas.
- Available in standard or step-through frames.
- Integrated frame lights for enhanced visibility.
- Sleek battery integration, removable for charging on or off the frame.
- Compatible with rear racks for cargo or child seats.
- Free app for tracking miles, battery life, and controlling lights.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING:
- The Pace 500 is fast. Speed is controllable via 5 pedal assist modes, but takes some getting used to.
- The newest 500.3 model includes a torque sensor (previous models did not), offering more natural pedal-based speed control.
AVAILABLE MODELS:
Natural e-bike riding experience.
Priority e-Classic Plus
$1,799
SIZING: Three sizes – Step-thru (5’2 – 5’10), S/M Diamond frame (5’6 – 5’10”), M/L Diamond frame (5’11 – 6’3″)
BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: No – trailers are not recommended with e-bikes
CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Rear rack seat and some front-mounted options
View on Priority Bicycles Our Review
About the Priority e-Classic Plus
If you’re hesitant about e-bikes, the Priority e-Classic Bike is for you! Designed to ride like a traditional bike, it provides just enough assistance to keep pace or ride faster, without the abrupt power surges of some e-bikes.
With a gentle 250W front-hub motor, the e-Classic offers subtle but noticeable assistance. Three power assist levels and three gears provide ample options for casual riding.
The e-Classic Plus is also low-maintenance, featuring a quiet, grease-free belt drive instead of a chain and an internally geared 3-speed rear hub, eliminating a derailleur. Shifting remains easy with a handlebar grip shifter.
WHAT WE LOVE:
- Quiet, grease-free carbon belt drive replaces the chain, minimizing noise and maintenance.
- Smaller 250W front hub motor provides gentle assistance without feeling overpowering.
- Full front and rear fenders and a tail light that doubles as a brake light.
- Hydraulic disc brakes for strong stopping power.
- Double-footed kickstand for stability.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING:
- The e-Classic Plus lacks a throttle; pedaling activates the motor. This contributes to its traditional bike feel (more in our review).
- No derailleur. The 3-speed internal hub gears are suitable for city riding, but more gears are needed for hilly areas.
- Pedal assist modes are easily changed via the front display (3 modes).
- The 250W motor is less powerful than most e-bikes, contributing to its natural ride feel. Ideal for keeping up with traditional bikes, but for keeping pace with other e-bikes, a 500W+ motor is recommended.
AVAILABLE MODELS:
- One model available in Step-thru and Diamond Frame
Ladies Bikes – Related Articles
If you’re getting a bike, you might also need a helmet and a bike rack! Check out these articles for a quick and easy breakdown of what to look for as well as our top picks.
10 Best Ladies Bike Helmets: If you need a bike, you need a helmet! Here are our 10 favorites for all styles of riding.
Best Beach Cruisers and Cruiser Bikes: Check out this article for a more in-depth comparison of beach cruisers.
e-Bikes Buying Guide: (it’s geared towards kids, but the information is still relevant)
FTC Disclosure: Affiliate links are included in this review. No monetary compensation was provided for this review, however, some of the reviewed product was supplied by the manufacturer or distributor to help facilitate this review. All opinions and images are that of Two Wheeling Tots LLC. All content and images are copyrighted and should not be used or replicated in any way. View our Terms of Use.
