Finding the best women’s bike can feel overwhelming with so many options available in the market, varying significantly in performance and price. After extensive personal testing of over 20 different women’s bikes, we’ve curated a list of our top recommendations for diverse riding styles and budgets.
Whether you’re seeking a bike for leisurely neighborhood rides with your family, stylish beachside cruising, or tackling gentle off-road trails with friends, we have tested bikes to suit these scenarios. From women’s hybrid bikes perfect for commuting and fitness, to comfortable cruiser bikes and capable recreational mountain bikes, we’ve dedicated hours to research and riding to simplify your decision-making process. And yes, we also explored the best electric bikes for women!
This guide focuses on high-quality bikes ideal for casual to intermediate, non-technical women riders. We delved into the world of casual, cruiser, hybrid, commuter, and fitness bikes to pinpoint models that offer exceptional durability and performance for their price range. Considering ongoing supply chain challenges, bike availability was also a crucial factor in our recommendations.
Technical bikes like full-suspension mountain bikes and performance road bikes are intentionally excluded from this list, as they are often more bike than the average woman rider needs for everyday use and recreational riding.
Unsure about the right bike style for you? Navigate to our women’s bikes buying guide section to determine the best type of bike for your specific needs and riding preferences.
Top Picks: Best Women’s Bikes
| Bike | Why We Love It | Price |
|---|---|---|
| CRUSIER & 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 | Most stable and easy to balance | $599 |
| Electra Loft 7D | Best women’s cruiser for longer rides | $499 |
| WOMENS HYBRID BIKES | ||
| REI Co-op Cycles CTY 1.1 | Excellent REI customer service and value | $599 |
| Priority Turi | Smooth and seamless Enviolo shifting | $949 |
| Cannondale CX 3 | High-quality components and comfortable ride | $725 |
| RECREATIONAL MOUNTAIN BIKES | ||
| Polygon Xtrada 5 | Quality components at an unbeatable price | $499 |
| Trek Marlin 4 | Versatile, high-quality beginner mountain bike | $579 |
| EBIKES | ||
| Aventon Pace 500.3 | Fun, fast, and lightweight e-bike | $1,599 |
| Priority e-Classic Plus | Natural and comfortable e-bike ride feel | $1,799 |
| Explore our comprehensive guide to electric bikes for women for even more options. Green Prices = Sales Prices |
Choosing the Right Style of Women’s Bike
The first step in selecting one of the best women’s bikes is determining the type of bike that aligns with your intended use. While versatility exists across bike types, prioritizing the bike style that best suits your most frequent riding activities is generally the most effective approach.
Step-through vs. Regular Frame: Many women’s bikes feature a step-through frame characterized by a sloping top tube. Step-through frames offer easier mounting and dismounting as they reduce the need to lift your leg high, but functionally, both frame styles perform similarly.
Step-through frames are often preferred when riding with a child bike seat because they simplify getting on and off the bike when it’s loaded with a child. Bikes with step-through frames are typically compatible with rear rack-mounted child bike seats. Conversely, standard “triangle” frames generally accommodate both rack and frame-mounted rear bike seats. Both frame styles are equally compatible with front-mounted child seats.
Women’s Bike Styles: Detailed Breakdown and Riding Experience
EXPLORE DIFFERENT BIKE STYLES:
- Hybrid Bikes – Ideal for medium to long-distance paved riding and commuting.
- Comfort and Cruiser Bikes – Best suited for short, leisurely rides on paved paths and beach boardwalks.
- Recreational Mountain Bikes – Perfect for light dirt trails and versatile mixed-surface riding.
- E-Bikes – Available in various styles to match all riding preferences and provide electric assistance.
Women’s Cruiser Bikes and Comfort Bikes
As their names suggest, women’s cruiser and comfort bikes are designed for comfortable, relaxed riding, typically over shorter distances. Here are key features that commonly define these bikes:
Key Features of Women’s Cruiser Bikes
- HANDLEBARS: Comfort and cruiser bikes typically feature swept-back handlebars. This handlebar design promotes an upright riding posture.
- RIDING POSITION: Upright, with a straight back. Many casual riders find the upright position more comfortable than leaning forward to reach the handlebars, making it ideal for relaxed, leisurely rides.
- WHEELS AND TIRES: Tires feature smooth street treads, though width varies. Wider tires are a hallmark of cruiser bikes, providing more cushioning compared to narrower tires.
- SADDLE: Wide, cushioned saddles are designed to support and cradle the rider, minimizing saddle soreness often associated with narrower, standard bike saddles. These wide saddles sometimes include springs for a touch of suspension, primarily for aesthetic 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 with children, a hybrid bike is strongly recommended.
- For a wider selection, explore our article on the 7 Best Beach Cruisers and Cruiser Bikes.
Various speed options for easy riding.
A woman enjoying the view of the ocean with her yellow Retrospec Chatham beach cruiser, a recommended bike for women who love beachside leisure rides.
Retrospec Chatham Step-Through Beach Cruiser
$289 – $389
SIZING: One size, suitable for women 5’0″ to 6’0″
BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: Not recommended with coaster brake models.
CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Front frame compatible, but not ideal with coaster brake models.
About the Chatham Step-Through
For budget-conscious shoppers seeking a quality beach cruiser, the Retrospec Chatham step-through models offer exceptional value as a 26-inch women’s bike. Available in a variety of vibrant colors and configurations including single-speed, 3-speed, and 7-speed, there are options to meet diverse needs and budgets.
Having tested numerous women’s bikes at higher price points, we were impressed by the comfort and ease of riding offered by the Retrospec Chatham women’s cruisers. They truly deliver exceptional value for the price. We tested the Chatham single-speed with a coaster brake and the Chatham Plus 7-speed with dual handbrakes.
Single-speed bikes excel on flat terrain and minimize maintenance due to fewer components. Initial assembly is also remarkably simple, even for those not mechanically inclined.
Most single-speed beach cruisers feature a coaster brake (back pedal brake). Coaster brakes are low-maintenance, requiring minimal adjustments, but they require more effort to engage and prevent backpedaling for balance recovery. If simplicity is a priority and you want a low-maintenance bike, the Retrospec Chatham single-speed is a great choice among Recommended Bikes For Women.
The 7-speed Chatham Plus, while slightly more expensive, is better suited for hilly areas or windy beach fronts. Riding a single-speed bike uphill or against strong winds can be challenging. Gears and dual handbrakes offer more versatility for enjoyable rides and provide reliable stopping power. However, assembly of the 7-speed model is more complex than the single-speed and may require professional bike shop assistance for those unfamiliar with bike mechanics.
WHAT WE LOVE:
- Affordable price and low maintenance design.
- Single-speed option for simplicity and minimal upkeep, ideal for casual riding.
- 7-speed options provide versatility for hills and include more effective hand brakes.
- Dual v-brakes offer solid stopping power, surpassing some pricier cruiser bikes with less effective brakes.
- Wider tires offer more cushioning compared to thinner tires on other women’s cruiser bikes.
- Wide range of fun color choices to personalize your ride.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING:
- Retrospec Chatham models come in standard and “Plus” versions. Plus models are slightly pricier but feature upgraded components, notably aluminum frames (versus steel) for lighter weight and rust resistance, and wider BigWave tires for enhanced cushioning, a difference we found noticeable.
- For beachside riding, the aluminum frame (and some components) of the Plus models are more rust-resistant. (However, some components can still rust.)
- We advise against bike trailers or child bike seats with coaster brake-only bikes (single-speed and 3-speed) due to the increased stopping power needed when carrying extra weight.
- Coaster brake-only bikes (no handbrakes) are cheaper but offer less speed control, requiring backpedaling to slow down.
- 7-speed model assembly is more intricate than higher-priced bikes and may require bike shop assistance.
AVAILABLE MODELS:
Easy to maintain and perfect for family outings.
A mom enjoying a bike ride with her child in a rear child bike seat mounted on a Priority Classic Plus cruiser bike, highlighting the bike’s compatibility and ease of use for families.
Priority Classic Plus
$599
SIZING: 3 sizes, inseams 26″ – 36″
BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: Requires 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 seek a women’s cruiser or comfort bike with gears, the 3-speed Classic Plus offers ample range for casual riding and simpler operation than bikes with more gears.
While you might associate coaster brakes (back pedal brakes) with your childhood bikes, and think you prefer them now, all Priority Classic Plus models come with front and rear hand brakes, and no coaster brake.
We highly recommend considering a bike without a coaster brake. Dual hand brakes (and no coaster brake) enhance the riding experience with easier and more natural control. They also provide superior stopping power, particularly useful when carrying a child in a bike seat.
WHAT WE LOVE:
- For those unfamiliar with bike maintenance, the Priority Classic Plus is a dream. Its grease-free belt drive and internally geared hub require minimal to no upkeep. Most bikes use a chain drive and derailleur, which are much more prone to needing bike shop servicing.
- 3 speeds offer simple shifting while still providing flexibility for moderate hills and flat roads.
- Streamlined and straightforward assembly process.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING:
- Thinner “hybrid tires” provide smooth rolling on pavement but less cushioning than wider tires on other bikes.
- Available in both women’s step-through and men’s diamond frames. Choose based on your preference or height needs.
- The internally geared rear hub necessitates a special adapter for bike trailers.
- For rear child bike seats on the women’s cruiser model (step-through frame), a rack and rack-mounted child bike seat are required. The diamond frame is compatible with both rack and frame-mounted rear child bike seats.
AVAILABLE MODELS:
Comfortable and balanced cruiser.
A woman smoothly riding an Electra Townie 7D women’s bike on a sidewalk, showcasing its comfort and ease of handling, making it a top recommended bike for women seeking stability.
Electra Townie 7D
$599
SIZING: One size, suitable for 4’11” – 6’0″
CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Front frame, rear rack (but not ideally suited for either).
View on Electra View on REI Our Review
About the Electra Townie 7D
The Electra Townie women’s bike is the ultimate in comfort cruising, particularly ideal for riders who are less confident or slightly timid. Unlike conventional bikes, the Townie allows for a lower saddle position, enabling riders to place their feet flat on the ground when starting and stopping. This feature makes the Townie notably easier to manage for those who prioritize stability.
The Townie’s unique design stems from Electra’s Flat-Foot Technology. This technology is not electronic or app-based; it’s a frame design that positions the pedals further forward, rather than directly under the rider.
This design allows for full leg extension during each pedal stroke by pushing more forward, instead of straight down. Consequently, the seat doesn’t need to be as high, and the rider can comfortably place their entire foot flat on the ground when stopping and starting.
This configuration is excellent for those with balance concerns or riders who simply prefer more foot contact with the ground for confidence. However, because pedaling is more forward than directly down, less power is transferred to the pedals. This makes the Townie less ideal for hills, long distances, or carrying children in bike trailers or child bike seats.
WHAT WE LOVE:
- Flat-foot technology is the standout feature of this women’s cruiser bike. We were amazed by the comfort and the security of being able to place our feet flat on the ground when stopping and starting!
- 7 speeds offer significantly more hill-climbing flexibility than single-speed women’s cruiser bikes.
- 2″ wide tires, wider than others on this list, enhance stability and cushioning.
- Available in a wide array of fun and stylish colors.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING:
- The Townie features dual handbrakes and no coaster brake, unlike many women’s cruiser bikes which have coaster brakes. Coaster brakes are lower maintenance but restrict backpedaling and require more force to stop.
- Offered in one size, but our tests show it comfortably fits a broad range of heights.
- While child bike seats or bike trailers are attachable, this is not the ideal bike for frequent child-carrying. For regular family rides, consider hybrid bikes instead.
AVAILABLE MODELS:
Best for longer, comfortable rides.
A woman elegantly riding an Electra Loft 7D women’s bike across a crosswalk, emphasizing its suitability as a recommended bike for women seeking comfort over longer distances.
Electra Loft 7D
$499
SIZING: Two sizes to fit 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 riding posture but need to cover longer distances or haul children, the Electra Loft 7D women’s bike is our top recommendation. With 7 speeds, it’s much easier to manage the added weight of a child on inclines or flat roads.
While the Loft 7D is categorized under Electra’s “flat-foot technology,” its effect is minimal compared to the Townie – almost unnoticeable. If flat-footed stops are a priority, the Townie is a better choice. However, if an upright position is your main goal, the Loft 7D’s pedal position is more similar to a standard bike, allowing for better pedal leverage. This makes longer rides or riding with kids more manageable.
WHAT WE LOVE:
- Efficient pedaling, upright posture, and 7 gears create a unique and versatile combination.
- The distinct split top tube design gives this women’s comfort bike a stylish edge.
- Small but thoughtful detail: the pedals are both functional and aesthetically pleasing!
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING:
- Forward-placed pedals and larger wheels can cause toe overlap with the front tire during sharp turns. This occurred during our testing and is a minor drawback of flat-foot technology paired with larger wheels.
- The leather grips are beautiful but can be slippery. Grip tape can easily solve this if it’s an issue.
- Electra women’s bikes may not be universally compatible with all racks. The recommended rack for the Loft 7D is the Electra MIK Rear Rack.
AVAILABLE MODELS:
Budget-friendly cruiser option.
A woman casually riding a SixThreeZero beach cruiser bike in her neighborhood, representing a budget-friendly recommended bike for women who want a simple and enjoyable ride.
SixThreeZero Around the Block
$250
SIZING: One size, suitable for women 5’0″ to 6’0″
BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: Not recommended with coaster brake only.
CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Front frame, rear rack compatible, but not ideal with coaster brake only.
We tested the single-speed, 26″ wheel “Around the Block” women’s cruiser. While we prefer the overall higher quality of Retrospec Chatham bikes, the SixThreeZero is a decent, more affordable option we can recommend.
Women’s Hybrid Bikes
Hybrid bikes merge features of road and mountain bikes. They combine the smooth-rolling, low-resistance tires of road bikes with the more upright posture and flat handlebars of mountain bikes, truly offering the best of both worlds. Hybrid bikes are ideal for riders who primarily ride on smooth, paved surfaces.
For riding mostly on pavement with occasional all-terrain sections, consider a hybrid bike with a suspension fork (typically found on higher-end models). If all-terrain dirt or gravel trails are your main riding environment, a recreational mountain bike is likely more suitable (see mountain bike section below).
Key Features of Hybrid Bikes:
- HANDLEBARS: Hybrid bikes feature flat, mostly straight handlebars that vary in height and width. They are typically less wide than mountain bike handlebars and less narrow than road bike handlebars, aiming for a comfortable middle ground.
- RIDING POSITION: Riders assume a semi-upright position. The torso is leaned forward more than on a comfort/cruiser bike but much more upright than on a road bike. This position optimizes power transfer to the pedals, making them more efficient for use with child bike seats or trailers compared to comfort or cruiser bikes.
- WHEELS AND TIRES: Similar to road bikes, hybrid bike tires are thinner and inflated to higher pressures to minimize rolling resistance on pavement. This makes hybrid bikes fast and efficient on paved surfaces but offers less cushioning compared to recreational mountain bike tires.
- SUSPENSION FORK: Given the minimal cushioning from hybrid tires, suspension forks help absorb bumps and shocks on rough paved roads or gravel and dirt trails.
- GEARS: Gear ranges vary from 3 to 27 speeds. The necessary number of gears depends on the terrain’s elevation changes. More hills require more gears. However, most riders find 3 to 10 gears sufficient.
- BIKE TRAILERS and CHILD BIKE SEATS: Among bike styles, women’s hybrid bikes are generally the best choice if you plan to pull a bike trailer or use a child bike seat in urban environments.
Seamless shifting for a smooth ride.
A woman standing beside a red Priority Turi hybrid bike equipped with a pannier tote, illustrating a stylish and functional recommended bike for women who prioritize seamless shifting and urban commuting.
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 been riding and recommending Priority bikes (for adults and children!) for years. 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 remarkably low-maintenance belt drive (and is grease-free). Avoiding the need to clean and lubricate a chain or deal with derailleur adjustments is a major advantage of belt-drive bikes.
But our favorite feature of this comfort hybrid bike is its Enviolo shifting system. Encased within the rear wheel hub, the Enviolo gearing shifts seamlessly via a grip shift on the right handlebar. Unlike traditional indexed gears, there are no distinct “steps” when shifting, creating a continuous, smooth transition similar to riding on an airport moving walkway.
WHAT WE LOVE:
- While many Priority bikes offer various gearing options (1, 3, or 7), the Turi exclusively features the Enviolo gearing system. Its gear range (from lowest to highest) is wider than most other Priority bikes, making it better suited for hilly areas. (However, for frequent hill riding, a wider gear range like the Polygon Path 2 would be even more preferable.)
- Hydraulic disc brakes provide superior stopping power, even in wet conditions.
- Dual-leg kickstand is significantly more stable than traditional kickstands.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING:
Easy to maintain with a focus on urban riding.
A mom riding a Priority Classic Plus – Gotham hybrid bike with a child in a front-mounted bike seat, highlighting the bike’s ease of maintenance and suitability for urban family cycling, making it a recommended bike for women in cities.
Priority Classic Plus – Gotham
$599
SIZING: 3 sizes, 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 long family bike rides to quick errands around town, this Priority bike has delivered a smooth ride with virtually no maintenance.
Based in New York City, Priority Bicycles are designed to withstand the demands of urban riding. Our team has owned eleven Priority bikes over the years, and they have all proven durable, including the Priority kids bikes which endure significant use from young riders.
WHAT WE LOVE:
- Grease-free belt drive requires minimal to no maintenance. Most bikes use a chain drive setup, which is more delicate and prone to damage and repairs.
- 3 speeds simplify shifting while providing enough range for moderate hills and flat roads.
- Very lightweight, making a noticeable difference when climbing hills, carrying children, or riding longer distances.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING:
- Thinner “hybrid tires” roll smoothly on pavement but offer less cushioning than wider tires on other bikes.
- Available in both women’s step-through and men’s diamond frames. Choose according to your preference or height needs.
- The internally geared rear hub requires a special adapter for bike trailers.
- For rear child bike seats on the women’s model, you’ll need to purchase a rack and a rack-mounted child bike seat. The men’s diamond frame is compatible with both rack and frame-mounted rear child bike seats.
AVAILABLE MODELS:
REI’s Guarantee and service are a big plus.
A woman riding an REI CTY 1.1 hybrid bike on a sidewalk, highlighting the bike’s reliability and the added benefit of REI’s guarantee and service, making it a strongly recommended bike for women.
REI Co-Op Cycles CTY 1.1
$599
SIZING: 3 sizes, for heights 5’0 to 5’9
BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: Yes, but needs longer rear axle skewer.
CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Front frame, rear rack. Not enough clearance above the rear tire for a frame mounted rear seat.
SUSPENSION FORK: No
About the Co-Op CTY 1.1
Beyond excellent quality at a fair price, buying a women’s bike from REI offers numerous advantages. You can order online and pick it up fully assembled in-store, and enjoy free adjustments and basic maintenance for a full year!
A more forward-leaning riding position and trigger shifters make this city bike closer to a “fitness” bike than other hybrids on our list of recommended bikes for women. The leaned-in posture allows for more force on the pedals, making it great for workouts.
With 24 gears, the CTY 1.1 boasts the widest gear range of any hybrid we tested. If you regularly encounter steep inclines, this Co-op Cycles bike should be high on your list.
WHAT WE LOVE:
- Order online and pick up assembled at your local REI store.
- Free adjustments and basic maintenance for a year, including brake and derailleur adjustments and chain lubing (available to everyone, not just REI members).
- Easy returns or exchanges at your local store.
- REI members enjoy free flat tire repairs for life!
- Lightweight aluminum frame.
- Rear Shimano Altus derailleur offers smooth and easy shifting.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING:
- 24 gears provide a wide range, and trigger shifters are smooth, but may require a short adjustment period.
- The handlebars and stem on the CTY are lower and flatter than other women’s hybrid bikes. This suits many women, but if you find yourself leaning too far forward, REI can install a riser stem for a more upright position (around $40).
- For bike trailer use, you’ll need a longer rear axle skewer. Request this when ordering online and contacting the store for assembly.
- Available in diamond or step-thru frame styles.
AVAILABLE MODELS:
Suspension for added comfort on varied terrain.
A close-up of the front suspension of a Cannondale CX hybrid bike, emphasizing its suspension comfort and versatility as a recommended bike for women who ride on varied terrains.
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 framed women’s models may not be ideal for frame-mounted rear seats. All sizes should fit front-mounted seats and rear rack-mounted seats.
SUSPENSION FORK: Yes
About the Cannondale Quick CX
The Cannondale Quick CX is an excellent choice for riders who primarily ride on paved surfaces but occasionally venture onto gravel or compact dirt trails. CX stands for “cyclocross,” a riding style that involves grass, dirt, and paved surfaces. While not a dedicated cyclocross bike, the Quick CX offers basic CX bike functionality combined with the comfortable posture of a hybrid bike, making it a recommended bike for women seeking versatility.
WHAT WE LOVE:
- 1×8 drivetrain with trigger shifters is responsive and user-friendly.
- Incredibly smooth ride on paved surfaces. Pedal strokes feel efficient, making it easy to climb mild hills and glide downhill.
- Included tires feature slight knobs, making them better suited for light gravel or compact dirt trails than smoother hybrid tires.
- Front suspension fork helps absorb bumps and rocks along the way, enhancing comfort on varied surfaces.
- Available at REI, offering online ordering with free in-store assembly and tuning. Returns are equally convenient.
- Purchases at REI include free adjustments and basic maintenance for a year!
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING:
- Lower CX model numbers (CX 1, 2) indicate higher component quality (suspension fork, brakes, drivetrain) and increased bike price.
- Water bottle mounts on the seat tube may interfere with frame-mounted rear bike seats on smaller models.
- All CX models come with tires suitable for mixed smooth terrain (paved to compact dirt trails).
- Standard (diamond frame) models tend to accommodate more rear bike seats than women’s step-through models.
AVAILABLE MODELS:
Women’s Mountain Bikes (Recreational)
If you plan to ride frequently on basic dirt trails, with occasional paved rides, a recreational mountain bike is ideal. These bikes are not as specialized as true mountain bikes and aren’t designed for aggressive trail riding. However, they still provide ample cushioning and traction for basic, non-paved trails and are excellent recommended bikes for women exploring off-road riding.
A key difference between hybrid and recreational mountain bikes is the tires. Wider mountain bike tires offer more traction and cushioning for off-road riding but are slower on paved surfaces compared to hybrid tires. Consequently, riding a mountain bike on pavement requires more effort than a hybrid bike.
The distinction between true trail bikes and recreational mountain bikes lies in components and construction. True trail bikes with hydraulic disc brakes and air suspension forks (not essential for average riders) typically start around $1,200.
- HANDLEBARS: Wide and straight with a slight rise, mountain bike handlebars position hands wider than other bikes for enhanced stability, yet remain comfortable.
- RIDING POSITION: Similar to women’s hybrid bikes, recreational mountain bikes position riders semi-upright, with the torso slightly leaning 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 primary factor.
- TIRES: Knobby, wider, and softer than other bike tires, mountain bike tires are designed for trail grip and cushioning over rocks and uneven terrain.
- SUSPENSION: Most recreational women’s mountain bikes have basic coil spring forks to smooth out rides. Suspension fork quality significantly impacts mountain bike prices. High-quality air suspension forks, offering better cushioning for larger obstacles, can more than double a bike’s cost.
- GEARS: More gears aren’t always better. We prefer women’s mountain bikes with 8 to 12 gears and a single shifter (right hand) for simplicity. However, these tend to be pricier than bikes with two shifters (left and right hand) and 20+ gears.
- BIKE TRAILERS and CHILD BIKE SEATS: Recreational mountain bikes usually work well with rear-mounted child bike seats (both rack and frame-mounted). Lower-end mountain bikes often accommodate traditional front-mounted seats, but high-end models typically do not. Mid-mount “mountain bike” child bike seats are often a great choice for mountain bikes.
Entry-level MTB that is ready for the trails.
A Polygon Xtrada 5 mountain bike, showcasing its entry-level design and trail-ready features, making it a recommended bike for women starting mountain biking.
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 the trails without overspending. Designed for both casual comfort and trail-riding capability, the Xtrada handles paved paths to single-track trails with ease, making it a versatile recommended bike for women.
The Xtrada series includes the Xtrada 5, 6, and 7 models, with higher numbers indicating upgraded components. For more serious trail riding, higher models are recommended.
We tested the Xtrada 5 on basic green MTB trails. For more advanced trails, the Xtrada 7’s simplified 1x drivetrain (single rear derailleur) and air fork (compared to coil on the 5 and 6) are worth the extra cost. For a mix of riding, the Xtrada 6 is a great mid-range option.
WHAT WE LOVE:
- Semi-upright geometry provides comfort for casual cruising and sufficient aggression for adventurous riding.
- Available in 4 frame sizes and 2 wheel sizes (27.5″ and 29″).
- Tektro hydraulic disc brakes offer ample braking power in all conditions.
- Easy-to-use trigger shifters with a wide 2×10 drivetrain gear range.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING:
- Wider 2.25″ MTB tires are excellent on dirt trails but create higher rolling resistance on pavement compared to thinner hybrid tires.
- Coil-spring fork with 120mm travel smooths out small trail bumps but is not built for aggressive trails with large obstacles.
- Wheel sizes vary by frame size – S is 27.5″ only, M and L are 27.5″ or 29″, XL is 29″ only.
- Water bottle mounts on the seat tube may interfere with frame-mounted rear bike seats on smaller models. The Xtrada also lacks rear rack mounts.
AVAILABLE MODELS:
Best beginner MTB for women.
A woman confidently riding a Trek Marlin 5 women’s mountain bike, demonstrating its capabilities and comfort as a top recommended beginner mountain bike for women.
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. Eyelets on seat tube may interfere with a rear frame mounted seat.
SUSPENSION FORK: Yes
About the Trek Marlin 4
The Trek Marlin 4 is among the most popular women’s mountain bikes available. We’re very impressed with its comfortable ride, precise braking, and smooth, easy shifting, all at a reasonable price for beginners in trail riding, making it a highly recommended bike for women starting mountain biking.
The Marlin 4 falls into our “recreational” women’s mountain bike category due to its versatility. It excels at neighborhood rides with kids and is equally capable on mild dirt trails.
Our “mom bike tester” has ridden her Trek Marlin for about two years and praises it highly. With a young child, she currently uses it primarily on paved trails with a rear child bike seat. However, dirt trails are on the horizon as she and her boys explore mountain biking together.
WHAT WE LOVE:
- Exceptional MTB geometry for a comfortable, stable ride.
- 2.2” wide tires offer excellent traction and extra cushioning.
- Mechanical disc brakes provide reliable stopping power.
- Coil-sprung front fork provides light suspension to smooth out bumps on trails or roads, and can be locked out for efficient hill climbing.
- Ergo grips enhance comfort and reduce hand and wrist fatigue.
- Kickstand mount is a great feature! Although it doesn’t come with a kickstand, our tester easily added one.
- Even if purchased online, assembly is available at local bike shops.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING:
- While the Trek Marlin 5 is the most popular in the Marlin series, Trek also offers Marlin 4, 6, 7, and 8 models.
- Trigger shifters (versus grip shifters) are ideal for mountain biking, allowing for quick shifts through multiple gears with a single push. They may be new, but are quickly learned.
- If you’re unsure about your mountain biking needs, starting with the Trek Marlin 4 provides a solid base for upgrades later as your budget and riding intensity increase.
AVAILABLE MODELS:
Women’s eBikes
E-bikes are available across all women’s bike styles – from cruisers to mountain bikes. This guide focuses on women’s 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 the riding experience.
For e-bike newcomers, consult our Women’s Electric Bikes Buying Guide. It covers essential e-bike knowledge, from features to classes, and includes more bike recommendations. Key differences to consider:
- USE: Choose an e-bike that matches your intended use. City bikes with thin tires are unsuitable for dirt trails, while fat-tired all-terrain e-bikes are heavy and slow on pavement.
- CLASS: E-bikes are categorized into classes 1, 2, and 3, differing in motor-assisted speed and throttle presence. Throttle-equipped bikes (class 2 or 3) may be restricted in some areas, so check local regulations.
- THROTTLE: An e-bike throttle propels the bike independently of pedaling. With a throttle, pedaling is optional.
- TORQUE SENSOR: Higher-end e-bikes with torque sensors allow pedal-based speed control, similar to regular bikes. Lower-end models often lack torque sensors, relying on throttle, braking, and coasting for speed management.
- MOTOR: Higher Watt motors provide more power for hills. Lower Watt motors are sufficient for city riding.
- WEIGHT: E-bikes are heavy, often too heavy for car-mounted bike racks. Transporting e-bikes by car usually requires a heavy-duty hitch rack.
- BIKE TRAILERS and CHILD BIKE SEATS: We DO NOT recommend bike trailers with e-bikes (unless the e-bike’s speed can be limited, like the Priority e-Coast). Trailers typically have a max speed of 10-15 mph, easily exceeded on an e-bike, risking trailer tipping. Child bike seats (front or rear rack-mounted) are generally compatible if speed is carefully managed.
Fun and affordable ebike option for women.
A woman riding an Aventon Pace 350 ebike in her neighborhood, showcasing a fun and affordable recommended ebike for women seeking electric assistance in their rides.
Aventon Pace 500.3
$1,799
SIZING: Two sizes to fit heights 4’11” to 6’1″
BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: No – avoid trailers with e-bikes.
CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Rear rack seat and some front mounted.
About the Aventon Pace 500.3
Our testers consistently raved about the Aventon Pace 500. Beyond comfort, ease of use, and affordability, it’s incredibly fun to ride! Whether you need a bike for short trips, longer rides, or to rekindle your biking passion, the Aventon Pace is a great recommended ebike for women.
What makes the Pace so enjoyable? Unlike other similarly priced e-bikes, the Pace accelerates smoothly without jolts or lag. The “natural” feel keeps riders comfortable and in control, even using only the throttle. Motor integration in other e-bikes isn’t as seamless, feeling more mechanical and less “graceful.”
Highly versatile, the Pace supports a rear rack for cargo or a child bike seat, and comes with fenders and integrated frame lights for visibility in low light.
The Aventon e-bike app tracks miles, speed, and connects you with 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 the “fun” category compared to other e-bikes at various price points.
- Comfortable, upright riding position.
- Thickly padded saddle is comfortable for all riders.
- Throttle is removable without impacting bike function.
- Available in standard or step-through frames.
- Integrated frame lights along the side and back enhance visibility.
- Sleek battery integration into the frame, yet removable for charging on or off-bike.
- Compatible with rear rack for cargo or child bike seats.
- Free app for tracking miles, battery life, and controlling lights.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING:
- The Pace 500 is quite fast! Speed is managed via 5 pedal assist modes, but its speed takes some adjustment.
- The newest 500.3 model includes a torque sensor (unlike previous models), providing more natural pedal-based speed control.
AVAILABLE MODELS:
Natural feeling ebike with smooth power assist.
A woman riding a Priority e-Classic Plus ebike in an urban environment, highlighting its natural ride feel and smooth power assist, making it a top recommended ebike for women.
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 – avoid trailers with e-bikes.
CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Rear rack seat and some front mounted.
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 likely for you! Designed to feel like a traditional bike, the e-Classic offers subtle assistance to keep pace or ride faster, avoiding the sudden power surges often felt on e-bikes, and is a highly recommended ebike for women who prefer a natural ride feel.
Built with a 250W front-hub motor, the e-Classic provides gentle, noticeable power without being overwhelming. Three power assist levels and three gears offer ample riding options for casual use.
The e-Classic Plus is also low-maintenance! It features a quiet, grease-free belt drive instead of a chain, and lacks a derailleur, with three gears housed in the rear hub. Gear shifting remains easy via a handlebar grip shifter.
WHAT WE LOVE:
- Quiet, grease-free carbon belt replaces the chain, ensuring a quiet ride and minimal maintenance.
- Smaller 250W front hub motor aids speed without feeling overly powerful or uncontrolled, offering a very natural ride feel.
- Comes with front and rear fenders and a tail light that doubles as a brake light.
- Hydraulic disc brakes provide strong stopping power.
- Double-footed kickstand makes mounting and dismounting easy and stable.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING:
- The e-Classic Plus lacks a throttle; pedaling is needed to engage the motor. However, its natural ride feel is enjoyable even without a throttle (more in our review).
- No derailleur to maintain! Three gears are located within the rear hub, shifted via a handlebar shifter. Gears are suitable for town use, but more gears may be needed in hilly areas.
- Pedal assist modes are easily adjusted via the front display (3 modes).
- The 250W motor is less powerful than most e-bikes, but its lower power contributes to the bike’s natural feel. Ideal for keeping pace with traditional bikes; for keeping up with other e-bikes, a 500W+ motor is recommended.
AVAILABLE MODELS:
- One model available in Step-thru and Diamond Frame
Women’s Bikes – Related Articles
If you’re getting a bike, you might also need a helmet and a bike rack! Check out these articles for quick guides and top recommendations.
10 Best Women’s Bike Helmets: Our top 10 helmet picks for all riding styles.
Best Beach Cruisers and Cruiser Bikes: In-depth beach cruiser comparison.
e-Bikes Buying Guide: (Geared toward kids, but the information is universally applicable).
FTC Disclosure: Affiliate links are included. No monetary compensation was provided for this review, but some reviewed products were supplied by manufacturers or distributors to facilitate the review. All opinions and images are those of Two Wheeling Tots LLC. All content and images are copyrighted and should not be used or replicated. View our Terms of Use.
