Best Hybrid Bikes for the Money

Hybrid bikes typically feature a combination of the best features from both on- and off-road styles and are designed to be comfortable riding on both tarmac and some gravel roads. In this sense, hybrid bikes are versatile but can’t perform on extremely rough terrain as well as mountain bikes, nor can they compete in a race with a road bike.

Nowadays, they are the most common form of bicycle used for non-sport-related activities like:

• Work commutes
• Bike deliveries
• Day trips
• Recreational rides

If you’re on a tight budget, we recommend also reading our buying guide on the best hybrid bikes under $1,000.

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1. Cannondale – Quick CX 2

Price: $1,150
REI.com

The Cannondale Quick CX 2 is part of Cannondale’s fitness city bikes, which include bikes that lean more towards on-road riding.

This bike has great value and a decent set of components to satisfy the needs of a recreational cyclist, newbie mountain biker, or urban commuter. You can add racks or fenders to the bike to make it even more versatile, while it can be used as a fitness bike as easily.

• Frame – SmartFrom C3 alloy, tapered head tube.
• Fork – SR Suntour NEX-E25
  63mm travel.
• Drivetrain – 2×9 Shimano
• Tires – 700x40c Vittoria.
• Brakes – Hydraulic disc
  160mm rotors

All in all, the Quick CX 2 hardtail hybrid bike is definitely a bike that should be at the top of this list. At 31lbs, there’s nothing to add or remove to make it more complete.

Sizes from S – XL
Accommodates riders from 5’2″ to 6’5″

Buy on REI.com

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2. Co-op Cycles – CTY 1.1

Best-selling. Great value hybrid bike unisex & step-through frame

MSRP: $599
REI.com

With 63mm of travel in the front and 700c x 40mm tires, the CTY 1.1 is both fast and comfortable. It is a great value commuter bike with an upright riding position. On and off the road, the CTY 1.1 is an entry-level bike for casual commuters.

The CTY-series bikes have gained really good feedback on REI, which is Co-op Cycles one and only retailer! Their bikes have gained fast success in a limited timeframe so whenever you’d need assurance of what to expect – go over and read more from the reviews!

• 3×9 drivetrain. The Co-op Cycles CTY 1.1 features a combination of Shimano Tourney, Alivio, and Acera parts to make up its groupset. The 8-speed rear cassette is a Shimano HG-31 (11-32T) with plenty of variety for all sorts of terrains. Brakes are mechanical discs, which are very suitable for recreational cycling.
• 700x40c Wheels and Tires. The CTY 1.1 comes with 700×40 Kenda K1024 tires that benefit from a protective shield to block thorns and a reflective sidewall for extra safety at night. Wheels are standard 700c Huafeng with Joytech 32h hubs on both front and back.
• Performance. With the large, comfortable tires the bike handles well both on- and off-road.
• Mechanical Disc brake

>>> Related: eCTY Electric Hybrid Bikes >

XS – XL frame sizes.
Fits riders from 5’3″ to 6’3″

Buy on REI.com

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Marin Muirwoods RC is a budget-friendly urban bike equipped to tackle city roads as a commuting companion or a swift fitness bike.

The Muirwoods RC has a high-quality Chromoly steel frame which is durable and comfortable to ride. This is paired with bouncy 650B x 47C tires which help to smooth out any rough surfaces including gravel.

This bike comes with premium Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, an internal hub drivetrain that boosts durability and reduces maintenance needs, and reflective graphics to improve your visibility at night.

Finally, this bike also comes fitted with full fenders and mounts for a pannier rack which would allow you to turn it into the perfect touring bike.

• Puncture-resistant tires
• 1x front cog & internal gearing
• Reflective graphics for urban use
• Steel frame for a smooth and stable ride
• Fenders with mud-flaps
• Shock-absorbing bar tape
• Hydraulic disc brakes
• Internal gearing

Frame sizes from S to XL
Rider height – 5’2″ to 6’4″

Buy on JensonUSA.com

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4. GHOST – Square Cross 1.8

Price: $800
REI

The Square Cross by GHOST is a mixture of hardtail and city bike. Whether you need to get from A to B daily, convert the bike for bikepacking – there is a great mixture of different aspects that speak well for the bike. The Square Cross 1.8 is built on an aluminum frame and 50mm fork and 700c wheels.

As a hybrid, it can be used on different types of roads due to its wide tires. The hydraulic disc brakes are also a great addition to the bike at this price range.

• 3×9 speed Shimano Altus drivetrain
• Tektro hydraulic brakes
• Shimano Altus SL shifters
• GHOST 3050 saddle
• 700x35c tires

As a downside, the Shimano Altus is not among the most durable drivetrains, instead, it is best suited for recreational cyclists.

Available frame sizes: M and L 

Buy on REI.com

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5. Batch – The Fitness

Price: $375
Jenson USA

A simple bike for simple commutes, the fast 700c-wheel Batch bike sold at Jenson USA is a nice deal during this time of shortage.

For $375 you’ll get quite a bulletproof budget bike. Although it comes in three sizes and two colors, there’s more than enough of a commuter bike for the price. We’re glad that they’ve gone for the triple front chainring which provides lots of gears options for hills, but not as happy to still see V-brakes on a modern bicycle in 2022. After all, it is built to get you from A-B with the least amount of hustle.

• 6061 alloy frame,
• 700cx 38mm tires
• Shimano 3×7-speed Shimano Tourney
• Steel fork
• V-brakes

Buy on JensonUSA.com

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6. Cannondale – Treadwell 2 Remixte

Best hybrid bike for women 🏆

Price: $950
REI.com

First impressions matter, right – Well what were your first thoughts when seeing this bike?

The Treadwell 2 Remixte is Cannondale’s vision of a one-bike-to-rule-them-all that’s built on a unisex frame that pertains more to female riders. Equipped with above-average components for long-lasting commutes, it runs on 650b wheels that are commonly used for comfort in commuting and bike touring.

The braking power is provided by Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, whereas the comfort is improved by a Cannondale Treadwell saddle. This is a sturdy bike for anyone who is looking for the ultimate hybrid that can be used for commuting and fitness alike.

In addition to all of this, Treadwell 2 Remixte also has a 9-speed microSHIFT Advent rear derailleur, female-friendly frame, geometry, and paint job, as well as comfy riser bars. 

All in all, it’s a phenomenal bike to travel to work, enjoy a fun afternoon spin with friends, or do daily grocery hauls!

Buy on REI.com

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7. Rad Power Bikes – RadCity 5 Plus

Best all-purpose electric hybrid bike

Price: $1,999
Rad Power Bikes

RadCity 5 Plus is an electric hybrid bike at an excellent price point.

It’s got all you need to get on the two electric wheels and with all the extras. The 800-charge cycle battery provides a pedal-assisted range of up to 50+ miles, and it takes 5-6 hours to fully charge the battery.

This e-bike does come with a rear-wheel hub motor instead of a mid-drive motor but it rolls on versatile 27.5″ wheels and tires and is a hell of a hybrid for city commutes. The bike weighs 65lb, but it really comes at a great price point.

It’s got all the extras one would need from an everyday commuter such as – fenders, lights, racks, hydraulic disc brakes, and so on.

• 7-Speed
• 750W rear hub motor
• 27.5 x 2.0″ tires
• Weight: 65lbs

Step-thru (mid-step frame fits riders – 4’8″ – 6’2″
Step-over frame fits riders 5’4″ – 6’5″

Buy from RadPowerBikes.com

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8. Priority Bicycles – Continuum Onyx

Silent – Clean – Maintenance free

Price: $1,299
Priority Bicycles

A commuter hybrid should be the type of bike you simply use for any type of riding. You can wear a suit with the Priority Continuum Onyx since there’s no lubricated chain, and you’ll be protected from the water spray by the long-reaching fenders!

The Priority Bicycles – Continuum Onyx is a perfect example of what to expect in a decent hybrid bike. If you are looking for something that’s easy to ride, comfortable, durable, and pretty much maintenance-free – This is the one for you.

Check out the rest of their range as their bikes start as low as $499.

• 380% gear range
• Pinion Internal Gearbox – No need to lubricate the chain, or worry about the chain ‘lubricating’ your pants
• Gates Carbon Belt-drive – Literally maintenance and oil-free
• WTB 700c x 32mm puncture-resistant tires
• Tektro Hydraulic Disc brakes
• Carbon-fiber seat post
• Front and rear fenders with mud flaps
• Dynamo lights

S,M, L frame size
Recommended inseam 27″ – 35″

Buy from PriorityBicycles.com

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9. Cannondale – Bad Boy 3

Most unique hybrid bicycle to rule the streets

Price: $1275
REI

The Cannondale Bad Boy 3 is a hybrid with the look of a hardtail but the versatility of a city bike. 

Upon first glance, the component that stands out is the Lefty rigid fork that reduces overall weight without sacrificing strength. Cannondale uses their SmartForm C2 frame, which is a high-performance alloy with excellent ride characteristics and a low weight. The frame has in-built top tube protection for leaning and locking the bike when out and about. 

The Bad Boy 3 comes with a 2×8-speed Shimano Tourney/Altus drivetrain, Easy Fire trigger shifters, and Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes to complete the groupset. 

650b Cannondale rims and WTB Byway 40mm is a versatile gravel-style setup. This combination gives the Bad Boy 3 mixed-terrain capabilities and plenty of traction in wet urban conditions. 

Don’t miss out on the Cannondale Bad Boy 3 if you want an affordable, versatile, and stylish city bike with the reliability of a big-name brand. 

• Aluminum frame
• 650b x 40mm tires
• 2×8 Shimano Altus/Tourney drivetrain
• Shimano hydraulic disc brakes

Frame Sizes – S to XL
Accommodates riders 5’2″ to 6’4″

Buy on REI.com

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10. Diamondback – Divison 2

Price: $975
REI

The Division 2 is a stylish hybrid bike by mountain bike experts Diamondback with plenty of versatility for mixed-terrain riding. 

For $975, you’ll get an excellent commuter or fitness bike with reliable components from Shimano, Tektro, and Vee Tire Co. In addition, the Division 2 comes with 27.5″ wheels and wide 47mm Zilent tires to ensure control and comfort on gravel and light trails. 

This bike also has Tektro hydraulic disc brakes with 160mm rotors, which is an impressive addition for this price. Finally, the Division has aggressive hybrid geometry allows it to perform as a fitness bike. 

• 6061 aluminum frame,
• 27.5″ x 47mm tires
• 1×9 Shimano Alivio drivetrain
• Tektro hydraulic disc brakes

Buy on REI.com

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11. Marin – Presidio 2

Price: $949
GovVelo | JensonUSA

The Marin Presidio 2 is another rigid hybrid, part of Marin’s dedicated commuter range. Like all Marin bikes, the Presidio 2 has excellent compatibility with accessories. This compatibility allows riders to personalize the bike for jobs like commuting and running errands. 

The first highlight of this bike is the Shimano hydraulic disc brakes for consistent stopping power in all weather. Additionally, it has a Shimano Nexus 7-speed internally geared hub, which provides an almost maintenance-free experience, perfect for commuters who value durability and reliability. 

Overall, this is a great choice for commuters who want a fast commuter that can handle various jobs and terrains.

• Series 2 commute aluminum frame
• 700c x 32mm puncture-resistant tires
• 1×7 Shimano Nexus drivetrain
• Shimano hydraulic disc brakes

Buy on GovVelo.com Buy on Jenson USA

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12. VAAST – U/1 Street

Price: $1,100
Jenson USA

The VAAST U/1 Street is a mid-range hybrid from a smaller brand but with some impressive components for the price. 

Firstly, this bike has a stylish aluminum frame with internal cable routing and a carbon fiber fork. The frameset is rack and fender ready, so you can set it up for light touring or commuting.

The drivetrain is a reliable MicroSHIFT Advent 9-speed with solid climbing abilities thanks to the 40t chainring and 11-42t cassette. Additionally, the smaller diameter 650b wheels and WTB Venture 47mm Road Plus tires give this bike more stability, control, and comfort off-road. 

Consider this VAAST hybrid if you want a versatile commuter with solid components without the high price tag. 

• Aluminum frame and carbon fork
• Hydraulic disc brakes
• MicroSHIFT Advent 9-speed
• 650b x 47mm tires

Buy on Jenson USA

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Different Types of Hybrid Bicycles

• Mountain bike influenced – These bikes usually have front suspension, thick treaded tires, and a mountain bike style frame design for better off-road handling. While they typically have slightly better on-road performance than most dedicated mountain bikes, they are at their best when dealing with rough surfaces like dirt and gravel.

Examples include the Trek FX 1 and Ghost Square Cross.

• Road bike influenced – These are bikes with racing-style frames but straight handlebars for a more comfortable, upright position. They are usually lighter than most hybrids but also least suited to rough terrain or long-distance touring. These are great bikes for zipping around town are getting to work and back.

Examples include the Giant Escape 3 and Vilano Diverse 3.0

• Cruiser & lifestyle influenced – Cruiser style bikes like the Sixthreezero EVRYjourney are aimed at short trips around town or into the countryside. They are usually very comfortable and feature racks or baskets for carrying small goods. While cruiser bikes can handle a bit of rough terrain they are ideally aimed at smoother road surfaces.

Examples include the Sixthreezero EVRYjourney

• Utility hybrids – Utility hybrid bikes often make good touring bikes if you intend to stick mostly to tarmac surfaces. They are generally designed to be tough and carry heavier loads than most but are slower and a bit heavier than other hybrids. They don’t usually have suspension but with thicker tires, they can hold their own on dirt or gravel.

Examples include the Raleigh Route 3 or Marin Muirwoods

• CX influenced – CX-style bikes are intended to provide a perfect balance between off- and on-road surfaces, making for decent dirt track and tarmac riding. The mix means CX-style bikes are ideally suited to any specific surface but are great if you want a long-distance touring bike that is ready for any conditions.

Examples include the Cannondale Quick CX

Hybrid bike tire sizes

• 26″ –  An old-school choice, often found on city bikes
• 27.5″ = 650b – Common among hybrid bikes
• 700c – Road bike-inspired wheel size, very common among hybrid bikes.
• 29″ –  Often found on mountain bikes, while some hybrid bikes can be equipped with 29er wheels.

Conclusion: Which one to choose?

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Always take into account what you’ll be using the bicycle for. There is no point in getting a mountain-bike-style hybrid bike with suspension travel if you are only going to be commuting to work on flat paved roads.

• For work commutes, you might want a lightweight, easy-riding bike so you don’t break too much of a sweat.
• If you intend to do some weekend tours with camping – look into a utility bike that can handle more weight.
• If you want to hit the gravel tracks on the weekend then you’ll want a CX or mountain bike style hybrid.