Best Hybrid Bikes For The Money
What is a hybrid bike?
Commuter = City = Urban = Hybrid
A hybrid bike is essentially a cross between a mountain bike and a road bike, with a focus on comfort rather than speed. They 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
Due to end of cycling season, and Covid-19 related transportation delays, most bikes down below are unfortunately out of stock.
1) Cannondale – Quick Disc 5 ‘2021
MSRP $600 / 700c wheels / 14-speed / Rack&fender mounts / Mechanical disc brakes
The Cannondale Quick Disc 4 is part of Cannondale’s fitness city bikes, which includes bikes that lean more towards on-road riding.
Frame
The SmartFrom C3 alloy frame is lightweight and features internal cable routing, a tapered head tube and rack, and fender mounts.
Components
The Cannondale Quick Disc 5 features a new! MicroShift ADVENT derailleur and shifters on a 14-speed drivetrain (12-32 tooth sprockets). The braking power is supported by Promax mechanical disc brakes with 160mm rotors and Promax BL42 brake levers.
Wheels and tires
The speed of the Quick Disc 5 is backed with Cannondale’s double-wall 32h Disc rims and Schwalbe Spicer 700x x 35mm K-Guard tires
Performance
A great all-round bike for fitness/commuting purposes on the weekend and getting to work and back during the week.
This bike has great value and a decent set of components to satisfy the needs of a recreational cyclist. You can add racks or fenders to the bike and go for a longer stroll with ease. What’s also great is that it’s got no front derailleur and a front suspension, which minimizes the amount of maintenance in the future!
2) Pure Cycles – Urban Commuter
Cheapest of the bunch
MSRP $499 / 8-speed / Steel Frame / 700x32c tires / Mechanical Disc Brakes
Pure Cycles’ bikes range offers a nice variety of unique-looking bicycles, and the Urban Commuter is one of those. Although the bikes have nice designs, the low price is designed for the recreational cyclists who are looking for the best bang for their buck. Take a look at the features it’s got:
- Rack & fender ready with two water-bottle mounts – For the best-optimized versatility
- Steel frame and 700c wheels – Pick up and hold speed more than you could imagine!
- 8-speed derailleur by SRAM and mechanical disc brakes – For a convenient commuting
3) Co-op Cycles CTY 1.1
Best-seller
MSRP $549 / 3×8 Drivetrain / Mechanical Disc brakes / 700c wheels & puncture-resistant tires
Groupset
The Co-op Cycles CTY 1.1 features a combination of Shimano Tourney, Altus, and Acera parts to make up its groupset. The 8-speed rear cassette is a Shimano HG31 (11-32) with an Acera derailleur. On the front, you’ll find a 3-speed (48/38/28) Shimano TY-301 crankset with Tourney derailleur. Both gears are supported by Altus 8 trigger shifters and brakes are Tektro M300 mechanical discs with Tektro shifters.
Wheels and Tires
The CTY 1.1 comes with puncture-resistant 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 Co-op rims with Joytech 32h hubs on both front and back.
At only 26.4 lbs, CTY 1.1 is light enough to zip around town but also strong enough to carry up to 304 lbs including the rider and luggage.
Performance
With the large, comfortable tires the bike handles well both on-road and off. Over a wide variety of terrain, we were unable to puncture or damage either of the tires. The lack of suspension means you can’t quite go fully offroad like you would on a mountain bike but that is to be expected from a hybrid.
If you’re looking to do short weekend backpacking or camping trips, the CTY 1.1 has sufficient eyelets to mount both racks and fenders so you can carry luggage and stay mud-free.
Rest of the Co-op Cycles CTY-series
| MODEL | MSPR $ | Gears | Wheels | Brakes | Frame | Fork Travel | Drivetrain |
| CTY 1.1 | 549 | 3 x 8 | 700c | Mechanical | Alu | x | Chain |
| CTY 1.2 | 899 | 3 x 9 | 700c | Hydraulic | Alu | x | Chain |
| CTY 1.3 | 1349 | 1 x 8 | 700c | Hydraulic | Alu | x | Belt |
| CTY 2.1 | 749 | 3 x 8 | 700c | Hydraulic | Alu | 63mm | Chain |
| CTY 2.2 | 1099 | 3 x 8 | 700c | Hydraulic | Alu | 63mm | Chain |
| CTY 3.1 | 1099 | 1 x 11 | 650b | Hydraulic | Steel | x | Chain |
| CTY KDS | 349 | 3 x 7 | 24″ | Rim | Alu | x | Chain |
4) Surly – Bridge Club ‘Illegal Smile 700c’
Best commuter bike
MSRP: $1,099 / Shimano Deore 1x drivetrain / Tektro Hydraulic Disc brakes / 700c x 41mm Surly tires
If you are looking for a fast, versatile, and super durable bike for your everyday commutes, this tough Surly bike should be in your pick-list! Surly has been focusing on bicycles that are literally built to last hence the reason their whole range is based on steel frames! Under that somewhat overlooked design is actually a tough build, take a look at it:
- Cane Creek 40 headset
- FSA Alpha 1x crankset
- FSA bottom bracket
- Novatec 32-hole Quick-Release hubs
- WTB ST i21 TCS rims
- Multiple mounts for racks, fenders, and water bottles on frame/fork
This ‘Bridge Club 700c‘ is among the fastest hybrid bikes on this list that allows you to commute comfortably, or go for those long-distance touring trips!
Check Availability – GravityCoalition
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5) Marin – Muirwoods RC ‘2021
Gravel bike inspired hybrid
MSRP $999 / 8-speed internal hub drive / Double Butted Steel frame / 650b-47mm wide wheels / Hydraulic Disc Brakes
This is a hybrid you’d want to see in 2020 – A tight-squeeze combination of great components that make up a great bike for everyday cyclists. What makes the RC Muirwoods an essential hybrid is most likely the best combination of different cycling backgrounds – The RC is a gravel bike inspired hybrid as it’s got the 650b (27.5″) Horizon tires, hydraulic disc brakes borrowed from mountain bikes, and an internal hub gearing that’s best suited for commuter bikes!
It also features:
- Puncture-resistant tires
- Reflective graphics for urban use
- Steel frame for a smooth and stable ride
- Fenders with mud-flaps
- Shock-absorbing bar tape
The overall performance of the 2021 RC Muirwoods makes up an ideal everyday go-to bike. There’s literally nothing to add or remove about the bike to make it more suitable for everyday riding on the streets!
6) Priority Cycles – 600
Silent – Clean – Maintenance free
MSRP $2,299 / Gates Belt-drive drivetrain / 12-speed Pinion Gearbox / 650B wheels / Dynamo lights / 6061 T6 Ultralight Aluminum frame
A hybrid should be the type of bike you simply use for any type of commute. You can wear a suit with the Priority 600 since there’s no lubricated chain, and you’ll be protected from the water spray by the long-reaching fenders.
- Fenders – Front and rear with mudflaps on the end
- 600% gear range
- Internal Gearbox – No need to lubricate the chain, or worry about the chain ‘lubricating’ your pants
- Belt-drive – Literally maintenance and oil-free
- WTB 650B Road Plus tires (27.5″)
- Tektro Hydraulic Disc brakes
- Carbon-fiber Seatpost
- Dynamo lights
- Large and comfortable, puncture-resistant tires.
Priority 600 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.
Related: Priority Cycles full review
Check availability – Priority Cycles
7) Co-op Cycles – CTY e2.1
Best electric commuter
MSRP $1,799 REI / Features: Shimano Altus Hydraulic Disc brakes / 50-mile range / 75mm travel (Adjustable, lockable)
Introducing one of the latest, also the first electric bike by Co-op Cycles. The good news is that they haven’t tried to figure out their own way into electric bikes, instead – they’ve been using the latest of trends and components you’d want to see in a durable electric hybrid bike. It’s got a 50-mile pedal-assist range with a top speed of 20mp/h and a charge time of 5 hours, there’s really nothing to add or remove the bike.
- 40Nm torque
- Kick-stand
- E-bike specific chain
- Shimano Alivio 9-speed derailleur
- Front and rear lights
- Rear rack
- 5-hour charge time
As it weighs just right over 50 lb, it’s equipped with MOBIE-A32 you’ll notice on other mid-range electric bikes. There’s a more upgraded version of this bike – the CTY 2.2 with a 60Nm torque and a more powerful motor in it. The CTY 2.2 is also equipped with fenders, other than that, there’s not too much of difference!
Definitely worth checking out as Co-op bikes have ranked in superb feedback and ratings, and most people prefer their bikes due to their unisex frames and unbeatable value! You’ll often see solid, mid-range components on their bikes!
8) Cannondale – Bad Boy
MSRP: From $950 / Features: Lefty fork / A tough-looking geometry / 650b wheels
Cannondale Bad Boy 1 – Review
Cannondale Bad Boy 3 – Review with (Incl. comparison vs Bad Boy 2)
Those bikes don’t need too much introduction – as the Bad Boy series is one of the toughest and unique hybrid bikes on the market!
9) Ghost Square Cross 1.8
MSRP $699 / 27 gears / Tough frame design & geometry
The GHOST Square Cross 1.8 is another tough hybrid bike that could almost be mistaken for a mountain bike. Aggressive geometry coupled with front suspension and thick tires makes for a bike that wouldn’t look out of place racing down a mountain. However, don’t discount its on-road abilities just yet. The Square Cross handles tarmac surprisingly well, largely due to its stiff but lightweight aluminum alloy frame. A quick realignment of the adjustable handlebars put the rider in a comfortable upright position perfect for long-distance commuting or touring.
Groupset
The GHOST Square Cross 1.8 Bike features a Shimano Altus parts across the board, with a Shimano 48/36/26 triple crankset up front and a 9-speed (11-34) rear cassette offering 27 gears. Tektro hydraulic disc brakes are on both wheels along with Kenda Flintridge Sport 42-622 tires for maximum grip and control off-road.
Frame
At 30 lbs, it’s not the lightest hybrid bike we’ve tested but it certainly feels like one of the strongest, taking on rocky downhills without trouble. The Suntour SF 16-NEX-DS suspension fork has 50mm travel and reacts quickly coming off a bump.
Performance
While the GHOST Square Cross 1.8 might struggle to compete with full-blown mountain bikes it certainly holds it’s own while blasting down singletrack and gravel paths. You’ll certainly have no trouble getting to work and back on this bike but it’s really aimed at those looking to spend more time off-road. If you are thinking of getting into gravel riding bikepacking, the Square Cross 1.8 is an excellent and affordable entry-level choice.
Read more: Ghost Square Cross 1.8 full review
10) Trek – FX 1
MSRP $440 / Aluminum frame / Steel fork / Shimano components
Trek has managed to keep the cost of the FX 1 down by settling for a slightly lower quality groupset but all-round this bike still comes out better than most in its range. Decent components like Bontrager rims and tires and Tektro brakes work together to provide an impressive ride. The FX 1 is designed to traverse all and any terrain, from pavement and road to gravel and dirt track. Front steel fork combined with an aluminum mountain bike frame design makes this bike a decent trail runner or urban navigator.
Frame
Trek’s Alpha Gold Aluminum alloy frame gives this bike a lightweight, mountain bike feel. Combined with the traditional rigid steel fork gives you have a potent urban and dirt commuter.
Groupset
A combination of Shimano Tourney and Altus components work well together to provide a decent 21-speed drivetrain. Altus EF500 shifters control the Tourney front derailleur and Altus rear, with a 14-34T, 7-speed cassette. The crankset is a Tourney triple ring, 48/38/28 tooth, with a chainguard.
Wheels and tires
For tight control off-road, the Trek FX 1 utilizes wide Bontrager H2 700x35c tires on Bontrager Connection double wall 32h wheels.
Performance
The Trek FX 1 is one of the tougher hybrid bikes we’ve ridden, coming across almost like a CX bike. It’s certainly more focused on urban terrain than off-road, meaning this might appeal more to commuters than weekend adventurers. If you live in an urban area surrounded by nature, the Trek FX 1 will be the perfect vehicle for all your biking needs.
Check availability – Trekbikes.com
11) Giant – Escape 3 Disc
MSRP $470 / Disc brakes / low cost
The Giant Escape 3 Disc is the disc-brake version of the Giant Escape 3. As with the standard Escape 3 above, the Escape 3 disc is an entry-level hybrid bike for short urban journeys, ideally, work commutes, or short weekend rides. The lightweight ALUXX aluminum frame is designed in the sportive style of a racing bike but features straight handlebars for better control on dirt or gravel.
The addition of disc brakes makes the Escape 3 slightly more adaptable to offroad or wet conditions and provides much sharper braking. As with the standard model, the Escape 3 disc has considerable wheel clearance for wider and more comfortable offroad-suitable tires.
Frame
The Escape 3 Disc features a lightweight ALUXX-grade aluminum frame with an upright seating position for more comfortable riding. This is combined with a strong, high-tensile steel fork and a D-Fuse seat post for better absorption on rough terrain. Several convenient mount points are included on the frame so you can attach a rack to carry luggage and fenders for deflecting water and mud from the road.
Groupset
The Escape 3 Disc model comes with a Shimano Altus rear derailleur and an FD-TY710 front derailleur. These are coupled with Shimano Altus shifters, a double ring 30/46 crankset, and an 11×34 cassette on the back. The disc brakes are Tektro MD-U310 with standard alloy levers.
Wheels and tires
Giant have fitted the Escape 3 with their own brand GX Disc rims and Giant S-X3 puncture-protect 700x38mm tires.
Performance
While the Escape 3 Disc is still an entry-level bike, it offers excellent value for money for a disc brake bike with decent components. If you’re looking for a light but tough bike to get around town or hit some trails on the weekend, the Escape 3 disc will serve you well. It may not provide as comfortable a ride on the offroad as a bike with suspension but it makes for an excellent work commuter or recreational weekend ride.
Check availability – JensonUSA
12) Co-op Cycles – CTY 2.1
MSRP $749 / Front suspension / Step-through design / Disc brakes
Like the Co-Op CTY 1.1, this is another hybrid offering from outdoor sports supplier REI. REI developed their own range of in-house bicycles in 2017 and have released over 30 models since.
The CTY 2.1 features similar relaxed geometry found in the 1.1 with the addition of a step-through frame and front suspension fork for added comfort on rough roads. Adjustable handlebars give the bike additional versatility along with hydraulic brakes and ergonomic handlebars.
Groupset
The CTY 2.1 combines a Shimano Acera derailleur on the rear with an HG41 8-speed (11-34) cassette and a Shimano triple crankset with FD-M191 derailleur on the front. Altus trigger shifters control the gears while Shimano M315 levers handle the hydraulic disc brakes.
Wheels and tires
The CTY 2.1 comes with 700c x 40mm Kenda Kick-Back tires with reflective sidewalls for safer night riding. These are fitted on Co-Op cycle rims with Joytech 32h hubs.
Performance
The main advantage of REI’s Co-Op range of bikes is their ready-to-ride nature which is appealing for entry-level riders. These highly versatile bikes can hit the road right out of the box and will feel great from the start.
The 2.1 is a bit of an upgrade on the 1.1, with the main benefit being the 63mm lock-out suspension fork for comfortable on and off-road riding. The upgraded groupset also gives this bike a more mature feel which gravel riders will appreciate. At 31 lbs, the CTY 2.1 isn’t the lightest bike in its class but it makes up for this with quality components at an attractive price.
13) Electra – Townie Go! 7D
MSRP $1,500 / One-size frame / 7-speed / 20 to 50-mile range
Electra Bikes is owned by one of the most iconic bicycle brands – Trek. Townie Go! has been one of the go-to bikes for those who are looking for a comfortable and affordable e-Bike. The Townie Go! features a rear-hub drivetrain, large balloon-type tires, double-spring saddle, and a riser bar handlebar which most likely give you the most comfortable setting for a hustle-free experience.
Focus on comfort
As the whole geometry is based on the cruiser-type frame, there’s only one size to choose from. Super comfy double-spring saddle and the 1×7 drivetrain make everything a breeze, which riding a bike at its essence should be like after all.
Electrical components
The Townie Go! 7D is a Class 1 Pedal Assist bicycle, equipped with 250W Hydrive rear hub motor that’s got 40Nm of torque. For a full charge, it takes 5.5 hours, but that can take you from the 20-50mile range with a 20mp/h max speed!
Key components
The bike is built around a 6061-T6 aluminum frame and a steel fork for added durability. As the Townie Go! 7D is designed for recreational use, the stopping power is provided by Tektro MD M280 mechanical disc brakes.
After all, Townie Go! is a perfect choice for someone who’s looking for an easy-to-use comfortable hybrid bike with an electric motor. The set-up is definitely worth the $1,500 price tag which gives you all and more towards the ultimate comfort of commuting!
14) SixThreeZero – EVRYjourney Women’s Cruiser
MSRP Amazon / Comfortable step-through design / Wide range of colors / Super comfortable ride
This female-focused hybrid bike comes in a wide variety of colors and sizes to fit all requirements. Despite the lightweight aluminum frame, the bike still comes in at 33.9 lbs due to other solid features like a larger saddle and thicker 26″ wheels and tires. However, these features are included for the purpose of providing an extremely comfortable ride, making this one of the most comfortable hybrids available.
Frame
The frame geometry is customized with the female figure in mind, with an easy step-through design and comfortable upright sitting position. The foot-forward seat means riders of any height will be able to rest feet on the ground when stopped and easily mount the bike. The saddle benefits from a double spring design combined with large 1.95″ double wall tires for maximum shock absorption.
Groupset
The Sixthreezero EVRYjourney Women’s Step-Through comes with a simplified gearing system with only a single front ring and a 3-speed, 7-speed, or 21-speed Shimano rear cassette. Brakes are standard alloy caliper brakes with simple handlebar levers.
Performance
Since the Sixthreezero EVRYjourney comes standard with fenders and a rear rack it makes it an ideal commuter bike straight out the box. However, while the bike might handle dirt paths it is not especially well designed for off-road riding. This is suited best to comfortable riding about town on solid surfaces.
The variety of colors, versatile seating options, and general adaptability will make this a highly attractive bike to a wide range of female riders.
15) Vilano – Diverse 3.0
Amazon / 24-speed / Disc brakes
The Vilano Diverse 3.0 has probably the most road bike style frame of all the hybrid bikes listed here but don’t let that fool you. With wide tire clearance, disc brakes, and straight handlebars, this bike can take on the tarmac and gravel paths in equal measure.
Riders hoping to compete in friendly weekend sportives or hit single track paths with friends will both find themselves happy on the Vilano Diverse 3.0. This is a sporty bike designed to be ridden fast and aggressively on any terrain. Of course, it will get you to work and back too in a slightly faster and more exciting way.
Frame
The hydroformed 6160 aluminum alloy frame is shaped for performance, putting the rider in a more aerodynamic position for minimum wind resistance. Unfortunately, frame sizes are slightly limited to only a medium and large, fitting riders from 5’5″ to 6’4″.
Groupset
The Vilano Diverse 3.0 has a 24-speed Shimano Tourney TX gearset with Tourney derailleurs on both the front and back. These are controlled with Shimano EF 51 3/8 shifters that are integrated into the brake levels. This might take some getting used to for riders who haven’t used them before.
Tires and wheels
The Vilano Diverse 3.0 comes standard with Kendra 700c x 35 tires on Weinmann 700c wheels with combined disc brakes. The decent tire clearance means these tires can be upgraded to even larger tires for better grip and more comfort off-road.
Performance
The Vilano Diverse 3.0 performs excellently for a bike in its price range and could easily compete against pricier models. It may not win you any medals but will certainly pit you well against your mates on weekend rides around town or in the countryside.
16) Raleigh – Route 3
MSRP $830 / Disc Brakes / Front Suspension
The Raleigh Route 3 is a true hybrid style bike with all the necessary features for both on and off-road riding. It also comes in slightly more expensive than most bikes listed here but proves it’s worth the extra dollars.
With front suspension, disc brakes, and a high-quality Shimano groupset, the Raleigh Route 3 will impress even the most seasoned of bikers. Combined with a lightweight aluminum frame and quality components and you have a winning formula.
Frame
The Raleigh Route 3 features a custom formed aluminum alloy tubed frame with a Suntour NVX-DS fork with 75mm travel and a preload adjuster. Eyelets for a rack, fenders, and bottle cages means this bike could easily be converted to a decent touring bike.
Groupset
The gearing is supplied by a combination of a Shimano Acera M3000 front derailleur on a 3-speed (26/36/48t) crank and Shimano Alivio M4000 rear derailleur on an HG200 9-speed cassette. This provides 27 gears controlled by Shimano Acera SL-M3000 3×9 trigger shifters.
Wheels and tires
Raleigh Route 3 benefits from nice and wide Vee Tire Easy Street 700x42c tires on Alloy DDM-1 Double Wall disc rims. These are fitted with Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes for sharp and precise stopping.
Performance
The Raleigh Route 3 is a beast of a bike that will leave riders struggling to find anything bad to say about it. The thick tires, front suspension, and strong frame make for fun riding on even the roughest of off-road surfaces. On the tarmac it features just as well, tackling city and urban streets in any weather conditions. It’s certainly no racing bike but it sure us a tough player designed for tough conditions.
Check availability – Raleigh USA
17) Pure Cycles – Classic Bike
MSRP $499 REI / 8-speed / 700c wheels / Steel frame
If you are after comfort and versatility in your urban bike rides – look no further than the ‘Classic Bike’ by Pure Cycles. It’s fully equipped for a convenient cruise around town. It’s got a rear rack, two water-bottle mounts, and already installed fenders which make the commuting okay even during the rainy days. The chainguard and double-spring saddle are also something you don’t see commonly on any of those bikes in this list above.
Steel frames are quite good at holding up the speed, and the Shimano Altus derailleur is also not among the cheapest ones in the list. The price is and ease of maintenance has been cut down by V-brakes instead of disc brakes, and a single chainring in the front. It’s a great deal for and seems to be a super comfortable hybrid bike to have at this price range!
Different Types of Hybrids
There are different types of hybrids we are covering now:
- 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 offroad 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
Which One to Choose?
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 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.