Priority Bicycles is a successful NYC-based bicycle company that has had one dream — to make cycling as simple as it can be! They are on a good path to doing this, as their bikes are characterized by a fuss-free approach that allows you just to get on and start riding in the morning.
They specialize in hybrids, commuters, and cruisers, ideal for both men and women, with some kids models on offer as well. The two main features of their bikes are internal Pinion gearboxes and Gates Carbon Drive Belts, which require absolutely no cleaning or lubricating.
Keep reading to find out more about Priority’s range of models and the features that make them stand out from the competition.
Priority Bicycles: History and Overview
Priority Bicycles was founded in July 2014, after a very successful Kickstarter campaign. The goal was to collect $30,000 to fund the manufacturing and shipment of the first bike.
The idea that we’re talking about was first created in the mind of Dave Weiner, the founder of the company.
His friends wanted a bike that was light, good-looking, comfortable, easy to maintain, and affordable. So, naturally, he decided to build one himself.
The problem he observed was that he was unable to recommend a bicycle to his friends even though he had worked in the cycling industry for the majority of his life.
After one month on Kickstarter, the campaign grossed around $565,000! The rest is history, and the bikes you will see below are the result of this uplifting, crowd-funded project.
Priority Bicycles Model Range
At the moment, Priority Bicycles has more than twenty models in their bike range. All of these are quite diverse, aimed towards different customers, accommodating a large variety of needs.
There are even several electric models for anyone looking for some additional help on the road and one gravel bike for adventurers and bikepackers.
Let’s learn more about them so you can choose the one that meets your needs best.
Priority Electric Bikes
Priority Current
MSRP: $3,299 – $3,499
The Priority Current is a very well-priced, highly comfortable electric commuter bike with a surprising amount of power. The Priority Current has five variable levels of pedal assistance, going from mild to extremely powerful.
The large 500W motor packs out a massive 140Nm of torque, more than double that of standard electric bikes. This means you can comfortably cruise along fully loaded with luggage at up to 28 mph (45km).
For extra comfort and convenience, the Priority Current uses a clean and maintenance-free belt drive system and rolls on thick 650B tires. You can get either an e-bike specific Shimano Inter-5 internal hub or an enviolo Heavy Duty internal rear hub.
You also get a plush gel-padded saddle to sit on and an adjustable handlebar stem with ergonomic grips to keep your hands and wrists pain-free. Every element of the Priority Current is designed around maintaining the highest levels of comfort and support for the rider.
Integrated into the frame is a 48V removable battery that will take you up to 60 miles (96km) on a single charge, more than enough to spend the day exploring. It also powers the built-in front and rear lights and provides power to a USB charging port for your mobile devices.
Overall, the Priority Current doesn’t boast top-of-the-range components but rather offers a fast, well-designed, and comfortable e-bike at an affordable price.
Priority E-Classic Plus
MSRP: $1,699
The Priority E-Classic Plus has an amazing framework for $1,699 allowing you to go further than you thought was possible before. This is Priority Bicycles’ most affordable e-bike, but they didn’t cut any important corners to achieve this price. It’s built around an ultralight aluminum frame, which is fitted with a front hub pedal-assist motor.
It’s got a battery with a capacity of 374 Wh which should allow cycling as far as 20-60 miles on one charge. That’s more than enough to get you where you need to be and explore a bit more.
The E-Classic Plus uses powerful hydraulic disc brakes to stop, so don’t be afraid of the descents. The rear hub contains a Shimano Nexus 3-speed internal gear hub, whereas the front hub has a 250W motor. You also get front and rear lights, so you can ride well into the dark without any worries.
Related Review: Best Electric Belt-Drive Bikes
You should choose the Priority E-Classic Plus e-bike if you want to commute without breaking a sweat or if you need some assistance up those steep hills that have been keeping you from riding for years.
It’s one of the least expensive belt-drive ebikes on the market, with a maintenance-free drivetrain and high-quality components.
Priority E-Coast
MSRP: $2,000
The Priority E-Coast is the electric version of the brand’s best-selling cruiser bicycle called the Coast.
This is a streamlined single-speed beach cruiser with a moderate rear hub motor and a rear rack-mounted battery. The 500W hub motor offers pedal assistance and throttle up to 28 mph or 20 mph (depending on which setting you choose) and the 576 Wh battery will assist you up to 20-60 miles per charge.
The E-Coast has a comfortable upright geometry with sweptback handlebars, a dual-spring saddle, and wide balloon tires—therefore, comfort is its main feature.
The single-speed drivetrain features a maintenance-free belt drive, just like all other Priority bikes, and you also get a set of powerful hydraulic disc brakes.
So if you’re looking for a simple ebike to ride along the beach or run errands around your hometown, the Priority E-Coast is a fantastic choice.
Priority Off-Road Bikes
Priority 600
MSRP: $2,499
The Priority 600 is a bicycle for all-terrain commuting. It’s designed to go on all types of roads, including gravel and hard-packed dirt. The 600 costs $2,499, which is a great price considering all of the features that you get.
The Priority 600 is called that way because it features a Pinion 600% gear range, inspired by Porsche’s transmission set. It has 12 gears that are equivalent to 30 gears on a standard bicycle. The internal gearbox is completely sealed and controlled with one twist shifter, so it’s easy to use.
To make city riding easier, you also get front and rear fenders, dynamo-powered front and rear lights, and a kickstand.
This bike is the logical choice for commuters who like to explore and take the longer route home. It can also serve as a recreational bike or be used for weekend fitness rides.
Many people even use it for long-distance bike touring, as it can easily carry a front and rear rack and panniers or frame bags.
Priority 600X Adventure
MSRP: $3,500
The 600X is Priority Bicycles’ untraditional approach to mountain biking and bikepacking.
The 600X is an awesome hardtail mountain bike, most likely one of the most unique alternatives to traditional mountain bikes.
The 600X will save you from cleaning and maintaining your drivetrain after dusty and muddy mountain biking rides thanks to a carbon belt drive and a fully sealed Pinion gearbox with a 600% gear range.
This is a bike for those who are looking for a silent, pretty much maintenance-free, and chain-free mountain bike. It comes with multiple braze ons all over the frame, so you can easily fit a rear rack and panniers or strap frame bags and go on a long adventure.
The Priority 600X was developed with the help of Ryan Van Duzes who has been using it for his off-road bikepacking trips for years with great success.
Priority 600HXT
MSRP: $3,999
The Priority 600HXT is a more extreme version of the 600X, with better suspension and a more aggressive geometry.
This bike comes equipped with 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes, a Fox 34 Performance suspension with 140 mm of travel, and a fully sealed and protected Pinion Smart.Shift gearbox.
This is a proper hardtail mountain bike intended for singletrack riding and exploring dirt and forest roads. The fact that it comes with a dropper post, 2.5″ x 29″ tires, and long travel means that it’s also great for descending.
If you love mountain biking and you want a bike that requires almost no maintenance in between your trail rides, the Priority 600HXT will make you a happy mountain biker.
Priority Apollo Gravel
MSRP: $2,000
The Apollo Gravel is a capable low-maintenance gravel bike built around either an aluminum or titanium frame—the titanium version costs $4,000.
At its core is the excellent Shimano Alfine 11-speed internal hub, with a 409% gear range so you’ll have no trouble climbing even the steepest of hills. Shimano’s Alfine is one of the most popular internal gearing systems available with a long history of performance, durability, and efficiency.
The gears are controlled by a shifter integrated into the right-hand brake lever. All it requires is a simple press with one finger to smoothly change the gear up or down. With only rear gears and no derailleurs or external moving parts, the simple Alfine system greatly reduces the possibility of mechanical failure.
Related Review: Best Gravel Bikes
Connected to the Alfine system is a Gates Carbon Drive, a carbon fiber reinforced belt that is the first choice for thousands of belt drive enthusiasts. It can handle the strain and pressure of tough, long-distance cycling better than traditional steel chains, ensuring you are never left stranded on the roadside with a broken drivetrain. In addition, the belt doesn’t require any grease meaning it attracts far less dirt and is easier to clean.
To handle rough offroad terrain, the Apollo Gravel has wide 700c x 40mm WTB Byway tires. The tires provide an excellent combination of slick road contact down the center with deep tread on the sides to handle gravel.
This makes the Apollo Gravel an ideal commuter or touring bike for both off-and-on-road uses.
Priority Urban Bikes
Priority Folder
MSRP: $799
Priority Folder is a rather new model in the brand’s lineup aimed at intermodal commuters and folks struggling with storage space at home.
This low-maintenance folding bike comes with a 7-speed Shimano Nexus hub and a carbon belt drive, so it requires minimal maintenance, just like the rest of the models.
It folds down into a compact size in just a few simple moves, so you can easily take it on a train, in an elevator, store it at home, or keep it in your office while you’re working.
The Folder also features fenders and a rear rack, so you can use it to commute come rain or shine and carry all your necessities in panniers.
Priority Ace
MSRP: $599-899
The brand new Priority Ace is an innovative new take on the ever-popular fixie/single-speed bike. Not only do you get a unique flip-flop hub to switch between single-speed and fixed-gear, but the Ace also runs on the quiet and clean Gates Carbon Drive belt system.
Gates Carbon Drive uses a belt rather than a chain for the drivetrain, meaning no more oily shins or caked-black fingers when you flip the hub. With a clean, oil-free nylon belt you simply pop it off and back on with ease, and the lack of moving metal parts means no rattling or noise while cycling.
The unique flip-flop rear hub on the Priority Ace is threaded with a fixed track cog on one side and flips over to use a cassette-style freehub on the other.
Related Review: Best Belt-Drive Bikes
The Priority Ace comes in two different varieties, the Ace of Clubs and the Ace of Spades. Both use the Gates Carbon Drive system with flip-flop hub on a 6061 aluminum frame with wide, straight handlebars and 700×28 WTB ThickSlick tires
The Ace of Clubs is a toned-down, traditional single-speed bike designed for trips around town, visiting friends, or commuting to work. It has a loose ball-bearing front hub with a Gate S150 crankset and 22T rear cog.
The Ace of Spades is a lighter, performance-focused single-speed designed for more frequent riding and more abuse. It has a sealed bearing front hub with a Gates S300 crank and a 20T rear cog. Both bikes are available in four sizes, from small to extra-large, with inseams ranging from 28.5 to 32.5.
Priority Classic Plus
MSRP: $599
The Priority Classic Plus is one of the most affordable models made by the brand. It costs just $549, but for that money, you will get a low-maintenance, belt-drive bicycle that will last you for a long time. Its got just three speeds, which are contained in an Internal Shimano Nexus Hub, which requires no maintenance and is controlled with a shifter on the handlebar.
The Priority Classic Plus is ideal for those who want to commute shorter distances on relatively flat terrain. It’s great for daily rides around the block as well.
This bike is built around a lightweight aluminum frame that weighs just 25 lbs. It puts your body in a comfortable upright position, so it’s great for long daily commutes. Like all other Priority bikes, it’s powered by a rust and grease-free Gates carbon belt. It also has a coaster brake, combined with a dual-pivot front brake.
If you want a sleeker version of this bike, consider the all-black Priority Classic Plus ‘Gotham’. The two bikes are pretty much the same in terms of components but offer a different take on style.
Priority Eight
MSRP: $999
The Priority Eight edition is a brand-new commuter-style bike with an 8-speed drivetrain and comfortable geometry. If style and elegance are something you care about, you will have to pay $999 for it, but it’s well worth it considering the value you get.
In terms of components and build, the Priority Eight has an 8-speed Shimano Alfine internal gear hub and an ultralight aluminum frame combined with a carbon fiber fork.
It comes complete with a pair of puncture-resistant 700x32c tires and hydraulic disc brakes that are ideal for city rides and commutes.
The Priority Eight is the ideal choice for people who want to ride their bike to work or school, but also be able to take it on a casual weekend day-long trip.
Continuum Onyx
MSRP: $1,299
The Priority Continuum Onyx is a model that has been featured in numerous high-profile magazines, including Wired and Gizmodo. It costs $1,299 and gives you a hard-to-believe value for your money. Looking at the components and the build, we can see that this is an all-weather, four-season commuter.
It touts an Enviolo CVT Rear Hub with a 380% gear range, allowing riding in the rain, snow, or sleet without worrying about skipping gears or mis-shifting — it’s completely enclosed.
Of course, we know the benefits of carbon belt drive systems, so you can feel free to ride in your best pair of pants. You do not need to worry about smearing them with chain grease. The Continuum Onyx has the advantage of being safer than some other Priority models because it has a pair of hydraulic disc brakes.
Other than that, with the Onyx you’ll get front and rear dynamo-powered lights with USB charging capabilities, fenders, reflective tire walls on puncture-resistant 32mm-wide tires on 700c wheels, and a kickstand.
It’s best for urban commuters who do not see bad weather as an obstacle, but as a challenge that could make their day more fun and more fulfilled.
Priority Brilliant L Train
MSRP: $750 – $850
The Priority L Train is the result of a collaboration between Priority Bicycles and Brilliant Bicycles Co.
For $750, it will get you anywhere you need to be with ease and without any fuss. It’s a unique bike in many regards compared to other models built by this brand.
This price tag comes with a lightweight and durable Chromoly steel frame with a simplistic and retro design. The rear hub contains the enclosed 7-gear system which can work for years without needing any adjustments.
You can make it suit your personality and your style better by choosing one of the two attractive color profiles. These include Subway Gray and Hudson Blue. I prefer the latter as it can go longer without needing a wash.
The tires on the L Train are 32mm wide, which is ideal for fast city rides. This bike also comes with two V-brakes or hydraulic disc brakes which are easy to maintain and brake well in most conditions.
The Brilliant Trail L is a perfect choice for a rider looking for a simple bike that allows them to ride on different terrains and get quickly wherever they need to be.
Priority Coast
MSRP: $599 – $949
The Priority Bicycles Coast is a beach cruiser bike like no other. Its price starts at just $599 if you choose the single-speed option and goes up to $949 if you opt for the Enviolo build with disc brakes.
The ideal beach cruiser needs to be easy to ride, easy to maintain, and resistant to salt, sand, and rust. This is exactly everything that the Coast model is.
Thanks to the carbon belt drive, you will never again need to deal with a dropped chain and get grease all over you. Since you will probably be riding near water, it’s good to know that all bearings are sealed, which extends the life of the bike.
This bike is also available with a diamond and a step-through frame, so it’s ideal both for men and women. All models come with a coaster and a front V-brake, but you can also get a model with hydraulic disc brakes.
You should buy the Priority Coast model if you are a hedonist and know how to enjoy the ocean breeze. It’s perfect for cruising along the beach without worrying about sand, salt, and water.
Priority Kids’ Bikes
Priority Start 24″
MSRP: $449
The 24″ Start is great for kids to ride on before being ready for a 26″ bike or an adult bike. This is a bike you buy only worry about pumping the tires from time to time.
Another great factor is the unisex frame and side stand which make it an ideal kids hybrid. It’s got multi-terrain tires with 3 internal gears, V-brakes, and a composite chainguard.
What else could you ask for, besides the price is so underrated for the quality and field of purpose?
Priority Start 20″
MSRP: $379
Simplicity in cycling should not be reserved just for adults; it should be available to kids as well! You can make your kid’s childhood much more memorable for just $379, which is what this bike costs.
It’s built to be ridden comfortably on city streets and bike lanes, as well as on hard-packed dirt and gravel roads.
You can take your kid anywhere with you or let them roam and explore on their own. They won’t need to worry about dropped chains and start disliking cycling because of that.
The Start 20″ has a lightweight aluminum frame, all-terrain tires, and three gears to familiarize your little one with shifting as well. This bike comes with dual brakes for confident and reliable stopping power in all conditions. It will spark your kid’s imagination and interest with a wide palette of colors, including charcoal, blue, and ultraviolet purple.
The Start 20″ model is perfect for kids 6-12 years of age who have outgrown and outridden the Start 16″ model and need something a bit more serious to satisfy their curiosity.
Priority Start 16″
The Priority Start 16″ is a bike that’s waiting for your little guy or gal to hop on it and start making unforgettable childhood memories. It costs just $329 and comes with a super lightweight aluminum frame and a maintenance-free carbon belt instead of a chain.
This bike has a freewheel instead of a coaster brake like most other bikes with 16″ wheels. Priority says that the reason for this is that kids who graduate from a balance bike need to move their legs in both directions, which Start 16″ allows them to do.
This model is the perfect choice to help your child transition to a big kids’ bike since it comes with two V-brakes. Like the Start 20″, this model is also available in a large variety of colors that include white, charcoal, sky blue, and turquoise. Thus, it’s suitable both for boys and girls.
The Start 16″ model is ideal for children aged 3-8 who are transitioning from a balance bike to a bigger one and are still learning the basics of riding.
Priority Bicycles Accessories
Apart from low-maintenance bicycles, Priority also makes handy bike accessories. You can fit them on your bike to make the ride safer, easier, or just more fun. Find these practical add-ons on the official website, on the Accessories page.
You can find everything here! They make a stack packable helmet, which you can easily fit in your backpack or purse, bicycle mirrors, different types of locks, lights, bags, carts, baskets, studded tires, fenders, saddles, carbon belts, and so on. The list is just too long to mention everything.
A nifty little trick allows you to filter these accessories by your bike. You can then see only those that fit on your Priority Bicycles model. The prices are very affordable, in tune with the average price tags on the market. So, it’s a good way to get everything that you need in one place.
Priority Bicycles Size Chart
Priority recommends choosing their bikes by the length of your inseam. Each Priority bike has the frame size recommendations on the product page!
Priority Bicycles has done its best to make choosing the right size as simple as possible. The biggest problem for most people when buying a new bike is getting the right fit. So, this is part of their dream of making cycling as simple as possible.
They use the inseam approach to help you find the right size. Thus, all you need to do is measure your inseam length and compare it to their charts. The sizes in the charts are marked in inches, so the measuring is quite precise. Most of the bikes are available in three sizes, which does not sound like a lot, but they cover a wide range of riders.
The best way to measure your inseam precisely is to start by taking your shoes off. Then measure the length between your crotch to the floor. Voilà! You now know which frame size to go for!
Where to Buy a Priority Bicycle?
Priority Bicycles are sold through their official website. Their choice of selling their bikes online allows them to keep the price down while providing a lot of value for the money.
The company is based in New York City, so if you find yourself there, you can feel free to visit their headquarters. If you set up an appointment, you can check out their line of bicycles, learn more about the process of building them, and test-ride them.
If you have set your mind on one or more of the Priority bikes, you have two delivery options to choose from when ordering.
- At-home assembly means that your bike is shipped to your address 95% assembled. The last 5% need to be done by you or someone else who is knowledgeable. However, this 5% is kept as simple as possible. Thus, you should be able to do it yourself even if you are inexperienced. All of the necessary tools are included in the box, and there is also an instructions page online where you can watch simple assembly videos and follow along. Shipping to the continental USA costs just $30.
- Beeline Professional Bicycle Shop assembly works in select areas. This allows some customers to have their bikes delivered to a select bicycle shop where it will be assembled by a certified mechanic. This service is available in contiguous USA states and costs $130.
Should You Buy a Priority Bicycle?
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a hassle-free cycling experience, a Priority Bicycle is definitely worth considering.
With their focus on simplicity, these bikes are tailor-made for anyone who wants to enjoy riding without the upkeep. The use of internal Pinion gearboxes and Gates Carbon Drive Belts eliminates the need for regular cleaning and lubrication, making these bikes particularly appealing for those with busy lifestyles or minimal interest in maintenance.
Whether you’re a commuter, a casual rider, or looking for a kid’s bike, Priority’s range has something for everyone.
Their commitment to making cycling as straightforward as possible, combined with the practicality and quality of their bikes, is what makes them stand out from similarly priced competition.
Share this on:
Costco currently carries the classic plus Gotham edition for $429 with free pickup!