trek comfort bikes reviews

Best comfort bikes 2024: a guide for happier leisure rides

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Comfort hybrid bikes are becoming increasingly popular as more of us are choosing two wheels to make short distance trips to the shops, to go on exciting little pursuits into the countryside or to beat the traffic jams into work.

Styles of hybrid bikes and components fitted can vary significantly, with options ranging from the best fitness bikes to those more comfort oriented.

We have compiled a guide to the comfier hybrid bikes out there on the market, but first...

What is a comfort bike?

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Calling a bike a 'comfort bike' somewhat infers that other bikes are not comfortable. This is not strictly correct. Rather the geometry and contact points, such as handlebars and saddles , of certain models of road and hybrid bikes are just more suited to riders who already have many miles under their belt.

If you are not used to riding a bike, holding yourself in the unusual position a bike bends and forces you in can cause pains and strains. Instead of putting up with these annoying aches in your first miles aboard a bike, a comfort bike presents a compelling alternative.

>>> Feel more comfortable, ride faster and prevent injuries with a physio led bike fit

A comfort bike can make the shift from not riding a bike at all or just a few miles a week to more regular rides, as the name suggests, a more comfortable affair. That said, comfort bikes are not just for beginners who are first entering the cycling world. For those who have niggling or persistent injuries, or are just generally not as flexible, a comfort bike has a much more suitable geometry.

>>> How to set your saddle height: a beginner's guide

By keeping your posture upright these bikes are designed to ensure maximum comfort when riding, which in turn helps reduce lower back pain and neck pain .

The bikes tend to have a step through frame or a sloping top tube which makes it a lot easier to mount and dismount from the bike.

Front fork suspension also often features on comfort hybrid bikes to help dampen the vibrations of bumpy and pothole ridden roads.

>>> Best flat pedals

More features of comfort hybrid bikes are detailed at the bottom of this page.

How to make cycling more comfortable

A comfort bike is not the only way of achieving a more pleasurable and enjoyable riding experience; there are other areas of your equipment and clothing you can look at to see significant improvements.

Saddles sores are an uncomfortable by-product of cycling that can be caused by a saddle that isn't right for you or shorts that don't fit properly.

Choosing the perfect saddle for you can take work but we have a handy guide - see it here

While a large proportion of cycling comfort comes from finding a quality saddle, investing in a pair of padded cycling shorts is also important as it is what sits directly between the saddle and the most delicate part of your body.

You should also avoid wearing underwear under padded cycling shorts because these interfere with the purpose built padded shorts that are designed to wick sweat and moisture away from the body. The extra layer of underwear is likely to lead to painful chafing as the seams and material are ill-suited and inappropriately placed.

Along with choosing the right pair of cycling shorts and a saddle, a generous helping of chamois cream will help eliminate friction between your skin and clothing, thereby preventing saddle sores and increasing ride comfort.

Using a foam roller on your quads, hamstrings, glutes , lower back and calves after riding your bike can also aid recovery and stave off injury.

Best comfort bikes

Boardman MTX 8.6

The handling and position on this offering from Boardman are tailored for control and comfort. With its upright geometry the roads and traffic ahead are clearly visible which means there's no need to strain to see properly and stay safe.

Its 63mm travel suspension fork smooths out the ride, and this is paired with Schwalbe's Tyrago tyres which are 35mm wide and also puncture resistant.

Boardman say the MTX saddle that is fitted on this bike was developed using pressure mapping technology with industry experts, with comfort specifically in mind.

Islabikes Joni

The Joni from Isla Bikes boasts a low-step through design for mounting and dismounting with utter ease.

It's very low gearing makes climbs more achievable - spinning in a tiny gear is much more comfortable than having to get off the bike and push the bike up the hill.

Instead of a front suspension fork, the Joni features a more expensive carbon fork that is both lightweight and incredibly comfortable.

Liv Alight 2 City Disc women's specific bike

Flat handlebars are combined with a women's specific relaxed geometry in Liv 's Alight 2 City bike, providing pedalling comfort that doesn't compromise efficiency.

Its geometry provides a stable, confident ride feel, and the choice of smaller sizes for women will ensure you are investing in a bike that properly fits - which is an essential for ride comfort.

This model has been fitted with Liv's Sport Comfort saddle and hydraulic disc brakes that do not need to be squeezed to death for instant stopping power.

With a kickstand attached, it's easy to park up without having to balance it precariously against railings or an object in your vicinity.

Focus Crater Lake 3.9 Step Through

With a step-through frame there’s no need for any acrobatics when mounting and dismounting, while the high front end puts you in a relaxed and stable position when riding. There’s a wide range of gears so you won’t be grinding away as soon as the gradient tips up on this comfort bike from Focus .

Although our tastes in saddles can differ greatly, the one here has been chosen to be the most comfortable fit for the most people.

Hydraulic disc brakes provide powerful and controlled braking; they also require relatively little maintenance so you can spend more time riding and less time servicing.

Front suspension and plump tyres help to smooth out the ride and absorb any jarring bumps rather than transferring them to your wrists.

Marin Kentfield CS1

Specifically designed for comfortable and relaxed casual rides and commutes, the Kentfield bikes are a great choice for comfort and what's more they come at a very reasonable price.

Placing riders in a neutral, upright position the CS1 provides ample control when riding, while its 38mm tyres will give you a cushioned feel on the move.

A wide range, triple chainring set up has plenty of choice for whatever hills and downhills are thrown at you with it's 21 gears.

Raleigh Detour women's specific bike

Incredibly easy to mount, in whatever you are wearing to cycle, the Raleigh Detour offers a comfy riding position as well as 42mm wide tyres for smooth ventures.

Although it doesn't come with hydraulic disc brakes like other models for pure braking comfort heaven, the alloy V-brakes will still perform valiantly and for the Detour's low price this exclusion is to be expected.

Merida Crossway 100

Although the crossbar is higher than others on this list, requiring a little bit more flexibility when mounting and dismounting, this bike from Merida really excels when it comes to comfort. A front suspension fork is coupled with a suspension seatpost for a smooth and shock-free ride.

There are mounts for a pannier rack, mudguards and a kickstand, or you can leave it unadorned for a lightweight and more efficient ride. Even when loaded up, you shouldn’t have a problem with hills though, as there is a broad range of gears which offer significant help. While the hydraulic disc brakes will keep you in control as you come down the other side.

Features of a comfort bike

A bike doesn't require all of the features below for it to count of a comfort bike, but these are the components manufacturers tend to focus on when designing and building a bike for a comfort haven.

Front suspension

Typically suspension is found in the front fork of a comfort bike and it is installed to smooth out the often imperfect surface of Britain's roads - although this does come at the sacrifice of efficiency and speed. If you want a faster ride that's still comfortable, missing out this component is recommended as you can find comfort from focusing on other areas.

Wide range gearing

It can be extremely uncomfortable and bad for your knees to grind it out in an oversized gear. It is important to be able to pick a suitable gear for both your cycling ability and the challenging gradients of the roads. This is easier with a wide range cassette and a triple crankset for gears to choose between.

Disc brakes

Coming to a halt when riding can be achieved with either rim brakes or disc brakes. Disc brakes are the more expensive option because they provide significantly superior stopping power - you will really be able to feel the difference.

Disc brakes will make life a lot easier and more pleasant for your hands when riding. No more clenching the brakes with all your might to stop in time for a junction.

Hydraulic disc brakes also require less maintenance than cable actuated mechanical ones- you only need to make sure the pads are replaced before they’re completely worn down.

>>> Disc brakes or rim brakes for commuting: what to choose

Wider tyre width

Wider tyres are comfier as they can run at a lower pressures, which means they can absorb the bumps of the road better.

Getting the right tyre pressure is also important for comfort. On the tyres there will be a minimum tyre pressure figure detailed – this should be met at all times when riding. However if the resistance is feeling a bit sluggish, you can up the pressure for a faster ride – although you will feel the road more.

Finding the best tyre pressure is about discovering a balance, between comfort and speed, that feels right for you.

A track pump with a pressure gauge can help you pump up your tyres to your preferred tyre pressure time and time again.

Contrary to what you may believe, a larger, cushy-looking saddle is not actually the most comfortable.

Brands fit comfort bikes with saddles that tend to offer the best support and comfort to the majority of riders. But if you are still experiencing discomfort with one of these saddles it worth checking in for a clinical bike fit , one that includes saddle pressure mapping as part of the process.

Your saddle soul mate is determined by the type of riding you’re doing and your physiology – including flexibility, core strength , sit bone width and soft tissue distribution – which means the perfect saddle varies significantly from person to person.

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I’ve been hooked on bikes ever since the age of 12 and my first lap of the Hillingdon Cycle Circuit in the bright yellow kit of the Hillingdon Slipstreamers. For a time, my cycling life centred around racing road and track. 

But that’s since broadened to include multiday two-wheeled, one-sleeping-bag adventures over whatever terrain I happen to meet - with a two-week bikepacking trip from Budapest into the mountains of Slovakia being just the latest.

I still enjoy lining up on a start line, though, racing the British Gravel Championships and finding myself on the podium at the enduro-style gravel event, Gritfest in 2022.

Height: 177cm

Weight: 60–63kg

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Best Comfort Bikes for Women, Men and Senior Riders

Image source: Cannondale

Comfort bikes are becoming more and more popular among casual riders of all ages.

The comfort in comfort bike is due to the relaxed, upright frame geometry, the comfortable saddle with extra padding, wide tires, and front fork or seat post suspension (although, this is not essential). It is also common for these bikes to have step-through top tubes to make mounting easier for less flexible users.

This type of bike is built for comfort over short to medium distances such as for a work commute, running errands around town, or a ride a light ride along a local bike path.

Because comfort bikes typically have a higher base weight, they are best for riding on flat terrain. They are also a great choice for anyone with lower back pain thanks to the upright riding positon.

Why Choose a Comfort Bike?

Many people can be put off of cycling by the aggressive positioning typically seen in road cycling, or the energy-sapping demands of mountain biking. The upright, ergonomic position of riding a comfort bicycle is, therefore, the most important factor in their appeal.

People with low flexibility, those who are prone to neck, shoulder, or back discomfort, or who simply want a relaxed ride, will undoubtedly enjoy the benefits of this style of bike. Elderly individuals may also prefer a comfort bike as the position puts less strain on the body.

A cruiser bike is the most comfortable bicycle out there, while the comfort bike is built around simple commuting in the city.

Table of Contents

Best Comfort Bikes

Best Electric Comfort Bikes

How to Choose?

Best Comfort Bikes in 2024

Schwinn – suburban deluxe.

MSRP : Check on Amazon

Schwinn’s Suburban Deluxe is a low-step comfort bike optimized for women and perfect for city riding and light trails.

This hybrid cruiser has a few key characteristics that make it comfortable. Firstly, dual seat post and front fork suspension help to absorb all the bumps you encounter.

In addition, the Suburban Deluxe has a convenient step-through frame design, upright riding position, a soft and supportive saddle, and plush balloon tires.

This bike’s other notable features include the 21-speed Shimano REVOSHIFT groupset, low-maintenance rim brakes, and lightweight aluminum frame. Finally, Schwinn also used a fully adjustable stem so you can find the optimal riding position for you.

• Fits riders 5’3 – 5’7
• 16″ aluminum frame
• 3x7speed drivetrain

One size frame fits riders 5’3″ to 5’7″

Buy on Amazon

Electra – Cruiser 7D Step-Through

A comfort-cruiser bike

MSRP: $440 REI.com

The Townie Cruiser 7D step-through is a great all-around choice for comfort for your adventures by the beach or around the city.

Electra uses small 26″ wheels with plush 2.125″ tires to ensure comfort and control on bumpy roads. To add to that, you have an ergonomic spring suspension saddle, mustache handlebars, and Flat Foot Technology frame design.

When the road begins to rise, you can rely on a Shimano Alivio Revo 7-Speed Twist shifters and a Tourney derailleur to provide the right gear.

• Frame material: Steel
• Bike weight: 38.5 lbs
• Electra comfort saddle with elastomer springs
• 7-speed Shimano Tourney

>>>Related: What is a Cruiser bike?

Buy from REI.com

Gazelle – Medeo T9

Best women’s comfort bike

MSRP: $2,699  Mike’s Bikes

The stylish Medeo T9 low-step e-bike packs all of the quality expected with any Gazelle bike.

Its defining feature is the fully-equipped design. It is designed for unbeatable versatility as well as comfort when mounting and dismounting. The Medeo uses a powerful Bosch e-bike system with an Activeline Plus 50Nm motor and 400Wh rack-mounted battery. With this, you can expect 40-80 miles of range.

The frame is built with lightweight alloy with a 50mm telescoping fork. This makes the Medeo T9 pleasure to cycle even when the road is bumpy. The combination of Shimano Deore 9-speed gearing, wide 50mm Schwalbe Big Apple tires, and ultra-responsive Shimano hydraulic disc brakes give this bike a truly high-end feel.

• 9-speed Shimano Deore
• Frame: Aluminum alloy
• Tires: 28″ x 50mm
• Shimano Deore hydraulic disc brakes
• Fully-equipped

Buy from Mike's Bikes

Schwinn – Discover 2 700c

Women’s comfort bike by Schwinn

Schwinn’s Discover lady’s comfort bike is a great entry-level choice that doesn’t sacrifice rider experience.

The frame is built of lightweight aluminum, and designed for an upright riding position. Discover’s handlebar stem can also adjust easily so you can find the perfect height for your body.

• Frame Material: Aluminum
• 28-inch wheels
• 21-speed SRAM grip shifter
• Weight 35.5 lbs

The highlight of the bike is the shock-absorbing suspension integrated into the seat post and front fork. This combination ensures your ride is smooth, even on bumpy roads or cycle paths.

The Discover also comes with fenders and a rear rack to make your commute as convenient and clean as possible no matter the weather. Lastly, Schwinn includes a comfy yet durable saddle perfect for women.

One size frame fits riders 5’5″ to 5’9″

Public Bikes – C9

MSRP: $650 Jenson USA

The Public Bikes C9 Aluminum is a stylish comfort bike that can double as a commuter thanks to its frame mounts.

Swept-back handlebars, a low-step frame, and upright geometry make for smooth riding on any urban journey. However, the 35mm Kenda tires don’t absorb much of the road chatter.

Another great feature is the lightweight aluminum frame and the shock-absorbing Chromoly steel fork. You can easily install a rack and fenders to turn the C9 into the perfect comfort commuter.

• Aluminum frame
• Shimano Altus 9-Speed
• 700c x 35mm tires
• Dual-pivot caliper brakes

The Public C9 has an entry-level Shimano Altus drivetrain with 1×9-speed gearing, reducing maintenance needs. Stopping power comes from rim brakes, so be careful riding in the rain.

Overall, this is a comprehensive yet affordable bike with lots to offer aside from the comfortable ride quality. 

Co-op Cycles – CTY 1.1

Urban comfort hybrid bike

MSRP : $649 REI.com

Co-op’s CTY 1.1 urban hybrid built for sustained comfort even on those long-distance city commutes.

This recreation bike uses a narrower tire than is standard for comfort bikes along with a light aluminum frame to maintain efficiency over distance. Additionally, the relaxed upright riding position paired with a Selle Royal Shadow+ saddle and riser handlebars create a pleasantly smooth riding experience.

• Frame Material: 6061 Aluminum
• Size: MD 5′ – 5’9″
• Brake Style: Mechanical Disc
• Rack and fender ready

The CTY 1.1 also uses a 3×8-speed Shimano groupset and Kenda 700 x 40mm puncture-resistant tires.

Buy from REI

Cannondale – Treadwell 2

Perfectly balanced comfort bike with unbeatable functionality

MSRP: $950 REI.com

With the Treadwell 2, Cannondale delivers one of the most functional urban bikes available on the market, designed to be agile, comfy, and durable.

The Treadwell 2 uses unique, “easy-ride geometry” that balances comfort with performance. Additionally, a quilted saddle with ribbed grooves keeps your butt comfortable on even the roughest of road surfaces.

The standout thing among its long list of features is the wheel sensor which helps you track your activity through the Cannondale app. The sensor logs speed, distance, and calories, while also reminding you when you need a service, a truly revolutionary addition to this bicycle.

• Frame and Fork Material: Aluminum
• Wheel Size: 650b
• Weight: 29lbs
• microSHIFT 9-speed gearing
• Hydraulic disc brakes
• Comfortable Cruise Control Handlebars

Two other unique features are the modern paint job with attractive turquoise pedals and grips, along with an integrated handlebar stem phone mount so you can navigate your way through the city streets, or rural roads with ease.

Finally, Cannondale’s Urban Armour bumpers protect the frame from everyday wear.

Frame Size Recommendations

S – 4’11” to 5’6″ L – 5’4″ to 6’0″

Sixthreezero – EVRYjourney

Cruiser comfort bike

The EVRYjourney men’s cruiser style comfort bike by Sixthreezero is both budget-friendly and modern bicycle with an elegant matt-black finish.

Sixthreezero has designed a uniquely comfortable bike with ergonomic geometry. On the EVRYjourney, the pedals are further forward and the bike is lower to the ground than normal, which allows riders to achieve a good pedaling stroke while being able to get a foot down with ease.

As well as frame design, each component is built to be as comfortable as possible. 26″ wheels and 2″ thick tires provide a smooth, controlled ride on any terrain. Additionally, the saddle has extra padding and is extra-wide to make sitting as comfy as possible, and the grips are made from soft and durable synthetic leather.

• Suitable rider height: 5′ – 6’4″
• Weight range: up to 300 lbs
• Shimano 7-speed gearing
• Weight: 38.1 lbs

>>>Related: EveryJourney Review

Finally, the EVRYjourney is highly compatible with accessories to make it functional in any situation. It arrives with fenders and a rear pannier rack and has other snap-on attachment points for baskets or baby seats.

Electra Townie 7D Step-Over

High-spec cruiser bicycle

MSRP: $630 REI.com

The men’s Townie 7D step-over is a sleek comfort bike with quality specs and a stamp of quality from bicycle giant Trek.

Electra’s best-selling Townie is ready for anything. It comes with 26″ puncture-resistant tires that absorb any road vibrations and along with classic rim brakes, help you stay in control at all times. It features 7-speed gearing, plenty to give you the confidence to take on steeper roads.

• 26″ x 2.0″ tires
• 7-speed Shimano gearing
• Ergonomic saddle with elastomer bumpers
• Bike weight: 34 lbs 8 oz
• Weight limit: 300 lbs

Even with its ruggedness, the Townie Path 7D is comfortable. This is achieved through the larger tires, an upright geometry with foot forward pedal position, ergonomic handlebar grips, and a spongy gel saddle.

Priority Bicycles – Priority Turi

Best comfort bike for seniors under $1000

MSRP: $949 Priority Bicycles

Priority’s Priority Turi is a sleek, cost-effective way to get back cycling, perfectly designed for older adults who want a bike for light usage, low maintenance, and pure comfort.

The ergonomic upright frame design, step-through top tube, and comfortable saddle help to prevent saddle sores and pain in areas commonly affected by cycling such as the back, and wrists. Additionally, the positioning of the pedals also optimizes balance and comfort.

• Tires: Puncture-Resistant Comfort
• enviolo City CVT Rear Hub (310% gear range)
• Gates Carbon belt drive

>>> Related: Best Electric Bikes for Seniors

Finally, this bike also has powerful hydraulic disc brakes to ensure effective stopping power in all conditions.

Buy from Priority Bicycles

Aventon – Level.2 Step-Through

Best comfort e-bike for urban rides

Weight – 53 lbs    |     Battery – 672Wh    |     Range – 60 mi.    |     Motor – 500W  

MSRP: $1,799 Aventon

The Aventon Level.2 is an affordable comfort electric bike with lots of features to make urban riding hassle-free. 

A 500W motor and 672Wh battery combine to deliver max speeds of 28mph (20mph throttle) over a max range of 60 miles, one of the best at this price. 

Reliable shifting and stopping are provided by a Shimano 8-speed drivetrain and Tektro hydraulic disc brakes. The new version of this bike knocked 9lbs off the weight, making it lighter than the average comfort eBike.

• Frame: Aluminum
• 8-speed Shimano Acera
• Tires: 27.5″x 2.1″
• 65mm fork suspension 

The bike also features an integrated rack, fenders, and a kickstand. Finally, the Level.2 has typical upright geometry, a convenient step-through frame, wide tires, and front fork suspension to create relaxed and smooth ride quality.

Buy from Aventon

Priority Bicycles E-Coast

A comfortable cruiser-style electric bike

Battery – 576 Wh |     Range – 60 miles    |     Motor – 500W hub motor 

MSRP: $2,000

The Priority Bicycles E-Coast is a comfortable urban cruiser with premium electronics and a fully equipped spec. 

Priroity chose a 500W rear hub motor with a high-capacity 576 Wh battery, that offers a 60-mile range per charge. 

The drivetrain is powered by a drive belt and offers one speed, which is slightly limited for climbing hills. However, the hydraulic disc brakes are excellent for descending steep hills.

Overall, the Priority E-Coast is a pretty solid bike with nothing that needs to be added or removed to fit its price range.

Charge – Comfort 2

Best e-bike for comfortable commuting

Weight – 55 lbs    |     Battery – 418Wh    |     Range – 50mi    |     Motor – 250W    |     Torque – 45Nm

MSRP: $1,899 Charge Bikes

The Comfort 2 electric bicycle by Charge is packed full of features, an excellent comfort e-bike for new and experienced e-bikers.

The Comfort 2 is suitable for riding on pavement and light gravel trails thanks to its plush 2.6″ puncture-resistant Schwalbe tires. It is supremely comfortable and upright for relaxed riding in busy urban environments.

The motor packs a punchy 250W that can power you up to 20mph on pedal assist or throttle. The battery is modest, and it can return up to 50 miles on Eco mode in favorable conditions.

• Frame Material: Lightweight 6061 alloy
• 7-speed Shimano Altus
• Rack and fenders
• Tires: 27.5″x 2.6″ puncture-resistant
• Mechanical disc brakes

The bike also features folding pedals and handlebars and tire pressure indicators. All of these features combine to create an all-around fantastic ride experience .

Buy from Charge Bikes

Gazelle – Ultimate T10

Premium city e-bike 

Weight – 50.7 lbs |   Battery – 500Wh |   Range – up to 80mi |   Motor – Bosch Performance Line 3.0 |   Torque – 65Nm

MSRP: $3,999 Competitive Cyclist

Any riders out there looking for a top-of-the-range comfort e-bike need to look no further than Gazelle’s Ultimate T10.

This bike is equipped best for rides such as a daily commute, running errands around town, or riding along your favorite bike path. It’s full-equipped enough to carry whatever is necessary and ride in all conditions.

Key features include an integrated 500Wh Bosch downtube battery, Schwalbe Energizer Plus 2.0″ tires, a rear rack and fenders, and a powerful mid-drive 65Nm motor.

• 40mm travel fork
• Shimano 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes
• Mounted rear rack
• Shimano Deore Drivetrain
• Schwable Energizer Plus tires

Additionally, the  Ultimate T10 comes with a 40mm suspension fork which is lightweight. This, combined with comfort geometry on a convenient step-through frame and a convenient handlebar display make this bike a joy to ride.

Buy from Competitive Cyclist

Ride1UP – 700 Series

Premium quality comfort electric bike

Weight – 62 lbs    |     Battery – 672Wh    |     Range – 30-50mi    |     Motor – 750W    |     Torque – 60Nm

MSRP: $1,695 Ride1UP

With their 700 series, Ride1UP delivers a premium quality comfort electric bike for a fraction of the price.

The 700 series incorporates hydraulic fork suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, Schwalbe Supermoto tires, and a fully integrated motor and battery system in a lightweight aluminum frame. These components paired with comfort geometry combine to make this bike comfy, powerful, and easy to control in almost any situation.

• 3D double-wall rim, 33mm width
• 27.5″x2.4″ Schwalbe Super Moto tires
• Hydraulic Disc Brakes
• 11-30T Shimano Cassette, Shimano Acera Derailleur

This bike’s battery boasts a huge 30-50 miles range at speeds of up to 28mph pedal assistance and 20mph using the throttle. The motor and battery are conveniently locked and can be accessed with one of two keys included. In addition, the 700 series includes an integrated kickstand and LED lights on the front and rear to make it safe and convenient to ride.

Buy from Ride1UP

Momentum – Vida

One of the best electric comfort bikes for seniors in its price range

MSRP: $760 Mike’s Bikes

The Momentum Vida is a comfort bike for anyone on a budget who wants a smooth and stylish ride .

The upright geometry, comfort sweep handlebars, plush saddle, and shock-absorbent 2.4″ tires provide a that smooth and relaxed ride experience.

Momentum also squeezes in mechanical disc brakes, which inspire confidence in all weather conditions, and a simple 8-speed Shimano Altus drivetrain for reliable shifting. The Vida also has mounts for a rack and fenders for commuters.

• Frame Material: ALUXX Aluminum
• 8-speed Shimano Altus
• 27.5×2.4″ puncture-resistant tires

How to Choose: What to Look Out for When Purchasing a Comfort Bicycle?

Below are the main features to look for when you are searching for a comfort-style bike.

Geometry, Step-through frame & Handlebars

As we mention above, relaxed and upright geometry is the distinct feature of these bikes. You should be able to sit, reach the handlebars, and pedal with little to no bending at the waist. This means your back should be mostly upright, limiting any pressure from gravity on your muscles and joints. This is done by slight adjustments to the positioning of the head tube in relation to the pedals and the seat tube.

Comfort bike saddles generally have a large surface area.

Next up is the seat. This is the most important point of contact on a bicycle when it comes to comfort, and it will make or break the experience. The benefit of a saddle is you can easily replace it.

Comfort bike saddles generally have a large surface area for your bum to rest on. They are built with thick padding which helps to cushion your sensitive undercarriage during short rides, and they frequently come with a spring underneath the saddle to absorb vibrations from the road.

It’s important to note, this type of saddle becomes uncomfortable on longer rides, as the cushion will flatten out and begin to put excess pressure on sensitive areas.

Suspension & Tire Width

Front fork or seat post suspension combined with wider tires contribute greatly to a smooth ride. Comfort bikes with these features transfer fewer vibrations from the road to the user.

The suspension also dampens any changes in the road that you may ride over and allows you to comfortably ride over curbs and speed bumps. While wider tire width is almost universal, suspension features are more common in high-end models. One tradeoff with wider tires is they create more friction (resistance) on the road making it more difficult to ride at higher speeds.

The final consideration of a comfort bike is the gears. To be able to ride comfortably, it’s important to have a wide range of gears, such as on a 21-speed drivetrain. This gives you more options for different terrain. However, good cycling techniques are still important for the efficient use of gears.

What is a comfort bike good for?

A comfort bike is good for those who are prone to the neck, shoulder, or back discomfort when riding other types of bikes. They are also perfect for somebody who relaxed ride that is functional for everyday usage. Senior sometimes prefer a comfort bike because the ergonomic upright body position causes fewer problems.

What’s the difference between men’s and women’s Comfort bikes?

A common question people ask is “what is the difference between men’s and women’s bikes?”.

For modern bikes, the main difference is the availability of sizes. Women are smaller than men on average so they need smaller models of the same bikes. To do this, manufacturers offer a wider frame size range to choose from.

With a frame size to match their height, a woman will make many of the same adjustments a man would so she can fit the bike to her body such as stem length, handlebar height, etc.

There are, however, a couple of considerations more common for women:

• Handlebar width – Women generally have narrower shoulders than men, so narrower handlebars may help
• Saddle – A saddle with women-specific features can be more comfortable than a unisex saddle, learn how to choose the perfect saddle
• Brake levers – For those with smaller hands, adjustments to the brake levers to reduce the reach, or smaller brake levers may be necessary

Finally, women’s bikes traditionally had step-through top tubes because they were designed for women wearing dresses/skirts. This feature persists in many models today. However, it isn’t limited to women’s bikes and is a common feature seen in the comfort and urban-style bikes.

What is the difference between a comfort bike and a mountain bike?

Comfort bikes share some of the same features as mountain bikes such as wider tires, an upright position, and sometimes suspension. Comfort bikes are optimized for more casual riding, using larger padded saddles, ergonomic upright geometry, handlebars that point to toward the rider, and step-through top tubes too.

Are comfort bikes fast?

In general, comfort bikes are built to be functional, super comfortable, and smooth while riding. This means larger tires, suspension, and more additional components. All of this means they are slower on the road than a normal hybrid, mountain bike, or road bike.

How much does a comfort bike cost?

The comfort bikes in this article range roughly from $400 to $5000. The average price is around $1100.

How to make your bike more comfortable

The name “comfort” may lead you to believe that other bikes are not comfortable. This is untrue, and any correctly fitting bicycle can be comfortable for the right person. In fact, for medium to long-distance rides, a road or mountain bike would certainly be much more comfortable than a comfort bike, as comfort bikes are not designed to be ridden these distances.

To make your bike as comfortable as possible, you need to make sure that it fits your body . This means the frame has to be the right size, you must choose a saddle that fits your sit bones, and you must make the appropriate adjustments so your positioning is right.

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154   Best Comfort Bikes

• Based on reviews from 292 experts and 21,056 users
• Learn how the BikeRide Score works and see our guide to comfort bikes
• Updated April 2024

The BikeRide Guide to Choosing the Best Comfort Bike

What is a Comfort Bike?

Differences between comfort and hybrid bikes, how and where are comfort bikes ridden, features and characteristics of comfort bikes.

• Frame and Fork Materials

Step-Over and Step-Through

Electric comfort bikes.

• Similar Bike Types

Accessories

Direct sales vs. local bike shop, find your comfort zone, further reading and useful links.

Above all, a comfort bike must be a pleasure to ride. They’re friendly to your body’s natural posture and reduce physical strain when riding.

Comfort bikes are ridden on roads, pavement and paths. They seat the rider in an upright manner, with a low seating position and high handlebars.

They generally use wide, large-volume tires that run at relatively low pressures. These tires are calibrated for comfort and stability, rather than speed.

Thick foam or gel saddles are standard. Seats may also use springs or elastomers for extra comfort.

A large number of comfort bikes are equipped with both a suspension fork and a suspension seatpost. Other models may use one or other of these bump-alleviating technologies.

Comfort bikes are not intended for performance or speed, so a low weight is not a priority.

Hybrid bikes are intended to be ridden both on and off-road (on mild dirt roads and paths), and are often used for commuting. They are usually less upright than a comfort bike, with narrower tires. This means that they are angled toward greater speeds and efficiency than a comfort bike.

The wider tires of a comfort bike make them more suited to shorter rides at slower speeds, compared to the mid-width, higher-pressure tires found on hybrids. Front suspension is less common on modern hybrids than it is on new comfort bikes.

Comfort bikes are designed to be ridden for pleasure, on relaxed and recreational outings. They’re intended for short distance rides on undemanding terrain.

Generally, they’re aimed at bike paths, pavement and asphalt. With some knobbly tires they can be ridden on flat dirt paths, but they’re far more at home in urban surrounds.

Comfort bikes are ideal for family rides, grocery runs and ambling around town. They’re the number one bike for tootles.

Comfort bikes suit riders who are less experienced or who, for whatever reason, possess a reduced level of flexibility. They offer a riding position that has the potential to reduce the lower back and neck pain experienced by some riders of road and mountain bikes. Some say it is more natural than a ‘hunched and racy’ or ‘stretched-out’ riding position.

Comfort bike geometry is relaxed. Unlike performance machines, these bikes offer a casual, upright seating position. Your handlebars are above the height of your saddle and visibility is excellent, allowing you to see the path or road ahead.

Wide handlebars ensure that steering is comfortable, but slow. They are often ‘backswept’, placing riders in an ergonomic position, that allows wrists to bend at a natural angle. This results in a casual steering style.

Step-through and low step-over frames are abundant in the comfort bike world. They allow for easy mounting and dismounting of your trusty steed, in addition to accommodating a variety of clothing options (including dresses).

Comfort is enhanced by a long wheelbase that incorporates long chainstays. This frame shape gives your bike a ‘planted’ feel and results in gradual acceleration and laid-back maneuverability.

Comfort bikes usually feature a sloping top-tube that is angled upward from the top of the seat-tube, toward the handlebars. This makes for a shorter ‘reach’ than on sportier types of bikes, which leaves you sitting upright with hands well above your saddle height.

Head Tube Angle

Head tube angles are conservative and usually sit between 69° and 70°. This leads to steering that demands minimal rider exertion but isn’t twitchy (like a road bike). While some comfort bikes have head tube angles as low as 68.5° or as high as 72°, these numbers must be considered in conjunction with the amount of ‘rake’ offered by the offset of the fork.

Fork Offset, Rake and Trail

‘Rake’ more-or-less refers to how far a fork extends out from the head tube of your bike. In combination with your head tube angle, this creates a ‘trail’ distance, which affects the steering of your potential comfort bike. As you might expect, the generous trail of most comfort bikes results in relaxed steering.

Seat Tube Angle

Seat tube angles usually range between 70° and 74°, which lends that trademark upright posture to a comfort bike. Some cruisier models go as slack as 67°, placing the rider’s feet further in front of the seat tube.

Comfort bikes often use a longer, more vertical stem than that found on sportier bikes, to assist the “high-handed” approach that is one its trademarks.

Adjustable stems are also very common. These allow you to tune your handlebar height to your perfect comfort level.

Bottom Bracket Height and Drop

Bottom bracket drop is fairly consistently close to 70mm, but as low as 60mm. Bottom brackets sit around 270 to 280mm above the ground.

In short, comfort bikes sit low enough to the ground to increase stability and allow a foot to be easily placed on the ground when needed.

Obstacle-clearing is not a priority, but pedals must have enough clearance so that striking the ground does not become a concern. The best way to assess this is via a test-ride.

Low Standover

This is one of the non-negotiable build characteristics of a comfort bike. A low standover height is essential, for a few reasons.

Firstly, a low top-tube makes it a breeze to mount and dismount your bike.

Secondly, a low standover makes it easier to stop and start with stability, especially at traffic lights or whenever it’s important to bring the bike to rest.

With their low seat height and standover heights, comfort bikes may be the safest type of bike to ride.

Frame Materials

Aluminum is the most common material found on new comfort bike frames. It’s lighter than most steel options and a lot more resistant to corrosion.

It’s more costly than cheap and heavy steel alternatives, such as ‘hi-tensile’ steel. However, it’s usually cheaper than boutique, lightweight steel tubing.

Aluminum has a tendency to be unforgiving over uneven surfaces. For this reason, it’s often coupled with a suspension fork or a rigid fork made of a different, more compliant material (see ‘Fork Material’, below).

Few comfort bike frames are made of steel. It’s a classic choice though, due to its durability and comfort. Steel frames can also be repaired. On the downside, they are heavier than aluminum.

They’re also not as rust-resistant, unless they’ve received a coating (such as electrophoretic deposition).

There are two main types of steel that you’ll find on new bikes, and there are important differences between them.

Otherwise known as ‘hi-ten’, this steel is used to make a few cheaper comfort bike frames. It’s a low-cost option for a frame that can last a lifetime.

But it is heavier and less shock-absorbent than chromoly steel. The relative rigidity of hi-ten steel may be partially offset by wide, low-pressure tires and / or a suspension fork.

Chromoly is a steel alloy that incorporates chromium and molybdenum. It’s also known as ‘cro-moly’, ‘cro-mo’ and by the numerical designation ‘4130’ (as issued by the American Iron & Steel Institute).

It represents a lighter option, partially because it can be drawn into thinner tubing without compromising strength. This makes it more ‘compliant’ and comfortable than hi-ten, over bumpy surfaces. Its strength can also lead to it being more durable.

Chromoly frames ask a higher price than hi-ten. Because comfort bikes are a casual ride, some buyers might be happy to get by with the extra weight and lower price of hi-tensile steel. For others, this weight can be an additional and unnecessary strain.

Both chromoly and hi-ten steel comfort bikes are uncommon.

Carbon Fiber

Carbon fiber is lightweight, resilient, compliant and expensive. It’s true that it’s strong and absorbs road vibration.

On the other hand, it can be restrictively expensive and is usually only necessary on performance bikes, where speed is paramount. A carbon fiber bike is more likely to be stolen and will also be very costly or impossible to repair if cracked.

There are some electric comfort bikes available with a carbon fiber frame, as a weight saving measure. But pedal-powered comfort bikes are practically non-existent.

Titanium is an expensive, light, durable, shock-absorbent metal that is almost rust-resistant.

When you want a casual and comfortable bike, it may not be the first material you think of. The best comfort bikes can be left locked up outside the corner store, cafe or library.

Even on the highest-end mountain and road bikes , titanium is boutique. But if you have deep pockets and want a nigh-indestructible frame that won’t rust, you can find yourself a titanium comfort bike.

What could be more comfortable than the natural warmth of wood? It is actually possible to choose a wooden comfort bike. Not only that, but you can select from models crafted from walnut, redwood, ash, beech-plywood and bamboo (amongst others).

It looks beautiful and can exhibit amazing properties of pliancy and shock-absorption. But wooden bikes don’t just roll off the production line. The time taken in hand-construction is reflected in these bikes’ prices.

Fork Materials

Many comfort bikes employ a suspension fork, to take the jounce out of bumpy roads and uneven surfaces. Suspension also allows you to stay seated, rather than rising out of the saddle to avoid the effect of bumps and rocks (on you and your bike).

Most comfort bikes are made of aluminum, which is stiff and light, but can be notoriously rigid and prone to vibration. If you have a suspension fork, this is of much less concern.

Comfort bikes compensate for the rigidity of aluminum by using wide, low-pressure tires filled with generous volumes of air. But on their own, plush tires may not be enough.

For this reason, many rigid comfort bikes use a fork made from a material that is more pliant and shock-absorbent than their aluminum frame. This is usually steel, using either hi-tensile or chromoly alloys. In rare instances, it’s carbon fiber.

Components on seniors’ bikes will vary in type, use and quality. It all depends on what type of riding you do, the type of bike you want and your budget.

Comfort bikes are made and sold with both aluminum and steel handlebars. Aluminum is lighter than steel, but will transmit more vibration from the road surface. Steel is heavier but more compliant.

Comfort bike handlebars are fairly wide, with a usual range of 610mm to 660mm, but reaching 700mm on some models. This provides ample leverage and reduces exertion when steering.

Diligent manufacturers of quality models will fit proportionally wide bars, depending on the bike size chosen.

Many Comfort bikes employ conservatively shaped bars, similar in shape to those used on mountain bikes. They may be straight or they could show a moderate amount of rise and maybe some backsweep.

Comfort bike handlebars are not racy, but you can use them to stand up when climbing hills, if the rest of the bike’s geometry allows. You won’t find drop bars on a comfort bike.

Some comfort bikes are fitted with swept-back handlebars. Backsweep can present an ergonomic advantage, setting a rider’s wrists at a relaxed horizontal or vertical position (such as on ‘North Road’ style bars).

Another advantage of backsweep, is that you have infinite room for a basket or anything you might put on a rack, such as a crate, bag or box. On new models, backsweep is usually between 25° and 30°.

Comfort bikes usually employ nominal rise handlebars in conjunction with a tall stem or high-rise handlebars with a shorter stem. Either option leaves riders with a high hand position. New bikes are available with bars with anywhere from 10 to 60mm of rise. Reach is affected by handlebar rise, as well as stem height and frame geometry.

Most new comfort bikes are provisioned with either disc brakes or ‘V-brake’ rim brakes. ‘Comfort-adjacent’ bikes may be equipped with drum brakes. These include the Dutch ‘omafiets’, traditional roadsters and cruisers .

Disc Brakes

Disc brakes slow the bike by squeezing pads onto a disc, which is attached to the wheel hub. Discs cost more than rim brakes, but are now more affordable than they have ever been. They are more powerful than rim brakes, especially in wet weather. This makes them more suited to those seeking comfort, as they require less effort and hand strength from the user, while delivering similar stopping power. They allow for the use of wider tires and don’t wear down your rims. For this reason, they’re popular on comfort bikes that are used year round.

Disc brakes add weight to your bike. They are also more complicated than rim brakes, when it comes to maintenance, adjustment and repair.

There are two types of disc brake; hydraulic and mechanical. Hydraulic brakes provide greater stopping power and use brake fluid to transmit force. They are more costly than mechanical discs and trickier to maintain.

If you live in a dry climate, you might consider cutting costs and using rim brakes. But if your priorities are power, performance and all-weather reliability, discs could be your preferred option.

• Require less effort to apply and inflict less strain than other brakes.
• Strong stopping power in all weather conditions.
• Allow the use of wider tires.
• Protect rims from wear.
• Powerful ability to stop the bulk of heavier bikes.

Disadvantages

• Complicated and difficult to maintain.

Also known as ‘linear-pull brakes’, these are a type of cantilever rim brake that uses a single cable and two arms. They fit well around wider tires and are easily adjusted and maintained at home. That said, they can still be tricky to center. As far as cantilever brakes go, they’re powerful.

Compared to discs, they lose some power in wet weather. Winter braking also wears down rims as grit and filth gets attracted to your brake pads.

V-brakes are cheaper than disc brakes and easier to adjust without professional help.

Caliper Brakes

These are rarely used on comfort bikes. These attach to the frame or fork by a single bolt. They use curved arms, which must be long and wide enough to fit around your tires. For this reason, they are better suited to bikes that accommodate narrow to mid-width tires.

• They are low-cost, reducing the overall price of a new comfort bike.
• They’re easy to adjust.
• Rim brakes lose some power in wet weather.
• Winter braking wears down wheel rims as grit and filth gets attracted to brake pads.

Drum Brakes

Drum brakes are used by bike types that may share a similar geometry to comfort bikes. These include traditional roadsters, ‘ omafiets ’ and cruisers. Drum brakes are sometimes referred to as ‘roller brakes’ or ‘hub brakes’.

They use an internal hub, but are cable-actuated in the same way that rim and disc brakes are. Drum brakes work by using a conventional brake lever and cable linked to a cam that presses brake shoes outward against the inside of a cylindrical drum, creating friction.

Drum brakes may be combined with an internally geared hub and / or a dynamo that’s connected to your bike’s lighting.

• They are easy to modulate.
• Drum brakes are long-lasting and robust.
• Mechanical components are sealed from the elements.
• Drum brakes require infrequent maintenance.
• They usually require a mechanic to overhaul, when needed.
• They’re heavy.
• They may “stick”.
• Braking is not as powerful or sudden as a disc.
• Oversized drum hubs affect wheel building and alter spoke length.
• A reaction arm needs to be detached to remove the wheel.
• Drum brakes have poor heat dissipation, making them prone to brake fade.
• Drum brakes are built into a hub. When one element of this hub is worn out, the whole unit needs replacing.

Coaster Brakes

Coaster brakes might be used as a rear brake on some comfort bikes. They’re also known as ‘pedal brakes’. You might remember them from childhood, when simple bikes required you to push your pedals backwards to stop.

There are no pads or discs and braking takes place largely within the wheel hub.

Most coaster brakes provide somewhat inferior stopping power, compared to rim and disc brakes. But as with any other brakes, there is a wide range available in terms of quality and cost. Coaster brake hubs can also be internally geared; usually with 3, 7 or 8 speeds.

On its own, a coaster brake might not be practical or safe in hillier terrain or at higher speeds. Mashing a coaster can ‘cook’ the grease inside a coaster hub. The first mountain bikers had to repack this grease after every descent. Some new models use a rear coaster brake with a front rim or drum brake.

• Coaster hubs only need infrequent maintenance.
• A coaster brake does not need cables or levers.
• They give your bike a neat, clean appearance.
• Coaster brake hubs lack stopping power.
• They can overheat on long, steep descents.
• Coaster hubs may need repacking with grease.
• Coaster brakes prohibit back-pedaling.
• A ‘reaction arm’ needs to be detached and reattached to remove and fit the rear wheel.

Factors to Consider

A comfort bike with rim brakes will be cheaper than one with disc brakes. But because comfort is the name of the game here, disc brakes fit well with the ‘low exertion, low strain’ ethos of the comfort bike.

Cranks on a new comfort bike should always use a 3-piece assembly. New 3-piece cranks use sealed bearings and a separate part for either crank and the spindle. They are lighter and stronger than 1-piece options, which can be easy to bend. In this instance, the whole assembly must be replaced. For a three-piece crank, only the bent crank need be replaced.

There are different types of 3-piece cranks, with their own benefits and drawbacks. But compared to 1-piece cranks, they all possess superior qualities of strength and reliability. Some 1-piece versions can be tougher than others, but in general, three-piece setups are superior.

New bikes should have cranks of a length appropriate to your bike’s size. If your legs are longer or shorter than the average, you can swap for cranks of a different length.

In the interests of ease, comfort bikes will usually have a wide gear range. This ensures that you can always find a suitable gear, in any terrain, with the minimal amount of strain. It also allows you to remain seated for a majority of your ride.

A wide gear range can be the result of having many available gears or of having less gears spread over a wider range. This means that there is still a high high gear and a low low gear, but that the jumps between gears are larger.

On some new bike types, triple (and even double chainrings) are seen as excessive and redundant. Many new bikes use a single chainring with a relatively wide range of gears. This reduces weight and complexity.

However, for comfort bikes (as well as touring bikes ), triple and double chainrings remain popular. They ensure that almost any elevation can be tackled without exertion. Single chainring options are also available.

For a comfort bike, streamlining and weight-reduction are not priorities. It’s better to have a bike that will provide the right gear to appease the knees.

External Gearing Using Derailleurs

Many affordable comfort bikes use external gearing. Derailleur-equipped comfort bikes are usually available with between 7 and 30 speeds. Bikes with 21 to 30 speeds use three chainrings and a front derailleur, making maintenance and adjustment significantly more complicated than the single chainring setups specced on 7, 8 and 9-speed bikes.

External gearing is exposed to rain and dirt, both of which rapidly deteriorate components. If you want to ride your new bike in the city in all seasons, an internally-geared option resists the elements and requires less maintenance.

• This is the most affordable standard.
• External gearing can be adjusted by (some) home mechanics.
• External gearing is exposed to the elements.
• More tuning and repair is needed than on an internally geared drivetrain.

Internal Gearing

Internal hubs are low-maintenance, while protecting your gears from the elements and maintaining a clean look.

There are no derailleurs to adjust, maintain, bend or damage.

Internal hubs are available in 3, 7 and 8-speed options on new comfort bikes. There are also ‘stepless’ internal hubs that provide progressive gearing with a similar range to other brands’ 8-speed options.

• Internally geared hubs are sealed from dirt and moisture.
• External complexity is reduced by eliminating derailleurs.
• Internal hubs present neatly.
• They only use one shifter and one cable.
• Internal gearing systems only require infrequent maintenance.
• When needed, maintenance can be complicated.
• Gears complicate the rear hub, especially when combined with a drum brake and / or a dynamo for lighting.

Sturmey Archer and Shimano’s ‘Nexus’ range are names to look out for. When it comes to internally-geared hubs, both are manufacturers of renown.

Belt Drive vs. Chain Drive

Belt drives are a modern replacement for the traditional chain. They use a single-piece carbon belt that can’t be separated. They are near-silent, greaseless and long-lasting. Because they are low-maintenance and won’t soil clothing, they present an attractive option for the casual cyclist.

They require a specific frame type. In addition, they only work with internal hub gearing and may cost a little extra upfront (compared to chain-driven options).

‘Twist shift’ style gear shifters are more common on comfort and hybrid bikes than on any other bike. They are produced under the ‘Grip Shift’ and ‘Revoshift’ brand names. These allow the rider to change gears by turning a barrel next to the grip. Aesthetically, the ‘twist shift’ resembles a motorcycle throttle.

You might consider whether a twist shift or traditional ‘thumb and forefinger’ system is more ergonomically suited to your hands and flexibility.

The Contact Points

New comfort bikes generally arrive fitted with a wide, cushioned saddle. This is one of the characteristics that gives the comfort bike its name. A comfy saddle makes a lot of sense, because comfort bike geometry puts you in a position where a lot of your weight is resting on your behind.

Some cushioned saddles are well thought-out in their construction and shape. However, many plush, squishy saddles are only comfortable on shorter rides. Excessively cushioned saddles can be misleading. This ‘squishiness’ can lead to discomfort that’s felt in the hips, thighs and bottom on longer rides. Numbness may result, due to restricted blood supply.

It’s best to err on the side of moderation when considering saddle width. A number of female riders find that a moderately wide imprint is more suited to their body shape. Other riders will choose a standard saddle, as found on a commuter or hybrid bike.

The best way to choose the right saddle is to try a few out, in person.

Sprung Saddles

Sprung saddles are a common component on new comfort bikes, classic town bikes, roadsters and cruisers. They are an early, but still effective, form of suspension. These saddles usually feature two large, short springs under the seat. Some versions have a third spring beneath the saddle nose. Modern versions may use elastomers as a lighter-weight alternative to springs.

Sprung saddles are comfortable and provide relief on bumpy and uneven surfaces. But they’re usually quite heavy.

Comfort Grips

Many comfort bikes use what are known as ‘comfort grips’. These are usually round and employ a shock-absorbent rubber or foam compound. They should be of a decent width and provide adequate grip and cushioning.

Ergonomic Grips

These grips are comfortable and healthy for the natural shape of human hands. They are usually made with a material that provides adequate shock absorbance.

Faux Leather

Synthetic ‘leather-look’ grips are sometimes fit to new comfort bikes. They can be spongy and not too grippy. More expensive options may use quality synthetics or real leather. They may be more ergonomic and less slippery in sweaty conditions. Leather may be used purely for looks.

A good guideline for grips is to seek something that’s comfortable but not too squishy.

Comfort bikes are usually sold with flat, plastic ‘platform’ pedals. Manufacturers describe these as made of nylon or ‘resin’. Good examples use non-slip rubber inserts or grip-tape to improve traction. Platform pedals offer easy on / off action and foot-down when coming to a stop. They work well with casual shoes.

When choosing or replacing pedals, keep in mind that ‘plastic’ does not always equal poor quality. Polycarbonate examples can be long-lasting and may use high quality bearings.

Aluminum alloy double-wall rims are the standard on new comfort, city and hybrid Bikes. Aluminum rims are strong, light, stiff and highly rust resistant. They’re inexpensive too. If dented, aluminum rims can often be repaired.

Your new comfort bike should use sealed wheel bearings. They roll smoothly and are protected from the elements.

Comfort bikes usually use 32 to 36 spokes per wheel. Sometimes, a front wheel will use 32 spokes, while the rear uses 36. This saves weight, as a front wheel usually bears less load and takes less impact than a front wheel. The odd lightweight model uses 28 spokes to reduce weight. This isn’t a problem if rims are strong and the build is reliable.

As a general rule, look for 32 spokes at a minimum, to provide support under a heavy frame and bike. Spokes should be made from stainless steel.

27.5” inch wheels are the most common size on new comfort bikes. 700C wheels are not uncommon either. The older, smaller mountain bike standard of 26” is also still found on some new comfort bikes.

Bigger wheels achieve faster top speeds and are better at rolling over bumps and uneven surfaces. Smaller wheels may exhibit tighter handling and acceleration.

27.5” Inch / 650b

Most comfort bikes use this size. These wheels can proscribe a tighter turn-circle than 700c wheels, on what is a comparatively long wheelbase bike. Most frames allow for wide tires. With large tires, the total diameter of your wheels is increased. ‘27.5 inch’ is the mountain bike nomenclature. ‘650b’ is usually used for touring and road bikes. Both are valid and refer to the same size.

27.5” is the most popular, current mountain bike standard. This means that there are plenty of spare wheels and rims available.

700c / 28” Inch / 29” Inch

This is the standard size for road bikes as well as many hybrids and commuters.

They may also be described as ‘28 inch’ on European bikes. Being of a larger diameter, they roll faster. Wide, 700c rims are known as ‘29 Inch’ in the mountain bike world, where they are the larger standard.

These big tires roll over small bumps without the need for such plump tires as on 27.5” varieties. Even so, you’ll want ample rubber for comfort and grip. Your new comfort bike should sport tires at least 38c in circumference. New models are sold with tires between 38c and 45c wide.

This used to be the standard on comfort and mountain bikes, before the mid-2000s. There are still a number of models that use 26” wheels, but they are becoming less common. Some folk find that the smaller wheels are more stable and allow for a smaller turn-circle, but this comes at the expense of top speeds and the ability to roll over small bumps without incident.

There are comfort models that use 26” wheels on smaller frame sizes and 27.5” wheels with larger frames, to maintain proportionality.

Comfort bikes for shorter riders and juveniles may use 24 inch wheels. These smaller wheels allow for a more proportionate build with smaller frame sizes.

Comfort bikes are designed for tires that:

• Feature a wide imprint and contact patch to increase grip and stability.
• Use a semi-slick or light tread, for use on sealed roads and pavements.
• Hold a generous volume of air.
• Are designed to be run at relatively low air pressures, for comfort.
• Have superior rollover on bumps and debris.

These tires are designed to:

• Be comfortable.
• But not fast.
• Bestow moderate traction.
• Provide a low rolling resistance.

Comfort bike tires vary between a ‘semi-slick’ and a light tread. They aren’t knobbly, like mountain bike tires. But they do have enough tread to easily maintain traction when cornering on paved surfaces in wet weather.

In urban environments, you don’t want your tires creating excess drag, but if you encounter a little sand when cornering, you may want some assurance. For this reason, these tires have more tread than those on road bikes, but significantly less than on mountain and gravel bikes.

Comfort Bike Tire Sizes and Widths:

• Standard ranges are between 1.95” and 2.4”.
• Options narrower than 1.75” are less common and less comfortable.
• Standard ranges are between 38c and 45c.
• 28” x 1.75” ≈ 700c x 45c.
• Usually range between 1.75” and 2.0”.
• 26 x 1.5” tires can be found, but are significantly less comfortable.
• 2.0” is a common width.
• Usually range between 1.75” and 2.125”.

Suspension is common on comfort bikes. Many options use a front suspension fork to iron out bumps and chatter. This level of comfort comes at the expense of speed, efficiency and weight.

Suspension seatposts are also a common occurrence on comfort bikes, as a means of alleviating road vibration that’s transmitted through the bike’s rear end.

The weight of true rear suspension negates any benefits for on-road use, so new comfort bikes are not available in full-suspension configurations.

Softer forms of suspension can include cushioned saddles with sprung or elastomer suspension (see our section on saddles).

Suspension Forks (Front Suspension)

The suspension fork on a comfort bike should be lighter and less ‘beefy’ than those found on mountain bikes .

Less ‘travel’ is required than on a truly off-road machine. Most comfort bikes offer between 40 to 80mm of travel (the distance that the fork has to move up and down), while mountain bike suspension usually starts at around 100mm.

You may seek a fork with a ‘lockout’ option, which allows you to lock out the fork’s suspension, preserving efficiency on flat ground.

A decent suspension fork can add significant cost to a bike, while suspension on cheaper bikes may be heavy and ineffective. These days, there are a lot of great big-volume tires that roll fast and act as ample suspension on rough city roads.

For many urban riders, suspension isn’t necessary. It adds weight, complication and maintenance needs to a bike. For other riders, it provides necessary relief from uneven roads and surfaces.

Suspension Seatposts

Suspension seatposts usually offer between 10 and 50mm of travel and use one of three types of suspension; coil spring, elastomer or air. On new comfort bikes, a simple vertical suspension post will usually use a coil spring. Sometimes this coil spring operates in conjunction with an elastomer bumper.

Coil spring suspension posts have a tendency to decrease efficiency by robbing the rider of some pedal-power. More advanced elastomer models and options with more travel (up to 76mm), can be sourced as an aftermarket upgrade. Some of these have been proven, by testers, to be more efficient under pedaling pressures.

Bosses, Eyelets and Mounts

Front racks.

Front racks can be attached to many comfort bikes. Many comfort bikes will have eyelets to attach the kind of front rack that you would attach to a touring bike , but a fair number do not. Look for at least one eyelet on the outside of either fork arm, about halfway up. Even if these aren’t present, racks can be attached to the headtube and / or handlebars, using an aftermarket bracket.

Keep in mind that bikes with a suspension fork will not have mounts to attach a front rack. If you want to attach a front rack, aim for a bike with a rigid fork.

Many comfort bikes have mounts for a rear rack. Check for the appropriate eyelets or mount-points on the seat stays and near the dropouts of your potential new ride. Some comfort bikes come with a fitted rack.

Most comfort bikes have mounts for bottles. If you plan on going on longer rides, keep an eye out for a model that allows two bottles to be fitted. A few comfort bikes sacrifice room for bottle mounts to prioritize step-through accessibility.

Some comfort bikes arrive fit with matching fenders. At the least, you’ll want your bike to bear eyelets that allow you to fit some aftermarket options. These are located beside the rear wheel and front fork dropouts.

The main comfort bike variation is between two frame shapes. Step-over frames are arched and sit up higher from the ground than on a step-through frame. Step-through frames have a downward-sloping top-tube and a much lower standover height.

Step-through comfort bikes have some of the lowest standover heights of all bike types. Even step-over framed comfort bikes have a significantly lower standover height than most other bike types.

Traditionally, step-over frames were favored by male riders, while step-through frames were marketed to women. This is still predominately true (step-through frames do make it easier to ride a bike in a dress). But in reality, some shorter and less-able men choose step-through frames, while some taller women prefer a step-over frame. Many comfort bike models are available in both step-through and step-over options.

If you find it difficult to mount a standard step-through bike, you’re in luck. ‘Low-Entry’ bikes make it easy to get on and off a comfort bike, even with reduced flexibility. They’re popular with seniors .

The comfort bike aesthetic suits electrification.

Due to the extra assistance, there’s little need to worry about the inclusion of weighty elements; such as front suspension, wide tires and suspension seat posts.

New models can be sleek and powerful. Good models allow the rider to choose their desired level of pedal-input and subsequent fitness.

For detailed information on the specifics of choosing an electric bike , please refer to our guide.

Similar Bike Types – C.B. or not C.B. ?

Urban cruisers.

These bikes share their relaxed geometry with beach cruisers .

They may employ classic curves or a more sturdy, angular framework. They usually use 26” wheels and may have exaggerated geometry, making them less comfortable than a comfort bike, in the long term.

They’re often made of heavy, hi-tensile steel.

Commuter Cruisers

These bikes sport the trademark arched beach cruiser top-tube. While their geometry is laid-back, they have a greater standover than most comfort bikes, making them more difficult to mount.

Often, they use chromoly steel or aluminum tubing. This makes for a lighter, more comfortable commuter .

Unlike their flatland counterparts, they’re geared. Models usually use 26” or 700c wheels.

Omafiets / Opafiets / Dutch Bikes

Omafiets and opafiets (‘granny bikes’ and ‘grandpa bikes’) are a traditional style of simple, upright, urban bike.

They’ve enjoyed over a century of use and popularity in countries such as Holland and Denmark. Outside of Europe, they are known as ‘Dutch bikes’.

They mostly use a 700c x 38B tire size (28 x 1 ½ or 40-635) and are incredibly resilient. They are built of heavy steel, use drum brakes and are often fit with hefty racks. New models are available.

Some comfort bikes come equipped with front and rear lights, from new. This is something to factor in when you’re considering the value-for-money of your new comfort bike purchase.

Some new models are equipped with dynamo hubs, which use your bike’s momentum to generate all the required power for your bike’s lighting. With these hubs, you have no need to replace batteries or charge your lights.

Comfort bikes don’t have to be expensive. They aren’t performance bikes. A good comfort bike should cost significantly less than a high-end hybrid and much less than a high-end road or mountain bike. But keep in mind that bikes will ask a higher price for extended durability, increased safety and enhanced comfort. Not to mention; smooth operation in terms of gears, braking and handling.

When considering the price of your new comfort bike, always factor in the inclusion of fenders, lights and racks. Some bikes come with all three! The convenience and peace-of-mind of having a bike that’s “ready-to-go” must be worth a few extra dollars.

Buying a bike online is a world apart from the experience of choosing a bike from your local bike shop. The benefit of a direct sale from the manufacturer, is that you aren’t paying for the middleman. If you’re buying a bike from an online retailer, they don’t have to pay for rent of premises and they don’t need to pay an experienced, professional mechanic to assemble and tune your bike. For these reasons, you pay less.

Good online bike retailers will pre-assemble as much as 80% to 95% of your bike before shipping and will provide the tools required for the remaining adjustments.

Your local bike shop (or ‘L.B.S.’) will assemble, tune and fit your bike for you before you ride away. They will usually offer you a warranty deal and a minor servicing for free, within the first few weeks of purchase.

Whatever route you choose, there are benefits and drawbacks.

Whether you want to roll with your partner, friends or family, comfort bikes are the easiest and most ergonomic option.

Comfort bikes let you get on board and ride, without the level of strain and competition involved in other cycling disciplines.

If you want to stay fit but you’re restricted in terms of mobility, a comfort bike could be your next sensible bike purchase.

So please, make yourself comfortable, choose wisely and roll on!

• Have questions about which bike to choose? Ask in our Forum .
• Want to win a bike instead of buying one? See our bike Giveaway .
• Find out more about BikeRide .
• Anne Mathews, Upright Bikes – Sit Up and Enjoy the Ride
• Relja Novovic, Pros and Cons of Suspension (Shock Absorbers) on Bicycles
• Logan Watts, Suspension Seatposts: A Complete List, Tested and Explained
• Handsome Cycles, What Does ED Coating Mean For Bicycles?
• Bike Exchange, How to Use Geometry Charts and What They Mean
• Bike Exchange, Understanding Bike Geometry Charts: What They Mean and How to Read Them

Bike Categories

Trek Bikes Brand Review: A Close Look at the Iconic USA Bike Brand

T rek Bikes is one of the most popular and the most respected USA-based bike brands right now, and for a good reason. They offer models in all categories and all price points, for all types of cyclists. Let’s learn more in our in-depth overview!

No matter if you are an absolute beginner who can’t even ride, or you’re a pro cyclist with years of experience in the legs, Trek Bikes has a bike for you.

With more than 40 unique models, it’s both very easy and very challenging to find exactly what you’re looking for. Our in-depth overview teaches you all you need to know about each model series and many other things related to Trek.

Technologies

Trek’s range of models, trek mountain bikes, trek bikes – road, trek hybrid & city bikes, trek gravel & cyclocross bikes, trek adventure & touring bikes, trek tt/triathlon bikes, trek electric bikes, electra bikes, trek women’s bikes, kids’ trek bikes, new or used trek bikes.

The first bikes Trek made were touring steel frames , but as the business evolved, so did the selection of models. Soon enough, Trek began producing road racing bikes, and then mountain bikes from both aluminum and carbon.

The first Trek-branded all-aluminum bike left the production lines in 1985 and the first full-carbon model came out in 1989.

Today, Trek offers high-profile road bikes such as Domane, Madone, and Emonda; hardtail and full-suspension models like Marlin , X-Caliber, or Slash; Checkpoint and Boone gravel and CX bikes; and dozens of other popular model names in a wide range of categories.

Over the years, Trek has pioneered or perfected many of the best technological solutions used in the top-level cycling sport.

Thanks to them, many of these advanced technologies have been passed down to mid-range and entry-level classes, improving the cycling experience for beginner and intermediate cyclists as well.

Here are some of the most ground-breaking technologies developed by Trek so far:

• OCLV Carbon:  Optimum Compaction Low Void carbon frames developed in 1991 — some of the lightest and stiffest in the world.
• Alpha Aluminum: Trek’s refined aluminum frames that rival carbon frames in terms of strength and overall weight.
• Active Braking Pivot: A revolutionary patented system developed to keep the rear suspension working while braking.
• RE:aktiv: Advanced suspension system that provides dynamic flow that automatically adapts its performance to the rider and the type of the terrain.
• Full Floater: Trek’s rear suspension system that allows for extremely supple and responsive rear suspension action, giving you the impression of bottomless travel.
• IsoSpeed Suspension: Road bike suspension that decouples the seat tube from the top tube, diminishing the fatiguing impacts of the road.

One of the secrets to Trek Bikes’ long-lasting success is that they make bicycles for EVERYONE. No matter what kind of riding you wish to do or how much you can stretch your budget, you can find a suitable model in Trek’s lineup.

Their beginner bikes such as FX, 820, or Marlin start at around $400; whereas their elite road models such as Domane or Madone cost upward of $12,000.

Below is a full list of ALL Trek model lines available at the moment of writing this article, organized into logical categories.

This is intended as an informative resource for people looking into Trek bikes , trying to decide which one suits their needs the best.

820 is the most affordable mountain bike in the Trek line. It consists of one men’s and one women’s model, both of which cost around $500. They are equipped with rim brakes, Shimano Tourney components, and 26″ tires, which makes them perfect for beginners.

Best for: 820 bikes are good for short daily recreational and fitness rides, as well as short commutes.

See On Trek Bikes

Marlin is one of Trek’s most popular entry-level MTB lines. It consists of several aluminum hardtail models that cost between $620 and $1,400, so they’re ideal for first-timers and experienced hobby cyclists. Marlin bikes feature front suspension, disc brakes, 2x or 3x drivetrains, and wide 27.5″ or 29″ tires.

Best for: Marlin series can be used for on and off-road riding, commuting, and all-around daily cycling.

Our review s of Marlin 4 –  5 –  6 –  7

Mountain biking enthusiasts who don’t have thousands of dollars but want quality trail bikes can choose the Roscoe line. These are fun aluminum hardtail bicycles with massive 27.5+ tires and specs that are ready to party. These models cost between $1,200 and $2,800 , so they are quite affordable as well.

Best for: If you want to ride trails more seriously with RockShox suspensions and SRAM or Shimano components, check out Trek Roscoe.

X-Caliber is Trek’s lineup of quality, yet affordable aluminum 29ers ideal for beginners and riders with some experience on the trails. They’re characterized by 120 mm of travel in the fork, light and efficient 1x drivetrains, and prices that remain between $1,500 and $2,000 . All models also feature powerful hydraulic disc brakes and size-specific tires.

Best for: Aspiring trail riders who aim to challenge themselves more, explore more technical trails, and do it all on a tight budget.

Farley is a collection of Trek’s super-capable fat bikes built around aluminum or carbon frames, depending on the model. They’re characterized by awe-inspiring 27.5″ x 4.5″ tires and mud-ready 1x drivetrains. Most models have rigid forks, but there are options with a suspension fork as well.

Best for:  Trek Farley showcases its abilities best when put against snow, mud, rocks, roots, and other extreme conditions.

Trek Procaliber is a group of race-ready aluminum and carbon cross-country hardtail bikes. They feature 100 mm of front suspension as well as IsoSpeed rear decouplers that improve control and comfort further. All Procaliber models also come with 29″ wheels, modern 1x drivetrains, and strong hydraulic disc brakes.

Best for: Cyclists interested in doing cross country racing or simply having fun and improving their skills on high-quality, yet reasonably-priced XC machines.

If you have more money than you know what to do with, why not spend it on the mouth-wateringly good Trek’s full-suspension Fuel EX line? These bikes are built with 140mm/130mm front and rear suspension, 29″ wheels, and efficient 1x drivetrains. The prices start at around $2,500 and cap at around $10,600  for the flagship Fuel EX 9.9.

Best for:  Expert trail riders (or those who practice becoming so) with money to spare, who want to ride a wide range of terrains, climb, descent, and race.

Top Fuel is a line of high-end , full-suspension bikes that are suitable for elite XC racing competitions. Every model features 120 mm of travel in the fork and 115 mm in the rear shock. All models are also equipped with super-capable 29″ wheels and tires that go up to 2.4″. If you want to own a Top Fuel bike, you’ll need to pay between $2,700  and $11,500.

Best for:  All-around fun on challenging and technical singletracks and top-level XC racing events. 

Stache offers a high level of performance in a simple and easy to maintain hardtail package. These are mid-range trail bikes built around carbon or aluminum frames, with prices between $2,500 and $4,000. They feature 120 mm of front suspension travel coupled with 29+ wheels and tires that are 3.0″ wide. They’re capable of some serious damage.

Best for:  Stache bikes are best for trail enthusiasts who want to have maximum fun on the most challenging terrain available in their area, but not worry much about upkeep costs. 

Remedy is one of Trek’s best-selling full-suspension bikes because of phenomenal money to value ratio and well-balanced components. It comes with 160/150 mm of front and rear travel, zippy 27.5″ wheels, wide-range 1×12 drivetrains, and dropper posts. The frames are aluminum or carbon, depending on the price. It’s the most trail aficionados can ask for!

Best for:  Remedy models are best suited for riders who enjoy fast and dynamic descents, jumps, drops, and other challenging on-trail stuff.

Slash is a capable long-travel enduro bike built to… well, slash the trails. Right now, this series numbers around seven models valued between $3,500 and $12,500. Therefore, these bikes are great for pro riders and those who feel that way. They have premium carbon frames, 160/150mm of front and rear travel, and huge 29″ wheels.

Best for:  Professionals and enduro enthusiasts who enjoy the thrill of fast-paced downhill sections and challenging rocky trails. 

If you want the best of the best in the DH world, Session is the type of bike you should be looking at. Session models boast premium carbon frames, 190 mm of deluxe RockShox travel, 29″ wheels, and high-end SRAM and Shimano components. They’re ready to win races.

Best for:  Making the best results and winning World Cup Championships on the most brutal downhill courses.

Supercaliber

Supercaliber is a series of unique cross-country racing bikes with Trek’s premium IsoStrut rear suspension. The rear shock is integrated into the frame with unique pivotless seatstays. In addition, it also features 100 mm of front travel, 29″ wheels, 1×12 drivetrains, and progressive racing geometry. Supercaliberline consists of some of the most expensive Trek bikes that cost up to $12,000.

Best for:  Cross-country races that require maximum speed and technical terrain that requires the best possible components and geometry. 

The Domane series is Trek’s selection of fast, versatile, and technologically advanced endurance road bikes. It’s one of Trek’s best-known lineups, featuring IsoSpeed frame suspension, aluminum or carbon frames, and different levels of SRAM and Shimano components. Domane models cost anywhere between $1,100 and $12,600, so they’re suitable for everyone.

Best for:  Beginner, intermediate, and professional road cyclists looking for all-around good performance on a quality road bike that can do it all. 

Our review s on Domane  2 – 3 – 4 – 5 – 6 .

The Émonda line consists of some of the lightest and best-performing road bikes in the world. It’s built around three frame options – 700 OCLV Carbon, 500 OCLV Carbon, and lightweight aluminum. The most expensive Émonda bike costs $13,000, whereas the cheapest can be bought for just $2,300. They’re race-ready, good-looking, and suitable for all rider profiles.

Best for:  Beginner, intermediate, and elite cyclists who want the lightest available road setup suitable for racing, fitness, and leisure riding.

Trek Madone is a top-of-the-line aero road bike developed in the wind tunnel. These bikes are super-light, super-fast, but super-expensive as well. If you want to own one, you’ll have to spend between $4.8K and $13K. For that money, you’ll get a carbon aero frame, aero wheels, high-end components, and supreme integration.

Best for:  Seasoned road riders in search of capital and marginal gains that would make them as fast and as efficient as possible. 

Related: Best Road Bike Brands

If you want an aluminum bike that costs between $600 and $2,000 and that can truly do it all, Trek FX is one of the best choices around. These are efficient and affordable hybrid bikes with entry-level or mid-range components, skinny 700c wheels, and comfortable upright geometries. Around 15 models are available, which includes men’s and women’s bikes.

Best for:  Recreational or fitness riders wanting to commute, run errands, get fit, or train on a daily basis without spending too much money.

Trek Verve is a lineup of comfortable, high-quality, yet accessible hybrid and fitness bikes that can serve as all-around workhorses to urban riders. They cost between around $700 and $1,000, which makes them very cost-efficient. Verve bikes are made from aluminum, roll on 700c wheels, and feature disc brakes coupled with entry-level components.

Best for:  Trek Verve is best for entry-level riders who need a dependable two-wheeler to use and abuse every day or just enjoy riding on the weekends. 

As its name tells you, Trek Dual Sport is a versatile series that can be used for on and off-road rides. These bikes are built around affordable aluminum frames, generally cost around $1,000 , and roll on wide 700c wheels. All models have disc brakes and 63 mm of front suspension. Riders can choose between step-over and step-though frame designs.

Best for:  Versatile riders who want one affordable bicycle that can be used for urban commutes and weekend out-of-town excursions on dirt and forest roads. 

Trek jumped on the gravel bandwagon with the Checkpoint series. These are versatile and efficient gravel and adventure bikes built around aluminum frames. Therefore, they don’t cost much — as little as $2,400 . The prices can get up to $12,000 for high-spec models. Checkpoint bikes feature wide 700c tires, 1x or 2x drivetrains, and disc brakes on all models. They look pretty cool as well!

Best for:  Trek Checkpoint can be used by beginner or seasoned cyclists for gravel races, bike touring adventures, daily commutes, or anything else that comes to mind. 

Trek Crockett is a capable aluminum cyclocross bike that can navigate the urban jungle or take you through a real jungle. These models ride on lightweight aluminum frames, knobby 700c tires, and dependable and efficient 1x drivetrains. At the moment, Crockett numbers three affordable models with price tags between $1,500 and $3,000.

Best for:  Trek Crockett works equally well as a fast CX racing machine and a rugged daily commuter. Use it to commute on workdays and go crazy on the weekends.

Trek Boone is the lightest, fastest, and best-looking cyclocross bike around. Boone frames are built with lightweight carbon fiber material and feature IsoSpeed front and rear decouplers that improve comfort and off-road riding efficiency. Boone also has performance-oriented racing geometry, race-ready components, and 1x drivetrains.

Best for:  Cyclocross racing for beginner riders and amateur or experienced athletes. 

The well-known 520 is one of Trek’s bikes with the longest tradition. Its classic touring steel frame was developed back in the 1970s when the company was established. Today, it’s equipped with front and rear racks, disc brakes, 700c tires, 27 speeds , and comfort-based geometry. It’s the best expedition tourer for the money.

Best for:  Trek 520 is a dependable touring bike that you can take around the world, ride over mountain passes, or use it as a day-to-day bike and commute on a regular basis.

If there is one bike that almost every bikepacker dreams about, it has to be Trek 1120. This is the ultimate bikepacking setup thanks to a lightweight aluminum frame, stiff carbon fork , well-designed front and rear racks, and fearless 29×3.0″ tires. Its 1×11 Shimano SLX drivetrain can get you up any hill and over any off-road section.

Best for:  Bikepacking and off-road touring that requires dependable components that can take daily abuse for months, years, and thousands of dusty miles.

Speed Concept

Speed Concept is the only TT bike Trek makes, if we don’t count in the Madone aero road bikes. This speed machine is made around a super-lightweight carbon frame developed after years of testing in wind tunnels. It offers total aerodynamic integration, minimal drag, and a 2×11 Shimano Ultegra drivetrain.

Best for:  Trek Speed Concept is most suitable for Time Trial events or Triathlon races where speed, aerodynamics, and power efficiency is all that matters. 

Trek Verve+ series is an electric version of the regular verve series. These are versatile electric hybrid and city bikes with step-over and step-through frames, making them suitable for men and women. They can assist your pedaling up to 20 mph thanks to Bosch electronics. They also feature lights, fenders, and a rear rack for easier commutes.

Best for:  Daily urban commuters and fitness riders who want to maintain an upright riding position and enjoy the comfort and extra boost Verve+ offers.

Trek Allant+ is series of mid-range and high-end electric hybrids with flat bars and premium Shimano components. They are capable of replacing your car thanks to powerful and reliable Bosch electronics that will support your pedaling up to 28 mph. Allant+ bikes are made with aluminum and carbon frames and feature fenders, racks, and lights.

Best for:  Urban riders who want to ditch their cars and do long daily commutes through busy city traffic that require utmost speed, reliability, and comfort. 

Trek Powerfly is a range of high-performing electric hardtail mountain bikes. The series numbers just two bikes at the moment — one men’s and one women’s. They’re built around lightweight aluminum frames and come equipped with high-end Bosch electronics that assist up to 20 mph. You also get 120 mm of travel and 1×12 SRAM drivetrain for around $4,200.

Best for:  Trail mountain biking enthusiasts who want to conquer hills more easily and focus more on descents and speedy flat sections. 

The Trek Rail series presents the best of the best one can get in the e-MTB world . Rail bikes cost between $5K and $12.5K, but they are worth the money. They have extremely long 160mm travel, 29″ wheels and tires, Bosch electronics (20 mph max speed), and high-end Shimano and SRAM components.

Best for:  Mountain bikers with high expectations and deep pockets who want to stay fresh when climbing and preserve the energy for aggressive descents. 

Domane+ HP/LT

One thing cannot be argued — Domane+ LT and HP are the best electric road bikes in the world. The HP series (28 mph max speed) provides maximum power, whereas the LT series (20 mph max) offers a good balance between power and weight. These bikes cost up to $12,500 , but they have the best groupsets you can find, the lightest and stiffest carbon, and the highest-end Bosch electronic parts.

Best for: Road riders with money to spare, who want the speed, weight, and performance of a standard road bike, coupled with electronics that will assist them along hilly sections.

In 2014, Trek acquired the Electra Bicycle Company , which is now part of Trek’s brand. That is why you can see many Electra bikes on Trek’s official website.

The Electra brand offers a wide range of city, cruiser, and hybrid bikes built around aluminum or steel frames and intended for daily recreational and fitness riding.

Electra’s lineup also includes electric models (“Go!” in the model name) and numerous kids’ bikes with a wide range of wheel sizes. These are quality and affordable bicycles, even though they don’t have “Trek” written all over them.

Below is a full list of Electra model series available on Trek’s website:

• Cafe Moto Go!

Trek advertises all of their bikes as unisex, although the smaller models are more suitable for women.

In previous years, Trek came out with two kinds of models, but pretty much all of the 2024 range is unisex.

The trick is, smaller models come with a curved top tube to make mounting the bike easier, but for bigger models, the top tube is straight.

See All Women's Bikes

Electra Kids Bikes 16″, 20″, 24″

At the moment, Trek offers a wide range of kids’ bikes under the Electra brand. These bikes are available with 16″, 20″, and 24″ wheels, so they are suitable for different ages. Electra does not have any balance bikes, but there are many 16″ and 20′ models with training wheels. There are also single-speed and multi-gear models for younger and older kids. The best thing about them is fun and colorful designs!

Best for:  Kids and teenagers of all ages, for riding around the block, commutes to school, or family weekend rides on bike paths.

Kickster is the only balance bike Trek offers. It costs around $160 and it comes with 12″ wheels, so it’s suitable for kids who are roughly 34″-40″ tall. It’s the best bike for very young riders to learn how to ride, practice balance, and progress on their own terms.

Best for:  Toddlers who need to learn how to maintain balance on two wheels. 

Precaliber, Wahoo & Roscoe

Precaliber, Wahoo, and Roscoe are Kids’ MTB series with wider tires, rim or disc brakes, and rigid or suspended forks. Trek Roscoe is available only with 24″ wheels, whereas Precaliber and Wahoo can be bought with 16″, 20″, 24″, and even 26″ wheels. These kids’ bikes are excellent for both on and off-road riding , trips to school, family rides, and any other fun cycling activities.

Best for: Children of all ages who need versatile bikes that they can ride on paved and unpaved roads, as well as on bike paths.

The MT-201 pedal trailer can be attached to the parent’s bike in front and allows the child to tag along and practice balancing while pedaling. The saddle is fully adjustable and the trailer comes with a 20″ wheel that makes it suitable for children between 45″-52″ tall.

Best for:  Toddlers and preschoolers who still need to perfect their balancing skills but want to follow their parents anywhere they go.

See All Kids Bikes on Trek

That means that you can probably easily sell them when you decide to upgrade and get a decent part of your investment back. Of course, assuming the bike is still in good condition.

If you have the money to spare, we recommend going for a new Trek bike that you will be able to sell for a decent chunk of the original price in the future, if you decide to do so.

Whenever possible, new is always better. It’s true that you can buy a bike with better specs for the same amount of money if you look for used, but you should only do it if you have enough experience to determine whether the bike is in good shape.

One of the benefits of buying a Trek bicycle is that you can usually choose from a large number of sizes. Most Trek bikes are usually available in 6 to 7 sizes , but some series come in up to 8 sizes (Domane).

Trek also offers size-specific wheels on many of their MTB models, such as the Marlin series. That means that the smallest frame sizes come with 27.5″ wheels, whereas larger frame sizes are 29ers. This ensures the best possible fit for riders of all heights.

One big plus is that Trek also offers height and inseam-based bike size charts , which is something that many other brands avoid. Therefore, to find the right size, just compare your height and inseam to the chart provided for every single bike.

Check out our favorite TREK bikes

What is a Trek bike?

These are bicycles made by Trek Bikes, one of the most popular USA-based cycling companies. Electra bikes can also be considered as Trek bikes because they are part of the same enterprise.

Are Trek Bikes Any Good?

Yes, Trek bikes are very good. Trek has a long history of making quality bikes that are used by beginner, hobby, and elite cyclists around the world. Trek bikes last for a long time and have excellent reselling value years after purchase.

Why are Trek Bikes so expensive?

Trek bikes are not expensive if you compare the price to the components. The price might be steeper compared to some other low-profile brands; however, the value you get is much higher as well.

Is Trek owned by Giant?

No, Trek is not owned by Giant. Giant makes some of Trek’s bikes in Taiwan, but they also do it as a paid service to for other major brands such as Scott or Colnago.

Is Cannondale owned by Trek?

No, Cannondale is not owned by Trek. Cannondale is owned by Dorel Industries.

What is the most expensive Trek bike?

Some of Trek’s most expensive bikes include Supercaliber, Domane, Madone, Emonda, Domane+, and Rail series. The highest-priced models cost around $12,500.

Is Trek worth the money?

Yes, Trek bikes are worth the money. Trek packs high-end technologies into their bikes, build their bikes around high-quality aluminum and carbon frames, and use only reliable Shimano and SRAM components.

Where are Trek bikes made?

Most Trek Bikes are made in the Netherlands, Germany, Taiwan, and China. Trek also has two manufacturing facilities in USA, Wisconsin – one in Waterloo and one in Whitewater.

Why are Trek bikes so popular?

Trek bikes are very popular because they offer excellent value for the money, they look good, they’re jam-packed with modern technologies, and they retain value for a long time. Their bikes are also ridden by many elite cycling athletes, which makes them even more desirable.

How much is a used Trek bike worth?

It depends on the model, age, and condition, but used Trek bikes have one of the best re-selling values of all bike brands.

See All Models On Trek Bikes

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Review of Pure Cycles: Blending Style, Simplicity and Performance

5 thoughts on “ trek bikes brand review: a close look at the iconic usa bike brand ”.

The Trek Powerfly 5 Review may be an extremely advanced electrical off-roader that comes with spectacular specs to deliver unmatched skillfulness.

It offers the sort of power you’ll have to be compelled to tackle difficult cross-country terrains, however still feels natural on a leisurely weekend cruise round the neighborhood!

I was interested in buying a used xcalibur 7 and it’s a woman’s model. I can’t find any differences in the mens and woman’s besides the seat and coil spring. Is the frame and everything else the same? Thanks

Hi Jack, Good question. Unlike other mountain bikes with the top tube curving down for women’s bikes, there is not much difference except the frame size and the things you mentioned perhaps?

What’s the difference sl series. I’m confused, can you please explain.

Hi Antonio, It’s just an acronym: AL: Aluminium. CF: Carbon Fibre. CF SL: Carbon Fibre Super Light. CF SLX: Carbon Fibre Super Light Extreme etc 😉

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Is It Illegal to Ride a Bicycle Without a Helmet? Let’s See

Why are bikes expensive tips for buying bikes, how to hang a bike step-by-step guide, how to measure a bicycle tire find the answer, how fast does a 125cc dirt bike go read the ultimate guide, how high should my bike seat be essential things you need to know, what is a dirt bike all you want to know, cycling cadence: what is it & tips for improving, what is a road bike all explained, what is a bmx bike all you want to know.

Trek Verve 3 Review In 2022: Pros & Cons [Updated]

To start with, what are trek verve 3 reviews?

Designed for comfort on roads, paths, and city streets, the Verve 3 Disc is an easy-riding hybrid bike. The top-tier Verve model has a modernized drivetrain, solid puncture-resistant tires, and vibration-reducing handlebars and grips to make your ride even more comfortable.

For more information, keep reading.

Table of Contents

Customers’ Reviews Of Trek Verve 3

Praises of trek verve 3, comfort and performance.

58 years old, I chose this bike because I wanted a high-end model. I typically ride 20 miles or less, and I enjoy the comfort and handling of this bike. Although the top end is a little slow, the speed/comfort ratio is good. It’s suitable, in my opinion, for someone who wants a good bike but isn’t a serious biker. The quality is there.

Excellent Bike For Almost Anywhere.

I hadn’t ridden a bicycle since I was 15 years old. It’s been a while since then. Returning to the saddle is made simpler by The Verge. IT is a very comfortable bicycle. fantastic for simply cruising anywhere. But do not fall for the trick. The Verge is capable of taking on challenging trail rides. That bike I used to ride had a 10 speed and could go anywhere. I rekindle that spirit and run the Verge through everything. With the gearing, you can climb hills on any surface. The gearing has significant gaps. You’ll need to develop your shifting skills. When purchasing, adjust the bike’s setup and replace the pedals. I use PD-T8000 XT pedals, SPD Terry Butterfly TI Gel saddle

Complaints Of Trek Verve 3

A great bike, but not so great tires.

I have 260 lbs. and am 60 years old. I received this bike as a reward from my employer for 30 years of service. I primarily use this to ride rail trails. In the last year, I’ve added about 350 miles. During the early 1990s, I owned a Swinn mountain bike. How much of a difference switching to this bike made. My bike is great, and I highly suggest it. But after riding the bike for so many miles, the tires are extremely worn. They continue to be fine, but it’s unclear for how long. The front spokes needed to be adjusted, but other than that, nothing to complain about.

I don’t ride often, but I do occasionally. 15 to 20 mpd 6 to 7 days per week. The seat’s proximity to the handlebars caught my attention right away because I have a particularly long torso (imagine wearing one of those big, tall shirts). like how it’s uncomfortable to stand up and pedal quickly. Also very peculiar is the gearing. 2/3 is awkward but 2/2 is pedaling as fast as your legs can go up hills. Although undoubtedly not a Cannondale, I had higher expectations for such a cheap bike. My hybrid Cannondale-owning riding partners breeze past me with ease. Although the tires are 700/45, the resistance difference shouldn’t have much of an effect. I don’t know why they’re cheap bearings. I was able to regain some of the stretch from the seatpost to the HB post by fully lowering my handlebars.

Pros Of Trek Verve 3

• Although there are only two color options available for the Verve+ 3 (Matte Black or Teal), there is still a fantastic range of five different size options and two different frame types . Extra-small, small, medium, and large sizes are available if you choose the step-thru frame (also known as the “Lowstep” frame by Trek). You have the choice between medium, large, and extra-large for the high-step frame. You can get professionally fitted for the best ride experience with ease thanks to the wide selection and the many dealers. You can see why many riders have a lot of faith in the Trek brand by combining this with the outstanding warranty that includes two years of comprehensive coverage and lifetime coverage for the frame and fork.
• Thanks to the wide range of sizes and frames, as well as the quill stem’s adjustability, it’s simple to dial in comfort whether you prefer an upright or a forward-leaning seating position . The highest seating position is offered by step-thru frames, which also make mounting and dismounting simple. In contrast, the high-step frame is better suited for a more aggressive, forward seating position and offers greater stability at high speeds. The Boulevard saddle is fairly wide with a full cutout for maximum comfort, the Satellite Elite ergonomic grips are grippy and locking so they don’t rotate, and the contact points from Bontrager are well designed.
• Trek also manufactures the suspension Seatpost , which has a 40mm range of motion as opposed to the 30mm of many rival products. It is slightly more durable due to its 31.6mm diameter, and when fully removed, you can adjust the suspension pre-load using an Allen wrench, which is useful for fine-tuning the performance for your size.
• Along with being very adjustable, the quill stem is Blendr compatible . Blendr is a mounting system that makes it simple to attach a variety of accessories, such as phone mounts, cycle computers, and additional lights, to the top of the stem. To see every piece of Trek gear that is compatible with Blendr, refer to the resources section at the end of this evaluation.
• The Verve+ 3 is a great option for commuting to work and running errands because it is feature-complete and fully equipped for commuting with high-quality accessories.
• The rear rack has been given a nice upgrade by becoming MIK-ready, but it still supports the same standard weight limit of 25 kg/50 lb. By simply clicking them into place and removing them with a small key tool, the MIK platform makes it simple to quickly attach and detach luggage containers such as baskets or pannier bags. In addition, if you already have a bag or other carrier that you like, you can add on a MIK adapter plate to make it compatible with this rack. This eliminates the time and frustration of having to unfasten and/or untie the more common luggage containers.
• The full-length plastic fenders are well-mounted, resilient, and strong . I appreciate that the front fender has a toe-strike guard, which offers some additional coverage and lessens any impacts from your foot if you bonk it while turning. Plastic fenders can be prone to rattling loudly, especially on bumpy roads, but I didn’t notice any while test riding. When riding at night, visibility is further improved by the 120 lumens of the front light and the excellent side cutouts. The rear light, which has three LEDs, is also very visible.
• The Bontrager E6 tires are 5c wider than the H5 tires on the Verve+ 2 at 700x50c . This additional width results in a more comfortable ride because there is more air volume, and you also get Hard-Case Lite puncture protection for greater peace of mind while commuting. These tires are a great safety feature and a welcome improvement over the all-black tires of the previous generation because they have bright sidewall striping for excellent side visibility.
• In addition to making chain maintenance much simpler by preventing the need to mount the bike on a stand or turn it upside down, the kickstand is rear-mounted so that it won’t get entangled with the cranks when moving the bike backward.
• The Verve+ 2’s standard Active Line MY19 motor has been replaced with the Bosch Active Line Plus MY20 motor. With higher peak wattage, more torque, higher maximum assist, and higher maximum cadence, this motor offers a slight increase in power and performance . Though they are still quite similar and the majority of riders will be fine on either model, you can tell the difference if you test the two motors side by side. It is best suited for more active riders who enjoy cycling and getting some exercise and only need an electric motor occasionally to assist and balance out some steep inclines on their commute. This motor is incredibly sensitive and is based on torque.
• Shimano’s Alivio groupset has a wide range of 11-36 teeth on the nine-speed cassette that is more than adequate for all types of city riding, and it performs flawlessly as usual . The Alivio trigger shifters are quite satisfying to use, and the up-shifting paddle is a two-way, making it easier to shift while keeping your fingers on or close to the brakes.
• Shimano’s MT200 hydraulic disc brakes are back and still perform admirably, offering quiet and smooth stopping power and simple operation in comparison to mechanical disc brakes. In addition, hydraulic brakes don’t need to be tightened, which means they need less maintenance overall than mechanical brakes.
• In comparison to the Bosch PowerPack 400, which was mounted on top of the downtube on the Verve+ 2, the Bosch PowerTube 500 has an additional 100 watt-hours of capacity and now seamlessly integrates into the towntube. The bike appears more “stealthy” thanks to the clean integration, which also makes it look much nicer and keeps the battery better protected. This can lower the risk of theft. The battery has a flip-up handle for convenient carrying when removed and can be charged on or off the bike.
• The key used to remove the battery is made by ABUS and is keyed alike ready, allowing you to order locks and other accessories from ABUS that will function with your keys. You can order new keys with your key identification card if you lose both of yours, so keep it someplace safe.
• Additionally compatible with Range-boost is the battery setup! The PowerPack 500 battery can be mounted using the three bottle cage bosses on the top of the downtube, which is a feature provided by Bosch and effectively doubles your maximum range. This is much more convenient than simply purchasing a separate battery that needs to be carried around and changed out because it enables you to charge both batteries simultaneously while mounted on the bike.
• The ride feel and responsiveness are excellent. The Verve+ 3 is incredibly smooth and satisfying to ride even with the motor turned off because Trek has been manufacturing acoustic bicycles for a very long time, and it really shows in the level of craftsmanship and perfect tuning of the bike. When the motor is turned on, the electrical system by Bosch exhibits a similar level of expertise, responding instantly to changes in pedal pressure and reading torque, cadence, and rear wheel speed at a rate of more than 1,000 readings per second!
• The Purion display is the smallest Bosch offers, and thanks to the excellent contrast ratio of the grayscale LCD display, it is unobtrusive and out of the way while still providing clear and easy-to-read information. I like this display because it provides the essential information and is easy to use, allowing me to concentrate on riding without having to fuss with settings.

Cons Of Trek Verve 3

• For many riders, the lack of front suspension won’t be an issue, but if you reside in a region with unpaved roads and numerous potholes, you might not enjoy riding there with this setup. Although you would lose the high adjustability of the Blendr quill stem, riders with sensitive hands and/or wrists may also find the ride to be too rough. You could switch out the stem for a suspension stem.
• If you prefer to have more statistics , programmable settings, and perhaps a USB port for charging small electronics while riding, the Bosch Purion display may leave you wanting more. The Purion is also not detachable, making it susceptible to weather damage or bumps from the bike rack. Nevertheless, it is quite durable and ought to be able to withstand anything barring a severe direct impact. Your Trek dealer can upgrade your display to one with more features if you’d prefer it, but be prepared to spend at least $200 for one like the Kiox, Nyon, or Smartphone Hub since Bosch displays are interchangeable.
• On Bosch displays, you can normally use Walk Mode and turn off the lights, but these features are not available on Trek ebikes . The dedicated WALK button on the display’s bottom has no function when pressed, and the lights are always on while it is powered on. Since the goal of this configuration is to maximize safety, I believe Trek dealers can change both settings upon request.
• This torque-sensing system is very responsive , as previously mentioned, making it a great option for riders who are more active. This ebike might not be the best option for you if you have delicate knees or anything else that makes it difficult for you to apply a lot of force to the pedals. In contrast, cadence-sensing systems only need you to gently turn the cranks back and forth.
• The fact that there were three bottle cage bosses on the downtube at first made me happy because they are usually great for securely mounting a variety of accessories. On the Verve+ 3, however, mounting any accessories that wrap around the downtube will prevent you from removing the PowerTube battery from the frame without first removing your accessories, which would be inconvenient and time-consuming. However, unless you keep the bike inside at all times, it’s generally not a good idea to leave the battery in the frame while it’s mounted on the bike for charging. Batteries are the most expensive part of an ebike and don’t perform well when exposed to high temperatures for extended periods of time. When mounted, they also increase the risk of theft. If you choose the RangeBoost upgrade, these mounting bosses really come into their own because they’re used to hold the mounting parts for the extra battery in place.
• Although the charge port is very low and close to the cranks on the left side, you can still charge the battery while it is safely inside the downtube. This is a dangerous position because if the bike is moved or knocked over while charging, the cranks and charging cord could become tangled. Position the bike far enough away from traffic to reduce this risk. See more about Trek Verve 2 Review.

Observations Of Trek Verve 3

• Along with Giant and Specialized, Trek is regarded as one of the “Big Three” bicycle manufacturers in the world. They have hundreds of dealers just in the United States, which gives them a convincing advantage in terms of support, as well as color and size options—even though you pay a premium price! Trek started out only producing hand-brazed steel frames in 1975, but they have come a long way since then.
• Given the $500 USD price increase, the Trek Verve+ 3 is no longer the least expensive electric bike in the company’s lineup. Although technically it would be their most affordable electric bike, Trek is still selling the Verve+ 2 and the original Verve+ (both for $2,499 USD). It’s important to note that Trek does have a selection of more affordable ebikes available under the Electra name, which Trek purchased in 2014.
• When the standard chainring was swapped out for one with narrow-wide teeth, the chain derailment problem that existed in some Verve+ 2 units was resolved. The Verve+ 3 comes standard with a narrow-wide chainring, so there shouldn’t be any derailling issues. Despite being made at no cost to owners, this replacement was still inconvenient to deal with.
• Compared to the “Hard-Case Ultimate” that was included with the Verve+ 3’s predecessor generation, the puncture protection is described as “Hard-Case Lite.” Although it might seem like a downgrade, the Hard-Case Lite still seems to perform admirably while being lighter, based on what I’ve been able to find. See more about Verve 1 Trek Review

Why You’ll Love It

• This hybrid combines excellent comfort features with a modernized, lighter, and more performance-oriented drivetrain modeled after a road bike.
• Verve’s upright geometry puts you in the perfect position to see the world around you.
• With a trailer attached, you can transport children, go for a ride on the bike path with friends, or ride to work alongside coworkers.
• You can slow down or stop more quickly with disc brakes, they work well in any weather, and they require less effort to use than rim brakes.
• It is covered by Trek’s Lifetime warranty, just like every other Trek hybrid, so you get a friend for life.

The Tech You Get

Wide-range 2×9 Shimano drivetrain, powerful disc brakes, wide 45c puncture-resistant tires for added confidence and stability, a road-smoothing suspension seatpost, and an IsoZone handlebar and grips that absorb road bumps are all features of a light, aluminum frame.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a trek verve 3 a gravel bike.

The Trek Verve 3 Disc is the model that will give you comfortable neighborhood rides or the occasional gravel ride .

How Fast Does a Trek Verve 3 Go?

A lightweight aluminum frame, a Bosch Active Line Plus (250W, 50Nm) motor capable of sustaining speeds up to 20 mph , a Together with a Bosch Purion controller, the Bosch PowerTube 500Wh battery is completely enclosed in the frame.

How Much Does the Trek Verve 3 Weight?

The Verve 3 Disc is a comfortable hybrid bike that is made for riding on roads, paths, and city streets.

What is the Range of the Trek Verve 3?

30 to 75 miles

The system also includes a 500Wh Bosch Powertube battery, giving you 30 to 75 miles of range on a single charge. The Purion display’s simplicity makes switching between power levels a breeze.

Which is Better Gravel Bike Or Hybrid Bike?

Gravel Bike Geometry, whilst relaxed – is still more competitive than a hybrid bike . Compared to a hybrid bike, a gravel bike’s riding position is built for greater speed and handling. In order to accommodate panniers and other forms of luggage, both hybrid bikes and gravel bikes have been built with longer trips in mind.

You want a bike that will get you where you need to go while also making every ride comfortable. You want dependable parts and a ride that will make you happy every time you get on the saddle if you want to try some longer rides for fitness or commuting.

To find out more about our bikes, contact us right away.

Best wishes.

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Trek FX 2 Disc Equipped review: Unspectacular but effective

The trek fx 2 disc is a versatile all-rounder with surprising levels of comfort and stability.

Cyclingnews Verdict

Built around a frame with a superb balance between responsiveness and comfort, the Trek FX 2 Disc Equipped will tackle any task required of a hybrid bike in an effective, if unspectacular, manner

The frame has a great balance between responsiveness and comfort

Equipped for night riding, bikepacking or commuting

Can carry a decent amount of weight

Stable ride for long distances

Would need a drivetrain upgrade to become a serious fitness bike

On the heavy side for a rigid frame

You can trust Cyclingnews Our experts spend countless hours testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

A hybrid bike can and will mean different things to different people. But sometimes it is simply the bike that fills the gaps, that doesn't do any one thing but in fact does it all. Purists may scoff and say to compromise is to ruin the essence of life: if you are not something, you are nothing. But Trek has offered a repost: if you can't be something, be everything.

That certainly appears to be the aim of the Trek FX 2 Disc Equipped. It's the jack-of-all-trades, odd-jobber of a bike. It comes, as the name suggests, fully loaded with a pannier rack, lights, mudguards and even a kickstand but what elevates it to a place among the best budget hybrid bikes available today is that, as part of Trek's fitness range, all that versatility does not come at the cost of all rideability. 

And that's a crucial element. Just because a bike has more practical functions – going to the shops, commuting, family bike rides etc – doesn't mean it can't be fun, have its own personality and leave us looking forward to running that next errand.

Trek's FX range of bikes is quite extensive, starting at the £500.00/$599.99 FX 1 and going all the way to the full-carbon £3,050.00/$2,799.99 FX Sport 6. The FX 2 is available with a step-through frame – in both the Equipped and standard versions – and has been updated for 2023, with the main difference from the 2021 model being a move from a 3x8 to a 2x9 gearing system.

The FX 2 Disc Equipped is priced at £740.00 - it's not currently available in the USA - which is £90 more than the FX 2 Disc standard (£650.00/$799.99) which foregoes the rack, lights, mudguards and kickstand. Although it does come in a couple of extra colour options.

Design and specification

Recognising alloy frames' bad reputation for comfort compared to steel and carbon, Trek set itself a goal to "build more compliant frames that retain the acceleration and affordability that have always made aluminium popular" – and it is the fruit of that labour that the FX 2 Disc Equipped is designed around. 

The Alpha Gold Aluminium frame, while not the lightest, does offer a great balance between responsiveness and comfort. It is also strong: according to Trek, the FX 2 Disc can take weights of up to 136kg (for bike, rider, and cargo combined), which fares well compared to other hybrid bikes in the same class such as the Merida Speeder 200 (120kg) and Scott Sub Cross 50 (128kg). The pannier rack that comes with it is also very solid and suitable for carrying loads up to 25kg despite weighing less than 600g itself.

My size large test bike as a whole weighed in at 13.4kg with pedals. The rack, lights, mudguards, and kickstand account for just over a kilogram of that weight but it's still a touch on the heavy side for a fixed-frame hybrid in this price range. 

While the focus is on the practicality of the frame, it is by no means ugly – especially when stripped of all the accessories – with internal cable routing, a gentle curve to the top tube that is reminiscent of the Specialized Sirrus (one of the classic beauties of the hybrid world) and the choice of a striking Viper Red or classy Lithium grey colourway. The geometry is pretty much what you would expect from a hybrid, with perhaps a slightly longer chainstay length adding to its stability. It is not as upright as, say, the Sirrus but similar to the Cannondale Quick 3 – which is a good bike to use as a comparison in general.

Like the Quick 3, the Trek FX 2 comes with a Shimano Acera/Altus 2x9 drivetrain and has an integrated mounting system in the stem, as well as the ability to track cadence and other metrics using an integrated wireless sensor. 

Trek's Blendr stem system is designed for easy installation of computers, lights and other accessories to your cockpit. It does, rather annoyingly, require an additional base to be purchased (which plugs into the stem) and then a further mount for the specific accessory (which attaches to the base) but that does allow for a wide range of options to suit all needs.  

The DuoTrap S is a Bluetooth/ANT+ sensor that integrates into the chainstay and wirelessly transmits to a smartphone or computer to track cadence and other metrics. Again, it requires a separate purchase, but the frame is set up for it to be attached without the need for zip wires or other ungainly fasteners.   

Trek has made an effort to include ergonomic grips on the FX 2 Disc Equipped, although they are a little on the basic side, especially compared to those on the more expensive models in the FX range. 

The lights, however, are far more impressive, particularly the AXA Greenline 35 headlight. USB-charging, it has a wide beam, is also designed to be visible from the side and is discreetly mounted on the top of the fork, which avoids cluttering the cockpit.

The Tektro HD-R280 hydraulic disc brakes are pretty standard now for mid-range hybrids. My test bike came with Bontrager H2 Comp 700x32c tyres but with the mudguards fitted there is room for up to 35mm and Bontrager H2 Hard-Case Light 700x35c tyres are listed as an option on the spec sheet. Without the mudguards, Trek says the frame can accommodate tyres up to 38mm in width.

Performance

Trek deserves credit here for really delivering on its aim of a responsive-yet-compliant frame. It's one thing coming up with the jargon, but another bringing it to fruition at a genuinely affordable price. While the FX 2 Disc Equipped might come across as a bit of a plodder on paper, in reality, it has a surprising amount of responsiveness. Loaded up with a carry pack on top of the pannier rack, I was happy overtaking other cyclists on reasonably fast country roads, knowing I had the acceleration to get past and back across to the side of the road in ample time.

Yes, it's no speed demon – it doesn't have the playfulness of the Boardman URB 8.9 or the lightweight climbing ability of the Merida Speeder 200, two bikes at a similar price point – but where it completely outscores both is in comfort and stability, even with a rack, mudguards, light, kickstand all bolted on. 

Interestingly enough, I took it for a ride with all those added extras stripped off and, while significantly lighter – making an obvious difference on climbs – there was not a huge noticeable change in its performance on the flat. 

My test bike came with a slightly-different-to-advertised Microshift Marvo front derailleur instead of Acera T3000, which is roughly equivalent, and I had no issues with it. However, as a whole, I did find the drivetrain to be under-par for a fitness bike. It's perfectly functional and will get you pretty much wherever you need to go, but it is a little clunky and I noted that the next bike up in the FX range, the FX 3 Disc Equipped , comes with a 10-speed Shimano Deore groupset which, in my experience, is a huge step up in performance. 

In particular, I could not get to grips with the drastic change when switching chainrings on the 46/30 chainset. If I didn't downshift on the 4th sprocket or earlier I found myself spinning out – and this is perhaps a rare example of the FX 2 Disc Equipped coming a little unstuck wanting to satisfy in all areas. That 16-tooth difference in the chainrings (the same difference as a 50/34 compact road chainset, for example) means the bike has the range to get up steep hills while also having enough gas on the flats, but the user experience is compromised a little in doing so. 

Where it doesn't compromise, however, is in its comfort and handling, whether I took it on potholed roads, bike paths, or light gravel it felt so balanced and stable. I was even happy taking it on the grassy, rutted track of a nearby nature reserve – and this was all with the standard 32 mm tyres it came with. Even when there was a little rattling, you could tell it was coming from the rack, fenders, and lights rather than the frame. 

Taking it out at night in light rain did little to change my faith in its dependability and the lights were superb, particularly the wide-beam fork-mounted headlamp – a marked improvement from the usual glorified-torch-on-the-handlebars setup I usually use. Neither front nor rear light offered an intermittent option but, having been driven to distraction on long night rides behind blinking bulbs in the past, that was no great loss to me.

I took the Trek FX 2 Disc Equipped on rides around the countryside, trips to the shops, rides with the kids, rides at night, in the rain, for exercise, for errands and more, and on every occasion, it delivered. It is solid and dependable without feeling clunky or cumbersome. It's not sexy but it's not ugly. It's not overly fun but it's no chore to ride.

It will do what it needs to do in almost every situation you will need a hybrid bike for. Not necessarily to the highest level, but to a high enough level that you won't feel like you are missing out. 

Yes, I did find the Altus/Acera groupset to be restrictive in terms of performance but drivetrains can be upgraded, along with wheels and grips and seatposts etc. Having a top frame is such a great building block. I would stress, however, this frame still has a ceiling to what it can do as a fitness bike, even if it were upgraded in all those areas. It is built for sturdiness as much as anything else and the fact that its performance was similar with and without the rack, fenders, kickstand et al is quite telling. I'm not going to use it to take on the Brecon Beacons in the Dragon Ride but I might choose it over a more expensive performance-oriented bike for a long-distance overnight ride such as the Dunwich Dynamo , where comfort, stability and safety are the overriding priorities.

Tech specs: Trek FX 2 Disc Equipped

• Price Trek FX2 Disc Equipped : £740.00 / $N/A
• Price Trek FX2 Disc : £650.00 / $799.99 
• Sizes : S, M, L, XL
• Weight : 13.4kg (actual, size L, with pedals)
• Frame : Alpha Gold Aluminium
• Fork : FX Alloy
• Shifters : Shimano Altus M2010, 9-speed
• Front derailleur : Microshift Marvo
• Rear derailleur : Shimano Altus M2000
• Crankset : 46/30
• Cassette : Shimano HG200, 11-36, 9-speed
• Brakes : Tektro HD-R280 hydraulic disc
• Wheels : Bontrager Connection
• Tyres : Bontrager H2 Comp, 700x32c
• Saddle : Bontrager Sport
• Seatpost : Bontrager Alloy, 12mm offset
• Stem : Bontrager Comp, Blendr Compatible, 7-degree, 90mm length
• Handlebars : Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, 15mm rise
• Extras : Rack, Eurofender Snello mudguards, Spanninga SOLO rear light and AXA Greenline 35 headlight, Bontrager Satellite grips, kickstand

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Ben has been a sports journalist for 16 years, covering everything from park football to the Olympic Games. As well as cycling, his passions include podcasts, tennis and speaking enough Italian to get by on his snowboarding trips to the Dolomites. A DIY rider who is almost as happy in the toolbox as he is in the saddle, he is still trying to emulate the feelings he experienced as a nine-year-old on his first Peugeot racer – he couldn’t fathom the down-tube friction shifters then and he’s still wrestling with groupsets now. When he isn’t making a beeline for the nearest Chiltern hill, he is probably tinkering or teaching his kids how to clean a bike properly. He rides a heavily modified 1980 Peugeot PVN10 Super Competition (steel is real) when the road is smooth and dry, and a BMC Alpenchallenge when it’s not.

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The Best Trek Bikes You Can Buy Right Now

The Wisconsin-headquartered company has local values and a global impact.

Trek’s founding story is out of a Hollywood director’s mind and a non-fiction writer’s wish list: In 1976, Bevill Hogg and Dick Burke drank beers at the Pine Knoll Supper Club in Lake Mills, Wisconsin, and debated over the name of their would-be cycling company. They settled on Trek and soon went to work in a barn between Madison and Milwaukee, where a total of five employees built the brand’s first bikes out of steel. The company is still based near the barn that facilitated its first years—its modern headquarters are in Waterloo, Wisconsin.

Fat and grippy tires mated to a light aluminum frame

Émonda ALR 5 Disc

A smooth-riding frame paired with Shimano’s terrific 105 group

Sturdy steel in an approachable package

Madone SLR 9

Every feature imaginable and a slippery aero frame

Top Fuel 9.9 X01

A super-efficient bike that shreds down hills

“We’re a uniquely American success story from small-town USA,” said brand manager Eric Bjorling. “So many of the values that have led to Trek’s success—hard work, craftsmanship, responsibility, commitment to our customers—are Wisconsin values.”

Its values may be hyper-local and American, but it’s now a company at the center of a globalized cycling market that has made industry-leading technological advances.

A recent example of Trek’s “industry-leading technological advances” mentioned above is IsoSpeed, which is available at the front and rear on certain Trek models. The rear decoupler is at the junction of the seat and top tube, and the front decoupler is located at the top of the headset.

The front IsoSpeed decoupler allows the fork steerer tube to flex more than it would with a fixed upper headset cup, which helps damp some impacts. The rear IsoSpeed decoupler provides increased vertical seat tube deflection (compared to a traditional fixed seat tube design) for a smoother ride. The rear IsoSpeed system is adjustable on the latest Madone and Domane models, which lets the rider adjust the compliance level for terrain and or personal preference. You might not even need to adjust the rear slider to experience the road-smoothing effects of the two decouplers—our test team found that the all-over effect was fast and smooth performance equally suited to asphalt and cobbles.

Famed Classics specialist Fabian Cancellara, who retired from racing as a member of World Tour team Trek-Segafredo, worked with Trek engineers to develop the final version of IsoSpeed, which is especially useful on the cobbles and other rough surfaces that riders encounter on most Classics courses. Since the tech’s 2012 release on the Domane, Trek has claimed that IsoSpeed doesn’t sacrifice power transfer at the cost of more compliance.

Along with bolstering its ride-smoothing technologies, Trek has also begun implementing internal-storage compartments in the downtube of some of its road and mountain bikes. These handy “trap doors” debuted in the new Domane and Fuel EX, where an included organizer roll has pockets for a tube, CO2 cartridge, inflator head, and tire lever.

Trek has also started moving away from women’s specific bikes and adopting a “more bikes for everyone” ethos, where all bikes are offered in unisex sizing. The idea is that this will ensure that no matter your gender, you’ll have access to the full array of paint colors, build kits, and sizes.

And of course, Trek continues to roll out exciting new bikes. This year’s slate includes the third generation of the popular Domane roadster (now with even more ride-smoothing technology) and fully revamped versions of the Fuel EX and Top Fuel mountain bikes, which are both more capable than ever.

If you’re in the market for a road, mountain, or city bike (or any other style), Trek likely has something made for you.

How We Chose

Trek is among the most popular bike brands and has one of the most extensive bike lines in the world. Because it makes a lot of bikes—and a lot of bikes that our readers want to know about—our test team evaluates, rides, and reviews many Trek models throughout the year. This is not a complete overview of all of Trek’s models, but a focused list of the best. These are the Trek bikes that offer exceptional performance, value, technology, or features (or some combination of all four).

.css-1hhr1pq{text-align:center;font-size:1.1875rem;line-height:1.6;font-family:Charter,Charter-roboto,Charter-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;}.css-1hhr1pq em{font-style:italic;font-family:Charter,Charter-styleitalic-roboto,Charter-styleitalic-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;}.css-1hhr1pq strong{font-family:Charter,Charter-weightbold-roboto,Charter-weightbold-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;font-weight:bold;} —BEST ALL-AROUND ROAD BIKE—

Domane slr 7, trek domane slr 7.

The third-generation of the Domane isn’t just the best Domane; it’s Trek’s best-ever road bike. And it’s one of the best road bikes on the market right now thanks to an equal blend of performance, comfort, practicality, and versatility. The Domane got more aerodynamic than the previous iteration (saving 12 watts at 40Kph), it takes at least a 38mm tire, and has hidden fender mounts and sleek internal storage. It also features compliance-enhancing decouplers front and rear that improve rider comfort and control without detracting from the bike’s pedaling efficiency or handling. The Domane’s steering is light and its handling precise, but with a mellower edge and more stability than a traditional road racing bike.

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―best new road bike―, émonda slr 9 etap, trek émonda slr 9 etap.

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―best women’s trail bike―, $1,259.99 trek roscoe 7.

There’s so much to love about this bike. The SRAM SX Eagle drivetrain, with a 30t chainring and 10-50t cassette, gives a massive range of gears and plenty of low-range options for easing the pain of climbing steep hills. Its 27.5-inch wheels are maneuverable in tight, technical terrain, and the 2.8-inch tubeless-ready tires offer great traction and a plush ride. The RockShox Judy Silver fork has plenty of travel for getting rowdy (1oomm for size the extra-small frame size, 120mm for small through large) and can be locked out for more efficient off-trail riding. And speaking of rowdy, a 100mm dropper post is a very cool addition to a bike at this price.

—BEST FIRST “REAL” MOUNTAIN BIKE―

Trek marlin 7.

The Marlin 7, which also comes in a women’s version , is ideal for aspiring racers, everyday trail riders, and casual commuters alike. Riders who like to pedal fast will appreciate its steep, aggressive head and seat angles, and a high bottom bracket that offers decent pedal clearance on the trail. Its cables are internally routed, too, which isn’t common on bikes at this price. It has a 2x9-speed Shimano drivetrain, which strays from the single-chainring trend that’s popular on off-road bikes at the moment but also provides plenty of gearing options. And even though the RockShox XC30 100mm coil-spring fork is heavier than some comparable air-spring models, it does a surprisingly good job on super-rocky trails. Add to that the 2.2-inch-wide Bontrager tires on 29-inch Bontrager Connection rims, which never squirmed too much on sketchy terrain, and you have a bike that not only looks fast but offers the kind of sharp handling and precise steering you’d expect from higher-priced racing models.

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―BEST ELECTRIC ROAD BIKE―

Trek domane+ hp.

The Domane+ e-road bike is the electric version of, naturally, the popular Domane. It’s designed for riders who appreciate that bike’s reliable comfort and IsoSpeed technology but want the added fun and function of e-assist. It’s also the ideal companion for anyone coming back from injury, slower riders who want to mix it up with a speedy group, and couples with different fitness levels. A Bosch Performance Speed motor provides a very welcome 28 mph of pedal assist, and the 500Wh Powertube battery sleekly integrates into the down tube. You also get massive tire clearance, fender and rack compatibility, and Trek’s Blendr stem for cleanly mounting accessories such as lights and computers to your handlebar.

―BEST NEW XC BIKE―

Supercaliber 9.9, trek supercaliber 9.9 xx1 axs.

The new Supercaliber is the brand’s latest attempt to create the ultimate XC race bike by merging the best attributes of a hardtail (stiffness, low weight) and full-suspension (traction, comfort, control) frame into one. And based on our rides, it’s the closest yet to that best-of-both-worlds machine with 60mm of rear travel. Trek’s IsoStrut design places a Fox Float shock into a tube—both ends of that tube are bolted to the underside of the SuperCal’s top tube. At the top of the seat stays is a sleeve (Trek calls it a carriage) that slides over the bolted-in tube. Cutouts in the tube allow a cross bolt to pass through the sleeve, the tube, and the rear shock eyelet. Trek says this design eliminates rotation around the shock shaft and prevents side-loading the shaft so the bike has the stiffness and feel of a hardtail, but with real full suspension for better comfort and control. And based on back to back testing with a hardail, the Supercaliber is everything it was designed to be.

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―BEST VALUE HARDTAIL―

Procaliber 9.7, trek procaliber 9.7.

Trek did a masterful job with this bike, skimping in the right places to save money and splurging in the areas that count for performance. The carbon frame is extremely lightweight; our size XL test bike weighed in at only 21.6 pounds. The IsoSpeed decoupler at the junction of the seat tube and top tube offers so much vertical compliance you can actually see the seat tube moving if you bounce on the saddle. Tubeless-ready Bontrager Kovee Elite 23 carbon wheels also keep weight in check and roll very quickly when wrapped in (stock) 2.2-inch Bontrager XR2 Team Issue tires. Be warned, though, these are race-day tires for dry conditions and not well suited to daily trail riding or muddy courses. SRAM’s GX Eagle drivetrain and alloy SRAM X1 Eagle crank keep cost in check and can stand up to plenty of hard riding and abuse. They do add significant weight, though, which makes this bike’s overall lightness all the more impressive. Our tester was surprised, however, to find a narrow 720mm handlebar. He said it felt strange at first but didn’t notice it anymore after a few minutes of riding.

―BEST ENTRY-LEVEL RACER―

Domane al 2, trek domane al 2 disc.

The good looks of the Domane AL 2 are the first indication that Trek didn’t mess around with this bike. Start digging deeper and you’ll find even more to like. The shaped aluminum frame is nicely made and has a vibration-damping carbon fork. The rims are tubeless-ready so you can upgrade to smoother-rolling tires filled with puncture sealant. And new for 2021, the Domane AL 2 is outfitted with disc brakes. That does come with a bump in price—the previous version with rim brakes was only $860. But if you ride in variable weather conditions, the more reliable performance from disc brakes may save your bacon. The shifters snick-snick the drivetrain through the gears lightly and crisply. There are other little surprising nuggets, like the pocket in the frame for a speed sensor and the included light and computer mount that cleanly integrates into the stem. Best of all, the bike is a joy to ride. Handling is stable, precise, and attentive to pedal strokes so you feel like you’re flying over the road, not pushing across it.

—BEST MARATHON BIKE—

Top fuel 9.9, trek top fuel 9.9 x01.

While the 2019 Top Fuel featured 100mm of travel in the front and back, the new top-of-the-line Top Fuel 9.9 has 120mm of front suspension and 115mm in the rear. Trek also did away with the floating mount that compressed the shock from both ends. Instead, the lower eyelet is fixed to the downtube, a change that reduces weight and improves stiffness. Tires are also beefed up. Instead of skinny race-oriented ones, this model comes with 29x2.40-inch Bontrager XR3 Team Issue rubber designed for a variety of riding conditions. Gnar capability is further enhanced thanks to a frame that’s slacker and longer. And it’s spec’d with a shorter stem and wider bars.

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—BEST ROAD RACE BIKE—

Madone slr 9 disc, trek madone slr 9.

It’s no longer debatable that “disc brakes aren’t aero enough to race on.” Tell that to the now numerous Tour de France stage winners who’ve won highly contested sprints on disc-brake-equipped bikes. And try telling that to Mads Pedersen , who rode to the World Championship title on this bike. The Madone SLR 9 Disc is the premier aerodynamic offering from Trek. The SLR 9 Disc’s frame is made from 700 Series OCLV carbon and features an adjustable IsoSpeed, which can be set to create more or less frame compliance. This technology gives the bike versatility to suit the rider and the route. Pro-level components include a full Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 groupset (50/34 crankset, 11-28 cassette), flat-mount hydraulic disc brakes, Bontrager Aeolus XXX 6 carbon wheels (tubeless-ready), and a Madone-specific seatpost, headset, and handlebar. Models range from $6,000 to $12,000.

—BEST FOR GETTING AWAY FROM IT ALL—

The 1120 is a bikepacking beast, ready for your next days-long adventure as soon as you leave the shop. Complete with an aluminum frame, carbon fork, 1x11-speed Shimano SLX groupset, and bulbous Bontrager Chupacabra 29x3-inch tires, the bike’s components are capable of helping you ride through challenging terrain deep in the backcountry. What’s more, the 1120 comes stock with front and rear racks that will hold plenty of gear.

—BEST KID’S MOUNTAIN BIKE—

Trek roscoe 24.

The Roscoe 24 is a great bike for older children who want to take their riding skills off road. Designed to accommodate riders between 4-foot-2 and 5-foot-3, this bike comes with 24-inch wheels, 2.8-inch tires, a 1x8-speed Shimano groupset, and Tektro mechanical disc brakes, making it a well-equipped bike for younger riders as they learn how to navigate trails.

—BEST COLLEGE BIKE—

The 820 is Trek’s answer to people who just a want solid, reliable, and affordable bike to ride. With a steel frame, a fork with 75mm of travel, and 26 by 2-inch-wide tires, the 820 is labeled as an entry-level hardtail mountain bike. This steed would be great for college students looking for a reliable commuter and way to explore local trails or a family looking to buy a bike that can be used by several people for a variety of purposes. A 7-speed Shimano Tourney groupset, with a 42/34/24 crank and a 14-28 cassette, will enable almost any level of rider to get where they’re going.

—BEST FITNESS BIKE—

Trek fx 3 disc.

The name “ hybrid bike ” mean different things to different people. To some, it indicates a ride good as both a way to habitually exercise and explore. To others, it may only be a tool for good-weather fun. With an aluminum frame, carbon fork, and 32mm Bontrager H2 Hard-Case Lite tires, the Trek FX 3 Disc can be enjoyed by, and comfortable for, almost any sort of rider. The 9-speed Shimano Acera groupset features a 46/30 crank, 11-36 cassette, and Shimano hydraulic disc brakes.

—BEST BUDGET ROAD RACER—

Emonda alr 5 disc, trek émonda alr 5.

You’d be forgiven for thinking the new Émonda ALR 5 Disc is full carbon. But it’s not. It’s an aluminum race bike with the same geometry as Trek’s carbon Émonda frames. The ALR 5 Disc comes stock with a full Shimano 105 drivetrain, a compact 50/34 crankset, an 11-28 cassette, and hydraulic flat-mount disc brakes.

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