best women's trek bike

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The 12 Best Bikes for Women Who Commute, Tour, and Enjoy Leisurely Rides

From gravel rides to e-bikes, these are the best women's bikes out.

Let’s be clear on one thing. If you’re a woman shopping for a bike, your choices aren’t limited to only women’s models. (Even some women’s bikes are a better fit for men!) The point is: If you love a bike, you love a bike. Simple. If it fits, it’s comfortable, and it makes you happy, you’ll ride it more often than one that doesn’t.

Gear up for your next ride. Check out our picks for the best women's shorts , bike saddles , and spin shoes .

Best Women’s Bikes

Best Overall

Liv avail ar 3.

Best E-Bike For Women

Aventon level.2 commuter e-bike.

Best Beach Cruiser for Women

Electra cruiser 1 step-through bike.

Best Value Women's Bike

Aventon pace 350.2 step-through e-bike.

Best Gravel Bike For Women

Co-op cycles adv 2.2 bike.

Best Step-Through Women's Bike

Rad power bikes radcity 5 plus electric commuter bike.

Best City E-Bike For Women

Cannondale adventure neo 4 bike.

Best Road Bike For Women

Cervélo r5 force etap axs.

Niner 2-Star Apex 1 Gravel Bike

Best Hardtail Bike For Women

Specialized fuse comp 29, what to consider, then and now.

Few bike categories have seen bigger shifts in the past dozen years than women’s bikes. When first introduced, the “shrink it and pink it” mentality reigned supreme, and “women’s bikes” often simply meant smaller frames with stereotypical paint jobs and a lower level of components than their unisex counterparts. Then women-specific geometry took over. Bike companies started cranking out frames with shorter top tubes to better accommodate the average female body’s tendency toward longer legs and shorter torsos.

While some companies like Liv have stuck to that philosophy, others like Trek , Specialized , and Santa Cruz instead favor using the same frame for their men’s and women’s bikes and adjusting some parts—primarily touch points like the bar, grips, and saddle—for the intended gender. Most women’s mountain bikes also come with a fork and shock tuned for lighter riders. And city bikes are often offered as step-over and step-through models, with the latter aimed at women.

Know Your Fit

For city and mountain bikes, which generally run from XS or S to M or L, it’s easy to estimate the size needed based on your height. Road bike size can get a bit trickier. If you don’t know your bike size, getting measured at a bike shop—or even getting a professional fitter to assess you—can make an enormous difference in helping you choose a road bike that’s comfortable for you. Just remember, you can get a good fit on a women’s frame or a unisex one; it just depends on your body and riding preferences.

With so many different options these days, it’s a great time to be a woman on a bike. In addition to choosing from bike style and fit, you also have frame material : carbon, aluminum, and steel. All are strong options, though carbon is generally the lightest and most expensive, and steel is generally the heaviest and most durable.

You also want to choose between rim brakes and disc brakes , which cost a little more but offer better stopping power. Discs are pretty standard on mountain bikes and are becoming more common on road bikes that cost more than $1,000. Rim brakes are still popular on city bikes, but discs are gaining popularity there as well, because they offer more control and consistent stopping power in wet conditions.

How We Tested

Every bike on this list has been ridden and loved by women on our staff. We research the market, survey user reviews, speak with product managers and engineers, and use our own experience riding these bikes to determine the best options. Our team of experienced test editors spent many hours and miles using these bikes for their intended purpose—from road races and trail rides to gravel adventures, commutes, and beach cruises. Then we evaluated them on performance, price, comfort, handling, value, fun, and—yes—looks (because the mere sight of your bike should get you excited, too).

While other brands on this list have shifted to gender-neutral geometry, Liv is one of the only ones still manufacturing women’s-specific sizing. Instead of strapping a cushier saddle and a pink colorway to deem a bike feminine, Liv produces in-house stems, handlebars, saddles, and seat posts to accommodate the female body better.

The Avail AR 3 is a gravel bike that can handle dirt and trails, and smooth pavement. It’s got sturdy aluminum Giant S-R2 Disc wheels, a D-shaped seatpost that dampens bumps, a carbon fork for extra absorption, a Shimano Sora drivetrain, and internal cables that make it stylish and sleek. Although its Tektro disc brakes feel a bit gummy, this ride does well on bumpy roads, steep climbs, and uneven terrain. This is an excellent option for commuters doing light off-roading, and anyone looking for a bike packing workhorse.

Read our review

This class-3 e-bike will spin you up to 28mph through pedal assist or you can use the throttle and hit a max speed of 20 miles per hour. Those speeds sound fast for newer riders, but the bike has strong brakes and a balanced ride. The battery is housed cleanly in the downtube and provides 672 watt hours of power. The controls are easy to use, the dip in the frame’s top tuber makes getting on and off a snap, and the price is hard to beat for everything this e-bike fantastic city and commuting bike delivers.

It’s hard to beat a cruiser’s simple, functional, stylish appeal. Made for boardwalks or rolling around town like it’s is a beach day in July, this one is full of summertime vibes.

The Electra Cruiser has high wide bars for a relaxed riding position, and Electra’s Flat Foot technology, which places the seat further behind the pedals, so you can ride with it lower, making it easy to keep you feet on the ground when you stop. A single-coaster brake helps control your speed and a single gear means no fussing with shifts or keeping your derailleurs in tune—but also means that this one is best enjoyed on flat roads and sandy boardwalks.

The $1,000 price level is where e-bikes can get sketchy: Lithium-ion battery technology is still pricey, so corners must be cut elsewhere to keep costs down. At $1,199, the Aventon Pace 350.2 is one such bike, but our test revealed it’s not too cheap to be quality. The Class 2 e-bike tops out at 20 mph, whether you get there by pedal assist or a throttle. There’s a 7-speed Shimano Tourney drivetrain and five levels of e-assist, giving you various pedaling options. You don’t get lights or fenders, but the Pace 350.2 feels viable for daily commuting.

Co-op Cycle’s ADV line of adventure bikes has impressed us for years, whether we’ve tested their lower-cost paved-path models or ones equipped for more ambitious rides like this one. The 2.2 is made for gravel and dirt roads but handles itself well on paved paths and city streets, too. You get Shimano’s excellent 1x10 GRX drivetrain, 40mm tires, a dropper seatpost, and a carbon fork to keep weight low and take some buzz out of bad roads. Plus, there are plenty of mounts for racks, bags, and other adventure gear should your trips extend into the next zip code.

Rad Power Bikes has become one of the most popular e-bike brands based on its great pricing, reliable customer service, and, more recently, having products to buy. One of the brand’s latest offerings, the RadCity 5 Plus, comes in a traditional frame or this step-through model. Both are excellent options for spinning around the city, running errands, cruising on bike paths, or getting from point A to point B as blissfully as possible.

This model comes with a hub-mounted 750-watt motor, which saves cost over mid-drive options, hydraulic brakes, puncture-resistant tires, and a rear rack with a 59.5-pound capacity—enough for hauling groceries or a kid.

In the world of e-commuter bikes, the Adventure Neo 4 hits a happy medium between a traditional townie and a larger, more cumbersome cargo model. With an excellent Bosch motor that assists you up to 20 miles per hour and wide, cushy tires, the Adventure is ideal for cruising along bumpy streets and bike paths. The alloy frame keeps weight modest, and the step-through frame makes it easy for anyone to hop on and start spinning. There are Shimano hydraulic disc brakes to slow you safely, and the 60-plus-mile range means you can ride for hours before recharging.

Cervélo, the sponsor of one of the most dominant women's teams in professional cycling , Jumbo-Visma, makes one of the best road bikes available. The R5 Force eTap AXS is a carbon-framed beast with carbon wheels to match. It's built with highly component components that make it light for climbs and stable on descents. Its Full SRAM Force eTap AXS 12-speed drivetrain gives it power, and according to our tester Tara Seplavy, the longer you ride it, the more comfortable it feels.

Our tester liked this aluminum version of the RLT bike even more than the acclaimed steel model. The RLT 9 is burly enough (and has the gearing) to put up with whatever challenge you could sling into its path. The bike is stiff, agile, and responsive no matter how much weight you pack. With what Niner calls “fire road geometry”—longer chainstays, a lowered bottom bracket, and a slacker head-tube angle—the RLT 9 was comfortable enough to ride on gravel all day. Rack and fork mounts make multiple touring and commuting configurations possible, and the tire clearance of up to 42mm allows you to take it as far off the grid as you want. A carbon fork, disc brakes, and dual thru axles complete the package.

This hardtail 29er has a semi-slack setup and a 130mm RockShox Recon RL fork, making it a capable and maneuverable little ride. Adding to its ability to take on rowdier trails is the smooth-operating TranzX dropper post and the well-knobbed 2.6-inch tires. The grippy, wide tires are not quite plus-size (the frame accommodates 27.5+ tires and wheels, too), but they deliver handfuls of traction on rock, snow, and slick clay. On climbs, the combination of the steep seat angle and longer reach help keep the rear wheel driving you forward and the front wheel tracking where you want it to go.

For the price, this bike has a huge range of capabilities and features, including hydraulic disc brakes, a 12-speed SRAM SX Eagle 1x drivetrain, and a 750mm-wide handlebar (780mm on sizes medium and up), which slows steering for a more stable ride. Whether you’re new to mountain biking or a vet, the fun-loving Fuse can turn every ride into a party.

Cannondale Cannondale Quick CX 1 Bike

We love the versatility of this lightweight bike from Cannondale. It’s got a little suspension, excellent brakes, cushy tires with lots of traction in sketchy conditions, and great parts from Shimano. The 1x12 drivetrain eliminates the finicky front derailleur and gives you 12 gears to shift through—enough to keep up on fast bike path sprints or to spin up the town’s tallest hill. It’s made for fun, but with all the features you need to be a practical city or town bike capable of paved and dirt adventures.

Quincy CC GRX

What started as a dedicated ’cross race bike has turned into a ’cross, gravel, and bikepacking beast that is one of the liveliest and most versatile “gravel bikes” we’ve ridden. On the spectrum between ’cross and gravel geometry (the former prizes agility and the latter tends to prize stability), the Quincy remains ’cross-biased—Santa Cruz wanted this to be a bike you could race in between your gravel adventures. It rides like a road bike on pavement and a gravel bike on dirt, and when it hits mellow singletrack, it transforms into a mini mountain bike.

With its endless grip on long, fast, swooping fire-road descents and over gravel sections, the Quincy will encourage you to dive into turns faster, brake less, and test the traction of the 2.0-inch tires in corners. But its light weight and shorter wheelbase keep it agile enough to dodge or hop over obstacles and washouts.

Juliana sells two versions of the bike—this one and another with SRAM’s Force AXS electronic group and 650b wheels. Both use frames with the company’s premium CC carbon and accept 650b or 700c wheels. Read Full Review

Kevin Cortez is an editor for Runner's World, Bicycling, and Popular Mechanics covering reviews. A culture and product journalist for over ten years, he’s an expert in men’s style, technology, gaming, coffee, e-bikes, hiking, gear, and all things outdoors. He most recently worked as the Style Editor for Reviewed, a top product recommendation site owned by USA TODAY. He also helped with the launch of WSJ's Buy Side commerce vertical, and has covered the music and podcast industries for Mass Appeal, Genius, Vulture, Leafly, Input, and The A.V. Club. Equally passionate about leisure as he is his penmanship, Kevin dedicates his spare time to graphic novels, birding, making cold brew, and taking long, meandering walks.

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Best Women’s Bikes You Can Get in 2024: Best Road, Mountain, Hybrid, Gravel, and Electric

Image source: Liv Cycling

Cycling has always been a growing trend for a good reason – It’s easy and enjoyable while clearing your mind and getting you in shape like nothing else out there.

We are fortunate to live in a time when bicycle manufacturers are pushing their limits to provide the best quality bikes at more affordable rates than ever before! Buying a bike is a significant investment, and luckily there are plenty of models to choose from for each occasion.

This article guides you through the world of the best women’s bikes available online. We have gathered the most popular and best-selling bikes according to each bike type and price range. Enjoy!

Best Women’s Bicycles in 2024

HYBRID 1. TREK – FX Sport 5 – $1,889 2. CANNONDALE – Quick Disc 2 Women’s – $1,000 3. CO-OP CYCLES – CTY 1.1 Women’s – $549

ROAD 4. TREK – Domane AL 3 Women’s – $1,099 5. CANNONDALE – Synapse Disc 105 Women’s – $1,800 6. ALL CITY – Zig Zag 105 – $2,699

MOUNTAIN 7. CANNONDALE – Trail 5 Women’s – $950 8. DEVINCI – Riff Deore – $999 9. CO-OP CYCLES – DRT 2.1 – $1,299

GRAVEL 10. CO-OP CYCLES – ADV 2.1 – $1,099 11. SALSA – Journeyman Claris 650 – $849 12. CANNONDALE – Topstone Women’s 105 – $1,750

ELECTRIC 13. ELECTRA – Vale Go! 9D EQ – $3,300 14. TREK – Powerfly 5 Women’s – $4,199 15. RAD POWER BIKES – RadRunner 1 – $1,199

Best Hybrid Bikes For Women

Hybrid bikes are popular among female cyclists due to their versatility and ease of use. The concept of a hybrid bike has been engineered for a comfortable and fuzz-free commuting experience. A hybrid is what you get when mixing mountain and road bikes.

Best Hybrid Bikes for Women in 2024: Top Models for Commuting, Fitness, and Leisure

There are a lot of hybrid/city bikes with forks, borrowed from mountain bikes; and narrow wheels & tires borrowed from road bikes. Many cyclists prefer the hybrid due to its upright riding position.

Hybrid Bikes Q & A

• What Is The Best Women’s Hybrid Bike ? Depending on your budget, and how often and where you mainly ride, I’d say each of the bikes listed here are the best in their price range.
• What Is The Most Affordable Hybrid Bike For Women ? Co-op Cycles CTY series has been a trending choice among female cyclists, and their bikes sell out quickly!
• How Much Should I Spend On A Hybrid Bike ? I’d say the bikes that get used once/twice a week by recreational cyclists start from $500. If you are serious about cycling, going for a spin regularly, the $800-$1,000 budget will definitely get you a great bike, which can be upgraded if needed for final preferences.
• Are Hybrid Bikes Good For Long Distance ? As women’s hybrid bikes generally have flat handlebars and 700c sized road bike wheels and tires, they are excellent for 10-40 mile distances. If you are planning to cycle more often on paved roads for longer distances, a road bike offers a better, more performance-driven option for you. It builds up speed effortlessly.
• Mudguard & rack Compatibility ? Check out each bikes’ features for compatibility.

1 . TREK – FX Sport 5

Fastest, most high-tech women’s hybrid bike

Don’t let the sleek crystal white finish on this bike give you the idea that it’s merely just the most beautiful-looking hybrid bike you’ve seen so far! FX Sport 5 is the latest and greatest women’s hybrid bike.

It is placed as number one in this article for a good reason – there’s simply nothing to add or remove to make it perfect! Trek had set the bar when they were designing this higher-end city bike for female cyclists. It’s a strong choice among commuters who expect only the best in their bike rides.

Sure, nearly $2,000 is a lot of money, but this Trek hybrid women’s bike is worth it when you seriously value your time commuting. The only thing to keep an eye on with this bike in the long run, besides regular maintenance, is the carbon frame .

The best feature of lightweight carbon fiber is also its weakest. This means you have to be careful not to drop it, or excessively stress the frame. 

Buy from Trekbikes.com

2 . CO-OP CYCLES – CTY 1.1 Women’s Step-Through

Best-selling commuter bike for women by Co-op bikes!

MSRP:   $549

The CTY 1.1 women’s hybrid bike has the best value for money on this list. It’s no surprise it has the most ratings and feedback on REI.com. When cycling is not (yet) your primary hobby, but you still want to get the best bang for your buck – this all-around hybrid is THE choice for you.

It’s got all the basics that an occasional cyclist expects. It’s the best women’s hybrid bike due to its ease of use and affordability. The only thing to consider is that it’s got road bike wheels and Presta valves, which differ from widely used Schnaider valves (the ones used on cars as well). That means you have to get a decent floor pump.

Buy from REI.com

3 . CANNONDALE – Quick Disc 2 Women’s Bike – 2020

For someone who enjoys a workout and relaxed cruising

Best for recreational cycling

MSRP:   $1,000

This lightweight yet ultra-durable women’s Quick Disc 2 by Cannondale is the best women’s hybrid bike in its mid-range price category! There are plenty of gears, stopping power, and many more features that a recreational cyclist could ask for.

Cannondale women’s hybrid bikes have always been a popular choice among well-known bike stores because they look good and over-perform their value!

The wide variety of gears allows you to choose your ideal pace. Rack and fender mounts offer versatility and add a lot of value to the bike. The full carbon fork makes the steering light and your ride more sporty.

I strongly recommend this bike if you value excellent engineering, and expect your bike to perform like a $1,000 hybrid bike should.

Best Women’s Road Bikes

Road bikes are for those who have the ultimate performance, speed, and training in mind. Also, they’re the quickest way to take your bike rides to a different level on paved roads.

Best Road Bikes for Women

Women’s road bike q & a.

• What is the best women’s road bike for a beginner ? The Co-op Cycles ADV series bikes have a wide variety of models and great set-ups from beginner and intermediate riders!
• Are road bikes difficult for beginners ? If you have some cycling experience, road biking can be a little difficult to learn in the beginning, but once you get used to it, there’s no turning back!
• What are the best women’s road bikes ? Trek, Giant, Co-Op Cycles, and many more. If you have a certain brand in your mind, go check out our Best bike brands article to find out more about it.

4 . TREK – Domane AL 3 Women’s

Best women’s bike for beginners

Best for training purposes

MSRP: $1,099

The Domane AL 3 women’s road bike is an excellent entry-level road bike with more than a decent set of components. Bontrager ; rims, tires, stem, handlebar and saddle post, Domane carbon fork, and much more give you a glimpse into the world of road-biking.

Plus, this bike comes all equipped, ready to ride – you don’t need to get another pair of cycling shoes and clip pedals. The bike itself weighs under 10kgs/22 lbs which is something to look for in a decent, aluminum frame road bike! 

As you can also see from the main features, there are plenty of extras that can be added to the bike to make it more versatile. It’s an awesome entry-level bike road bike for beginner to intermediate women cyclists!

5 . CANNONDALE – Synapse Disc 105 Women’s

Stiff build with plenty of comfort for fast rides!

MSRP:   $1,800

Do you have enough experience as a cyclist to tell the difference between bikes that perform well according to your input, but still haven’t found the best set-up for yourself? Well, have you ever tried the combination of Cannondale and Shimano 105?

It’s a legendary combination in the road bike industry that’s hard to compete with. We strongly recommend considering this as your next road bike if you value the tradition and you’re looking for a bike that’s got more torque than you can ask for.

6 . ALL CITY – Zig Zag Ultegra

MSRP:   $4,449

A great alternative to other leading brands out there. The Zig Zag by All-City bikes has all you need to start competing or for taking your performance to the next level. It is super lightweight and durable, which makes it perfect for steep climbs and long descents.

The more great news is that the Zig Zag bike will be shipped to your door for free, and ready to ride – there’s no installation needed, and pedals are included too! The brand All-City might not have come across your eyes or ears so far, but this one is a super solid build with a good mid-range set-up.

Whether you like riding a road bike solely for training purposes, or you’re thinking of competing sometime soon, the Zig Zag Ultegra is built for both.

Buy from JensonUSA.com

Best Women’s Mountain Bikes

MOUNTAIN BIKE (MTB) – A bicycle that’s built to go places, widely used as a comfortable allrounder from city streets to narrow trails. The larger tire/wheel size and fork travel make riding on unpaved roads super smooth and enjoyable.

Best Women’s Mountain Bikes of 2024: Top Choices in All MTB Disciplines

There’s plenty of traction provided by large and knobby tires, and the overall durability of the frame and components are something you won’t need to worry about.

7 . CANNONDALE – Trail 5 Women’s

Best beginners mountain bike for women

MSRP:   $950

• 1×10 microSHIFT Advent X drivetrain
• Tektro M275 Hydraulic disc brakes
• Weight: 32 lbs

This Cannondale women’s mountain bike is a great mid-entry choice for beginners, made by a brand that sure knows how to build bikes – 50 years and counting! The Trail 5 has all the essentials you could ask for at that price range.

It’s got a lockable suspension , which is great when riding on flat paved roads. Either 27.5″ or 29″ wheels are used to tackle larger obstacles effortlessly, and the hydraulic disc brakes that offer plenty of stopping power!

It’s by far the best in its price range. By the way, Cannondale women’s mountain bikes are currently among the best-selling bikes online next to Co-op bikes.

8 . DEVINCI – Riff Deore 10S

MSRP:   $999

• 10-speed Shimano Deore
• SR Suntour XCR Air, 100mm
• Aluminum Optimum G02 frame

Best for cross-country and light trails – The Riff 10S Deore is one of the best bikes to get at this price range. Devinc i knows how create mountain bikes, and here is their mid-entry level mountain bike in nice glossy white color.

Why did we mention that? It is because white bikes are not as common to come by, and it definitely catches an eye where mountain bikes for recreational cyclists are scarce during this pandemic.

The level of components is best-suited for a recreational cyclist who wishes to explore gravel, urban and hilly terrains. Is it a good first mountain bike? Yes, even more than that.

MT200 hydro disc brakes and V2 Comp wheels make you feel safe and secure, and the 29×2.4″ tires work wonders cycling on uneven trails. There’s nothing to add or remove about the bike, and price is matched well above its price tag!

9 . CO-OP CYCLES – DRT 2.1

Most advanced on the DRT range!

Best for trail mountain biking

MSRP:   $1,299

If that list of features didn’t light a spark under your adventurous side – I recommend rechecking the price tag! The DRT 2.1 is a mid-range hardtail mountain bike that feels more at home on rougher terrains than you could probably imagine.

The frame and the bike are super durable while giving you all the possibilities of making your ride smoother and more comfortable on technical sections. A must-consider women’s mountain bike when you haven’t found one yet. Co-op bicycles are a rising trend, and many of their bikes sell out quickly!

Best Women’s Gravel Bikes

GRAVEL BIKE – A new type of bike that’s been trending for a good reason. Its best field of use is 70% on the road and 30% off the road , which makes it the most versatile bicycle type on this list! These bikes provide excellent comfort and durability on less-traveled roads.

Best Women’s Gravel Bikes of 2024: From Beginner to Advanced Riders

And, they do it with proper speed! Check out the three best-selling women’s gravel bikes below to find yourself the most suitable one!

10 . CO-OP CYCLES – ADV 2.1

Best Women’s Gravel Bike!

Best for gravel and bikepacking

MSRP:   $1,099

Our favorite on the list, the newcomer Co-op Cycles ADV 2.1 women’s gravel bike features the best components in its price range. Whenever increasing your budget over the 1000-dollar line, you can rest assured of its reliability.

This is especially so when it comes to Co-op bicycles, which stand out for their top value . This bike has enough to satisfy the needs of beginner to intermediate cyclists who want the best bang for their buck.

11 . SALSA – Journeyman Claris 650 Bike

The cheapest women’s gravel bike with the flashiest of designs on the list!

MSRP:   $849

The Journeyman Claris 650 has combined a wide range of uses into a single women’s gravel bike under the 1000 dollar mark! It’s equipped with the essential components for recreational cycling.

If you’ve been looking for a bike that has the speed of a road bike while being able to tackle lighter trails , this Salsa Women’s gravel bike gives you all of that, at the best possible price! The only con about this bike is that it doesn’t come with a pair of pedals.

It’s up to your personal preferences whether you go for the standard platform pedals or use your existing clip-on ones.

12 . CANNONDALE – Topstone Women’s 105

Light and lively – yet smooth and snappy

MSRP:   $1,750

A higher-end women’s gravel bike that’s best for going fast on less-traveled roads.

It’s tough enough to build up speed on the roads while being perfectly capable of taking a beating on unpredictable trails. The price to quality ratio is well matched, and you can trust your money with Cannondale’s engineering.

It’s the best women’s gravel bike on this list for a good reason – the 105 groupsets with tubeless wheels & tires are a must-have in the gravel bike category! Besides the performance aspect, the bike is perfect for bike-touring due to its multiple bottle-cage, rack, and fender mounts!

Best Women’s Electric Bikes (E-Bikes)

Electric bikes don’t need any introduction or reason to bike – they are simply the next level of commuting possibilities. They save you from sweating while speeding up your time spent commuting. Many cyclists choose to get an E-bike because of a previous injury, or they live in a hilly area.

Best Step-Through Electric Bikes for Urban Rides and Commutes

What to look for when choosing an electric bike ? The main difference that builds up the price is the size and quality of the battery. All of the bikes below come with a removable battery, making it easy for charging and a great option from a safety perspective as well.

• Pricier electric bikes have stronger components such as SRAM, Bontrager, Bosch, Hydraulic disc brakes, large and powerful batteries with a long-range and shorter charging time.
• Cheaper electric bikes have no suspension, longer charging time, and a basic, simple set-up.

13 . ELECTRA – Vale Go! 9D EQ

Comfortable and versatile women’s E-bike for light cruising or fast commuting in the city!

MSRP: $3,300

Charge Time : 3.25hours / Range : 60mi (96,5km) / Top Speed : 20mp/h-32km/h with pedal assist (PAS)

 Fully integrated motor in a step-through frame, Bosch Kiox screen displays Bluetooth connectivity, speed-, performance-, battery rating, and much more. An integrated rack carrier frame makes it a perfect women’s city e-bike where you can also load the racks .

Electric bikes are the future. If you haven’t considered getting one just yet, consider that its geometry is designed for cruising and commuting. It’s for cyclists who use their bikes recreationally and want their bikes to last and perform well. By the way, Electra’s women’s electric bikes start as low as $1,500, so check out their website for more affordable options!

• Best for : Streets to light trails
• Main Features : 6061-T6 Aluminium Frame / BOSCH Active Line Plus Motor (Lockable&removable) / BOSCH Kiox Display / TEKTRO hydraulic disc brakes / SHIMANO Alivio 9-speed Derailleur / SCHWALBE Super Moto X-Tires with puncture-resistant Kevlar, suspension seat post.
• Main Specs : E -Bike Classification: Class 1: pedal assist / Weight: 54 pounds-25kg

14 . TREK – Powerfly 5 Women’s

Highly capable and durable women’s electric mountain bike

MSRP:   $4,199

This is THE bike if you are looking for an ultra-durable women’s electric mountain bike for trail riding. The Powerfly 5 comes in three sizes. The XS/S model comes with 27,5″ wheels and 100mm fork travel, while the Medium size bike comes with 29″ wheels on RockShox Recol 120mm travel forks.

The bike weighs about 48lbs (22kgs), but it’s built for rough terrains and can hold up a 300 pound/136kg rider! Now that’s something you can rely on. The bike is made by Trek , and this model is equipped with the latest and greatest you can ask for in a women’s electric bike.

You can easily push this bike through rugged terrain, up and down hills, and not worry about anything falling apart.

15 . RAD POWER BIKES – RadRunner 1

The cheapest women’s electric bike on this list!

Up to 45+ Miles per Charge (estimate), 48V

MSRP:   $1,199

By far the best entry-level women’s E-bike by a known brand that specializes in making electric bikes only! The RadRunner 1 is your perfect companion for light rides to longer commutes. It’s got a lot to offer when it comes to versatility, ease of use, and comfort!

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Women’s Bikes Buying Guide

Getting a new bike is a process that can be either fun or frustrating. If the last time you rode a bike was a few odd years ago, you have probably noticed that a lot has changed during that time. New bikes are more affordable, comfortable, and durable than ever before. And let’s not forget that women’s bicycles have become very nice looking too!

Second-Hand Bike vs New Bike

Buying a second-hand bike off Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist solely based on its look is a risky option when you don’t know too much about what to look for in a bike. It’s far too easy to overpay for a bike that’s not safe to ride, unmaintained has the wrong frame size, or the bike is designed for an entirely different purpose than what you are looking for.

Of course, low-hanging fruit is available as well, and you might get lucky!

I strongly recommend buying a bike that is made by a known brand. New bikes come with a warranty , and you also save a fair amount of money when ordering online! Plus, the choice is far more comprehensive on the web than at your local store.

Follow the guidelines below to get yourself the best match available!

How Much to Spend?

Since the biking industry is uber-competitive and the bikes listed here are amongst the popular ones – you don’t need to worry about getting ripped off. Below you’ll get a brief overview of what to expect within a specific price range:

How much to pay for a women’s bicycle in 2024?

• ENTRY $400-$600 – Gets you a nice all-rounder hybrid bike. They are generally equipped with essential components that are suitable for beginner cyclists.
• MID /Entry $600-$1,000 – Decent hybrid bikes, great MTB’s come into play. Cheaper road bikes are available in this price range! 
• MID -Range $1,000-$1,500 – Can get you a proper hybrid, MTB or a road bike. Entry-level electric bikes become an option.
• TOP -Range – $1,500+ Gets you a great road-, mountain-, gravel- or hybrid bike. This is also where the mid-range electric bikes come along.

1. Men’s vs Women’s Bikes

The main difference is that a women’s bike has a “step-through” frame shape, while men’s bikes have quite a horizontal top tube. Depending on the frame size and bike type, the size of wheels can differ as well from the men’s 29″ wheels to 26″ and 27,5″ on women’s bikes.

There are plenty of unisex bikes available, and one which comes to my mind FIRST is Co-op Cycles , who have mastered the art of making these bikes.

2. What Is The Best Bike For A Woman?

For recreational cyclists, the classical step-through design is widely preferred for comfort. However, women can certainly ride all step-over bikes as well. Most manufacturers are now only making unisex models, so women shouldn’t feel limited to women-specific bikes only when looking for a new bicycle.

3. Do I Need A Helmet?

Sorry for being blunt, but I find it reasonable that riding without a helmet is fined in Australia ($150AUD), no questions asked. I used to ride without one until my mid 20’s, which didn’t bother me much. But once I started wearing one and realized the importance and safety of that little piece of plastic – it’s simply priceless. ALWAYS wear a helmet, and do it correctly!

By wearing a helmet, you are a role model for those who haven’t realized the importance yet!

4. What Cycling Gear Do I Need?

If you get your bike regularly maintained in a bike shop, which is not a bad idea, you just need a bicycle pump, a helmet, and comfortable clothing. In addition to that, you can also consider getting a spare tube, a multi-tool, cycling gloves, and a set of front and rear lights.

5. What are the basics I need to know?

• Keep your bike maintained
• Check your tire pressures before heading out
• Bring water with you to keep hydrated

6. What tire pressure to use?

The recommended tire pressure is written on the sidewall of your tires. Finding the perfect tire pressure takes some trial and error because it is also influenced by your weight and your style of riding. If you want more comfort, deflate your tires slightly, or inflate them more if you aim for more speed.

7. What are the basics that beginner cyclists fail at?

Number one: Not keeping your tires inflated to the recommended pressure. Number Two: Beginners leave their bike unattended/unlocked, which can get your bike stolen. So, invest in a proper lock!

8. Is cycling dangerous?

Depending on your skill level and where you’ll be riding the most – a bike ride is as safe as you make it. As a beginner cyclist, you’ll want to avoid busy roads and difficult trails at first.

9. Can I cycle during the rain?

With proper clothing and mudguards – Cycling through mild rain can be an awesome experience. Although, it is best to keep the chain lubricated so that the water won’t start to rust the metal.

10. What are the differences between cheap and expensive bikes?

• FRAME : Carbon vs alloy vs steel. Carbon has better shock-absorption qualities and weighs a lot less than steel/alloy frames. Alloy frames are cheaper to make and repair if needed, while carbon is mostly unrepairable. Carbon used on newer bikes is way stronger than it used to be 5-10 years ago!
• BRAKES : Hydraulic vs Mechanical brakes. Most cheaper bikes are equipped with “old-school” brakes, where the linkage between the brake pads and the brake lever is connected via cable. More advanced bikes have hydraulic brakes, which use mineral oil for more accurate and smoother braking.
• COMPONENTS : The quality of the rims, cogs, derailleurs, shifters, forks, and hubs make a big difference when it comes to overall quality.

11. Why Order A Bike Online?

Easy, more options, cheaper, plenty of time to make up your mind .

All bicycles sold at REI include a free tune-up. New bikes go through a standard break-in period, after which readjustment is essential for longevity and performance. Bring your new bike into your local REI for its free tune-up within 20 hours of use or six months from purchase, whichever comes first.

 Note: Bikes shipped to your home require some assembly upon delivery. Instructions and tools are included.

12. What is the selection based on?

We took a compromised selection between affordability and popularity when choosing those bikes to the list.

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About the Author

Sam Millers

3 thoughts on “ best women’s bikes you can get in 2024: best road, mountain, hybrid, gravel, and electric ”.

Hi there, My girlfriend has a bike and while cycling her legs stretch a lot. can you suggest one under 1000$? was thinking to gift her a new bike. but here good bikes have high price tags on them. It will be a great help for me. We like cycling and get out now and then with our bikes. but while reaching our destination we can’t enjoy the scenery as her legs become so stretched. if you can please let me know. thanks.

What kind of bike are you after – A city hybrid, mountain or trekking bike? And what do you exatcly mean by stretching?

I’d also recommend looking into our “ Between Two Bike Sizes article ” to find out if she has picked the right size for her.

I love to ride had back and shoulder surgery 2018 and 2019. Sold my bikes because I have a hard time getting my leg over top tube. Look at step-through bikes. No more tri for me just like stay in shape. Have any recommendations

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The Best Bikes for Women

• Author: Ashley Mateo, certified running coach

The products featured in this article have been independently reviewed. When you buy something through the retail links on this page, we may earn commission at no cost to you, the reader. The Sports Illustrated editorial team is not involved in the creation of this content. Learn more here.

This shouldn’t have to be said in 2024 (and, yet, here we are), but women’s bikes are not just smaller, pinker versions of men’s bikes.

Sure, men may still be the dominant gender in cycling, but of the 103 million people who rode a bike in 2022, 27 percent were female and about 40 percent were male, according to a recent survey conducted by the PeopleforBikes Foundation —which means women are starting to close the gap. And all women deserve bikes that are specifically designed to support female anatomy and biomechanics, whether they’re riding to work, cruising around town or competing in an endurance race.

Of course, finding the right bike depends on your personal preferences: road or mountain biking, cruiser or electric bike . And while nailing down the perfect fit may take a little more effort than scrolling the internet—like visiting a local bike shop for a proper fitting and testing out different models—this list of the best bikes for women, along with insights on what types are available and what features to consider, can help get you up to speed.

Our Picks for the Best Bikes for Women:

Best hybrid bike for women: diamondback division 1 urban bike, best e-bike for women: aventon level.2 commuter e-bike.

• Best Cruiser Bike for Women: Electra Townie 7D 24 Step-Thru

Best Mountain Bike for Women: Trek Top Fuel 7

Best road bike for women: specialized tarmac sl6.

• Best E-Mountain Bike for Women: Trek Powerfly 4

Best Step-Thru Bike for Women: Public Bikes C1

Best rail trail bike for women: trek dual sport 1 gen 5.

Performance Bike

Key Features:

• Price: $835
• Bike type: Urban/commuter bike
• Sizes: Small, medium, large, extra large
• Weight: Not listed
• Frame material: Aluminum
• Drivetrain: 1x, rear derailleur

City riding can be notoriously difficult on your bike—and body, as anyone who’s ever ridden full-speed over a pothole knows. The Diamondback Division 1 Urban Bike was designed for commutes, running errands, or just riding around, with 27.5-inch tubeless tires that promise traction while absorbing the impact generated by most obstacles (they’re also very unlikely to pop a flat). And thanks to the lightweight aluminum frame, you’ll have no problem hoisting this bike up any number of stairs.

• Tires are especially grippy in wet conditions
• 1 x 8 speed drivetrain is easy to maintain
• Features high-quality Shimano drivetrain and Tektro mechanical disc brakes
• Disc brakes are more difficult to maintain
• Shifting components don’t quite match the price point

• Price: $1,799
• Bike type: Commuter e-bike
• Sizes: Regular, large
• Weight: 54 pounds
• Drivetrain: Hub

If you don’t want to work up a sweat while commuting to and from the office, Aventon’s Level.2 Commuter E-Bike packs a lot of power into a design that mimics the look of a traditional city cruiser. It even feels like a more traditional bike, thanks to the integration of a torque sensor that allows for more efficient battery use (translation: the bike can sense how hard you’re pedaling and deliver additional power via the 500W motor as needed). With 27.5-inch tires that eat up the road—a full charge gives you a range of 60 miles—you can push this bike up to 28 miles per hour using pedal assist (using just the throttle, you’ll top out at 20 miles per hour).

• Torque sensor creates a more natural riding experience
• Available in four color options
• Comes with preinstalled fenders and a rear rack
• This version isn’t as powerful as the first in the name of preserving battery power
• Not meant to be ridden in prolonged rain

Best Cruiser Bike for Women: Electra Townie 7D EQ Step-Thru

• Price: $729.99
• Bike type: Step-thru/recreational
• Sizes: 26-inch wheel
• Weight: 31 pounds
• Frame material: aluminum
• Drivetrain: derailleur

It doesn’t get more classic than the Electra Townie 7D EQ Step-Thru, which is the best-selling bike in the U.S. It’s also a great beginner option, allowing you to sit upright and flat-footed—with the pedals positioned farther forward—so you can easily step off the pedals and onto the ground if needed. The nearly two-inch wide tires also ensure stability and security while on the road (and can even handle gentle trails). Despite the retro look, the Townie is built with modern components like Shimano Revo shifters and a Shimano Tourney drivetrain, puncture-resistant Bontrager tires, and an ergonomic saddle.

• Very safe and comfortable for newer riders
• Fully charges in under five hours
• Can easily attach a rear rack and baby seat
• Has a longer frame than a standard town bike, which makes it bulkier
• Upright position makes standing tough, which can be challenging for uphills
• Maximum weight capacity is only 250 pounds

• Price: $3,629.99
• Bike type: Mountain bike
• Sizes: S, M, M/L, L, XL
• Weight: 32.7 pounds
• Drivetrain: Derailleur

If you’re serious about mountain biking, the Trek Top Fuel 7 is the kind of machine that moves with you—fast—as you tackle the toughest terrain. The full suspension system was designed to react to acceleration and braking forces independently, so you have more control over the bike as a whole, while the hydraulic disc brakes allow you to be more precise with your braking power. For even better handling, Trek’s Mino Link feature allows you to make small adjustments to the frame geometry, depending on the terrain; for example, a steeper angle at the front of the bike allows for quicker steering, which is great at slower speeds, but a slacker angle is more stable at high speeds.

• Smaller sizes have a top tube that dips down for a lower standover height, which accommodates shorter riders
• Has internal storage for tools
• Very expensive
• 120mm of suspensive travel can be jarring

Specialized

• Price: $2,700
• Bike type: Road
• Sizes: 44, 49, 52, 54, 56, 58, 61
• Weight: 16.6, 16.82, or 18.36 pounds
• Frame material: Carbon

The Tarmac was designed to go fast—like, really fast (it’s used by pro racing teams). Not only can you lift the lightweight carbon frame with a single hand, it’s actually 20 percent lighter than the previous iteration, a drop in weight that translates to speeds 30 seconds faster over the course of 25 miles. Plus, Specialized works with Retül, a company that collects and analyzes data to inform bike fit, a partnership that allowed the brand to build seven different size options—in a unisex fit—that each use specific measurements to ensure you’ll feel 100 percent comfortable in the saddle, no matter how long you’re riding.

• Enough clearance for tires up to 30mm if riding on rougher terrain
• Power saddle is very comfortable
• Very responsive
• Carbon frame can be easily damaged

Best E-Mountain Bike for Women: Trek Powerfly 4 Gen 4

• Price: $3,649.99
• Bike type: Electric mountain bike
• Sizes: XS, S, M, L
• Weight: 51.53 pounds

If you want to get out in the wilderness but don’t want to rely on your own leg power to tackle the gnarliest climbs, an affordable electric mountain bike like Trek’s Powerfly 4 can help you cover more terrain without wearing yourself out. This one is equipped with a removable Bosch PowerTube 500Wh battery; Bosch high-performance CX 250W motor; and a smooth-shifting Shimano drivetrain, all of which help you reach speeds of up to 20 miles per hour on the trails. Plus, the bike’s intelligent eMTB mode automatically adjusts the amount of assist it gives you based on the terrain—without you having to do a thing.

• Compatible with different rack mounts
• Battery is encased for protection
• Battery lasts a little as 15 miles in Turbo mode, depending on circumstances

Public Bikes

• Price: $550
• Bike type: Step-thru/cruiser
• Sizes: S/M, M/L
• Weight: 30 pounds
• Frame material: Steel
• Drivetrain: Single speed

How cute is this city cruiser? Little design details go a long way, like fenders, a chain guard and painted rims that match the high-quality steel frame. The upright geometry is similar to that of the Electra Townie, complete with the same step-thru design that makes getting on and off super easy—features that beginner and casual riders alike will appreciate. Cruisers have a reputation of veering toward the heavier end of the weight spectrum, but at 30 pounds, this one isn’t a pain to push or lift if need be.

• Available in five colors
• Front and rear rack mounts are standard
• Affordably priced
• Single-speed drivetrain can make riding uphill more challenging
• Not as durable as more expensive options

• Price: $749.99
• Bike type: Hybrid
• Sizes: S, M, L, XL
• Weight: 30.61 pounds
• Drivetrain: 2 x 8

Trek’s Dual Sport 1 falls somewhere between a road and trail bike, which makes it a versatile option for riders—both on the weekdays, for commuting, and the weekends, when you’re out for fitness or recreation. With a lightweight aluminum frame and light gravel tires, you’ll be able to pick up the pace on pavement while the 27.5-inch tires are wide enough that you’ll feel more in control when navigating potholes or easy trails; wherever you are, there’s a wide range of gearing options so you're never spinning your wheels or working too hard.

• Frame is compatible with racks, a kickstand, fenders, lights and more
• New mounting points pair with Bontrager Adventure Bags to secure bags without straps and bungees
• Wider tires offer good grip on multiple types of terrain
• Mechanical disc brakes aren’t as high-performing as hydraulic disc brakes
• No built-in accessories

The Benefits of Biking

Cycling is a versatile form of cardiovascular exercise. Varying the intensity at which you ride can temporarily increase your metabolism, which allows you to burn more calories, including while at rest , according to a 2020 study in Movement and Sports Sciences . At the same time, it helps build strength in your lower body, 2017 research in Physiological Reports confirmed—without adding impact to your joints, like running. It also improves flexibility and helps with coordination and balance , says the Cleveland Clinic.

It can even help prevent heart issues such as stroke, heart attack, and high blood pressure, and—if done consistently over at least five years— decrease your mortality rate by 35 percent, 2021 research published in JAMA Intern Medicine reported.

Beyond the physical benefits, cycling improved cognitive functioning and well-being and lowered stress levels in a 2019 study published in PLoS One . And as a commuter option, biking decreases your carbon footprint by 67 percent compared to taking a car, according to 2021 research published in Transportation Research Part D: Transport and Environment .

How Are Women’s Bikes Different from Men’s Bikes?

The main difference between women’s and men’s bikes is the fit, which shows up in the geometry of the frame. Women are generally shorter than men, so women’s bikes often have shorter stack heights, AKA how tall the front of the bike is; women also generally have shorter torsos than men, so women’s bikes have shorter reach lengths, AKA the distance between the saddle and the handlebars. A few other features to keep in mind for a women’s bike: A shorter stem (the part of the bike that connects your handlebars to the frame), a shorter but wider saddle, shorter crank arms (the levers attached to the pedals), more accessible brake levers, a narrower handlebar and an adjusted suspension system to handle lighter weight.

Of course, the best bike for you is the one that best fits your body—whether it’s designed for a specific gender or not. Getting properly fit at a bike store can go a long way in helping you find the right bike for you; the bike store can also make adjustments and swap out components if need be after you’ve purchased a bike.

What Types of Women’s Bikes Are There?

There’s a wide variety of bikes for women. You’ll find road bikes, which are designed for speed; mountain bikes, built for off-road riding; hybrid bikes , which can handle multiple types of terrain; electric bikes, which use a motor for more power; and cruisers, for comfortable, recreational riding; all designed to accommodate female riders.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Women’s Bike for You

Intended use.

How you’re going to use a bike is probably the most important thing to keep in mind when researching options. If you’re mostly using it for fitness, think about where you’ll use it: Riding on the road is easiest and fastest with a bike like Specialized Tarmac SL6, while trail riding necessitates a mountain bike like the Trek Top Fuel 7. If you just want to cruise around town, a bike like the Public Bikes C1 or Electra Townie 7D EQ Step-Thru will suffice. If you’re a commuter, opting for an electric bike like the Aventon Level.2 Commuter E-Bike can help you maximize your time.

Frame shape and material

A bike’s shape, or geometry, will affect your position on the bike and how you can handle it. On a road racing bike, for example, you’ll be in a longer, lower position that’s more aerodynamic. On the opposite end of the spectrum, a cruiser puts you in an upright position, almost like you’re pedaling while seated in a chair, to help you feel safe and in control. A bike can also have a step-over frame, which has a straight top tube (the part of your bike frame which sits between your legs) that you literally step over in order to mount the bike, or a step-thru frame, which eliminates that feature to make mounting and dismounting easier.

Bike frames can be made from a number of different materials. Steel is durable and affordable, but aluminum has become more popular due to its light weight and stiffness. Carbon and titanium are even lighter, but those materials are generally reserved for high-end road and mountain bikes; they’re strong and stiff, but can be damaged more easily (titanium is the more durable of the two). The material a bike is made of plays a big role in how expensive a bike is, but the added cost of a higher-end material may be worth it for performance purposes.

Electric assistance

The e-bike market is expected to grow by over 10 percent between 2022 and 2027, according to market reports . With more options available, more and more people are using e-bikes as a commuting option or just a way to get around town. For what it’s worth, e-­bikes don’t do all the work—most offer pedal-assist modes that allow you to still burn calories but cover more ground (without getting quite as sweaty). If you’re in the market for an e-bike, consider these specific features: watts (the higher the number, the longer you can go on the battery charge); voltage (a higher voltage battery is more efficient); and battery (most batteries are removable for charging, and the more assistance you need, the more battery power you’ll use up).

Wheel size and tires

For general riding, all you need to know is that most bike wheels are measured in inches, and a 26-inch wheel has long been the standard wheel size for most American bikes. It’s an especially popular size in mountain biking, as it’s wide enough to support the bike on uneven terrain. A 27.5-inch wheel, like you’ll find on the Diamondback Division 1 Urban Bike or the Trek Dual Sport 1 Gen 5, can provide a little more stability, while a 29-inch wheel is standard for most modern road bikes (however, that size is called 700c when it’s on a road bike).

The size of the wheel generally doesn’t matter for more casual riders, but you may need to pay more attention to the width of the tires. Tire widths range from very narrow (less than 20 millimeters) to very wide (over 4 inches), but the most common widths for road bikes are between 23mm and 32mm, while mountain bikes typically have wider tires ranging from 2.0 to 2.5 inches. Generally, the narrower the tires, the faster you’ll be able to go—which is why they’re great for road bikes—but the less traction you’ll have on the ground; wider tires, on the flip side, provide more grip, especially on rougher surfaces, but also generate more resistance, which can slow you down.

If you’re buying your own tires, make sure to check whether the width is compatible with your bike's rims and brakes. And if you’re totally confused by all of this, talk to someone at your local bike shop.

There are a couple of different types of bike brakes available. Rim brakes are the most common, and work by pressing rubber brake pads against the rim of the wheel. Disc brakes are another popular option, especially on mountain bikes, and work by pressing brake pads against a rotor attached to the wheel hub. Coaster brakes are commonly found on cruisers, and work by pedaling backward, which engages a brake inside the hub of the rear wheel.

A bike's gears allow you to change your cadence, or pedaling rate, on different terrains. For example, low gears are used when climbing hills while high gears are used on flat ground or speeding downhill. These gears are controlled by shifters on the handlebars, and a bike can have anywhere from a single gear to over 30 gears. The drivetrain on a bike will affect the way the gears work, and some common options are a derailleur system (which uses a front and rear derailleur to move the chain between different gears), an internal gear hub (which houses the gears inside the rear wheel) and a belt drive system (which uses a carbon-fiber belt instead of a traditional chain).

Features and accessories

Many of the bikes on the list include features like fenders, which cover your tires and protect your back from wet or muddy streaks; integrated lights for visibility; reflective features so other cars and riders can see you in low-light conditions; and racks for storage or mounts that allow you to attach your own mounts. You can also invest in your own accessories, like bike bags, a bike rack for transporting your bike, a bike computer and, of course, a good helmet .

There’s a huge range in bike prices, but you should expect to spend somewhere between $500 and $1,000 for a quality entry-level or casual use bike. The more specialized a bike, the higher the price will be, and e-bikes generally start between $1,500 and $2,500. You can absolutely find bikes at lower prices, but you may be sacrificing quality and longevity if you go for the cheapest option on the market.

Compatibility with child seats and trailers

If you’re planning on toting a kid or trailer behind you, it’s super important to make sure your bike's frame is compatible with the type of child seat or trailer you plan to use. For example, Trek’s Dual Sport 1’s included rack is not compatible with a child’s bike seat, but it is compatible with a bike trailer. There are also multiple ways to attach child seats and trailers, so check that the attachment method of your chosen child seat or trailer is compatible with your bike's frame and components. Finally, make sure to check the weight limit of your bike and the child seat or trailer you plan to use; exceeding that can cause safety issues or damage your bike.

How We Chose the Best Bikes for Women

Not only did we review dozens of bikes from reputable brands, we leaned on nearly a decade’s worth of personal testing experience to create a diverse list of bikes with a number of different features to suit various needs. We also compared features like weight, materials, style, technology, gears, tires and more to narrow down our picks for the best women’s bikes.

How to Tell What Bike Size You Need

If you’re not sure what size bike you need, the best thing you can do is go into a local bike shop for a fitting. Then, you can consult a bike company’s sizing chart. The most important measurement to start with is your inseam; that number corresponds with a bike’s standover height. The standover height is the distance from the ground to the top of the top tube, which is essentially where you would stand over (get it?) the bike when mounting or dismounting. If you’re actually straddling a bike, your feet should be flat on the floor and there should be one to two-plus inches of clearance between your body and the top tube.

In the saddle, you should have a slight bend in your legs when each foot is at the bottom of the pedal stroke. You can generally adjust the ​​height of the saddle via the seatpost. While pedaling, your knee should be aligned over your forefoot when your foot is at a three o’clock position and your shin will be tilted slightly forward. As for your upper body, there should be a 45-degree angle between your torso and your hips, and a 90-degree angle in your arms on a road bike, while other bikes allow for a more upright and relaxed position.

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

Because men are generally larger than women, women’s bikes tend to have a slightly different frame geometry that accommodates a smaller, lighter size. However, some women may feel better on a men’s bike or a unisex one; finding the proper fit regardless of gender is important.

How much should I spend on a women’s bike?

A good-quality bike usually starts between $500 and $1,000, while e-bikes start between $1,500 and $2,500. But how much you spend on a bike really comes down to your personal budget and what kind of cycling you intend to do.

What type of bike is easiest for women to ride?

There's no easy answer for this, because the right bike for you will depend on what type of riding you prefer as well as your physical proportions. However, step-through bikes are designed for easy mounting and dismounting, which makes them a little more accessible.

Final Thoughts

There are so many benefits to cycling, whether you’re riding for fitness, using two wheels to explore new places, or investing in an e-bike as a more sustainable travel option. No matter what type of bike you’re looking for, there are plenty of options to choose from that can fit your budget and fitness goals. And if you’re not sure where to start, heading into your local bike store to try some options and get advice from the pros can help you narrow down your online search.

Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.

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10 Best Womens Bikes for All Styles of Riding

Bikes vary greatly in performance and price, and finding the best women’s bike can certainly get overwhelming pretty quickly. After personally testing over 20 different women’s bikes, we compiled our favorite bikes for various types of riding and at various price points.

So whether you need a bike to ride around the neighborhood and local trails with the family, cruise the strand in style, or tackle light dirt trails with friends, we’ve tested bikes for all of these situations. From women’s hybrid bikes to cruiser bikes and recreational mountain bikes, we’ve done the research and pedaled the miles to make your decision process easy. What about ebikes for women? Yep, we tested those as well!

For this article, our main goal was to find quality bikes suitable for casual to intermediate, non-technical women riders. We dug deep into the world of casual, cruiser, hybrid, commuter, and fitness bikes to find the bikes that offered top notch durability and performance for their price. Due to continual supply chain issues, bike availability also played a major factor in our recommendations.

Technical bikes – like full-suspension mountain bikes and road bikes – were intentionally left off this list as they are simply too much bike for the average everyday woman rider.

Not sure what type of bike you need? Jump down to our women’s bikes buying guide to learn which bike style is best for your needs.

Best Womens Bikes

What style of womens bike is best for me.

Narrowing down the type of bike you need is the first step to finding the best women’s bike for you . While every type of bike is flexible in its use, picking the style of bike that matches the type of riding you do the most is usually your best bet.

Step-through frame or regular frame? Many women’s bikes have a slanted top tube known as a step-through frame. Step-through bikes are easier to get on and off as they don’t require the rider to lift their leg as high to mount, but otherwise, the frame styles are functionally the same.

If you plan on riding with a child-bike seat , step-through bikes are preferred as they are easier to get on and off when the bike is weighed down with a child in a bike seat. Bikes with step-through frames are typically only compatible with rear rack-mounted child bike seats. Regular “triangle” frames are usually compatible with rack and frame mounted rear bike seats . Both styles of bikes are equally compatible with front-mounted seats .

Women’s BIke STYLES – DETAILS AND EXPERIENCE

JUMP DOWN TO DESIRED BIKE STYLE SECTION: 1. Hybrid Bikes – Best for average to longer distance paved riding 2. Comfort and Cruiser Bikes – Best for shorter distances on paved trails 3. Recreational Mountain Bikes – Best for basic dirt trail use or mixed use 4. E-Bikes – Various models available to match all types of riding

Women’s Hybrid Bikes

Hybrid bikes are a mix between road bikes and mountain bikes. With the smooth rolling, low resistance tires of a road bike combined with the more upright position and flat handlebars of a mountain bike, hybrid bikes really are the best of both worlds. Hybrid bikes are ideal for any rider who plans on riding almost exclusively on smooth, paved surfaces.

If you plan on riding mainly paved with a bit of all-terrain riding mixed in, consider a hybrid bike with a suspension fork (typically only available on higher-end models). If all-terrain dirt or gravel trails will be the majority of your riding, a recreational mountain bike is likely a better choice (see mountain bike section below ).

Distinguishing Features of Hybrid Bikes:

• HANDLEBARS : Hybrid bikes have flat, mostly straight handlebars that can vary in height and width. Hybrid handlebars typically aren’t as wide as those on a mountain bike or as narrow as those found on road bikes, but rather a comfortable in-between.
• BODY POSITION : Riders are positioned in a semi-upright position. The rider’s torso is more leaned-in than on a comfort/cruiser bike, but much more upright than on a road bike. This semi-upright position places the rider in the optimal position for getting the most power out of each pedal stroke. As a result, they are typically much more efficient for use with a child bike seat or trailer as compared to a comfort or cruiser bike.
• WHEELS AND TIRES : Like road bikes, hybrid bike tires are thinner and run at higher air pressures to minimize the rolling resistance between the tire and the pavement. As a result, hybrid bikes are fast and efficient on paved surfaces but don’t offer much cushioning compared to the tires on recreational mountain bikes.
• SUSPENSION FORK : With minimal cushioning provide by hybrid tires, suspension forks help minimize the bumps and jolts if you’ll be riding on rough paved roads or gravel and dirt trails.
• GEARS : Gears can range from 3 to 27. The number of gears you need really depends on how varied the elevation where you ride. The more steep uphills and downhills you encounter, the more gears you will need. The average rider, however, typically does just fine with 3 to 10 gears.
• BIKE TRAILERS and CHILD BIKE SEATS : Of all the bike styles on this list, women’s hybrid bikes are generally your best option if you plan on pulling a bike trailer or using a child bike seat in the city.

Decathlon Btwin Riverside

Best on a Budget

MSRP : $99 (close-out sale price) HEIGHT RANGE: 3 sizes, for heights ranging from 4’11” – 6’1 BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBLE: Yes CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBLE : Front frame, rear frame, rear rack SUSPENSION FORK: On upgraded Riverside 500

The Btwin Riverside is a rare find in the budget bike world as it offers real quality and comfort without breaking the bank. From responsive shifting to quick braking, we were honestly shocked at the value and performance of this $300 bike (now on sale for under $100!).

As part of our tests, we put the Riverside to work with several different front and rear-mounted child bike seats and we are pleased to report that it didn’t skip a beat. If your young family is looking for a quality bike on a budget to start getting out the kids, you can’t go wrong with the Riverside.

WHAT WE LOVE :

• Quality build and a comfortable ride for an unbeatable price
• Available in three different sizes to fit a very wide range of heights (4’11” to 6’1″)
• Compatible with rear racks, as well as front and rear-mounted child bike seats
• Standard lifetime warranty on frame, stem, handlebar and rigid fork

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BUY:

• Thinner “hybrid tires” roll smooth on the pavement, but offer less cushioning than wider tires on other bikes
• Limited color selection – only Black is available on the base model
• Only available online, so you won’t be able to try it before you buy it
• Bikes are returnable through Decathlon, but return shipping expenses will be deducted from your return (common with many bikes)
• Riverside 100 has grip shifters, while the Riverside 500 and 900 have trigger shifters (as well as additional gears)

AVAILABLE MODELS:

• Riverside 100 ($99): (Model we tested) Great for around town on paved surfaces. 6-speeds.
• Riverside 500 ($250): Improved comfort and gearing for all-terrain riding. Jumps up to 9-speeds, has suspension fork.
• Riverside 900 ($400): Lighter-weight build and additional gearing for more aggressive riders. 10-speeds, aluminum frame (others have steel).

Polygon Path 2

Best for flat and hilly areas

MSRP : $599 (but often on sale for $399) HEIGHT RANGE: 4 sizes, S – XL BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBLE: Yes CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBLE : Front frame, rear frame, rear rack SUSPENSION FORK: No

Polygon Bikes may not be a brand you’re familiar with, but they have become increasingly popular in the United States in the past few years. Because the brand owns its own factories, it’s able to save costs in the bike manufacturing and supply chain process, and those savings result in some pretty bang-for-your-buck price tags.

We have tested almost a dozen Polygon bikes and we are always impressed with the quality they offer for the price. The Polygon Path 2 features solid quality components, a light weight aluminum frame, and easy-rolling Vee Speedster tires for a smooth ride.

That said, based on our experience with this particular bike, the Path 2 will likely require a bike shop tune-up before you ride. While it’s easy enough to put together, we had to make many tweaks to the brakes and drivetrain before it was in riding shape. If you’re not familiar with bikes, a bike shop would need to do this for you.

• The Path 2 has a very wide gearing range, which makes it super versatile for easily climbing hills, while also allowing you to gain speed on the way down. The gearing range (between high and low gears) covers basically every situation you’ll find yourself in.
• Trigger shifters allow for faster and smoother shifting between gears
• This bike is very lightweight, and would be a good option if you need to regularly carry your bike upstairs.
• Available in four different sizes to fit a very wide range of heights
• With mechanical disc brakes, we would expect more stopping power. Don’t expect to be able to “stop on a dime”.
• Thinner “hybrid tires” roll very smoothly on the pavement, but don’t offer much cushioning for bumpy roads.
• Limited color selection – only blue is available on the Path 2. Path 3 available in black/grey.
• Only available online, so you won’t be able to try it before you buy it.
• Polygon Path 2 ($599): Model we tested, 24-speeds.
• Polygon Path 3 ($649): Hydraulic disc brakes for faster and easier braking, upgraded drivetrain for smoother shifting. 27-speeds.

Priority Turi

Maintenance-free Belt Drive and High-End Enviolo Gearing

MSRP : $949 SIZING: 3 sizes, for heights 5’0 – 6’1 BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBLE: Not without special hub adapter CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBLE : Front frame, rear rack SUSPENSION FORK: No

We have been riding and loving Priority bikes (for adults and kids!) for many years. The Priority Turi is the most “high-end” of the models we’ve tested, and quickly became our bike of choice for bike commuting to school with our kindergartener.

Like every Priority bicycle, the Turi features that insanely low-maintenance belt drive (and also happens to be grease-free). Not needing to keep a bicycle chain cleaned and lubed, or deal with a derailleur that regularly needs adjustments and service is a huge win for bikes with a belt drive.

But our favorite feature of this comfort hybrid bike is its Enviolo shifting system. Safely enclosed in the rear wheel’s hub, the Enviolo gearing shifts seamlessly when you twist the grip shift with your right hand. There are no distinct gears that feel like “steps” as you shift up and down to adjust to the uphill, downhill, or smooth straightaways. Just a wide gearing range that feels more like riding on one of those airport moving walkways.

• While many Priority bikes come with gearing options (1, 3, or 7), the Turi only comes with the Enviolo gearing system. Its gearing range (between the lowest and highest gear) is wider than most other Priority bikes, making it a better option for riding in areas with hills. (That said, if hills will regularly be part of your riding, a wider gearing range like on the Polygon Path 2 would be a better experience.)
• Hydraulic disc brakes offer superior stopping power, even in wet weather conditions.
• Dual leg kickstand is significantly more stable than a traditional bike stand
• Thin “hybrid tires” roll fast and smooth on the pavement, but offer less cushioning than wider tires on bikes like the Priority Coast (which also has an Enviolo gearing option)
• Due to the Enviolo rear hub, the Turi is a bit heavier than other models. If you need to carry the bike upstairs regularly, you might want to look at the Priority Classic or Coast instead.
• If you want to use a rear child bike seat, the Axiom rack sold on Priority’s website is compatible. The 174Hudson Rack is more affordable, but with a 35 lb. weight capacity, should only be used with panniers or baskets.
• We highly recommend trying one of the 174Hudson pannier bags with a rack. From storing our bike lock to snacks and a laptop, it’s been a pleasant convenience.

Priority Classic Plus – Gotham

Maintenance-free Belt Drive and Simplified 3-speed shifting

MSRP : $599 SIZING: 3 sizes, for inseams ranging from 26″ – 36″ BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBLE: Not without special hub adapter CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBLE : Front frame, rear rack, (rear frame on men’s diamond-frame only) SUSPENSION FORK: No

The Priority Classic Plus Gotham Edition has been a staple in our bike fleet for years. From long family bike rides to quick commutes around town, this Priority has been a smooth ride and has required basically no maintenance.

Based out of New York City, Priority Bicycles are designed to withstand the unique rigors of city riding. Our team has owned eleven different Priority bikes over the years, and they’ve all withstood the test of time… even the Priority kids bikes which can take quite a beating from their little riders.

• Grease-free belt drive requires very little, if any, maintenance. Most bikes have a bike chain set up, which is significantly more finicky and more likely to get damaged and need fixing.
• 3 speeds keep shifting super simple, while still giving you the flexibility to climb moderate hills or race the flat roads.
• Very lightweight, which makes a huge difference when going up hills, carrying kids, or riding longer distances
• Offered in both a women’s step-through and men’s diamond frame. Choose according to your preference or height restrictions.
• Due to the internally geared rear hub, a special adapter is required for bike trailers.
• If you want to carry a rear child bike seat on the women’s model, you must also purchase a rack and buy a rack-mounted child bike seat . The men’s diamond frame is compatible with both rack and frame-mounted rear child bike seats.
• Priority Classic Plus – Gotham ($599): Great for around town or longer distances on paved surfaces. Ideal for carrying kids on child bike seats.
• Priority Classic Plus ($599): Swept-back handlebars put a rider in an upright position, and wider cushioned saddle put this model in the women’s comfort bike category. It’s not as ideal for carrying kids on child bike seats, although you certainly can (we’ve done it!).

REI Co-Op Cycles CTY 1.1

REI Guarantee and Service

MSRP : $599 SIZING: 3 sizes, for heights ranging from 5’0 to 5’9 BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBLE: Yes, but needs longer rear axle skewer. CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBLE : Front frame, rear rack. Not enough clearance above the rear tire for a frame mounted rear seat. SUSPENSION FORK: No

Besides great quality for a fair price, there are so many benefits to buying a women’s bike from REI. Order online and pick up already assembled in store… then for a full year, get free adjustments and basic maintenance!

A more leaned forward body position and trigger shifters make this city bike particularly closer to a “fitness” bike than the other hybrids on our list. The leaned in position allows the rider to exert more force on the pedals and really pound away on the pedals for a great workout.

With 24 gears, the gearing range of the CTY 1.1 is the widest of any hybrid we tested. If you’ll be regularly tackling tough elevation gains, this Co-op Cycles bike should be high on your list.

• Order online, pick up assembled in your local REI store
• Free adjustments and basic maintenance for a year, including brake and derailleur adjustments and chain lubing (for anyone, not just REI members)
• Easy returns or exchanges at your local store
• If you’re an REI member, the REI mechanics will fix any flat for free (forever)!
• Lightweight, aluminum frame
• Rear Shimano Altus derailleur shifts easily and smoothly
• 24 gears cover a wide range and trigger shifters shift smoothly, but might take a little getting used to
• The handlebars and stem on the CTY are a bit lower and flatter than other women’s hybrid bikes. This will work great for many women, but if you find yourself leaning too far forward, you can have your local REI put on a riser stem to put you a little more upright. (This is about $40.)
• If you’re looking to use a bike trailer, you’ll need a longer rear axle skewer to be able to attach the trailer hitch. After ordering online, simply call the store and request a longer skewer when they assemble the bike.
• Available in diamond or step-thru frame styles
• Co-Op Cycles CTY 2.1 ($799) The CTY 2.1 offers some solid upgrades. With front suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, and an upgraded drivetrain, the 2.1 is a great option for bumpier roads, has more stopping power, and also has smoother and easier shifting.

Cannondale Quick CX 4 Women’s Bike

Quality Hybrid Bike with Suspension

NOTE: The Cannondale Quick CX4, as described below, has been discontinued. The links in this article are now for the Quick 4, which does not have a suspension fork.

MSRP : $735+ SIZING: 4 sizes, for heights 4’10” to 5’10” BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBLE: Yes CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBLE : Yes, but smaller framed women’s models may not be a good fit for a frame-mounted rear seat . But all sizes should be able to fit front-mounted seats as well as rear rack-mounted seats. SUSPENSION FORK: Yes

The Cannondale Quick CX is a great choice for those riding mainly on paved surfaces, but with a few gravel or compact dirt trails thrown in. The CX stands for “cyclocross” which is a type of riding in which riders traverse grass, dirt, and paved surfaces. While not a true cyclocross bike, the Quick CX offers the functionality of a basic CX bike paired with the comfortable positioning of a hybrid bike.

• Rides incredibly smooth on paved surfaces. Pedal strokes feel quick and efficient as the bike easily climbs up mild ascents and glides down hills.
• Included tires have slight knobs that make them more suitable for mild gravel or compact dirt trails than smoother tires found on other hybrid bikes
• Trigger shifters are responsive and easy to use
• Women’s step-through version is available in 3 different frame sizes and the standard version has 4 frame sizes
• Front suspension fork helps smooth out the bumps and rocks along the way
• Available at REI, so you can order online and pick it up already assembled and tuned for no extra charge. Returns are just as easy!
• If purchased at REI, free adjustments and basic maintenance are free of charge for a year!
• The lower the CX model number (i.e. CX 1, 2), the higher the component quality (suspension fork, brakes, drivetrain) and the more expensive the bike
• Water bottle mounts on seat tube can prevent smaller models from being compatible with frame-mounted rear bike seats
• All CX models come with the same tires that are suitable on varied smooth terrains (paved to compact dirt trails)
• Standard models (diamond frame) tend to fit more rear bike seats than the women’s step-through models
• Cannondale Quick CX 4 ($725): 63 mm coil fork, 3×7 Shimano Tourney drivetrain, mechanical disc brakes
• Cannondale Quick CX 3 ($900): 63 mm coil fork, 2×8 Shimano Acera and Tourney drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes
• Cannondale Quick CX 2 ($1,150): 63 mm coil fork with lockout, 2×9 Shimano Acera and Alivio drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes

Womens Cruiser Bikes and Comfort Bikes

As the name implies, women’s cruiser bikes and comfort bikes are meant for cruising in comfort, usually for shorter distances. Here are a few distinguishing features you can typically expect in these bikes:

Distinguishing Features of Cruiser Bikes for Women

• HANDLEBARS: Comfort and cruiser bikes generally have swept-back handlebars. This style of handlebar allows a rider to sit up straight.
• BODY POSITION : Upright, with back straight. Many casual riders prefer to sit upright, instead of leaning forward to grasp the handlebars. This is personal preference, but is very comfortable for leisurely riding.
• WHEELS AND TIRES : Tires have smooth street tread, but their width does vary. Wider tires are considered the most cruiser style as they offer more cushioning than narrower tires.
• SADDLE : Wide, cushioning saddles cradle your bum and prevent “saddle soreness” that often comes with standard bike saddles that are more narrow. These wide saddles also often come with springs for light suspension that are more aesthetic than truly cushioning.
• BIKE TRAILERS and CHILD BIKE SEATS : Many cruiser and comfort bikes are compatible with bike trailers and child bike seats. However, because of the adult rider’s upright body position, pedaling is less efficient and generally more tiring, especially when hauling a child with your bike. For hauling kids longer distances or in hilly areas, we highly recommend a hybrid bike instead.
• For even more options, check out our article 7 Best Beach Cruisers and Cruiser Bikes .

Retrospec Chatham Step-Through Beach Cruiser

Single Speed, 3-Speed, or 7-Speed on a Budget

MSRP : $279 – $379 SIZING: One size, for women 5’0″ to 6’0″ BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBLE: Not recommended with a coaster brake only models CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBLE : Front frame, but not ideal with coaster brake only models

If you’re truly on a budget and looking for a beach cruiser bike, the Retrospec Chatham step-through models are an exceptional choice for a 26 inch women’s bike. Available in tons of fun colors as well as single speed, 3-speed, and 7-speed, there are plenty of options to fit your needs and budget.

Having tested many women’s bikes that are much more expensive, we were a bit shocked at how comfortable and easy the Retrospec Chatham women’s cruisers were to ride. Quite simply, they are a delightful bang for your buck! We tested the Chatham single speed with a coaster brake, and the Chatham Plus 7-speed with dual handbrakes.

Single-speed bikes are ideal for flat terrain, and have a lot fewer components that can break or need maintenance over time. Initial assembly is also incredibly easy – even if you’re not mechanically gifted.

Most single-speed beach cruisers have a coaster brake (back pedal brake). The benefit of coaster brakes is that they require very little adjusting or maintenance, but on the flip side, they take more effort to engage and don’t allow you to backpedal when trying to regain your balance. So if simplicity is a priority for you and you’re looking for a bike that won’t need a lot of tender loving care over time, the Retrospec Chatham single is a great choice.

The 7-speed Chatham Plus is a bit more expensive, but a better choice if you will be riding in hilly areas or near windy beaches. Trying to ride a single speed bike on lengthy climbs or against a gusty ocean wind is a challenge! With gears and dual handbrakes, you have more options for enjoyable riding adventures, paired with super solid stopping power. That said, initial assembly was significantly more involved than the single speed, and if you’re not a bike person, assembly is best left to a bike shop.

• Low price, low maintenance
• Single speed option keeps it simple for casual riding, and requires less maintenance over the long run
• 7-speed options are more versatile for riding in hilly areas, and also feature more powerful hand brakes
• Dual v-brakes offer solid stopping power, and are better than the brakes of some significantly more expensive cruiser bikes that only have pivot-style brakes
• Wider tires are more cushioning than the thinner tires of other women’s cruiser bikes we tested
• So many fun color options
• Most Retrospec Chatham models are offered in standard or “Plus”. The Plus models are a tad more expensive, but offer slightly upgraded parts. The biggest differences are that the Plus models have frames made from aluminum (vs. steel), which is more lightweight and rust-proof. Additionally, the Plus models have wider BigWave tires which add a bit more cushioning to your ride. The difference in cushioning was noticeable to us.
• If you are using your beach cruiser near an actual beach, the aluminum frame (and some components) of the Plus models are a better option to prevent rusting. (Although there are still some components that can rust.)
• We don’t recommend using a bike trailer or child bike seat with a bike that only has a coaster brake (single speed and 3 speed). The added stopping power needed when hauling kids is a bit much for a single coaster brake.
• Bikes with only coaster brakes and no handbrakes are cheaper, but harder to control your speed as you have to pedal backwards to slow down
• Assembly for 7-speed model is more involved than more expensive bikes on this list, and may require help from a bike shop
• Chatham Single Speed ($279): Steel frame, 1 gear, coaster brake
• Chatham Plus Single Speed ($319): Lighter-weight aluminum frame, 1 gear, coaster brake
• Chatham 3-speed ($349): Internally-geared 3-speed hub (no finicky derailleur), coaster brake
• Chatham 7-speed ($349): Steel frame, 7 gears, dual handbrakes
• Chatham Plus 7-speed ($379): Lighter-weight aluminum frame, 7 gears, dual handbrakes

Priority Classic Plus

MSRP : $599 SIZING: 3 sizes, for inseams ranging from 26″ – 36″ BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBLE: Requires special hub adapter CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBLE : Front frame, rear rack, (rear frame on diamond-frame only, not step-through)

The Priority Classic Plus offers exceptional quality in an easy-to-maintain package. If you’re looking for a women’s cruiser or comfort bike with gears, the 3-speeds of the Classic Plus offer plenty of range for casual riding and are easier to manage than bikes with more gears to shift through.

You probably learned to ride on a bike that had a coaster brake (back pedal brake), and may think that’s what you want now as well. All models of this bike come with a front and rear hand brake, and no coaster brake.

We highly recommend that you consider a bike no coaster brake. Dual hand brakes (and no coaster brake) make the riding experience easier and more natural. They also offer more stopping power, which will come in especially handy if you’ll be carrying a child on a child bike seat.

• If you don’t know much about bikes, bike maintenance can be a huge pain. The Priority Classic Plus’ grease-free belt drive and internally geared hub require very little, if any, maintenance. Most bikes have a chain drive and derailleur, which make the bike much more likely to end up in the bike shop.
• Assembly is streamlined and straightforward.
• If you want to carry a rear child bike seat on the women’s cruiser model (step-thru frame), you must also purchase a rack and buy a rack-mounted child bike seat. The diamond frame is compatible with both rack and frame-mounted rear child bike seats.
• Priority Classic Plus : With sweptback handlebars, an upright body position, and wider cushioning saddle, the Classic Plus is a true comfort/cruiser bike.
• Priority Classic Plus – Gotham : This women’s hybrid bike has straighter, flatter handlebars that allow a rider to lean forward while riding. It is easier to climb hills or gain higher speeds if you can lean in.
• Priority Coast : With more traditional beach cruiser styling and rust-fighting components.

Electra Townie 7D

Flat Foot Technology for Worry-free Cruising

MSRP : $630 SIZING: One size, for 4’11” – 6’0″ CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBLE : Front frame, rear rack (but not ideal for either)

The Electra Townie women’s bike is the ultimate bike for comfort cruising and is especially ideal for timid riders. Unlike traditional bikes, the Townie allows the rider to position the saddle lower to the ground so that they can touch the ground with their entire foot when starting and stopping the bike. As a result, the Townie is noticeably easier to start and stop for timid riders.

The secret to the Townie (and many of the bikes in Electra’s lineup) is Electra’s Flat-Foot technology. Electra Flat-Foot Technology has nothing to do with electronics or an app. It’s all about the frame design of the bike, which positions the pedals farther forward on the bike instead of directly under the rider.

This allows the rider to get a full leg extension with each pedal stroke by pushing in a more forward direction, instead of straight down. As a result, the seat doesn’t need to be as high and the rider is able to place their full foot flat on the ground when starting and stopping.

This set-up is fantastic for those who don’t have the best balance, or just for those less-than-confident riders who want more foot contact with the ground when stopping and starting. However, you need to know that because you are pushing more forward on the pedals than straight down, you don’t transfer as much power to the pedals. This makes it less ideal for hills, long distances, or carrying kids in bike trailers or child bike seats.

• Flat-foot technology is the top reason to choose this women’s cruiser bike. We were surprised just how comfortable it was and how much we loved being able to stop and start with our feet flat on the ground!
• 7 speeds gives you much more flexibility in climbing hills than most women’s cruiser bikes with just one speed
• 2″ wide tires are wider than others on this list, and add to a feeling of stability and cushioning
• Tons of fun color options
• The Townie has dual handbrakes and no coaster brake. Many women’s cruiser bikes have coaster brakes, but this isn’t one of them! Coaster brakes require less maintenance, but don’t allow you to backpedal and require more force to stop the bike.
• Offered in just one size, but from what we’ve seen, it fits this wide range of heights very well.
• While you can attach a child bike seat or bike trailer, this is really not the best bike for that set-up. We highly encourage you to look at hybrid bikes if you’ll be bringing kids along for the ride frequently.
• Electra Townie 7D : With Electra’s famous Flat-Foot Technology, the Townie is ideal for super comfort riding.
• Electra Townie Path 9D : Upgraded components like hydraulic disc brakes and a more expensive drivetrain with 9 speeds instead of 7 make the 9D a better bike, but not necessary for your average casual rider.
• Electra Loft 7D : If you love the comfort of an upright body position, but you want to ride longer distances or climb hills regularly, the pedal position of the Loft model is less flat-foot, but more efficient.

Electra Loft 7D

Best Women’s Cruiser for Longer Distances or Hauling Kids

MSRP : $650 SIZING: Two sizes to fit 5’0 – 6’3 BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBLE: Yes CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBLE : Front frame, rear rack

If you prefer an upright body position but want to go longer distances or haul kids, the Electra Loft 7D women’s bike is our favorite option. With 7 speeds, it will be much easier to adjust for the weight of a child on your bike as you tackle inclines or flat roads.

While the Loft 7D falls under Electra’s “flat-foot technology” category, its effect on this women’s bike is very small compared to the Townie – honestly, it’s not very noticeable. So if you really want to have your feet flat, you should go for the Townie. But if you just want to be upright, the pedal position on the Loft 7D is more like a standard bike, which allows you to get more leverage on the pedals. This makes riding long distances or with kids in tow more manageable.

• Efficient pedaling, upright body position, and 7 gears is a rare combination
• The uniquely designed split top tube makes this women’s comfort bike particularly stylish
• A small detail, but the pedals are both functional and pretty!
• Forward-placed pedals and large wheels mean that your toes could hit the tire when executing tight turns. This happened to us and is one of the few potential drawbacks of flat-foot technology when paired with larger wheels.
• The leather grips are gorgeous, but pretty slick with little grip. If this bothers you, just get some grip tape!
• Electra women’s bikes may not be compatible with all racks. The rack compatible with the Loft 7D is the Electra MIK Rear Rack .
• Electra Loft 7D : Features a standard derailleur.
• Electra Loft 7i : All the advantages of the Loft 7D, but with an internally geared hub that requires less maintenance than a traditional derailleur… but costs an extra $100.
• Electra Townie 7D : With Electra’s famous Flat-Foot Technology, if you prefer to set your feet down flat when stopping, the 7-speed Townie is for you.

SixThreeZero Around the Block Women’s Cruiser

Single Speed Honorable Mention

MSRP : $329 SIZING: One size, for women 5’0″ to 6’0″ BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBLE: Not recommended with a coaster brake only CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBLE : Front frame, rear rack, but not ideal with a coaster brake only

We tested the single-speed, 26″ wheel “Around the Block” women’s cruiser. While we prefer the higher overall quality of the Retrospec Chatham bikes (which are also cheaper!), if you find a SixThreeZero on super sale, it’s a decent option we can vouch for.

Womens Mountain Bikes (Recreational)

If you’ll be doing a lot of your riding on basic dirt trails, as well as the occasional ride on paved surfaces, a recreational mountain bike is the perfect choice for you. Recreational mountain bikes are not as fined-tuned as true mountain bikes and are not built to withstand the rigors of aggressive trail riding. However, they still provide plenty of cushioning and traction for basic, non-paved trails.

One of the major differences between a hybrid bike and a recreational mountain bike is the tires. The wider tires found on mountain bikes offer more traction and cushioning for off-road riding, but are slower-rolling on paved surfaces compared to hybrid bike tires. As a result, riding on paved surfaces on a mountain bike will require a bit more effort on your part than riding a hybrid bike on paved surfaces.

The difference between true trail bikes and recreational mountain bikes comes down to components and build. True trail bikes with hydraulic disc brakes and an air suspension fork (not necessary for the average rider) typically start around $1,200.

• HANDLEBARS: Wide and straight with a slight rise, mountain bike bars typically position the hands much wider than other bikes for increased stability, yet still in a comfortable position.
• BODY POSITION : Similar to a women’s hybrid bike, recreational mountain bikes place the rider in a semi-upright position with the rider’s torso slightly leaned in towards the handlebars.
• WHEELS : Wheel sizes range from 26″ to 29″. Wheel sizes vary widely between models as well as frame sizes. For basic riding, wheel size shouldn’t be a deciding factor.
• TIRES : Knobby, wider, and squishier than any other bike tire, mountain bike tires are designed to grip the trail as well as provide cushion from rocks and uneven surfaces.
• SUSPENSION: Most recreational women’s mountain bikes have basic coil spring forks which help to smooth out your ride. One of the biggest differences in price between mountain bikes is the suspension fork. Quality air suspension forks, which offer better cushioning for taking on larger obstacles, can more than double the cost of a bike.
• GEARS : More gears aren’t necessarily better. Due to simplicity, we prefer women’s mountain bikes with 8 to 12 gears and only one shifter (on the right hand). However, those bikes tend to be more expensive than bikes with two shifters (left and right hand) and 20+ gears.
• BIKE TRAILERS and CHILD BIKE SEATS : Recreational mountain bikes typically work well with rear mounted child bike seats (both rack and frame). Many lower-end mountain bikes also tend to be compatible with traditional front-mounted seats, but expensive mountain bikes typically are not. Mid-mount “mountain bike” child bike seats are usually a great choice for mountain bikes.

Polygon Xtrada 5

Entry-Level True Mountain Bike

MSRP : $799 SIZING: Four sizes, for heights 5’1″ to 6’4″ BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBLE: Yes CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBLE : Rear mounted-rack seats not compatible SUSPENSION FORK : Yes

The Polygon Xtrada 5 is a true entry level mountain bike that will have you hitting the trails without burning a hole in your pocket book. Designed to be comfortable enough for casual riding, yet aggressive enough for true trail riding, the Xtrada will comfortably take you from paved paths to single track trails.

The Xtrada is available in 3 different models, the Xtrada 5, 6 and 7, with the higher model numbers having higher-end components. The more trail riding you plan on doing, the higher the model number we would recommend.

We tested the Xtrada 5 on basic green MTB trails, but if you’re planning on doing more advanced trails, the simplified 1x drivetrain (only one derailleur in the back) and air fork on the Xtrada 7 (versus coil on the 5 and 6), are worth the added expense. If you plan on doing a bit of both, the Xtrada 6 is a great mid-range bike.

• Semi-upright geometry is comfortable for casual cruising, but aggressive enough for more adventurous riding
• Available in 4 different frame sizes and 2 different wheel sizes (27.5″ and 29″)
• Tektro hydraulic disc brakes for plenty of braking power in all riding conditions
• Easy to use trigger shifters with a wide range of gearing (2×10 drivetrain)
• Wider 2.25″ MTB tires are great on dirt trails, but have higher rolling resistance on paved surfaces compared to thinner tires on hybrid models.
• Coil-spring fork with 120mm of travel helps to smooth out small bumps along the trails, but is not built to take on aggressive trails with larger obstacles
• Wheel sizes vary by frame size – S is only available with 27.5″ wheels, M and L come with 27.5″ or 29″, and XL is only available with 29″
• Water bottle mounts on seat tube can prevent smaller models from being compatible with frame-mounted rear bike seats. The Xtrada also does not have mounts for a rear rack
• Polygon Xtrada 5 ($799): 120 mm coil suspension fork, hydraulic disc brakes, 2×10 Shimano Altus rear derailleur, 11-42T cassette, Shimano Deore trigger shifters
• Polygon Xtrada 6 ($899): 120 mm coil suspension fork, hydraulic disc brakes, 1×11 Shimano Deore rear derailleur, 11-51T cassette, Shimano Deore trigger shifters
• Polygon Xtrada 7 ($1,099): 120 mm air suspension fork, hydraulic disc brakes, 1×12 Shimano Deore rear derailleur, 10-51T cassette, Shimano Deore trigger shifters

Trek Marlin 5

High-Quality Versatility for Paved and Beginning Mountain Bike Trails

MSRP : $739 SIZING: 8 sizes, for heights ranging from 4’5” to 6’8” BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBLE: Yes CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBLE : Front frame, rear rack. Eyelets on seat tube may interfere with a rear frame mounted seat. SUSPENSION FORK: Yes

The Trek Marlin 5 is one of the most popular women’s mountain bikes on the market. We have been hugely impressed with how comfortable it is to ride, the precision of its braking, and its smooth and easy shifting – all at a reasonable price tag for those just getting started with trail riding. 

The Marlin 5 is in our “recreational” women’s mountain bike category because of its versatility. It was designed to excel at riding kids around the neighborhood, but is also right at home on mild dirt trails.

Our “mom bike tester” has been riding her Trek Marlin for about two years now and can’t stop raving about it. With a baby still in tow, she currently sticks primarily to paved trails with the baby on the back in a rear child bike seat. But dirt trails are in the near future as she and her boys tackle the new world of mountain biking together.

• Exceptional MTB geometry for a comfortable, stable ride
• 2.2” wide tires offer great traction and additional cushioning
• Hydraulic disc brakes for maximum stopping power
• Coil-sprung front fork provides light suspension to smooth out bumps on the trail or road, but can be locked out mid-ride to more efficiently climb hills
• Ergo grips are so comfortable and help prevent hand and wrist fatigue
• Kick stand mount for the win! While it doesn’t come with a kickstand, our mom bike tester easily added one.
• Even if you buy online, it can be assembled at your local bike shop
• While the Trek Marlin 5 is the most popular in the Marlin series, there is also a Trek Marlin 4, 6, 7, and 8. 
• Trigger shifters (vs grip shifters) are ideal for mountain biking because you can shift through several gears with just one push. The mechanics may be a new concept for you, but you’ll grasp it quickly.
• If you’re not sure “how much bike” you need, any bike in the Marlin series can easily be upgraded. You can always start with the “Goldilocks” Trek Marlin 5, and then upgrade components later as your budget allows, if you get more serious about mountain biking.
• Trek Marlin 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 : The higher the number, the better the components and the more expensive. If you’ll only ever be tackling mild dirt trails, you’re safe to stick with the lower numbers. If you’re serious about progressing your MTB skills, buy the highest number your budget will allow.

Womens eBikes

E-bikes are available for every style of women’s bike – from cruiser to mountain. For this article we focused on women’s e-bikes that are ideal for city riding, provide great value, and can also be used to haul littles ones around. When it comes to electric bikes, there is A LOT to learn as there are a wide variety of options that provide a vastly difference riding experience.

If you are new to e-bikes, be sure to check out our Womens Electric Bikes Buying Guide. From features to bike classes, it covers everything you need to know about e-bikes before you purchase, and also highlights more bikes than are found here. Here are some notable differences to be aware of:

• USE : Buy a bike that matches how you want to use it. Like regular bikes, a city bike with thin tires won’t have enough traction on dirt trails and a bike with fat, knobby, all-terrain tires will be heavy and slow rolling on paved surfaces.
• CLASS: There are 3 classes of e-bikes – class 1, 2 and 3. The classes differ by how fast the motor will propel the bike and whether or not the bike as a throttle. Bikes with throttles (class 2 or class 3) are prohibited in some areas, so be sure to check your local laws before your purchase.
• THROTTLE : The throttle on an e-bike propels the bike forward completely independent of the pedals of the bike. With a throttle, pedaling an e-bike is optional.
• TORQUE SENSOR : Higher-end bikes with torque sensors allow you to control the speed of the bike with the pedals (like you do on a regular bike). Lower-end bikes typically do not have a torque sensor, so speed is controlled via the throttle, by braking, and by tempering speed by coasting.
• MOTOR : The higher the Watt rating on the motor, the more power available to power up hills. For city riding, a lower-end watt motor will do just fine.
• WEIGHT : e-bikes are very heavy! Most are too heavy for car-mounted bike racks, so don’t plan on transporting your e-bike with your car without buying a heavy duty hitch rack.
• BIKE TRAILERS and CHILD BIKE SEATS : We DO NOT recommend using a bike trailer on an e-bike. (Unless that e-bike’s max speed can be lowered, like the Priority e-Coast .) Most trailers have a max MPH of 10 to 15 mph which is really easy to accidentally blast past on an ebike. Going faster than the recommended speed puts the trailer at risk of tipping over. As long as you are cautious with your speed, many e-bikes are compatible with front or rear rack-mounted child bike seats.

Aventon Pace 500.3

Amazingly fun, comfortable, and affordable e-bike

MSRP : $1,699 SIZING: Two sizes to fit heights 5’1″ to 6’4″ BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBLE: No – you shouldn’t pull a trailer with an e-bike CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBLE : Rear rack seat and some front mounted FULL REVIEW : Aventon Pace 500

Our testers continually raved about how much they loved the Aventon Pace 500. In addition to being comfortable, easy to use, and affordable, it is also extremely fun to ride! Whether you are looking for a bike to replace short car trips around town, need some extra assistance to tackle longer bike rides, or simply want a bike to reignite your love of biking, the Aventon Pace fits the bill.

What makes the Pace so much fun? Unlike other similarly-priced e-bikes, the Pace accelerates smoothly with no jolting or lag time. The “natural” feel of the Pace keeps the rider at ease and feeling in control, even when just using the throttle and not pedaling. The integration of the motor on other e-bikes isn’t as smooth, leaving the bike to feel more mechanical and less “graceful”.

Extremely versatile, the Pace is compatible with a rear bike rack for carrying cargo or a child bike seat, and comes standard with front and rear fenders, as well as integrated frame lights that make the Pace hard to miss in low-light situations.

For added fun, this Aventon e-bike also provides a free app to help you track everything from your miles to your average speed. The app also contains an active community of helpful members who regularly share tips, inspirational rides, and maintenance hacks.

If you happen to live in an area in which Class II e-bikes are prohibited (e-bikes with throttles are considered Class II), the throttle on the Pace can quickly and easily be removed. The pedal assist modes on the bike are not affected by removing the throttle.

• The Pace 500 is ridiculously fun to ride, with or without the throttle! We’ve tested out several different e-bikes at various price points and the Pace was a clear winner in the “fun” department.
• Offers a comfortable, upright body positioning
• Thickly padded saddle is comfortable for all types of riders
• Throttle is easily removable and bike can function without it
• Available with a standard or step-through frame
• Integrated lights along the side and back of the bike’s frame
• Sleek design that allows the battery to seamlessly blend into the frame, yet still be removable (battery can be charged on or off the frame)
• Compatible with rear rack for hauling gear or for adding a child bike seat
• Free app to help you track miles and milestones, battery life, turn on or off the lights
• The Pace 500 is pretty fast! The speed can easily be controlled via the 5 different pedal assist modes, but it does take a bit to get used to its speed.
• The newest 500.3 has a torque sensor, while previous models did not. This allows you to control the speed of the bike with your pedal stroke, which provides a much more natural ride feel.
• Aventon Pace 500.3 ($1,699): 500 W motor, hydraulic disc brakes, 28 mph max pedal assist, 40 mile battery life, torque sensor
• Aventon Pace 500.3 Step-Through ($1,699): Same as 500 but with step-through frame

Priority e-Classic Plus

Best ebike for a Natural Ride Feel

MSRP : $1,699 SIZING: Three sizes – Step-thru (5’2 – 5’10), S/M Diamond frame (5’6 – 5’10”), M/L Diamond frame (5’11 – 6’3″) BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBLE: No CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBLE : Rear rack seat and some front mounted FULL REVIEW : Priority e-Classic Plus

If you are hesitant to get an ebike, the Priority e-Classic Bike is likely the bike for you! Designed to feel and ride like a traditional analog bike, the e-Classic provides just enough boost to help you keep up with others or ride faster, but without the uneasy surges of power often felt on ebikes.

Built with a 250W front-hub motor, the e-Classic provides gentle power that is noticeable, but not overwhelming. With three power assist levels as well as three gears, there are plenty of riding options for casual riding.

The e-Classic Plus also excels in being easy to take care of! Instead of a greasy chain, the bike is equipped with a smooth and quiet rolling grease-free belt drive. The bike also lacks a finicky derailleur as the bike’s three gears are located in the bike’s rear hub. Shifting the gears is still super easy via the bikes grip shifter on the handlebar.

• Quiet, grease-free carbon belt replaces the traditional chain on the bike, leading to a quite ride and minimal maintenance
• Smaller 250W front hub motor helps you ride faster or further without feeling too powerful, uneasy or out of control
• Bike comes with full front and rear fenders as well as a tail light that also functions as a rear brake light
• Hydraulic disc brakes for plenty of stopping power
• Double-footed kickstand makes it easy to get on and off the bike without worrying about it falling over
• The e-Classic Plus does not come with a throttle, you must pedal to activate the motor. We don’t miss is though as the bike is seriously a blast to ride and feel very much like riding a traditional bike.
• There is no derailluer to worry about! The bike has three gears that are located within the bikes rear hub (you still change gears via a shifter on the handlebar). The gears works great for around town, but you’ll likely want more gears if you live in a hilly area.
• Pedal assists modes are easy changed via the bikes’ front display (3 modes).
• The 250W motor is low compared to most ebikes, but its lower power leads to the bikes very natural ride feel. If you want an ebike to help keep up with friends and family on traditional bikes, this is the bike for you. If your trying to keep up with others on ebikes, you’ll likely want a bike with at least a 500W motor.
• One model available in Step-thru and Diamond Frame

Women’s Bikes – Related Articles

If you’re getting a bike, you might also need a helmet and a bike rack! Check out these articles for a quick and easy breakdown of what to look for as well as our top picks. 10 Best Women’s Bike Helmets : If you need a bike, you need a helmet! Here are our 10 favorites for all style of riding. 10 Best Hitch Bike Racks : We’ve personally used all of the bike racks we recommend. Which one is right for you? Check out this article! e-Bikes Buying Guide : (it’s geared towards kids, but the information is still the same)

FTC Disclosure:  Affiliate links are included in this review.  No monetary compensation was provided for this review, however, some of the reviewed product was supplied by the manufacturer or distributor to help facilitate this review. All opinions and images are that of Two Wheeling Tots LLC.  All content and images are copyrighted and should not be used or replicated in any way. View our  Terms of Use.

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Best women's hybrid bikes 2024 and how to choose between them

Our top picks of the best women's hybrid bikes, with lots of helpful advice on how to find your ideal bicycle for mixed terrain riding

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Capable of tackling tarmac or heading off piste, the best women's hybrid bikes take their influence from both road and off road bikes. They are a great option for anyone who is looking for two wheeled adventures, but who doesn't want to be committed to just one style of riding. 

Choosing a women’s specific bike is not for every female rider, and cycling brands have even flip-flopped over the years in their manufacturing of them. Our guide includes genuine hand picked options that we think make ideal women's specific hybrid bikes, as well as lots of helpful hints and tips on how to find your perfect match. 

Just because a bike isn’t labelled as a 'women’s bike’ doesn’t mean it can’t be ridden by a woman, we've even got a whole page on Is ‘women’s specific geometry’ still relevant? However, there are certainly benefits to be gained from purchasing a women’s specific bike. It's likely to have features like a women's specific saddle , shorter cranks or narrower handlebars for more comfortable riding.

As well as this, certain models will adjust the geometry of the bike so that it is more suited to the shape of the average woman. That includes, for instance, shortening the top tube, as traditionally bikes have been manufactured with long top tubes to accommodate men’s proportionally longer arms compared to their legs.

Best women's hybrid bikes 2022

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

• Best men's hybrid bikes
• Best women's gravel bikes
• Best women's electric bikes
• Best fitness bikes

Trek FX 3 disc women's hybrid bike

Specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

Performance, comfort and utility can all be found in Trek ’s versatile FX 3 hybrid model. It has an aluminium frame and a lightweight carbon fork that is designed to absorb vibrations, giving you a smooth, controlled ride over rougher terrain.

With a 46/30 chainset and an 11-36 cassette, the 2x9 Shimano Acera drivetrain provides more than enough gears to tackle the steepest of hills. However, with the wide range cassette you may find yourself stuck between gears at times.

The FX 3 has reliable and controllable braking power in all conditions, thanks to Shimano’s MT201 hydraulic disc brakes it’s fitted with. Complementing this, the Bontrager H2 700x32c tyres offer sufficient grip for poor conditions, without compromising rolling speed.

This model is also fitted with a women-specific design saddle which is engineered to fully support the female anatomy.

Boardman HYB 8.8 women’s hybrid bike

Our expert review:

Coming in nearly 1 kilogram lighter than the previous Boardman HYB 8.6 model, the HYB 8.8 boasts lighter and better components to complement its reliable alloy frame and carbon forks. It was one of our Editor's Choice picks in 2021.

The 8.8 model is fitted with Shimano Deore 1 x 10 gears to ensure quick, smooth and reliable gear shifting. With one chainring at the front and a 11-42 tooth cassette at the rear, the drivetrain is lighter with less to go wrong or to maintain. The wide range cassette means there is still ample gearing for most situations.

Boardman have tailored this ride to the needs of females by kitting the bike out with narrower bars, shorter stems and a women’s specific saddle.

Mounts for mudguards and a pannier rack are also included in this model that delivers great versatility.

Read more: Boardman HYB 8.8 Women's bike review

Carrera Subway 1 women's hybrid bike

For just over £300, this is a value for money option that will give even nervous riders confidence with its predictable handling and the stopping power of its mechanical disc brakes.

The Carrera Subway 1 comes with a subtle frame geometry tweak—a dropped top tube—for the women’s specific build.

With Kenda tyres designed with an extra Kevlar layer for puncture proofness, mudguard and pannier mounts, the Subway 1 is certainly versatile. Complementing this, its 2x8 gear set up is robust and has a broad range. But it is also not as comfortable as other options, so we’d not recommend it if you’re going on long adventures.

Read more: Carrera Subway review

Pinnacle Lithium 3 women’s hybrid bike

The Lithium 3 can handle any terrain you dare to ride with ease, as a do it all hybrid. Pinnacle, the in-house brand at Evans Cycles, has combined a rigid 29er mountain bike with 40c tyres for ample rolling ability on tarmac. This bike provides controllability over rough terrain and speed down the streets.

With wide clearance and space for 2.2” MTB tyres, the Lithium is built with versatility in mind and can be easily adapted to explore local trails, fields and forests.

Coming in at 12.5kg, the Lithium’s alloy frame and steel fork doesn’t make for the lightest of bikes. But, equipped with Shimano Acera triple chainset (44-32-22) and a 11-32 tooth cassette, you shouldn’t struggle up the hills. The only noteworthy issue with weight comes when trying to carry the bike.

Read more: Pinnacle Lithium 4 women’s hybrid bike

Ribble Hybrid AL women’s hybrid bike

Ribble’ s Hybrid AL range of comfortable and reliable bikes starts with the commuter edition at £799, but as with all Ribble's bikes you can choose between a range of specs and use the Bike Builder online to customise the bike to your desires. 

With hydraulic disc brakes, you can ride with confidence whatever the terrain. There's even a beefed-up Trail spec if you want to use the bike predominantly off-road.

With a 2x9 speed drivetrain and 11-32 tooth cassette the AL comes with sufficient range of gears, low maintenance and reliability. 

Ribble’s customisable Bike Builder gives you the option of four women’s specific saddles giving you freedom for comfort. The base-level spec even comes ready-fitted with mudguards and a rack for commuting duties.

We've reviewed the electric version of Ribble's hybrid, which was an Editor's Choice pick in 2020.

Read more: Ribble Hybrid Al E review

Cannondale Quick Women's 4 Hybrid Bike

Staying true to its name, the Quick range are Cannondale ’s machines for speed and confidence when commuting and leisure riding.

Sitting in the middle is the Quick 4, which is equipped with hydraulic disc brakes and a 9 speed drivetrain.

Fitted with a chromoly fork, this bike is designed to withstand the demands of city riding by reducing road vibrations. While the alloy frame has Cannondale’s OutFront Steering Geometry to provide added stability for sweeping your way across town.

The Quick 4, like all other Quick models, features bright 360° reflective components as an important safety measure. This model has also flat handlebars for a comfortable and stable upright riding position, which is useful when keeping an eye on traffic.

B'Twin Riverside 920

The B'Twin Riverside 920 from Decathlon is a relatively lightweight hybrid with an upright riding position and a comfortable ride. 

The Riverside 920 comes with a Suntour suspension fork. This has a lockout, so you can use the suspension on rougher surfaces, but disable it on smooth surfaces for a quicker, more efficient, less bouncy ride. 

There's hydraulic disc braking too, for assured stopping power, while the 11-speed SRAM drivetrain gives plenty of range and ratios. The Riverside 920 comes with quality Mavic wheels too. It's a high value package for the money.

Read more: B'Twin Riverside 920 review

Anatomy of a women's hybrid bike

At first glance, the sheer range and variety of hybrid bikes can seem overwhelming but they do have many features in common.

Key features to expect in a hybrid bike are listed below. In the women's specific models, you'll expect a women's saddle, and narrower handlebars as well as a spread of sizes more suited to shorter riders.

Mounting points for panniers and mudguards

Carrying weight on the bike is more pleasant than on your back as it takes the weight off your shoulders and lowers your centre of gravity. Using panniers also saves getting all sweaty from where the backpack touches your skin. However do bear in mind, backpacks are more versatile and can prove useful if your journey involves sections which are not done on the bike.

Mudguards are important in helping to keep you drier when it’s raining as you won’t be flicking additional water onto yourself. But significantly, and often overlooked, they also keep you dry when it’s not raining and there’s still water on the roads.

You will find points for mounting the panniers and mudguards by the front and rear axles, at the top of the seat stays and at the crown of the fork.

Clearance for wider tyres for comfort

As your only direct contact point with the ground, tyre choice has a large effect on the comfort of your ride and the terrain you can ride on. Wider tyres provide more grip and don’t sink into soft surfaces—like mud and gravel—to the same extent as narrower tyres. In having a greater volume of air over narrower tyres, they also are better able to absorb bumps and potholes and provide greater comfort.

A good starting point is to look for a tyre that is at least 35mm wide, although you can get tyres that are up to 60mm wide on some machines, although they tend to be better for off-road use and may slow you down on tarmac due to higher rolling resistance. 

Upright position for comfort and better view in and around traffic

A more upright position puts less pressure on your hands, as your weight is transferred to your sit bones instead. It can be more comfortable to be more upright if you have a backpack, as when you are bent over with a backpack it can be quite unstable and flop from side to side.

Another benefit of a more upright position is that it provides you with a better view of the traffic, helping you to safely navigate around the cars on your commute.

Flat handlebars for control, comfort and price point

With flat handlebars the shifting and braking are straightforward, which is especially useful if you are not used to a road bike set up.

There is the added benefit that the brakes and shifters are significantly cheaper for flat handlebars than the integrated brakes and shifters of road bikes. This keeps down the initial cost of these bikes and saves you money on any future repairs.

Wide range of gears

Gears are the way that your pedal strokes are converted into efficient forward motion. Given that there is a relatively narrow range of cadences that are comfortable to ride in (70-100rpm), but the speeds that we commonly travel at can range from 10kph to 60kph, it’s important to have a large range of gears so that we can ride at our preferred cadence, whatever the speed.

But absolute range is not the only consideration. Small and even gaps between the gears help us to fine-tune the gear we are riding in and prevent us from being stuck between two gears, one too big and one too small.

A triple crankset with an 8 speed cassette, for example, provides an affordable way of getting enough absolute range whilst still having acceptable jumps between the gears. While a double with a wide range 10 speed cassette is pricier, it is also lighter weight and provides a similar range with similar jumps to the 3x8.

If you are only riding on the flat and not carrying heavier loads, you will be able to do with a smaller range of gears, which will simplify riding and maintenance and save a little weight.

Disc brakes for controlled and reliable braking

Disc brakes provide greater power than rims brakes, and the price of this increase in braking performance is dropping all the time—so we are seeing far more hybrid bikes at all price points coming with disc brakes. Where disc brakes particularly excel is stopping in the wet. This is an important aspect for a hybrid that is being used for commuting as it is likely going to be needed in all weather conditions.

Hydraulic disc brakes also provide better modulation and have a significantly lighter lever action, so they are far easier to use than other braking mechanisms and they're a sealed system so there should be less maintenance needed.

Rugged tyres for fewer punctures

The last thing you want to be doing when commuting or on a leisurely cycle is to be having to change an inner tube. Although the more rugged tyres don’t roll as fast and are a little heavier, these are small trade-offs for the inconvenience of a puncture.

Many hybrid bikes are now coming with tubeless ready wheels and tyres, which help to lower the risk of being stopped by a puncture.

High spoke count for robust wheels

If you want to carry heavy loads, a high spoke count will help with that as less tension is put through each of the spokes, leading to a more robust, durable wheel.

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Hannah is Cycling Weekly’s longest-serving tech writer, having started with the magazine back in 2011. She has covered all things technical for both print and digital over multiple seasons representing CW at spring Classics, and Grand Tours and all races in between.

Hannah was a successful road and track racer herself, competing in UCI races all over Europe as well as in China, Pakistan and New Zealand.

For fun, she's ridden LEJOG unaided, a lap of Majorca in a day, won a 24-hour mountain bike race and tackled famous mountain passes in the French Alps, Pyrenees, Dolomites and Himalayas. 

She lives just outside the Peak District National Park near Manchester UK with her partner, daughter and a small but beautifully formed bike collection. 

All that glitters may not be gold, but silver doesn't half look good on a bike

By James Shrubsall Published 10 April 24

Patrick Casey got his chance to ride the Hell of the North after going through the Red Bull Junior Brothers programme

By Adam Becket Published 10 April 24

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Best women’s hybrid bikes - town bikes designed for women

Get in your daily exercise while travelling on two wheels, with our pick of the best women’s hybrid bikes

Whether you're planning to cycle to work or go on some leisurely weekend rides, the best women's hybrid bikes are designed to do almost anything you want them to. As their name suggests, the best hybrid bikes borrow aspects of road and mountain bikes to deliver a ride that feels comfortable and can handle most weather and road conditions. It's for this reason that hybrids often make the best commuter bikes . They offer simplicity, function and fun while covering the entire pricing spectrum so there’s something for everyone.

When it comes to women's specific bikes, there are certain design aspects that will differ from unisex bikes. They won't always work for everyone, as everybody is different, but body geometry data tends to suggest that the average woman's proportions require different frame geometry. Plus they'll often be fitted with the best women's saddles for anatomically-considered comfort.

Read on for our picks of the best women’s hybrid bikes you can buy today, or skip down to our rundown of key things to know when shopping for the best women’s hybrid bikes.

1.Cannondale Quick Women's 3

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

If you're looking for something that will both get you around town and help you build your fitness, the women's model of the Cannondale Quick is a great place to start. Taking many of its design cues from road bikes, this flat-bar fitness-focused speed machine puts the 'fun' in functional and does exactly what it says on the tin.

Reviewer Mildred found the aluminium frame to be lightweight and stiff, delivering a smooth and comfortable ride while allowing you to accelerate quickly. If you're constantly sleeping through your alarm and rushing to work, this bike could help you shave a bit of time off that commute. 

The Quick offers pretty good value for money, delivering high performance, pre-installed speed sensors for easy app compatibility, an integrated SP-Connect mount on the stem for a smartphone dashboard, and a beautiful emerald green metallic paint job to boot.

To keep the price down, Cannondale opts for a mixed array of branded drivetrain components, including Shimano, Prowheel and Sunrace, but the end result is still an efficient, fun and zippy ride with precise handling that's sure to boost your confidence (if you need it).

2.Liv Alight DD Disc 2

Liv Cycling makes its bikes for women, by women, and so it is the obvious brand to check out if you’re looking for a women-specific model. Its 3F Design Philosophy draws upon women’s body dimensions data to tailor bikes for the perfect fit, form and function. It blends urban style with road bike agility, thanks to its lightweight design and stable, confident ride quality. Of course, all bodies are different, so it won't suit everyone's proportions. If you have a shorter reach and slightly longer legs than your upper half, you'll most likely love the way Livs fit. However, if you've got a longer torso and reach, you might find the Liv geometry a little cramped.

The Liv Alight DD Disc is the most up-to-date version of its flagship aluminium hybrid bike, ideal for commuting or casual spinning around town. The 2x8 speed Shimano Altus drivetrain with 11/34T cassette and 46/30T chainrings provides a very nice wide range of gears with a very low gear to help you get up the most challenging hills in your area. With all the mounts needed to add racks and mudguards, it is suitable to carry luggage and ride year-round in wet conditions.

The bike comes stock with 38mm wide puncture-resistant tyres, but the frame can accommodate up to 42mm tyre width, so if you're riding in all weathers (or even taking in some off-road trails), throwing on some thicker rubber will help you maintain traction and boost your confidence.

3.Specialized Sirrus X 2.0

Specialized notably moved away from gendered bike models a few years back, and instead introduced a wide array of sizes to cater for as many people as possible. 

The unisex Sirrus 2.0 is designed to be a practical, but speedy and fun way to get around town on two wheels. Its sporty looks tell you all you need to know: this bike is nippy and nimble, making it a great choice for those who like to tear up the streets (or are often running late!). 

The A1 alloy frame is sturdy and forgiving on bumpy roads, and the dropped seat stay design adds some flex and comfort. The cables are routed internally for a neat finish, while mounts for mudguards and racks make it possible to turn the Sirrus into a year-round functional workhorse. The stock 42mm tyres should also help smooth out the ride, and feel super plush on even the worst road surfaces.

Stopping power comes in the form of hydraulic disc brakes, helping you modulate your braking regardless of the weather. Finally, the 1x8 MicroSHIFT drivetrain shifts reliably and smoothly and, while there are fewer gears than some other options on this list, means it's much simpler to handle and is still a capable climber.

4.Cube Touring EXC Urban Bike

Technically this belongs on the list of the best touring bikes , but when you're looking at do-it-all hybrids, a tourer is worth considering. We recognise that a huge amount of women carry out a lot of unpaid labour, from childcare to running errands, so you don't need to travel the world to get the most out of this workhorse.

The Cube Touring EXC is designed for urban riding and comes readily fitted with all the accessories you could possibly need for a year-round all-weather commuter, shopper and do-everything-er. From mudguards and a rear rack to a kickstand and dynamo-fed lighting, there's hardly anything you'll need to add.

Being a technical tourer, the Touring EXC comes with the now rather untrendy (but still incredibly practical) triple chainset, offering an enormous range of gears to deal with even the most undulating journeys. The short-travel Suntour suspension fork allows for extra comfort and features a lockout if you want to make it rigid.

5.GT Transeo Sport Step Thru Urban Bike

If you're looking for something simple and comfortable, this entry-level urban bike from the GT Transeo range has a sloping step-through frame to make mounting and dismounting as easy and convenient as possible. This can be especially handy for anyone who has limited mobility, especially in the hips.

It’s designed for comfort, with nice wide 40mm tyres to cushion bumpy road surfaces, as well as ‘floating’ seat stays, which add flexibility to the rear of the bike below the saddle. This acts as a kind of suspension below the point where your weight is supported, to help absorb shocks in the road and keep you comfortable for longer.

The Shimano Tourney drivetrain and mechanical disc brakes are basic, but at this price point, they provide good value for money. Similarly to the Cube Touring above, the GT Transeo comes with a triple chainset and seven gears at the back, so there’s ample range to get you up your local hills while also maintaining speed on the flat, for an efficient ride that won’t break the bank.

6.Cannondale Treadwell 3

With its slightly retro look and paintwork, the Cannondale Treadwell 3 is a women’s sports hybrid that brings fun and style into the daily run-around. It brings together several traits across the cycling spectrum into one well-thought-out package. 

It's an especially good option if you're someone who loves to track their ride data and have connectivity wherever they go. With its integrated stem mount, it’s easier than ever to connect your smartphone to your cockpit and load up the free Cannondale App. Use this as a dashboard so you can see your speed, and the distance you’ve covered and gather other ride data to monitor your fitness progress. Better than that, it’s a great way to help navigate your journeys when you’re travelling somewhere new.

Our reviewer, Mildred, found the Treadwell to be a really enjoyable and comfortable cruiser about town, and she particularly appreciated the plush thick tyres, the comfortable cruising position provided by the BMX-inspired handlebars, and the quilted saddle and ribbed grips that keep everything plush and comfy. 

7.Boardman HYB 8.8 Women’s Hybrid Bike

Bearing the name of Olympic gold medallist Chris Boardman, this women’s hybrid offers superb value for money and is pretty easy on the eyes as well. Many of its design cues are borrowed from the brand's higher-tiered SLR road range, including a carbon fork, which not only reduces the overall weight of the bike but also helps to soak up the buzz from the road.

With 1x10 Shimano Deore gearing, combined with Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, the Boardman HYB 8.8 is a reliable and versatile bike that provides hassle-free riding. As an added bonus, the stock tyres are 35mm wide Schwalbe Citizens, which feature Kevlar puncture protection. These should keep you riding for longer all year round, while mounts for mudguards and racks help make it even more versatile and great value for money.

The contact points have been chosen with women's comfort in mind, including soft-touch ergonomic grips that work well for smaller hands, and Boardman's own women's saddle design.

8.Whyte Victoria Compact

The Whyte Victoria Compact is the women's version of the brand's Portobello hybrid bike. The Victoria comes with a more compact frame geometry, as the name suggests, which means a shorter reach and lower standover height. This makes it a perfect option for shorter riders.

While we're yet to officially review it on the site, reviewer Mildred spent several years riding one and found it to be an incredibly comfortable and capable hybrid. The frame geometry suited her 5'2/156cm build in a size XS, while the slightly smaller 650B wheels keep everything in proportion. The plush 47mm WTB Horizon tyres soak up almost all the bumps in uneven road surfaces, delivering a super smooth ride.

Since Mildred's older version, the Victoria has been modernised somewhat, now complete with a lighter alloy fork. Hydraulic brakes help to modulate speed, while Shimano's reliable Deore 1x10 gearing delivers smooth shifting and efficient pacing regardless of the gradient.

9.Marin Larkspur 2

Whether you like to stand out with something completely different, or just want the most comfortable ride possible, the Marin Larkspur is an interesting choice. Visually it's striking, with its mixte-inspired step-thru frame, wide and swept back flat handlebars, and incredibly chunky 27.5 x 2.35in tyres.

Reviewer Mildred currently rides one of these around Bristol, with all its hills, and takes full advantage of the massive cassette and low gearing. Everything about the bike screams 'supple', from the super plush GPVee tyres to the CroMo steel frame and fork, and the flexible alloy Sweeper bars. If you want comfort, this is a goer. 

Another super interesting feature is the inclusion of a short-travel dropper post. Why have a dropper on a town bike, you may ask? Simple. Whether you're a little wobbly while coming to a stop, or just like to have a well-earned rest whenever possible, dropping the saddle at a red light means you can land with both feet flat on the ground.

Despite its looks, the Larkspur is very versatile, can go off-road if you want it to, or you can do what Mildred did: attach a basket to the front and take it on the grocery run.

10.Fuji Declaration

If you live in a flat area (or love a challenge) then another low-maintenance way to go is to opt for a single-speed bike, which literally has one gear. This takes away all the fuss of shifting up and down gears to match the gradient you’re on and puts all the focus back into simply pedalling and getting out of the saddle to climb. 

With the flip-flop hub, you can also turn the rear wheel around to convert it into a fixed-gear bike for even more of a challenge. The Fuji Declaration is designed to make cycling fun and challenging, particularly when your city is flat as a pancake and needs a bit of spicing up. It’s certainly great if you’re on a budget as well.

For some, this may not make it the best commuter option (especially if there are no showers at the other end), but it is a fantastic way to get fit quickly, and riding single-speed or fixed can be super fun and challenging.

How to choose the best women’s hybrid bike

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.

The sheer range and variety of women's hybrid bikes on offer can be overwhelming, but it doesn't need to be. Many of them share similar features already, so the key is knowing what you want to use the bike for, and deciding which qualities are the most important to you. 

For example, do you need to carry a lot with you, or can you get away with a minimal setup and travelling light? If you need lots of accessories, like racks, mudguards, kickstands and lights, you might want to opt for something that's ready to roll with everything pre-installed. Or, depending on where you live and what the landscape is like, you may need to prioritise practical gearing and braking over everything else.

Here are some frequently asked questions about how to choose the best women's hybrid bike, to help you narrow down your options.

Which features should I look for?

There are a lot of choices you could make when choosing a bike. For example,  flat handlebars or drop bars? Disc brakes or rim brakes? Mechanical or hydraulic?

To alleviate the headache that comes with all these decisions, we've provided a selection of bikes that have enough differences to hopefully cover all bases for a variety of needs (like commuters, shoppers or those wanting to get fit, for instance). However, we've made some of these decisions for you because we firmly believe they're the best options:

All the bikes listed here have flat bars. Hybrids generally have flat bars, and drop bars are usually reserved for the best road bikes and the best gravel bikes . Flat bars put you in an upright seated position, which is often the most comfortable and helps you to both see better in traffic, and be more visible.

Disc brakes

With the exception of the Fuji Declaration, all the bikes listed here have disc brakes. That's because disc brakes are arguably the most effective at modulating speed and bringing you to a halt safely in unsafe riding conditions. There are of course the purists who prefer rim brakes, but for a commuter, shopper, or general go-about-town-er, disc brakes are the safest and most practical option.

You will find a mixture of hydraulic and mechanical disc brakes, and the key difference here namely comes down to price. Hydraulic disc brakes are the most effective, but they're more expensive. Cable-operated (mechanical) disc brakes do just as good a job for most people, are cheaper, and are easier to maintain.

The amount of gears you need is specific to you. Generally, modern bikes nowadays come with 1x or 2x gearing, which refers to the number of chainrings at the front. However there are still some 3x (triple chainsets) still kicking about, and they definitely serve a practical purpose, offering the widest range of gears possible.

1x is the simplest option as it only requires you to use one lever to shift between your gears, whereas 2x features two rows of gear ranges, which you change between using your opposite hand. The range of gears they offer tends to be similar, though 1x can offer a wider gear range while using a clutched rear derailleur (which aids chain retention) and narrow-wide chainrings to prevent your chain from falling off.

A 1x drivetrain will tend to be more expensive but is the simplest to use. Opt for a 2x if your budget is tight, and make sure you learn how to use your gears efficiently.

Do I need a women's bike?

This is always a contentious issue for many, because no two bodies are the same, regardless of gender. Some women, particularly those on the shorter side with less reach, will likely benefit from a women's specific bike like those built by Liv. Liv is the only all women's bike brand that builds its frames from the ground up using only female body dimensions data.

However, not all women fit into this category. If you're taller and have a longer reach, then you're likely to feel a bit cramped on Liv's bikes, and probably want to opt for a unisex fit with female-specific contact points, such as the saddle and grips.

For women’s specific models, you can expect the contact points, namely the saddle and handlebars, to be specced specifically for women’s anatomies. 

Some of the bikes in this list are designed to be unisex, making them suitable for both women and men to ride. In these instances, you may wish to swap out the stock saddle with one that you personally find more comfortable, if it doesn’t feel right for you. 

Whether or not you need a women's bike is debatable and personal to you. We've gone into a lot more detail on this in our feature, Can women ride men's bikes? so be sure to head there next if you're not sure what's right for you.

Really though the short answer is: the best bike for you is the one that fits.

What size bike do I need?

Whether you're new to cycling or have struggled in the past with an ill-fitting bike, you'll want to get the right size. We've got a comprehensive bike size guide that goes into a lot of detail to help you get the right fit.

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Mildred joined as Reviews Writer for Cyclingnews and BikePerfect in December 2020. She loves all forms of cycling from long-distance audax to daily errand-running by bike, and does almost everything on two wheels, including moving house, and started out her cycling career working in a bike shop. For the past five years she's volunteered at The Bristol Bike Project as a mechanic and session coordinator, and now sits on its board of directors.

Since then she's gone on to write for a multitude of cycling publications, including Bikeradar, Cycling Plus, Singletrack, Red Bull, Cycling UK and Total Women's Cycling. She's dedicated to providing more coverage of women's specific cycling tech, elevating under-represented voices in the sport, and making cycling more accessible overall. 

Height: 156cm (5'2")

Weight: 75kg

Rides: Stayer Groadinger UG, Triban RC520 Women's Disc, Genesis Flyer, Marin Larkspur, Cotic BFe 26, Clandestine custom bike

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The 12 Best Bikes for Women for Commuting, Beach Rides, and More

Schwinn's GTX 3 Hybrid Bike features a 21-speed drivetrain and rides comfortably

Lindsey Lanquist is a writer and editor specializing in fashion, lifestyle, and health content. Her work has appeared in SELF, StyleCaster, SheKnows, MyDomaine, and more.

Heather Black, CPT is a NASM-certified personal trainer and owner of Heather Black Fitness & Nutrition where she offers remote and in-person training and nutrition coaching.

Marley Hall is a writer and fact checker who is certified in clinical and translational research. Her work has been published in medical journals in the field of surgery, and she has received numerous awards for publication in education.

Verywell Fit / Sabrina Jiang

Cycling can be an excellent form of exercise. Research has found that cycling while commuting to work reduces the risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease. It's also a great way to increase your heart rate while getting plenty of fresh air.

If you're ready to get started—or enjoy having an indoor cycling bike and want to get a bicycle for the outdoors—there are plenty of bikes to choose from. Before purchasing a bike, it's important to choose one that's equipped to handle the type of cycling you'd like to do. Are you looking for a budget-friendly cruiser or a mountain bike that can handle more rugged terrain? Maybe you're searching for an e-bike to shorten your commute.

We researched dozens of bikes for women and evaluated them based on material, comfort, durability on different terrains, and price. A personal trainer from our Review Board reviewed this information to ensure its accuracy, how to choose the correct model and men's versus women's bikes.

Here are our top picks for casual cyclists looking for a smooth ride.

• How We Selected
• What to Look For

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Best overall, schwinn gtx 3 hybrid bike.

Dick Sportings Goods

21-speed drivetrain

Two frames for different heights

Works on rocks and pavement

Brakes may need frequent readjusting

Gears may not shift fluidly

Schwinn’s Women's GTX 3 Hybrid Bike is our best overall choice because it boasts a lightweight aluminum frame and has a 21-speed drivetrain, to help you navigate obstacles on slick city streets, rugged paths, and everywhere in between.

Schwinn's Hybrid Bike comes with a 15-inch or 17-inch frame, which is suitable for riders between 4 feet, 11 inches to 5 feet, 10 inches tall. We also like the alloy V-brakes, which are good for crisp stops. And its all-terrain tires will keep your rides feeling smooth and comfortable—whether you’re cycling on- or off-road.

However, some riders have found that the gears don't shift as easily as with other bikes. Users also note that the brakes may need to be adjusted more frequently.

Key Specs: Style: Hybrid | Height Capacity: 4'11" to 5'10" | Weight: 42.05 pounds | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds

Best Splurge

Rei co-op cycles cty 1.1 step-through bike.

Fluid gear shifts

24-speed drivetrain

Three frames for different heights

Handlebars may be too low for some

Versatile, comfortable, and durable, Co-op Cycles’ CTY 2.1 Step-Through Bike is loaded with features that give it a smooth, nimble ride. Although it's more expensive than many of our other top picks, we think its thoughtful design is more than worth the investment.

The Coop Cycles Bike's 24-speed drivetrain will give you the kind of fluid gear shifting you need to dodge obstacles and tackle different kinds of terrain flexibly. And its hydraulic disc brakes are designed to be reliable in any weather condition.

We love that this bike has a relaxed silhouette that will keep you upright as you ride, helping you cut down on hunching over your handlebars. It also features a shock-absorbing suspension fork to keep bumps to a minimum—even when encountering obstacles. However, some users have found that the low handlebars take a few rides to get used to. Key Specs: Style: Hybrid | Height Capacity: 5' to 5'9" | Weight: 30.9 pounds | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

Best Mountain Bike

Royce union rmt womens 21-speed all-terrain mountain bike.

Easy riding

Two frame sizes for different heights

Assembly may be complicated

Royce Union's All-Terrain Mountain Bike is easy to handle and control, making it our top pick for riders of all experience levels. The bike has a no-rust aluminum frame, which is durable enough to support you—but not so heavy that it’ll weigh you down.

With a pair of all-terrain tires, you can maintain momentum in a range of weather conditions. We like that they also offer less rolling resistance than most mountain bike tires, making Royce Union's All-Terrain Mountain Bike a versatile ride. 

The bike comes with a 15-inch or 17-inch frame for riders between 5 feet and 5 foot, 10 inches tall, and a weight capacity of 300 pounds. But some users have found that it can be difficult to assemble—so you may want to grab a friend to help.

Key Specs: Style: Mountain | Height Capacity: 5'7" to 5'10" | Weight: 41.8 pounds | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

Best Folding

Schwinn loop adult folding bike.

Creates smooth, rolling commutes

Comes with a carry bag

Front and rear linear pull brakes

Seat may be too firm for some

If you want a bike you can bring with you on the go, we recommend Schwinn's Loop Folding Bike. This durable steel bike is both reliable and versatile, and its seven-speed drivetrain will help you nimbly shift gears. Featuring smooth tires and linear-pull brakes, your ride will be smooth, comfortable, and easy to maneuver.

What sets this bike apart, though, is the fact that it folds up. When folded, the bike ends up being nearly half its original size. Instead of locking the bike on a bike rack, we love that you can use the included nylon carry bag to bring it with you for  on-the-go exercise  and transportation.

Note that some users have reported that the seat is very firm—so you may want to purchase  a more comfortable bike seat  of your own.

Key Specs: Style: Folding | Height Capacity: 4'6" to 6'2" | Weight: 37.4 pounds | Weight Capacity: 230 pounds

Best for Commuters

Specialized roll 2.0 low entry.

Specialized

Good traction

Reflective accents

Comfortable, gel-padded seat

For a reliable commuting bike, Specialized's Roll 2.0 Low Entry is our top pick. It's just as functional as it is stylish, with a durable aluminum frame that can stand up to daily wear and tear. The tires are wide and can grip the road well, even in wet weather.

We also love that the tires have reflective accents, so it's easier for motorists to spot you when you're riding in low-light conditions. Plus, the ergonomic seat features gel padding for a comfortable ride.

While it's more expensive than other bikes on our list, we think the Roll 2.0's durability and commuter-friendly features make it worth the price.

Best Cruiser

Rei electra cruiser 1 step-thru.

Rides comfortably

Intuitive brake system

Available in four colors

Not suitable for long-distance rides

Not designed for varied terrain

If you’re looking for a comfortable, laid-back ride, we recommend Electra’s Cruiser 1 Step-Thru, which features a single-speed drivetrain. We love the intuitive brakes: Simply pedal backward, and your bike will come to a crisp, efficient stop.

The bike also has a low center of gravity that's designed to keep you stable on all your rides. And if you'd like to stay in a natural upright position as you ride, the bike’s step-through silhouette makes it easy.

However, this bike isn't ideal for long-distance rides over rougher terrain, since it's a cruiser.

Key Specs: Style: Cruiser | Height Capacity: 5'1" to 5'8" | Weight: 36 pounds | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

Best Road Bike

Hiland road racing bike.

Lightweight aluminum frame

Seven-speed shifters for control

Designed with the city in mind, Hiland's Road Bike offers both speed and control in smooth conditions. The bike’s 22-inch wheels will give you a high-speed ride, while its 14-speed shifters will help you nimbly maintain control as you bike. With double-caliper brakes, we like that you can easily stop on slick surfaces—and the aluminum alloy frame is supportive and durable, but still lightweight enough to lift.

The Hiland Road Bike comes with a 21.6-inch frame or a 25.6-inch frame. The 21.6-inch frame makes the bike suitable for riders between 5 foot, 8 inches and 6 foot, 1 inch tall. And the 25.6-inch frame makes it suitable for riders between 6 foot, 1 inch and 6 foot, 4 inches tall.

Some users have found that assembling this bike can be tough, noting missing parts and no instructions. But we still think it's a good investment for beginner to intermediate cyclists.

Key Specs: Style: Road | Height Capacity (size 55 cm): 5'8" to 6' 1" | Weight: 33.4 pounds | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

Best Hybrid

Schwinn discover hybrid bike.

Fender keeps dirt off rider

Changes gears fast

Rear carrier

Suspension and fork can be jerky

If you’re looking for a quality hybrid bike at a reasonable price point, Schwinn's Discover Hybrid Bike is a solid choice. The bike’s aluminum frame is lightweight but durable, so you can feel supported as you nimbly tackle bends and curves. The 21-speed drivetrain also allows for fast, easy gear changes.

Crafted with linear-pull brakes, you'll be able to make precise stops, rain or shine. The bike performs best on commutes and bike paths. But thanks to its shock-absorbing suspension fork, you can take it on rougher trails, too. We also like the fenders, which keep dirt and mud at bay, and the rear carrier to hold your bags and other gear.

As with other bikes on our list, this one has lower handlebars that some riders may find uncomfortable at first. Users have also found that the suspension and fork can feel jerky—but we think the bike's other features make up for any difficulties you might have riding on trails.

Key Specs: Style: Hybrid | Height Capacity: 5'7" to 6'2" | Weight: 35.5 pounds | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds

Best for Beginners

Public bikes c7.

Public Bikes

Available in eight colors

Public Bikes’ C7 boasts a classic step-through design, which means you can expect to sit upright when you cycle. This natural seating position should keep you comfortable on all your rides, allowing you to focus on more important things, like changing gears and exploring new terrain. 

It comes with a seven-speed drivetrain, which you can use to tackle hills and obstacles like a pro. And we like the limited gear range, which allows you to nimbly navigate routes without an overwhelming amount of options. Available in eight sleek colors and available in a small/medium frame or a medium/large frame, it shouldn’t be too tough to find an option that belongs in your collection.

While this bike is more expensive than others on our list, we think it's a worthy investment for beginners who plan on riding their bikes for years to come.

Key Specs: Style: Step-through | Height Capacity: 4' 10 inches to 5' 10 inches | Weight: 32 pounds | Weight Capacity: Not listed

Best Electric

Electra townie go 7d step-through electric bike.

Works as a cruiser or an e-bike

Electra’s Townie Go! 7D Step-Through Electric Bike is a great option for anyone who wants to pick up speed without sacrificing comfort or control. The step-through bike comes with a motor, which you can use to access speeds up to 40 miles per hour—meaning you can tackle both hills and long rides with ease. That balance is part of what makes the Townie Go! 7D such a great pick for first-time e-bike riders.

When you’re not in the mood for a motorized ride, you can use your Townie Go! 7D like a classic bike. The step-through boasts seven speeds, so you can nimbly and fluidly shift gears while you ride. And it also comes equipped with a set of thick balloon tires, which promise to keep your rides smooth and comfortable on a range of different terrain. 

Although it is a significant investment, we feel that the ease this bike will bring to your daily commute is worth it.

Style: E-bike | Height Capacity: 4 feet, 11 inches to 5 feet, 11 inches | Weight: 47 pounds | Weight Capacity: Not listed

Best Electric Runner-Up

Aventon pace 350 step-through ebike.

Reaches speeds of up to 20 mph

Available in two sizes

Bright, full-color display

Aventon's sleek, user-friendly Pace 350 Step-Through EBike is our other recommendation for an electric bike at a slightly lower price. It comes with some impressive features, including an LCD display that syncs with (and can charge) your smartphone and five levels of pedal assist. A headlight and tail lights offer safety during dusk or nighttime rides, while a throttle helps the bike reach speeds of up to 20 miles per hour.

The bike comes in two sizes to accommodate riders between 5 foot, 1 inch, and 6 foot, 4 inches. Choose from two stylish colors: bright white or a subtle purple. The price point is higher than others on our list—but with a one-year warranty and 14-day returns, you can shop confidently.

Key Specs: Style: Electric | Height Capacity: 5'1" to 6'4" | Weight: 49 pounds | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

Best for Casual Riding

Vilano step-through city bike.

Stops with linear pull brakes

Seven twist grip gears for controlled rides

Budget-friendly

Gears marked by dots rather than numbers

The Vilano Step-Through City Bike is an urban-style hybrid bike and our top pick for casual rides. The bike’s lightweight steel frame will help you nimbly navigate your neighborhood, while its strong tires will keep you in control as you gain speed. The bike’s seven-speed drivetrain allows you to flexibly shift gears as you maneuver different portions of your route, and its linear-pull brakes provide a smooth, efficient stop. 

The Vilano Step-Through City Bike comes in a single size, which is suitable for riders between 5 feet and 5 feet, 6 inches—though the seat is adjustable to accommodate a greater height range. But while we love the budget-friendly price, the gearshift may be difficult to read at times.

Key Specs: Style: Hybrid | Height Capacity: 5 feet to 5 feet, 6 inches | Weight: 32 pounds | Weight Capacity: Not listed

How We Selected the Best Bikes for Women

First, we asked Tyler Jones , store manager at Erik's Bike Shop in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, which qualities to look for when purchasing a bike. Then, we reviewed dozens of bikes from the most trusted and popular retailers. We evaluated each bike based on its riding style, gears, and durability. We also considered the weight of each bike, style, portability, and ease of assembly to compile our final list of recommendations.

What to Look for in Bikes for Women

Riding style.

There are several different kinds of bikes, and each kind is designed for a different style of riding. Road bikes are equipped to handle smoother surfaces, like sidewalks and city streets. Mountain bikes are equipped to handle more rugged terrain, like off-road trails. And hybrid bikes are designed to handle both. Consider the type of riding you intend to do, and shop for a bike that accommodates your riding style. 

You'll want to look for a bike that matches the type of riding you plan on doing most often. Are you riding for fitness or recreation? Will you be taking your bike on long morning commutes or simply riding it around the block? If you’re an avid cyclist, you may want a performance option that’s built to last, like  Royce Union's RMT All-Terrain Mountain Bike.  If you’re a first-time or recreational cyclist or enjoy an  indoor exercise bike  and want to give riding outside a try, you may prefer a budget-friendlier option that’s a little easier to use, like  Electra’s Cruiser 1 Step-Through Bike .

Women's bikes usually have one of two types of frames: a regular (also known as a step over) frame or a step-through frame. Visually, they look different—regular frames typically have an extra piece of horizontal metal between the seat and the handlebars that you have to step over in order to get on the bike. Step-through frames don't have this piece, which means they're easier to get on and off of. The type of frame doesn't affect the bike's performance.

One note: If you are thinking about attaching a child seat to your bike, you'll want to make sure the seat is compatible with your bike's frame. A rear frame-mounted seat will only work with a regular frame bike. Rear rack-mounted and front-mounted seats are compatible with both types of frames.

Bike gears are designed to help you comfortably navigate different kinds of terrain. If you intend to bike a lot, you may want a bike with plenty of gears you can nimbly shift between. If you prefer to go on shorter, more recreational rides, you may not need as many gears to choose from.

Frequently Asked Questions

“A good, high-quality bike is relative to the shopper's desired cycling discipline and what their expectation of performance is,” says Jones. Generally, you should expect to pay between $300-$600 for a recreational bike for adults. Some high-performance bikes, like  Aventon's Pace 350 Step-Through EBike , may start around $1,000. Less expensive bikes may not have as many useful features, and likely won't be as durable. More expensive options may have a more modern design and added features like easy-to-read displays.

The cheapest bike on our list,  Vilano's Step-Through City Bike , is often available for less than $200. And our top overall pick,  Schwinn’s Women's GTX 3 Hybrid Bike,  was $550 when we last updated this list.

In general, you can use the bicycle manufacturer’s sizing chart to determine the right size bike for your height. For bikes that need very specific sizing, such as road bikes, the sizing process may be more involved, so you should work with a local bike shop for the best fit.

“We measure the rider's inseam, torso, arm lengths, overall height, and flexibility to determine exactly which size would be best for the rider,” says Jones.

The main difference between women’s and men’s bikes is the size and fit. Women, on average, are shorter than men and have proportionally shorter torsos and longer legs, so women’s bike models generally have shorter stack heights and shorter reach lengths.

Some women-specific commuter and cruiser bikes are built to accommodate wearing a skirt, so the top tube is much lower than the tubes on men’s versions. The right bike for you will be the one that fits you best, regardless of which gender it’s intended for. 

As a seasoned health and fitness writer,  Lindsey Lanquist  understands how vital quality product recommendations can be. She is careful to recommend products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them.

Additional reporting contributed by Sarah Felbin

With over two decades of dance experience,  Sarah Felbin  loves diving into the latest wellness research. As a health and fitness writer, she's passionate about finding products that are of great value and make life easier. She's enjoyed cycling outdoors since she was little—her favorite bike to ride is a beach cruiser, like Electra’s Cruiser 1 Step-Thru bike.

Celis-Morales, C.A.  et al.   Association between active commuting and incident cardiovascular disease, cancer, and mortality: Prospective cohort study.   BMJ  [Preprint]. doi:10.1136/bmj.j1456

Roser M, Appel C, Ritchie H. Human height . Our World Data .

Best women’s trail bikes: shred with confidence around your local trails

The best women’s trail bikes for riding around trail centers and natural terrain

The best women's trail bikes are key to shredding your way to happiness. If your dream day out involves flying along trails, playing on natural terrain, whizzing up fire roads and technical climbs before ripping down descents, then our guide to the best women’s trail bikes will help you find the right bike for you. 

Trail bikes are a brilliant and versatile choice if you’re looking for a go-anywhere, do-anything, playful-feeling ride. They’re less focussed on speed than cross-country bikes, so tend to have a bit more suspension travel and a less aggressive on-bike position. They’re also well suited to long rides on undulating terrain and climb well, and thanks to ever-evolving suspension technology can also handle some pretty technical descents too. 

• Best women’s mountain bikes
• Best women’s mountain bikes under £500

Our selection of the best women's trail bikes includes some bikes designed specifically for female riders, from Liv and Canyon, as well as others that are based around a unisex frame with other elements designed to suit female riders better. For example, most women’s trail bikes will feature suspension tuned for the on-average lighter weight of female riders so they get the best performance out of them.

In terms of versatility and capability, it’s hard to beat the Juliana Furtado but it is the priciest option on the list. The Trek Fuel EX 8 has a huge range of sizes to suit smaller and taller riders, while in terms of value-for-money the Canyon Spectral WMN is hard to beat.

Finally, do women have to ride women’s specific bikes ? Not at all, and even female-focused brand Liv would say that its bikes aren’t for everyone. Some women find they really work for them, others quite the opposite. Ultimately, it’s about what works for you, and it’s always worth taking any bike you’re considering for a test ride if you can.

Jump ahead to what to look for when buying a women's trail bike .

Best women's trail bikes

Why trust BikePerfect Our cycling experts have decades of testing experience. We'll always share our unbiased opinions on bikes and gear. Find out more about how we test.

Juliana Furtado C XT

Specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The Furtado is a 27.5in 130mm travel trail bike that’s an absolute blast to ride. It's agile, playful but will give you the confidence to push yourself and your riding. 

The bike includes a flip-chip which allows you to switch between a more descent-focussed low setting and a climb-friendly high setting. 

While the price tag is high, Juliana and its brother-brand Santa Cruz make exceptionally fun, playful and capable trail bikes, and the Furtado is adaptable enough to make it equally fun to blast around your local trails, take on a big back-country bikepacking adventure, or practice your descending and jumping skills. The brand also offers a lifetime bearing warranty which helps reduce the costs of keeping the bike running sweetly for years to come. 

The RockShox Pike fork and Super Deluxe shock with a women’s specific tune offer plenty of plush suspension that cushions the rider from hard hits while helping maintain plenty of traction and grip. Shimano XT brakes provide good, powerful braking to help control speed, while the Shimano XT 12-spd groupset provides a wide enough range to make spinning up steep climbs easy and powering through sprints thrillingly speedy. 

Liv Intrigue 3

A trail bike that’s designed to take on more technical, chunky terrain, the Liv Intrigue has been designed for women by women, like all bikes in the Liv lineup.

The 27.5in wheels are combined with grip-giving Maxxis High Roller II tires which will suit a wide range of trail conditions. Shimano hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable wet-weather braking but are one area that would be great to upgrade further down the line to something a little more powerful. 

SRAM Eagle SX in a 1x12-spd range provides plenty of gears for handling long climbs while at the other end gives enough 'oomph' to power into sprints. 

The head angle isn’t as slack as others on the market, so it’s a little more nervy on descents but the 150mm of front travel, courtesy of the quality RockShox Pike forks plus RockShox Deluxe Select shock, can handle most rock gardens, drops, root sections and anything else you choose to throw your bike down.

Canyon Spectral CF 7 WMN

Direct-sell brand Canyon produces some impressive bikes that combine performance with exceptional value for money, and the Canyon Spectral WMN is no exception to the rule. Boasting an incredibly impressive spec list with performance-focussed, durable parts, this is a bike that will support you on your quest to ride further, faster and have more fun. 

This WMN version of the popular Canyon Spectral trail bike boasts a cockpit designed for female riders with narrower bars and tuned suspension. Components are adapted to each size in the range. 

RockShox suspension front and rear with plenty of travel make this bike fun on both your local trail center and gnarlier terrain, while the powerful 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes ensure that you’re able to rein in your speed easily when you need to.

Scott Contessa Spark 910

Based around a unisex frame with women’s specific finishing kit and suspension tune, the Contessa Spark is a trail bike with DNA close to Scott’s racing roots. The geometry certainly sits closer to the XC side of things with a relatively steep head angle. It feels nimble and eager to ride as fast as you’ll let it, while the wide SRAM Eagle GX 1x12-spd groupset offers plenty of gears for putting down the power at one end and eating up climbs at the other. 

Climbing ability is aided by the 29er wheels which roll more easily over rough ground and obstacles, and once up to speed keep their momentum with a deceptively smooth sensation; you’ll be going faster than you realize. Shimano SLX hydraulic disc brakes offer plenty of stopping power for when you want to shave that speed. 

The Maxxis Rekon tires are a good all-rounder, again more focussed on the XC side of trail riding. They’re fast rolling but with a good amount of tread, but for muddy conditions or technical descents you may want to swap them for something with a bit more bite. 

Specialized Stumpjumper Alloy

The Stumpjumper has a long history of trail riding behind it, and the latest iteration of this beloved Specialized bike is proving popular with riders of all levels on all types of trail terrain. It’s fun, capable and feels playful on the trail, partly due to the progressive geometry. The slack head angle feels great on descents, while the steep seat tube angle makes climbing much more efficient and comfortable. 

While Specialized no longer offers women’s specific bikes, as it feels that unisex bikes with appropriate contact points offer the best fit, it will swap out saddle, stem and/or handlebars like-for-like to suit the rider, free of charge. So if you prefer a different saddle to the one that comes stock, you can ask for it to be switched over for you, gratis. 

Specialized also offers the bike in a whopping 6 sizes (listed as S1 to S6) and it has an easy-to-use online fit tool to help you work out the best size for you, taking into account not just your height but also your preferred riding style and terrain. 

SRAM SX 1x12-spd provides that wonderful wide gear range, which the X-Fusion/RockShox blend on the suspension gives plenty of support on technical features.

Trek Fuel EX 8 XT

Trek, like Specialized, no longer offers women’s specific models and instead focuses on tuning the spec and suspension to the average rider of each size of the bikes in a model range. It also provides a huge size range with smaller intervals between each size to allow for a better fit, plus size-specific parts. 

The XS and S sizes come with 27.5in wheels, and the other sizes (including a second S offering) have 29in wheels. The size ranges up to an XXL and includes a M/L size which straddles a height range that a lot of riders fall between. XS and S also have a curved top tube to give a lower standover height, which is better for shorter riders. 

The Fuel is a lot of fun to ride, and the spec on the EX 8 model is just the right blend of performance and value for money at this price point. It’s got everything you need to give you confidence and inspire you to ride further, faster and have more fun on the trail. 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes provide powerful speed control with subtle control, while the Shimano XT 1x12-spd groupset has range enough to allow you to both spin easily up steep climbs and put the power down to gain speed. 

What to look for when buying a women's trail bike

1. What makes a bike ‘women’s specific’?

The term women’s specific gets used a lot in cycling, and its meaning has changed over the years. In short, it’s a bike that has been designed for the average female rider. Different brands have different interpretations of what that means. Liv (sister brand to Giant Bicycles) and some Canyon WMN bikes are designed around female-only body dimension data and have a different geometry to their unisex/male counterparts, as well as components and spec designed to optimize the ride experience for female riders. Juliana Bicycles bikes are based around the same frames as its brother brand Santa Cruz, but with different colors, contact points and suspension tune. Specialized, Trek and most other brands offer unisex bikes designed to suit male and female riders, with the option to swap or tweak elements like the saddle or handlebars to suit different requirements. 

2. Isn’t ‘women’s specific’ just marketing hype?

Historically, the approach to designing bikes for women was a bit lackluster. What’s called colloquially ‘shrink it and pink it’ was the main method: make it in smaller sizes and make it a ‘feminine’ color like pink because women are shorter and like pink. These products also often featured lesser parts for the same price, or were more expensive than their unisex/male counterparts, though happily, this doesn’t hold true anymore, bar for a few limited exceptions. People are understandably cautious of the term as a result, but generally speaking the term actually has more research behind it these days. 

3. Suspension travel

Most trail bikes have frame travel of around 130mm, controlled by the shock, though some go up to 140mm. This is usually plenty for most trails, and blends capability on technical features with a playful, maneuverable feel. At the front, most trail bikes will have anywhere between 130mm to 150mm, with longer travel making short work of rough terrain, but it can also compromise climbing ability, so if you’ve got or like plenty of uphill riding, bear this in mind. 

4. Wheel size

Trail bikes commonly come with either 27.5inch wheels or larger 29inch (often referred to as 29er) wheels. Smaller wheels are typically more maneuverable in tight terrain and often work better on small bike sizes like S and XS. 29er wheels feel much smoother over rough terrain, don’t as get caught up on loose ground as smaller wheels can.

Aoife loves a bike-based adventure, whether it’s out in the mountains on her MTB or exploring new places by road or gravel. She’s tested a LOT of bikes and kit, and is passionate about making cycling accessible for everyone. After all, it’s much more fun with friends, right?

Bikes currently owned: Juliana Maverick, Liv Devote

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9 Best Women’s Hybrid Bikes & How To Choose!

A hybrid bike (like the name would imply) is a mix between a road bike and a mountain bike. It has skinny, fast-rolling tires like a road bike, but more relaxed geometry and a flat bar like a mountain bike.

A hybrid bike a good option for women who are looking for a “fitness bike”, who haven’t ridden a bike in years, or for ladies who are uncomfortable on the more aggressive geometry of a traditional road bike.

In this article, we share with you our favorite women’s hybrid bikes (also known as fitness bikes), as well as tips on what to look for when shopping for a hybrid.

Table Of Contents

Our top picks, roll bicycles a:1 adventure bike.

We like everything about the Roll Bicycles A:1 Adventure Bike . Smaller sizes come with a tapered top-tube (as seen above) while larger frames have a more traditional frame design.

This bike can go anywhere. The tires are a bit knobbier than other bikes on this list and are perfect for cruising gravel roads or rail trails.

We dig small touches such as the bar-end grips, the 1×10 drivetrain, and internal cable routing. The weight is also noteworthy: at 23 pounds, this is one of the lightest bikes on our list.

Read Review : Roll Bicycles A1

Price (MSRP): $899

Cannondale Quick Women’s 3

If you are trying to get more exercise, the Cannondale Women’s Quick is a great bike to do it on. Thanks to an integrated wheel sensor you can track all your stats–mileage, speed, and even calories burned.

The bike has hydraulic disc brakes that provide superior stopping power–even when wet. Additionally, the bike has eyelet mounts to accept fenders and/or a rack should you want to add either of those.

The women’s-specific version of the bike has a low standover height, which makes it a good choice for smaller women and those with short legs.

Read Review : Cannondale Women’s Quick

Price (MSRP): $1,075

Kona Dew Deluxe

The Kona Dew Deluxe can do a little bit of everything. It’s well suited to around town riding, but can easily tackle rail trails as well.

Thanks to the hydraulic disc brakes, fenders, and wider tires, this is a great option for women who live in wetter, muddier climates.

The components are good quality and include a Shimano 11-Speed drivetrain, Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, Formula hubs, and WTB Horizon tyres.

Read Review : Kona Dew Deluxe

Price (MSRP): $949

Liv Alight 3

Liv makes some of the best women’s-specific bikes out there. The Liv Alight 3 is no exception.

It has a low standover which is nice if you want to wear a skirt, or if you have limited mobility. There are also integrated dropouts to easily add racks or fenders should you care to do so.

The most obvious attraction to the Liv Alight is the pricetag. It is one of the cheapest bikes on our list.

Price (MSRP): $560

Diamondback Haanjo 1

The Diamondback Haanjo 1 can do a little bit of everything, from riding long distances on the road to cruising gravel canal paths. The tires are slick enough to roll fast on pavement but wide enough to handle a bit of of the rough stuff.

The women’s-specific offering comes in smaller sizes, with the XS fitting women as short as 5’1″.

The geometry is more aggressive than many of the other bikes on this list, but more relaxed than a traditional road bike which makes it a good pick for women who want to ride longer distances on the road but are uncomfortable on a road bike.

Price (MSRP): $785

Marin Kentfield ST 1

The Marin Kentfield ST 1 is a great fitness bike at an entry-level price. It’s not the fanciest bike around, but it will certainly get you going.

In fact, it has everything you really need: mechanical disc brakes, mounts for fenders or racks, and an entry-level Shimano drivetrain (7-speeds). With this bike, you don’t have any excuses stopping you from getting started….

Read Review: Marin Kentfield

Price (MSRP): $499

Trek FX 3 Disc Stagger

The Trek FX 3 Disc is a step-up in terms of quality from many hybrid bikes. It offers a carbon fork to help dampen road vibration, hydraulic disc brakes for superior braking performance, and internal cable routing to keep things clean.

The 1x drivetrain provides a good range of gears without the added complexity of a front derailleur. You’ll also appreciate this bike if you want a lower stepover, which it has.

Read Review : Trex FX 3

Price (MSRP): $1,049

Specialized Sirrus 3.0

The Specialized Sirrus is one of the best-selling hybrid bikes around. It comes in several different models depending on your preferences and budget. We think the Specialized Sirrius 3.0 hist the sweet spot for most ladies.

The bike used to come in a women’s-specific version but it doesn’t anymore. There is the option however, to choose a lower step-thru frame.

The mid-level components are smooth and provide good rider experience. We especially appreciate the hydraulic disc brakes that outperform the mechanical brakes found on many hybrid bikes.

Read Review: Specialized Sirrus

Price (MSRP): $1,200

Specialized Roll 2.0

Like the Specialized Sirrus listed above, the Specialized Roll offers superior bang for your back. With the Specialized brand name, you always know you are getting a quality, durable bike.

The Roll is a great option for women who need an EXTREMELY low stepover. If you have trouble with mobility, this bike is extra easy to get on and off.

The nice wide 2.3″ tires provide a lot of stability and also a little extra cushion. Speaking of cushion, we also like the gel saddle which is comfortable even after quite a lot of miles pedaling.

Read Review: Specialized Roll

Price : $800+

Other Hybrid Bikes To Consider

• State Bicycle 4130 All Road* – This is a beautiful bike. It has extra beefy mountain bike tires to tackle dirt roads as well as paved. $899.
• Priority Continuum Onyx* . A belt drive (rather than a chain) and an internally geared hub make this bike super low maintenance. $1,299.
• Batch Bicycles Fitness Bike – An affordable option to get you started, it also comes in really pretty color schemes. $499.

Comparison Chart: Women’s Hybrid Bikes

Things to consider when choosing a hybrid bike.

Not sure how to choose the best hybrid bike for YOU? Read on to help you make an informed decision.

Frame Size And Shape

You’ll notice many of the bikes on this list have a “step-thru” style frame. This is where the top-tube (which is the bar on the top of the frame triangle) is sloped downward rather than straight across.

A step-thru frame (left) has a down-swept top-tube compared to a more traditional frame (right).

This design is good for smaller women as it provides a lower standover height. It’s also nice for ladies who have limited mobility, want to wear a skirt, or simply feel more comfortable with this design.

That said, don’t feel limited to a step-thru frame especially if you are taller or more athletic. We’ve also included several bikes on this list that have a more traditional frame geometry.

The bikes on this list have brakes that fall into one of three categories: v-brake, mechanical disc brakes, or hydraulic disc brakes.

V-brakes (or rim brakes) are the more old-fashioned, traditional style brakes you might be used to. They are easy to maintain and cheap. Unfortunately, they don’t offer as much stopping power as disc brakes, especially in wet weather.

Mechanical disc brakes are a good choice for most women. They offer more stopping power than v-brakes, are generally pretty affordable, and don’t require much maintenance.

Hydraulic disc brakes are the most powerful, are easier to pull if you have weak hands, and provide plenty of modulation. These brakes provide the best performance. That said, they also increase the price of the bike and require more maintenance.

All of the bikes on this list have gears. While a lot of women get hung up on trying to compare the number of speeds a bike has, we’d advise you not to worry about this. A handful of gears is really all you need.

While all these bikes have multiple gears on the rear wheel (this is called a cassette), only some have multiple gears upfront at the crank arm. Again, we wouldn’t worry about this too much, although we personally prefer a single gear at the crank. (This design is called a 1x or “one by”).

Why? It keeps things simple. You only have to worry about one shifter rather than two, and you don’t have to worry about “cross-chaining.”

A single front chainring (left) is simpler than a double or triple front chainring (right).

• Read: A Guide to Bicycle Gears

You should pay attention to the type of shifter the bicycle has. Some bikes will have a grip shifter, while others have trigger shifters.

In general, we prefer trigger shifters as they make cleaner shifts. That said, grip shifters can be more intuitive, so if that thought of shifting stresses you out, go with a grip shifter instead.

Another thing to be aware of is that there are different component levels. We’re not going to go into too much detail here on that, but just be aware that the cheaper the bike you buy, the cheaper the drivetrain components are going to be. If you want a really smooth-working drivetrain, you might want to spend a bit more.

Women’s Specific vs Unisex Bike

Some of the bikes on this list are specifically designed for women, while others are unisex bikes that happen to work well for women.

Women’s-specific bikes are a good choice for smaller ladies as they generally come in smaller frame sizes and offer a step-thru frame (as discussed above). They also offer components like smaller grips and women’s’-specific saddles (seats).

If you are taller, a unisex bike will work just fine, though you may still choose to upgrade to a women’s-specific saddle later on.

Wheel Size and Tires

Most hybrid bikes have 700c wheels , the same as a road bike. That said, a few hybrid bikes have 26-inch wheels, more typically found on mountain bikes.

The type of tire also matters. If you plan on riding primarily on pavement, look for a slick tire without a lot of tread. These will roll faster on the road. If, on the other hand, you want to hit up gravel roads or mellow dirt trails, look for a bike that has knobbier, higher volume tires.

When you are shopping, you might notice that some hybrid bikes come with a suspension fork. While compiling our list of the best women’s hybrid bikes, we intentionally tried to avoid bikes with suspension.

Why? A suspension fork really isn’t needed on a hybrid bike and it adds weight. Hybrid bikes are best suited for pavement and mellow gravel and dirt trails; conditions that just don’t require a suspension fork. If you want to ride more challenging trails, consider getting a real mountain bike instead.

Don’t forget to pay attention to weight when buying a hybrid bike. The lighter a bike is, the faster and more enjoyable your ride will be. Anything over 25 pounds is definitely going to slow you down and feel heavy if you are climbing hills .

While we haven’t included any e-bikes (bicycles with an electric motor to help assist you pedal), they can be a great option especially if you havent biked in years.

Electric bikes are significantly more expensive but help open the world of cycling to women who may need the extra boost. If you’re interested in electric bikes, check out our list of the Best Women’s Electric Bikes .

Get More Help Choosing The Right Bike

• 19 Types Of Bikes And How To Choose The Best One For You
• 3 Simple Tips To Help You Pick The Right Size Bike
• Men’s vs Women’s Bikes: 5 Things You Need to Know

About The Author

Kristen Bonkoski is the founder and owner of Femme Cyclist.

An avid cyclist for a few decades now, she took to cycling during her late teen years — a time when she needed something to help boost her self-esteem and confidence.

Mission accomplished, the sport has become an important part of her life.  Kristen’s favorite disciplines are mountain biking and bike commuting, although you can also find her cranking out a century on her road bike and touring with her husband and son.  If it has to do with two wheels, she enjoys doing it.

Kristen is a certified USA Cycling coach , and she runs  Rascal Rides , a website about biking with kids.

IG:  @kristenlbonkosk i

5 thoughts on “9 Best Women’s Hybrid Bikes & How To Choose!”

Thanks so much! This was so helpful! I’m 66 years old and haven’t biked in years. I want to get back into it to help with fitness and just have fun! I’m just starting to look and expect to have to order since local inventory is nonexistent. I figure if I order in the fall, I may have something by next spring. I’d be grateful for any tips you could send me!

I just wanted to let you know that my wife and I fully endorse your review of the Roll A1 hybrid bike. We ordered online in August and the bike was delivered a few weeks later despite the pandemic, The bike was very nice and exactly as you describe it. We unfortunately had to return the bike after a few weeks due to knee issues my wife had (nothing to do with the bike or with Roll). As this happened Roll showed first class support. They gave us more than their standard 50 day return policy so that my wife could take time to make her final decision. Their customer service is superb. We highly recommend them.

Love hearing this positive feedback. Thanks for sharing!

This info was very helpful. As a person who likes to bike, but isn’t a Biker with a capital “b”, this was written at the very level I need!

Hello. Great article as I am in the market for a new bike. Would you be able to tell me the difference between the Liv Alight 3 and the Liv Comfort Alight 3 and whether you would equally recommend them both?? I road a Liv Alight rental last year on a 30+ mile ride and loved it, but they could not tell me exactly which one. Thank you.

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2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

In Transit: Notes from the Underground

Jun 06 2018.

Spend some time in one of Moscow’s finest museums.

Subterranean commuting might not be anyone’s idea of a good time, but even in a city packing the war-games treasures and priceless bejeweled eggs of the Kremlin Armoury and the colossal Soviet pavilions of the VDNKh , the Metro holds up as one of Moscow’s finest museums. Just avoid rush hour.

The Metro is stunning and provides an unrivaled insight into the city’s psyche, past and present, but it also happens to be the best way to get around. Moscow has Uber, and the Russian version called Yandex Taxi , but also some nasty traffic. Metro trains come around every 90 seconds or so, at a more than 99 percent on-time rate. It’s also reasonably priced, with a single ride at 55 cents (and cheaper in bulk). From history to tickets to rules — official and not — here’s what you need to know to get started.

A Brief Introduction Buying Tickets Know Before You Go (Down) Rules An Easy Tour

A Brief Introduction

Moscow’s Metro was a long time coming. Plans for rapid transit to relieve the city’s beleaguered tram system date back to the Imperial era, but a couple of wars and a revolution held up its development. Stalin revived it as part of his grand plan to modernize the Soviet Union in the 1920s and 30s. The first lines and tunnels were constructed with help from engineers from the London Underground, although Stalin’s secret police decided that they had learned too much about Moscow’s layout and had them arrested on espionage charges and deported.

The beauty of its stations (if not its trains) is well-documented, and certainly no accident. In its illustrious first phases and particularly after the Second World War, the greatest architects of Soviet era were recruited to create gleaming temples celebrating the Revolution, the USSR, and the war triumph. No two stations are exactly alike, and each of the classic showpieces has a theme. There are world-famous shrines to Futurist architecture, a celebration of electricity, tributes to individuals and regions of the former Soviet Union. Each marble slab, mosaic tile, or light fixture was placed with intent, all in service to a station’s aesthetic; each element, f rom the smallest brass ear of corn to a large blood-spattered sword on a World War II mural, is an essential part of the whole.

The Metro is a monument to the Soviet propaganda project it was intended to be when it opened in 1935 with the slogan “Building a Palace for the People”. It brought the grand interiors of Imperial Russia to ordinary Muscovites, celebrated the Soviet Union’s past achievements while promising its citizens a bright Soviet future, and of course, it was a show-piece for the world to witness the might and sophistication of life in the Soviet Union.

It may be a museum, but it’s no relic. U p to nine million people use it daily, more than the London Underground and New York Subway combined. (Along with, at one time, about 20 stray dogs that learned to commute on the Metro.)

In its 80+ year history, the Metro has expanded in phases and fits and starts, in step with the fortunes of Moscow and Russia. Now, partly in preparation for the World Cup 2018, it’s also modernizing. New trains allow passengers to walk the entire length of the train without having to change carriages. The system is becoming more visitor-friendly. (There are helpful stickers on the floor marking out the best selfie spots .) But there’s a price to modernity: it’s phasing out one of its beloved institutions, the escalator attendants. Often they are middle-aged or elderly women—“ escalator grandmas ” in news accounts—who have held the post for decades, sitting in their tiny kiosks, scolding commuters for bad escalator etiquette or even bad posture, or telling jokes . They are slated to be replaced, when at all, by members of the escalator maintenance staff.

For all its achievements, the Metro lags behind Moscow’s above-ground growth, as Russia’s capital sprawls ever outwards, generating some of the world’s worst traffic jams . But since 2011, the Metro has been in the middle of an ambitious and long-overdue enlargement; 60 new stations are opening by 2020. If all goes to plan, the 2011-2020 period will have brought 125 miles of new tracks and over 100 new stations — a 40 percent increase — the fastest and largest expansion phase in any period in the Metro’s history.

Facts: 14 lines Opening hours: 5 a.m-1 a.m. Rush hour(s): 8-10 a.m, 4-8 p.m. Single ride: 55₽ (about 85 cents) Wi-Fi network-wide

Buying Tickets

• Ticket machines have a button to switch to English.
• You can buy specific numbers of rides: 1, 2, 5, 11, 20, or 60. Hold up fingers to show how many rides you want to buy.
• There is also a 90-minute ticket , which gets you 1 trip on the metro plus an unlimited number of transfers on other transport (bus, tram, etc) within 90 minutes.
• Or, you can buy day tickets with unlimited rides: one day (218₽/ US$4), three days (415₽/US$7) or seven days (830₽/US$15). Check the rates here to stay up-to-date.
• If you’re going to be using the Metro regularly over a few days, it’s worth getting a Troika card , a contactless, refillable card you can use on all public transport. Using the Metro is cheaper with one of these: a single ride is 36₽, not 55₽. Buy them and refill them in the Metro stations, and they’re valid for 5 years, so you can keep it for next time. Or, if you have a lot of cash left on it when you leave, you can get it refunded at the Metro Service Centers at Ulitsa 1905 Goda, 25 or at Staraya Basmannaya 20, Building 1.
• You can also buy silicone bracelets and keychains with built-in transport chips that you can use as a Troika card. (A Moscow Metro Fitbit!) So far, you can only get these at the Pushkinskaya metro station Live Helpdesk and souvenir shops in the Mayakovskaya and Trubnaya metro stations. The fare is the same as for the Troika card.
• You can also use Apple Pay and Samsung Pay.

Rules, spoken and unspoken

No smoking, no drinking, no filming, no littering. Photography is allowed, although it used to be banned.

Stand to the right on the escalator. Break this rule and you risk the wrath of the legendary escalator attendants. (No shenanigans on the escalators in general.)

Get out of the way. Find an empty corner to hide in when you get off a train and need to stare at your phone. Watch out getting out of the train in general; when your train doors open, people tend to appear from nowhere or from behind ornate marble columns, walking full-speed.

Always offer your seat to elderly ladies (what are you, a monster?).

An Easy Tour

This is no Metro Marathon ( 199 stations in 20 hours ). It’s an easy tour, taking in most—though not all—of the notable stations, the bulk of it going clockwise along the Circle line, with a couple of short detours. These stations are within minutes of one another, and the whole tour should take about 1-2 hours.

Start at Mayakovskaya Metro station , at the corner of Tverskaya and Garden Ring,  Triumfalnaya Square, Moskva, Russia, 125047.

1. Mayakovskaya.  Named for Russian Futurist Movement poet Vladimir Mayakovsky and an attempt to bring to life the future he imagined in his poems. (The Futurist Movement, natch, was all about a rejecting the past and celebrating all things speed, industry, modern machines, youth, modernity.) The result: an Art Deco masterpiece that won the National Grand Prix for architecture at the New York World’s Fair in 1939. It’s all smooth, rounded shine and light, and gentle arches supported by columns of dark pink marble and stainless aircraft steel. Each of its 34 ceiling niches has a mosaic. During World War II, the station was used as an air-raid shelter and, at one point, a bunker for Stalin. He gave a subdued but rousing speech here in Nov. 6, 1941 as the Nazis bombed the city above.

Take the 3/Green line one station to:

2. Belorusskaya. Opened in 1952, named after the connected Belarussky Rail Terminal, which runs trains between Moscow and Belarus. This is a light marble affair with a white, cake-like ceiling, lined with Belorussian patterns and 12 Florentine ceiling mosaics depicting life in Belarussia when it was built.

Transfer onto the 1/Brown line. Then, one stop (clockwise) t o:

3. Novoslobodskaya.  This station was designed around the stained-glass panels, which were made in Latvia, because Alexey Dushkin, the Soviet starchitect who dreamed it up (and also designed Mayakovskaya station) couldn’t find the glass and craft locally. The stained glass is the same used for Riga’s Cathedral, and the panels feature plants, flowers, members of the Soviet intelligentsia (musician, artist, architect) and geometric shapes.

Go two stops east on the 1/Circle line to:

4. Komsomolskaya. Named after the Komsomol, or the Young Communist League, this might just be peak Stalin Metro style. Underneath the hub for three regional railways, it was intended to be a grand gateway to Moscow and is today its busiest station. It has chandeliers; a yellow ceiling with Baroque embellishments; and in the main hall, a colossal red star overlaid on golden, shimmering tiles. Designer Alexey Shchusev designed it as an homage to the speech Stalin gave at Red Square on Nov. 7, 1941, in which he invoked Russia’s illustrious military leaders as a pep talk to Soviet soldiers through the first catastrophic year of the war.   The station’s eight large mosaics are of the leaders referenced in the speech, such as Alexander Nevsky, a 13th-century prince and military commander who bested German and Swedish invading armies.

One more stop clockwise to Kurskaya station,  and change onto the 3/Blue  line, and go one stop to:

5. Baumanskaya.   Opened in 1944. Named for the Bolshevik Revolutionary Nikolai Bauman , whose monument and namesake district are aboveground here. Though he seemed like a nasty piece of work (he apparently once publicly mocked a woman he had impregnated, who later hung herself), he became a Revolutionary martyr when he was killed in 1905 in a skirmish with a monarchist, who hit him on the head with part of a steel pipe. The station is in Art Deco style with atmospherically dim lighting, and a series of bronze sculptures of soldiers and homefront heroes during the War. At one end, there is a large mosaic portrait of Lenin.

Stay on that train direction one more east to:

6. Elektrozavodskaya. As you may have guessed from the name, this station is the Metro’s tribute to all thing electrical, built in 1944 and named after a nearby lightbulb factory. It has marble bas-relief sculptures of important figures in electrical engineering, and others illustrating the Soviet Union’s war-time struggles at home. The ceiling’s recurring rows of circular lamps give the station’s main tunnel a comforting glow, and a pleasing visual effect.

Double back two stops to Kurskaya station , and change back to the 1/Circle line. Sit tight for six stations to:

7. Kiyevskaya. This was the last station on the Circle line to be built, in 1954, completed under Nikita Khrushchev’ s guidance, as a tribute to his homeland, Ukraine. Its three large station halls feature images celebrating Ukraine’s contributions to the Soviet Union and Russo-Ukrainian unity, depicting musicians, textile-working, soldiers, farmers. (One hall has frescoes, one mosaics, and the third murals.) Shortly after it was completed, Khrushchev condemned the architectural excesses and unnecessary luxury of the Stalin era, which ushered in an epoch of more austere Metro stations. According to the legend at least, he timed the policy in part to ensure no Metro station built after could outshine Kiyevskaya.

Change to the 3/Blue line and go one stop west.

8. Park Pobedy. This is the deepest station on the Metro, with one of the world’s longest escalators, at 413 feet. If you stand still, the escalator ride to the surface takes about three minutes .) Opened in 2003 at Victory Park, the station celebrates two of Russia’s great military victories. Each end has a mural by Georgian artist Zurab Tsereteli, who also designed the “ Good Defeats Evil ” statue at the UN headquarters in New York. One mural depicts the Russian generals’ victory over the French in 1812 and the other, the German surrender of 1945. The latter is particularly striking; equal parts dramatic, triumphant, and gruesome. To the side, Red Army soldiers trample Nazi flags, and if you look closely there’s some blood spatter among the detail. Still, the biggest impressions here are the marble shine of the chessboard floor pattern and the pleasingly geometric effect if you view from one end to the other.

Keep going one more stop west to:

9. Slavyansky Bulvar.  One of the Metro’s youngest stations, it opened in 2008. With far higher ceilings than many other stations—which tend to have covered central tunnels on the platforms—it has an “open-air” feel (or as close to it as you can get, one hundred feet under). It’s an homage to French architect Hector Guimard, he of the Art Nouveau entrances for the Paris M é tro, and that’s precisely what this looks like: A Moscow homage to the Paris M é tro, with an additional forest theme. A Cyrillic twist on Guimard’s Metro-style lettering over the benches, furnished with t rees and branch motifs, including creeping vines as towering lamp-posts.

Stay on the 3/Blue line and double back four stations to:

10. Arbatskaya. Its first iteration, Arbatskaya-Smolenskaya station, was damaged by German bombs in 1941. It was rebuilt in 1953, and designed to double as a bomb shelter in the event of nuclear war, although unusually for stations built in the post-war phase, this one doesn’t have a war theme. It may also be one of the system’s most elegant: Baroque, but toned down a little, with red marble floors and white ceilings with gilded bronze c handeliers.

Jump back on the 3/Blue line  in the same direction and take it one more stop:

11. Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Revolution Square). Opened in 1938, and serving Red Square and the Kremlin . Its renowned central hall has marble columns flanked by 76 bronze statues of Soviet heroes: soldiers, students, farmers, athletes, writers, parents. Some of these statues’ appendages have a yellow sheen from decades of Moscow’s commuters rubbing them for good luck. Among the most popular for a superstitious walk-by rub: the snout of a frontier guard’s dog, a soldier’s gun (where the touch of millions of human hands have tapered the gun barrel into a fine, pointy blade), a baby’s foot, and a woman’s knee. (A brass rooster also sports the telltale gold sheen, though I am told that rubbing the rooster is thought to bring bad luck. )

Now take the escalator up, and get some fresh air.

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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The 10 Best Bike Shorts For Women

Posted: March 8, 2024 | Last updated: March 8, 2024

Few activewear essentials are as versatile as bike shorts. As streetwear, they come in and out of vogue. The bike-short trend was all the rage in the '90s, famously popularized by Princess Diana. The style ultimately fell out of favor until the late 2010s, when it got a high-fashion upgrade. Seen on the runways at Off-White, Saint Laurent, and Chanel, among other designers, bike shorts have solidified their status as a chic wardrobe must have with the celebrity stamp of approval . They're perfect for styling to the nines , throwing on with an oversize logo tee for a comfy but chic 'fit, or, of course, wearing for their original purpose: to break a sweat at your cycling class or during your next outdoor ride.

Bike shorts hit your mid- to low-thigh - long enough to prevent inner-thigh chafing from a bike seat - and conform tightly to your body to ensure they stay in place while you pedal. The majority of these athletic bottoms are made of compressive, stretchy, and sweat-wicking materials such as lycra, spandex, and nylon, which are comfortable to work out in, whether you're biking or not. If you're not wearing them to sweat, there are plenty of bike-short options featuring the same silhouette but with more fashion-forward materials like cotton and polyester.

To help you find the best pair to suit your lifestyle, we rounded up the 10 best bike shorts for women, including options from Amazon, Target, and Nordstrom. Our curated shopping list has picks for avid workout enthusiasts , homebodies, and style gurus, so you may have a hard time choosing just one pair.

- Additional reporting by Marisa Petrarca

Best Affordable Bike Shorts

A2Y Basic Solid Premium Cotton Bike Shorts ($11-$12)

Hundreds of Amazon shoppers say these seamless bike shorts are great for under-dress wear, casual fashion looks, or relaxing on the couch. In a review, one customer says, "I love love love these bike shorts. I now own them in four colors, and they are perfect for lounging or using as pajamas." The style is made from a cotton and spandex composition, and is available to shop in over 50 different colorways (yes, 50!).

Best High-Waisted Bike Shorts

Persit Women's High-Waist Bike Shorts ($20)

These Amazon bike shorts are perfect for those who love patterns because there are several fun ones to choose from, such as camouflage, confetti, and more. Unlike other bike shorts, this particular pair also comes fitted with inside pockets which are handy for storing your credit card, license, keys - you name it.

Best Ribbed Bike Shorts

Colsie Seamless Ribbed Bike Shorts ($12)

You can't beat the price of the ribbed bike shorts from Target. Not only are they affordable, but they also look high-end, thanks to their seamless design and ribbed texture. We love that they're available to shop in a variety of colors, and per reviewers, also have a flattering, compressive fit that helps you to feel held together through even the most vigorous workouts.

Best Performance Bike Shorts

Beyond Yoga High-Waist Biker Shorts ($70)

There's a reason Beyond Yoga is on this list twice. The brand offers size-inclusive, high-quality clothes that are made of the most durable materials, so you can feel confident that the pieces will remain staples in your wardrobe for years to come. One of the brand's standout styles is these high-waisted biker shorts. They're compressive and squat-proof, with a sleek design that's comfortable while providing complete coverage.

Best Bike Shorts For Training

Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Shorts ($64)

These high-rise bike shorts are designed for all types of training, and per reviews on Lululemon's site, and especially great for avid bikers. One shopper says, "I absolutely love these shorts. They won't ride up no matter what you do which is perfect for me as I Peloton twice a day and they hold up. Good compression without feeling tight and fit true to size. Can't wait to get more!!!" The style is made from Lululemon's sweat-wicking Everlux fabric, which is designed to keep you feeling cool. Read our full review of the Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Shorts here .

Editor Quote: "The Lululemon Wunder Train High Rise Short is my favorite versatile short. I can wear it for all kinds of sweaty workouts, and it holds up. It's comfortable, sweat-wicking, and a new go-to for me." - India Yaffe, former associate editor, Commerce

Best Everyday Bike Shorts

Universal Standard Roya Bike Shorts ($29, originally $64)

Universal Standard is leading the charge when it comes to offering an extensive size range, and these breathable bike shorts are no exception. Available in sizes 4XS to 4XL, the versatile silhouette is a tad longer than typical bike shorts, which means they provide even more secure coverage. While they're not quite as durable or compressive as more athletic bike shorts, they are a great style to slip into for everyday wear - like when you're running errands or lounging at home.

Best Stylish Bike Shorts

YPB SculptLUX 7" Bike Shorts ($45)

Sometimes you just want a pair of stylish bike shorts that you can slip into and feel good about wearing - regardless of the workout or occasion. If you can relate, we recommend trying Abercrombie's activewear line (assuming, of course, that you haven't already). These sculpting bike shorts are one of our favorite pieces from the collection; pair them with the matching slim tank for a more cohesive workout ensemble.

Best Crossover Bike Shorts

Aerie Offline Real Me Crossover 7" Bike Shorts ($28, originally $35)

No two bike shorts are made the same, and this style is especially unique because it feature the stylish crossover waistband that's been dominating the activewear scene recently. Crafted from a lightweight fabric, the activewear bottoms boast a V-seam silhouette that's designed to hug your waist in all the best ways.

Best Bike Shorts With Pockets

Nike Dri-FIT Firm Support High Waist Biker Shorts ($65-$70)

These supportive bike shorts feature an eight-inch inseam and not two but six (!) pockets, including two angled, seamless side pockets for easy access; three drop-in pockets at the back waist; and a zippered pocket on the thigh. They also have an internal drawcord to adjust the waist to your liking.

Best Long Bike Shorts

Athleta Ultra High Rise Elation Shorts ($59)

Looking for a pair of long bike shorts? Say less. This high-rise style from Athleta is a hit among shoppers for their nine-inch inseam - the longest option on our list of bike-short bestsellers. The athletic shorts are crafted from a buttery soft material and boast a medium compression that's perfect for those who want something a little tighter - but not too constricting.

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THE 10 BEST Moscow Bike Tours

Bike tours in moscow.

• Adrenaline & Extreme Tours
• Gear Rentals
• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• District Central (TsAO)
• 3rd Transport Ring (TTK)
• Garden Ring
• Zamoskvorechye
• District North-Eastern (SVAO)
• District Eastern (VAO)
• Ostankinskiy
• Krasnoselskiy
• Boulevard Ring
• Maryina Roshcha (Jewish Quarter)
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Moscow Bike Tours

2. VikiTours

3. Russian Cycle Touring Club

4. Oliver Bikes

5. UTS GROUP

6. Bike Tours of Moscow

9. #1 Russia -Tanzania | Zanzibar, Serengeti Safari & Kilimanjaro Agency | BURIGI CHATO SAFARIS CO LTD

10. BASK TOUR

11. Ekaterina Polyakova

12. Velo Flow

13. best moscow tours.

14. Andrey Antonenko

15. ALL TRAVELS

16. free moscu.

17. Manuel PR

18. Anton Efimov

19. English/German Guide in Moscow

What travelers are saying.

• Moscow Bike Tours
• Andrey Antonenko

• Checkpoint SL 7 AXS - 2024, 56cm

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