Getting your hands on an excellent bike for everyday use is a great way to escape your traffic-clogged commute or simply spend more time outside.
Since the pandemic remains a concern, bike sales have skyrocketed as individuals turn to bikes to avoid public transit, get some exercise, and spend time with their families. And, with gas costs at all-time highs, the vision of hopping on a bike and riding to your destination appears even more attractive.
The best bikes for normal usre are:
- Brooklyn Bicycle Co. Franklin 3
- Schwinn Huron 1 26 Adult Cruiser
- Giant Escape 3 Hybrid Bike
- Specialized Sirrus 2.0 Hybrid Bike
- Surly Bridge Club All Road Touring Bike
- Canyon Commuter 7 Hybrid Bike
- Co-op Cycles CTY 1.1 Hybrid Bike
- Retrospec Beaumont
- Cannondale Quick CX 2 Bike
While no one bike is ideal for every type of riding, there is something for everyone when looking for a bike best suited for everyday usage. So whether you're ready to become a fully-fledged cycling commuter or want a fun way to blow off steam while touring your city securely or travel to destinations too far away to reach on foot, there's a bike to get you started on your journey.
I spoke with bike store owners, dealers, and bike-commuting supporters and researched sites like insder.com and menshealth.com to help get some clarity on some of the best picks for bikes for everyday use. As a result, this is what you need to know.
Best Bikes For Normal Use
Bicycling is quite popular these days, and for a good reason. Biking is enjoyable and good for you, and the best bikes for everyday use are a cheap and frequently effective alternative to driving and public transit. In addition, cycling has a plethora of advantages.
There's no better moment than now to rediscover the excitement and independence of riding a bicycle, especially these days when huge vacations and extensive trips aren't an option. Cycling helps you connect to your own habitat peacefully and helps you realize that you're not just passing through the scenery but a part of it.
While you may be using it for everyday purposes, such as doing a neighborhood errand, you'll see architecture, landscapes, and wildlife you had no idea were only a few miles away.
However, while looking for a new bike, the jargon and other guidelines might be confusing and difficult to follow if you're just getting started in the world of cycling. As a result, I'm here to assist. So, starting with the Franklin 3 from Brooklyn Bicycle Co., here's what value these bikes will bring to your two-wheel adventure.
1. Brooklyn Bicycle Co. Franklin 3
The Franklin 3 is a city bike and is a crowd favorite for traveling around town without breaking a sweat. The Franklin 3 is both stylish and functional, allowing riders of all types to get on and go.
The Brooklyn Bicycle Co. Franklin 3 is a clever choice and is a bike that's made to last if you want a comfortable, beautiful commuter bike that arrives completely assembled.
The step-through frame makes mounting your bike easy no matter what you're wearing, and it's composed of lightweight steel, so you can simply take the 33-pound bike upstairs and downstairs. In addition, the bike is not that heavy on the wallet either, placing itself within the $600 budget-friendly range.
Furthermore, Shimano, a well-known name in the industry, makes the rear hub and shifter. The bike is also equipped with puncture-resistant tires. For ultimate comfort, the saddle and grips are constructed of vegan leather.
The Franklin 3 is a three-speed bike, but an eight-speed model is also available. The Franklin 3 is available in two colors: Ivory and Glossy Black; however, its eight-speed alternative is available in Cardinal Red, Ivory, Gloss Black, and Sea Glass.
In addition, the bike is available in two sizes: small, medium, and giant. Overall, Brooklyn Bicycle Co. focuses on creating bikes built to last and comfortable ride, and the Franklin 3 exemplifies this concentration and is a perfect fit for an everyday use bike.
2. Schwinn Huron 1 26 Adult Cruiser
Schwinn is another of the classic brands that benefited from cruiser bikes being a popular method of transportation, with a history extending back to 1895.
If you're searching for a cruiser bike to get you from point A to point B without hustling, the Schwinn Huron 1 is a fantastic place to start. It's one of the best bang-for-your-buck bikes, ranging at just under $400, and It includes all the attributes of a typical cruiser.
The bike comes with a single-speed transmission that is simple to use and maintain. Simply get on the bike and peddle for a leisurely ride best suited for flat terrain. Coastal breaks are also included on the bike for assured stopping power on those regular rides.
Finally, the Huron 1 is praised by professionals for its ease of use. The Schwinn quality cushioned cruiser seat is soft and supportive, and the upright stem on the handlebar gives a pleasant riding position that is easy on your low back - it's all about that long relaxing ride.
Finally, the 2.1-inch wide tires give stability and smoothness to the ride. Fenders on the front and back keep you clean and dry in wet weather while also contributing to the vintage look.
The Huron combines nostalgic flair and a pleasant ride, ideal for neighborhood trips and bike routes.
3. Giant Escape 3 Hybrid Bike
The Giant Escape 3 is the next fantastic suggestion from the experts. The Giant Escape 3 is a hybrid bike. According to the experts I talked with, "hybrids" are the best commuting or everyday use bikes for most people because they combine the speed of a road cycle with the sturdiness and comfort of a more upright "cruiser" bike.
In addition, a hybrid bike also combines the features of a road cycle with a mountain bike. For example, the tires are somewhere between a road bike's narrow, smooth tires and a mountain bike's wide, nubby tires, and the frame will allow you to sit straight in a more "hassle-free" position than if you were leaning down on a road bike.
Hybrid bikes also offer the advantage of being able to be used for longer weekend trips and everyday commutes. In addition, a hybrid bike will be more adaptable, primarily if you use it for both commuting and training on weekends. It'll be a little lighter and speedier as well.
Instead of the wide handles seen on an upright bike, hybrids have a flat handlebar that provides for a more active riding position as well as the option to add fenders and racks.
The Giant Escape 3 is a good commuting bike that won't break the bank and is well worth the money at around $600. It has a lighter-weight ALUXX frame, similar to those seen on more costly racing cycles, and 21 gears, which allows you to boost your speed and handle slopes with more control.
Furthermore, I appreciate that it has flat handlebars rather than the bent ones found on road racing bikes, which usually are what most people are used to. Finally, the wide tires of the Giant Escape 3 make it a suitable choice for roads that aren't always absolutely smooth.
4. Specialized Sirrus 2.0 Hybrid Bike
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The Specialized Sirrus 2.0 is another excellent hybrid bike with a lot to offer for everyday cycling with hybrids in mind. The Specialized Sirrus hybrid is built of the brand's A1 Alloy butted aluminum and is the ideal commuter bike for anybody trying to get a good ride out of their day.
The bike has 700c wheels with room for 42mm wide tires, so it can handle rough roads and dirt pathways while yet being comfortable on the paved road.
The lowered seat stays and fork includes rack and fender or mudguard attachments and bosses for two bottle cages within the main triangle, making this one of the finest commuting bikes for riders wishing to customize their own mule for work.
According to online reviews, during tests, it was discovered that the Shimano gearing had performed excellently. While the most recent versions are now quick-fire 2x8-speed, there will still be an extensive range of ratios to select from, making even steep trips simpler to manage.
Some riders, however, claim that the bike has an excessively upright stance and is not the most agile of motorcycles.
On the other hand, details like the front chainguard to avoid filthy dropped chains on a commuting bike are also an excellent functional addition.
Now that the Sirrus line has been around for a while, it's been able to expand quite a bit, with Sirrus 1.0 up to 4.0 now available, with the real Sirrus 2.0 coming in four varieties, an off-road-friendly Sirrus X 2.0, and step-through versions of both the X and regular models.
There's even a color palette to pick from. The most modern versions will have hydraulic disk brakes, which are a must-have if your budget permits, but the entry-level Sirrus 1.0 will have rim brakes, which are still a good alternative at that price point.
Overall, the Sirrus 2.0 is an excellent alternative for city riding and a pleasant off-road option with a price tag of a little under $800.
5. Surly Bridge Club All Road Touring Bike
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While the Bridge Club looks like an old-school mountain bike, Surly markets it as an all-terrain touring bike, earning it a position on this list if you like taking a detour (or shortcuts) through rocky terrain.
Bridge Club is for multi-surface trips, whether scheduled or not. And Bridge Club is ready for detours into the woods while you're on your next Sunday cycle, looking for a little extra jolt when finding your freedom on two wheels.
However, compared to its competitors on the list, the Bridge Club is a deeper reach into the pocket with a price range closer to $1500. On the other hand, if you are looking for a bike that may be ready for action anytime, this Surly model is worth every penny.
It has just the barnacles that matter to the discriminating bike traveler, and it is ultra-focused on simplicity.
The Surly Bridge Club has DSK-300 Promax disc brakes and a mixed drivetrain that includes an SRAM rear and front derailleur (rear GX and font X5) and a 10-speed cassette (Sunrace 11–40t ) out of the box.
The finishing kit includes flat bars (Salsa Bend) with a 17-degree sweepback, a Volt saddle (WTB), and 2.4in tires (WTB Riddler Comp).
The WTB rims support tubeless tires, but the original tires aren't, so you'll need to buy some new ones if you're going tubeless. Surly's touring bike lineup is quite diverse, ranging from the traditional Long Haul Trucker to the ECR, a plus-tired do-it-all load-'er-up shred wagon.
The Bridge Club is somewhere in the middle of this range, with all necessary devices addressed without being overly complicated. As a result, it is perfect for individuals who prefer their "normal" day bike to be more on the "extreme" side.
6. Canyon Commuter 7 Hybrid Bike
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Many businesses are content to settle for a bike that simply 'does the job' when it comes to commuting bikes. As a result, a slew of uninspired commuting workhorses is unlikely to pique anyone's interest in cycling to work on a dreary day.
On the other hand, although with a steeper price tag of around $1900, the straight-to-customer Canyon Commuter 7 provides top value by sneaking in a slew of lust-worthy components.
All included are a rear rack holder, complete-length aluminum mudguards, a sleek and commuter-inspired belt drive (Gates Carbon), front and rear dynamo lights, and even a little bell! So, to put it another way, it's a normal use commuter's dream.
A clutch-equipped derailleur (Shimano Deore) thrusts through 10-speeds, while a chain guard hides a solitary chainring up front to keep your clothing looking tidy.
The Canyon Commuter 7 has an aluminum frame (hydroformed) with a firmed top tube, an enlarged shaped head tube, and a rectangular shape down tube and is available in vivid mustard yellow or Anchor Grey.
The head tube's weld area is maximized via hydroforming, which increases strength and stiffness. Meanwhile, its compact rear triangle makes it a little more agile than other commuter bikes.
In addition, the Commuter 7's broad bar provides steady steering, and the bike's somewhat comfortable head angle and sharp seat position combine to make it quick to speed off and feel efficient when pedaling.
The lightweight aluminum frame is also simple to roll and transport upstairs, weighing 28lbs. In addition, the Schwalbe tires provide a multi-terrain capability, allowing you to go wherever your heart desires. There's even a pair of lights to lead you home once the sun goes down.
7. Co-op Cycles CTY 1.1 Hybrid Bike
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The Co-op Cycles CTY 1.1 bike is a more affordable choice, at just under $700, and it's a highly-rated hybrid cycle with a sleek aluminum frame and a 24-gear system to help you overcome those open-road miles.
However, you will not feel out of place if you opt to go off-road. It has a 2.4-inch suspension fork that smooths out uneven roads and dirt tracks. So what's the best part? When the suspension isn't needed, you may lock it out to improve handling on smooth terrain.
It also comes with puncture-resistant 27" x 1.5" tires with a broad, stable contact patch, a variable tread pattern, and luminous sidewalls for better visibility. Furthermore, The Selle Royal saddle offers comfort, and the platform pedals complement any comfy footwear you prefer.
Finally, its low handlebars, wide 27-inch tires, and comfortable geometry make it an excellent first bike for anybody wishing to commute, ride on paved bike trails, or go on longer fitness and enjoyment excursions.
In addition, you'll receive Shimano components, dependable disc brakes, a plush Selle Royal seat, and attachments for fenders and racks if you want to ride in the rain or expand the CTY's carrying capacity.
8. Retrospec Beaumont Step-Through Bike
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I understand that riding mania is exhausting, but it doesn't mean you shouldn't have a bike. A can be precious, and Retrospec offers some of the best— and all of them are reasonably priced.
Retrospec's extensive bike lineup includes everything from beach cruisers to folding frames, but the Restrospec Beaumont is the most adaptable and well-designed city model. It's available in a rainbow of colors and has a step-through design for easy access.
That said, shorter individuals can ride these bikes quite well, but stepping to straddle the seat is inconvenient; therefore, a step-through design lowers the frame in front of the seat for easy on and off.
The Beaumont comes with full-wrap fenders to ride in the rain or shine without being splashed and a Shimano 7-speed flexible gear for tackling slopes and inclines or cruising flat terrain. With Shimano Revoshift shifters, you can effortlessly change gears while keeping your hands on the handlebars and your eyes on the road.
The bike also comes with a convenient rear rack, and the Riser handlebars and ErgoComfort seat promote a pleasant upright riding stance. However, while the bike is one of the most affordable on our list at around $400, it does not feel, look, or ride "cheap."
9. Cannondale Quick CX 2 Bike
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The Cannondale Quick CX 2 allows you to ride faster, travel further, and grin more. It is a flexible exercise bike that handles rigorous workouts, daily commuting, and relaxing trips with ease.
The Cannondale Quick CX 2 is a good-looking and cheap hybrid bike designed for mixed terrain. It's a direct descendant of Cannondale's original Quick series, but it comes with a few more features that make it appropriate for both on- and off-road excursions.
The pricing of the Quick CX 2 is precisely in the center of the lineup, so it's neither cheap nor costly. However, by integrating lightweight aluminum materials, front suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, and quality components, this competent hybrid earns its $1,200 price tag.
If you're looking for a bike that can handle road, dirt, gravel, and bike paths, the Cannondale Quick CX 2 is a good option. It has a SmartForm C3 alloy frame and front suspension that are lightweight yet tough enough to endure multi-surface riding and can do it all.
It also has 2 x 9-speed Shimano shifting and fast Tektro hydraulic disc brakes to keep you in control traveling up and down hills and many more exciting features that make it a must-have for regular, everyday life usage bikes.
Cannondale has done a terrific job with the Quick CX 2 bike overall. It is a flexible mid-range model that offers a lot of value at a price that is more than affordable. As a result, it's a good choice for both novice and expert riders.
The Best Bikes For Normal Use: What To Consider
The first thing to ask yourself while looking for a bike, according to dealers, store owners, and internet gurus, is how you expect to utilize your new set of wheels. Of course, depending on the activities you want to do with your bike, you'll want different features.
Many people have different definitions of "normal usage." For example, do you want a bike to ride around town, along mountain routes, or for weekend rides of 100 miles?
And where will you be bicycling? If you live in a location with steep hills or rainy weather, disc brakes, which offer a more consistent, vital stop even in wet, muddy circumstances, or additional gears, which change the pedaling effort for hills, can be worth considering.
If you're generally taking flat rides on dry roads, rim brakes (which function on the rim of the wheel) and a single gear could suffice. As a result, here are some of the essential aspects to consider:
Consider The Size of The Bike
You'll need a bike that allows you to straddle it comfortably and simply put your foot down when you come to a stop. To reach the pedals, you shouldn't have to sway side to side. Bikes are available in a variety of sizes or as a numeric number (46 is the smallest and 62 is the largest).
Consider The Best To Place To Buy
Bikes are mechanical; thus, parts wear out and need to be replaced, and you'll require tune-ups regularly. As a result, your best choice for initial purchase is your local bike shop, where you'll likely get a few years of free adjustments. In addition, some retailers now provide online ordering with in-store pickup or home delivery.
Consider The Essential Gear And Optional Accessories
At the very least, you'll need a brain bucket (a helmet) and a bike pump (all of which can be had for $30 to $70). If you anticipate multiple stops, invest in a bike lock ($20 to $100).
In addition, bottle cages, fenders, racks, and baskets, for example, add weight but boost usefulness. These can be mounted on most motorcycles. Finally, if you're far from home and get a flat tire, a tiny repair kit containing a spare inner tube and inflation tool can save your life.
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