If biking is what you love doing most, then you need to know that you can only enjoy doing what you love, only if you ride on the best bike. Before I knew the secret behind hybrid bikes, I used to buy one bike for trails and a separate bike for street riding. That was not only costly, having to support two bikes, but the bikes also took a lot of space in the store. That is when I saw a blog on the best hybrid bikes under 500 and decided to take a look. After that, I realized that a hybrid bike is the better option since it will work well on both trails and the streets.
Hybrid bikes have transformed modern biking since they are versatile options that come with the best attributes of street and mountain bikes. In case you like hardcore riding, a hybrid option will allow you to ride on your bike when going to work and head to a rugged trail on your way home.
People looking for a new hybrid bike are faced with challenges due to the range of options available. The reason is that not all hybrid bikes are made the same. Some of them come with versatile riding features while others stick to a certain element. Moreover, prices vary dramatically. To make it easier for you, here are some of the best hybrid bikes under 500 to choose from. Enjoy the read!
Table of Contents
- 1 What is a hybrid bike and why do you need one?
- 2 Top 8 Best Hybrid Bikes Under 500 Dollars Review
- 2.1 Sixthreezero EVRYjourney Women's Hybrid Cruiser Bicycle (24-Inch, 26-Inch, and eBike)
- 2.2 Schwinn Discover Hybrid Bikes for Men and Women -21-Speed Drivetrain with 700c/28-Inch Wheels
- 2.3 Sixthreezero EVRYjourney Men's Hybrid Cruiser Bicycle (24-Inch, 26-Inch, and eBike)
- 2.4 Schwinn Capitol 700c Hybrid Bicycle, Men's and Women's Frame Styles
- 2.5 sixthreezero Explore Your Range Women's Hybrid Commuter Bicycle with Rear Rack
- 2.6 Sixthreezero Explore Your Range Men's Hybrid Commuter Bicycle
- 2.7 Raleigh Bicycles Cadent 2 Fitness Hybrid Bike
- 2.8 Diamondback Bicycles Trace St Dual Sport Hybrid Bike
- 3 Buying Guide on How to Choose the Best Hybrid Bikes Under 500
- 4 In conclusion
What is a hybrid bike and why do you need one?
Hybrid bikes are all-purpose bikes that are better for commuting. These bikes usually come with flat handlebars instead of the dropped bars. With the bikes, braking and shifting components seem closer to a mountain bike. You can enjoy the upright riding position with a hybrid bike.
Average hybrid bikes usually come with large tires which make them more shock absorbent and comfortable to ride on. Another great thing about these bikes is their functionality. They come with versatile gearing, triple chain-sets, and wide-ranging cassettes. However, some hybrids are exceptional. The reason is that they come with maintenance-free hub gears. They also come with single-speed variations which add to their simplicity. Others even come with full mud-guards and panniers racks.
Top 8 Best Hybrid Bikes Under 500 Dollars Review
Sixthreezero EVRYjourney Women's Hybrid Cruiser Bicycle (24-Inch, 26-Inch, and eBike)
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
EVRYjourney bikes are made with bikers in mind. With high sheen components and a shiny frame, this EVRYjourney women’s hybrid cruiser looks like a smooth modern showpiece. If you love cruising around your home and smooth rides such as flat terrains, you can go for a single-speed model. However, if you love covering more miles or hill climbing, then this 7-speed model will get you to your destination easily.
The bike is a versatile one and it comes with 17.5 inches with a swooping step via an aluminum frame. This bike is perfect for leisure, cruise, as well as commuter rides. If looking for comfort, the bike is an upright riding model that keeps your shoulders and the back comfortable. When it comes to design, it comes with a foot-forward design to help you support the right leg extension.
When it comes to speed, this bike is a single-speed bike making it ideal for flat terrain. Its front hand brake makes it easy to stop instantly. Its stylish curvy frame with a comfortable dual-spring saddle comes with matching fenders as well as the rear back for optional panniers and baskets.
What we like
- Made of lightweight aluminum for easier riding
- Has a Shimano-7-speed external derailleur
- A rear rack is included in the bike
- Comes with a comfortable seat that matches the handlebars
What we didn’t like
- Assembly is easy, but hard to make adjustments.
- According to best hybrid bikes under 500 reviews, the company shipped wrong assembly instructions with wrong tools.
Schwinn Discover Hybrid Bikes for Men and Women -21-Speed Drivetrain with 700c/28-Inch Wheels
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
If discovering new spots when riding is your hobby, then Schwinn discovers hybrid bike is the bike for you. Besides, Schwinn is among the trustworthy brands when it comes to making quality bikes. If looking for an amazing riding experience, this is the bike for you. This unisex 28-inch hybrid bike is very sturdy and also looks classy. The bike comes with an aluminum frame, a padded saddle, and a suspension fork for great shock absorption. With the bike, every ride is a comfortable one.
With 21 speed SRAM grip changers to easily change gears, you can easily change gears on all terrains. This bike features a Shimano back derailleur, pull-back brakes, and an alloy crank. These features are meant to make your riding easy and enjoyable. The Bikes swept-back adjustable handlebars give room for the right-back and shoulders placement, which prevents back pain and discomfort.
What we like
- Comes with an adjustable swept-back upright handlebars
- Comes with 21 speeds with an SRAM grip shifter to help you control your speed
- Comes with a Shimano Derailleur
- The bike ships complete with rear rack and fenders
- When it comes to versatility, the bike is the best since it fits both men and women. Also, it is ideal for both mountain and road biking.
What we didn’t like
- It is heavy making it hard to ride
- Hard to make adjustments
- Some reviewers say that parts wear out easily
Sixthreezero EVRYjourney Men's Hybrid Cruiser Bicycle (24-Inch, 26-Inch, and eBike)
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
If looking forward to a great cruising experience, then this is the bike to buy. SixThreeZero EVRYjourney Men’s hybrid cruiser bike is among the best hybrid bikes under 500. Centrally to what you may think, the bike is not a hybrid between mountain bikes and road bikes. Rather, the bike combines the smoothness of road bikes with the comfortable positioning of cruising bikes. The result is a perfect bike for commuters, leisure, and cruise rides. It comes with a 19 aluminum frame and weighs below 500 dollars.
At a glance, the bike looks unusual due to the low profile frame but once you get the feel of riding on it, you will be surprised at how comfortable the bike feels. When it comes to design, the bike comes with a great design that gives room for an upright riding that offers comfortable positioning of back and shoulders. Your feet stay forward for smooth leg extension. The bikes black matte frame makes it look aggressive with grip and dual saddles matching the bikes design and the rear rack fender.
Even though the bike does not come with many speeds, it still has some of the best 7 speeds and is more than enough. The bike is ideal for leisure as well as long-distance commuters.
What we like
- Good-looking design
- Very lightweight
- Comes with 7 speeds
- Easy to assemble
- Easy to use for both leisure and long-distance riding
What we didn’t like
- Some reviewers say that the customer service is not great
- The bikes tuning needs to be done by an expert
Schwinn Capitol 700c Hybrid Bicycle, Men's and Women's Frame Styles
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
Schwinn Capital 700c bike delivers a seamless ride and the same time offering a road bike power. It takes pride in sports hybrid geometry that includes a 6062-T6 frame that promotes a comfortable ride. The bike’s laid backpedaling position makes it easy to cruise faster if you need to cycle fast. Such a combination offers a strongly built bike that can resist impact from rough grounds.
The hybrid bike comes with a Shimano gear to promote smooth gear changes regardless of the weather. Due to this, you can have fun with a hassle-free ride on a smooth as well as gravel tracks.
Another great with this hybrid bike is stability. If the bike is not stable, you may not be able to enjoy a comfortable ride. Even though Schwinn capital women’s hybrid bicycle looks and feels different, it does not compromise on stability. Since the bike comes with a great suspension system that is meant for daily use, it will make your riding, not only comfortable but also easy. The bike is also able to absorb any impact from unexpected potholes or bumps.
What we like
- Comes with a powerful Tekro linear brakes
- Have puncture-resistant tires
- The bike’s saddle is soft and padded for more comfort
- Comes with a heat-treated aluminum frame for extra strength when riding
What we didn’t like
- Its petals are disappointing. They come with poor quality and are also poorly installed
sixthreezero Explore Your Range Women's Hybrid Commuter Bicycle with Rear Rack
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
Women love classy yet functional bikes. Most women love aggressiveness on the road and since the bike seems alive, I believe many of them will love it. Also, the bike comes with a sweet exterior and a strong frame; it is designed with a modern rider in mind. The bike boasts smooth yet classy designs with 26 inches wheels which help in conquering new heights.
This bike is not all about reliability and sturdiness. Its vanilla cream frame and the orange accents make it more attractive to women. The bike comes with padded saddles and well-placed handlebars for improved comfort and performance. This bike is not just a bike; it is an innovation that is cool to have and very interesting to ride.
What we like
- Gloss chrome frame for a sleek look
- Lower profile promoting proper leg extension
- Comes with a 7 speed Shimano for better cruising
- Comes with wide all-terrain tires
What we didn’t like
- The shiny paint flakes easily with time
Sixthreezero Explore Your Range Men's Hybrid Commuter Bicycle
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
If you are a city dweller, you will surely love this bike. To begin with, the aluminum material on the bike makes it lightweight which makes city riding fun and comfortable. The bike is among the best commuter bikes under 500 in the world.
When it comes to durability, the bike comes with a 20 inches low profile diamond frame that is known for its durability. It also comes with a 700 x 38c double-walled rims as well as a Shimano 7 speed external derailleur. With such features, you will surely get smooth rides regardless of the terrain.
Ideal for men who are 5 to 6.2 inches tall, the bike is ideal for both leisure and long-distance riding. It comes with adjustable handlebars and a front and rear handbrakes for easy stops and comfort.
What we like
- Comes with Shimano 7 speed
- Comes with a rear rack
- Has an awesome handlebar and seat geometry
- Comes with a synthetic seat that has matching handlebars
What we didn’t like
- According to some reviewer, the company shipped the wrong assembly instructions and tools
- Easy to assemble but hard to adjust
Raleigh Bicycles Cadent 2 Fitness Hybrid Bike
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
Raleigh is among the best hybrid bike that every woman can delight in. The bike is lightweight and comes with 35c tires that offer a soft and fast riding experience. When it comes to assembly, the bike offers a simple assembling process. It also comes with flat steel middle-raised handlebars that boost comfort and promotes an upright riding position.
The amazing hybrid bike comes with a frame that is made with women in mind: cute, curvy, and also beautiful. With this bike, you get to experience the use of 21 gears which you can choose from, which makes it easy to deal with any terrain.
What we like
- Lightweight at 24lbs only
- Comes with a flat steel mid-raised handlebars
- Have smaller grips that are perfect for women
- The bikes Shimano 3x7 speed shifter helps in changing gears easily
What we didn’t like
- Unclear assembly instructions
- Stand-over height is a bit high
Diamondback Bicycles Trace St Dual Sport Hybrid Bike
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
Diamondback Trace St Dual Sport hybrid bike is popular among recreational bikers due to its top-quality features. Its design includes quality parts from brands like Shimano which makes the bike compared to other expensive models.
The bike comes with linear allow pull-brakes that offer enough stopping power for a safe feel while riding. With the 21 Shimano speed, you can cruise on various trails with ease. The bike also comes with dual-sport tires that offer fast-rolling traction. The 3x7 Shimano speed drivetrain accompanied by Revo grip shift that is highly responsive to smoothly roll down the hill.
What we like
- Comes with a sleek and stylish design
- Easy to assemble
- Comes with a lightweight but strong frame
What we didn’t like
- The saddle is hard
Buying Guide on How to Choose the Best Hybrid Bikes Under 500
When it comes to buying the best hybrid bike under 500, there is more to what you see. With so many brands claiming to offer the best experience, choices can overwhelm you and end up making the wrong choice. That is why we have listed some of the features that you can check to help you buy the best.
Size of the wheel
The wheel is the one that comes into contact with the surface, and so you need to make sure you get the right one. There are two standard wheel sizes for hybrid bikes, 26 and 700c wheels. Choose the bike with 700c wheels to get the best experience.
Hybrid gears
When it comes to gears, hybrid bikes usually come with 1 to 27 gears on most brands. The number of gears should depend on where you wish to ride. If looking forward to riding in the mountains, then the more gears you get the better. However, if you wish to commute to work or on the road, then you do need to get so many gears.
Brakes
In most cases, hybrid bikes come fitted with two brake types: disc brakes and rim brakes. While rim brakes are easy to use and economical, they fail to offer enough stopping power and control you need to stop a bike safely. On the other hand, disc brakes offer enough power and so are the better options. The disc brakes come in two types, mechanical and hydraulic. You control mechanical brakes manually while hydraulic brakes are automatic.
Bike suspension
If in need of a hybrid bike that comes with suspensions, all you need is to make sure you buy the one that comes with the suspensions since they are available. However, it is good to keep in mind that a bike that comes with no suspension is lighter and easier to ride. You may choose a hybrid bike with front suspension is looking forward to absorbing the impact on the front wheels. Suspensions are great features to consider, especially when looking forward to riding on rough terrains such as hilly or rocky surfaces.
Frame material
Hybrid bikes usually come in steel, aluminum, and carbon fiber frames. However, most bikes come in the aluminum frame because it is cheaper. On the other hand, carbon frames are lighter when compared to aluminum and stronger when you compare it to steel.
However, carbon fiber is expensive when compared to other metals. While steel is sturdier than aluminum, it is heavier. Therefore, choose a bike that comes with your material of choice, but in this category, it is hard to find a bike under 500 that comes with a carbon steel construction.
Handlebar shape
Before you buy a hybrid bike, it is good to take time and compare the distance between the seat and the handlebars. The further the seat is below the handlebar, the better since it enhances comfort. On the other hand, if looking forward to an aerodynamic position, then you need a bike whose seat is higher than the handlebars.
With that in mind, always take time to check the handle-bars position depending on the seat position to make sure you choose the one that suits you best. Besides, you would not want to get a bike that will get you tired after riding just a few kilometers. Also, if handlebars a well-positioned, your shoulders and back are safe from damages.
Seat
As you buy a hybrid bike, it is good to make sure that the bike comes with a comfortable seat. A better seat is the one that comes with a soft cushioning, to make sure you are comfortable when riding for long distances. Besides, how can you comfortably ride on an uncomfortable seat? That is why you should always get the best.
Accessories
Most hybrid bikes come with various accessories to boost their performance and comfort. Some of the best hybrid bike accessories include,
Fenders
In case you are running errands or even commuting to work on a rainy day, fenders are among the best accessories that your bike can have. The reason is that fenders are there to keep grime and road puddles from splashing towards you. Besides, you would not want your uniform or office attires to get dirty even before you get to your destination. If you love carrying your friends on the back, he or she will appreciate the fenders since they will keep their clothes clean and dry.
However, you need to note that fenders are optional, and so during the sunny season you can remove them to cut off some weight from the bike.
Cargo racks
Cargo racks are perfect for regular rides to the grocery or when traveling to work and you need to carry a suitcase with you. If you love carrying extra cargo, then you need this feature. However, take note that 90% of the hybrid bikes need you to buy extra panniers bags to safely carry your stuff. Therefore, depending on your riding needs, you can decide whether to get the one with racks or not.
In conclusion
A hybrid bike is the easiest means of experiencing a thrilling and affordable yet classic ride. Like a cross between road, cruise bike, and mountain bikes, these top-quality bikes are usually considered as three-in-one bikes. The above-reviewed bikes are basically among the best hybrid bikes under 500 based on overall rating and dependability. Designed for both road and mountain riding, these classy bikes are the best that you can have. They relieve stress on hands, neck area and shoulders keeping you comfortable as you ride. If looking for the best riding experience choose one today and ride safely and comfortably.
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