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Is biking a new hobby for you? When you’re shopping for a new bike, think about factors such as cost, comfort, and style. Hybrid bikes give you more control in diverse settings (and riding conditions) because they blend the characteristics of both mountain bikes and road bikes. We’ll discuss the main features of some hybrid bike options by cost category and cover what some riders are saying.

Under 500

Quality and cost might be correlated, but there are still great bikes at pretty affordable prices. The following bikes are generally considered quality options and cost less than $500.

Hiland Aluminum Hybrid

The Hiland Aluminum Hybrid costs less than $380. Some reviews mention that parts arrived misshapen or damaged. Despite this quality control issue, most reviewers consider the bike has good value for this price. Once the Hiland Hybrid is tuned properly (perhaps by a professional), the Hiland Aluminum Hybrid makes a good commuting bike. Key features include:

Hiland Aluminum Hybrid

• Aluminum frame
• Disc brakes
• 24 gears
• Ergonomic seat
• 28 lbs
• 85% pre-assembled

Vilano Diverse 3.0

At $449, the Vilano Diverse 3.0 is considered a performance hybrid road bike. This bike has high ratings on its value, weight, and comfort, but you might have to take it in for a professional tune-up before use. Some have complained about misshapen brakes, but for most reviewers, the good aspects of the bike outweigh the bad. Reviewers consider the Vilano Diverse 3.0 to be a good and affordable buy. Features include:

Vilano Diverse 3.0

• Disc brakes
• 24 speeds
• Flat handlebar (allows for comfortable, upright posture)
• Lightweight aluminum frame
• 26.5 lbs

Mid-Range

We’re defining mid-range bikes as any bike that costs between $500-$1,000. As this category suggests, these bikes are great options for those who have a mid-range budget. If a high-end ride is too costly and more affordable bikes don’t have the quality you’re looking for, this category is the place to look.

Schwinn Vantage

The Schwinn Vantage is another hybrid bike considered to have great value for its price. There are several Schwinn Vantage models, starting at $650. Some reviewers had to replace parts upon delivery, but most of the reviewers who had this issue still considered the purchase worthwhile. Novice riders have the flexibility to find which gears are best in different scenarios because of the number of options. Highlighted features include:

Schwinn Vantage

• Mechanical disc brakes
• 21 gears
• Flat handlebar
• Aluminum frame
• “Smooth ride technology”
• < 30 lbs

Trek Dual Sport 3

The Trek Dual Sport 3 is one of several Dual Sport models, costing $750. Most reviewers enjoy riding this bike, even those who have some difficulty with shifting gears. Most riders consider the shifting issue to be a minor complaint and several reviewers enjoy the versatility of the Trek Dual Sport. It’s said to be a nice bike on the road as well as on dirt trails. Riders favor the weight of the bike and the smoothness of the ride. This model includes:

Trek Dual Sport 3

• Lightweight aluminum frame
• Hydraulic disc brakes
• Puncture-resistant tires
• < 30 lbs

Giant Roam 4

You can get the Giant Roam 4 for $550. Reviewers appreciate the quality of the bike and believe the versatility of the Roam 4 makes it a worthwhile purchase. Whether you’re riding the bike for leisure, adventure, or commuting, this bike serves its purpose. However, after a few months of use, a tune-up might be necessary. Features include:

Giant Roam 4 Disc

• Mechanical disc brakes
• Suspension fork to absorb shock
• Lightweight aluminum frame
• Flat handlebar
• Integrated mounts (for ease of accessorizing with racks, fender, or kickstand)

Livall O2 Series 9S Smart Bike

The Livall O2 Series 9S costs just under $600. The bike is easy to assemble and has smart features, including Bluetooth capabilities, that customers appreciate. Some reviewers find the seat uncomfortable, but the seat’s easy to replace. Features include:

Livall O2 Series 9s Small Bike

• Carbon fiber frame
• 9-speeds
• Smart features
• Just over 23 lbs
• Arrives mostly assembled

Tommaso La Forma

The Tommaso La Forma is a highly-rated hybrid costing just under $900. Some riders have problems assembling the bike without help. The size of the bike has also caused problems for some reviewers (the size didn’t match expectations). Most reviewers are satisfied with riding the bike. Features include:

Tommaso La Forma

• Aluminum frame
• Linear pull brakes
• 27 speeds
• About 25 lbs

Higher-End

The price of hybrid bikes ranges widely. We define higher-end as any bike costing over $1,000.

Ribble Hybrid Al-E

The Ribble Hybrid Al-E is considered a pretty affordable electric bike option at just under $2,000. It has a smooth ride without extra noise coming from the motor. Features include:

Ribble Hybrid Al-E

• Aluminum frame
• Hydraulic disc brakes
• Ride assist up to 60 miles
• About 32 lbs

Raleigh Bikes Detour Hybrid Bike

The Raleigh Bikes Detour Hybrid costs just over $1,300. Most reviewers are happy with this bike, though some have been dissatisfied with the size of the frame. Features include:

Raleigh Bikes Detour Hybrid Bike

• Linear pull brakes
• Aluminum frame
• 21 gears

Priority Continuum Onyx

The Priority Continuum Onyx costs $1,299. Reviews about this bike seem overwhelmingly positive. The ride is smooth and comfortable, though the weight of the bike is considered a minor concern. Features include:

Priority Continuum Onyx

• Reflective logos and tire beading to increase visibility
• Puncture-resistant tires for safety
• Lightweight aluminum frame
• Hydraulic disc brakes
• Just over 30 lbs

Bombtrack Outlaw Urban Bike

The Bombtrack Outlaw Urbans cost $1,650. Riders find this bike comfortable and low-maintenance, but not the fastest. Features include:

Bombtrack Outlaw Urbans

• Hydraulic disc brakes
• Single-speed
• Lightweight aluminum frame
• About 25 lbs

Picking the right hybrid

When you’re shopping for a new bike, consider your needs and budget. You aren’t likely to use a bike that isn’t comfortable or doesn’t fit. Think about taking some test rides to figure out what features work best for you. Here are some questions for consideration:

• What’s your budget?
• How will you be using the bike?
• What features are necessary?
• What compromises are you willing to make when it comes to quality?
• How heavy is the bike?
• What size do you need? (You can find size charts pretty easily)
• Which gears, suspension, brakes, and handlebars best serve your purposes?
• Do you want a new, used, or refurbished bike?

The above list is only a small sample of great options out there. Tell us about your favorite hybrid bike.