How to Buy a Comfort Bike

Comfort bike buyer's guide

Comfort bike frames typically come in two styles: diamond and step-through. Diamond frames, so named for the angles at which their support tubes intersect, are the most common. Step-through frames are typically marketed for women because they have a lower standover height. However, it's not unusual for a woman to ride a diamond frame or a man to choose a step-through frame. Many brands make the same comfort bicycle with diamond and step-through frames, but some offer only one frame or the other.

The gearing on commuter bikes varies, and the best option for you depends on where you ride. Single-speed commuter bikes are gaining in popularity because they are relatively easy to maintain and less expensive than bikes with multiple gears, but they are limited to relatively flat commutes. Multispeed comfort bikes have more gearing options to help you on climbs, and experts recommend these bikes for hilly commutes. In terms of price, most commuter bikes range from $300 to $800, but bikes made with high-quality components and loaded with accessories can cost well over $1,000.

Hybrid bikes are another popular option for commuters. These bikes combine the skinny tires and speed of a road bike with mountain bike-style handlebars. Experts say hybrid bikes are a good choice for those with long or hilly commutes because they typically come with a wide gear range and are faster than most comfort bikes. Although most hybrid bikes lack commuting accessories like fenders or cargo racks, the frames usually have mounts so you can add your own.

When choosing a comfort bike, your best bet is to start at a bike shop that employs biking professionals who can help you find a good fit and make any necessary adjustments. In addition, you should think about the following issues when buying a commuter bike:

• Gearing: Choosing the right gearing options for your commute depends mainly on your route to work and where you like to ride. If your route is relatively flat, a single-speed or fixed-wheel commuter bike will probably save you money compared to a bike with many gears. However, a multispeed bike may be preferable if you live in a hilly area. 

• Fit: Most commuter bikes come in different frame sizes, making it easier to get a more precise fit. To determine your size, visit a bike shop for a complete fitting.

• Test rides: Because you may be riding this bike twice a day, you want it to be comfortable. Try out a few bikes to see which ones fit best with your body and riding style. Some bikes look great in a magazine, but your opinion may change when you get on the saddle.

• Safety and security: Once you've started commuting on your bike, safety and security should be your primary concerns. Invest in a good bike helmet and learn how to maintain and clean your bike to keep it running smoothly. You'll also want to get a good bike lock, because bike theft is a real problem for bike commuters. ConsumerSearch has separate reports on each.

• Commuting accessories: Pick the accessories most important to you. If price is a concern, you can get away with fewer accessories, but your commute may not be as comfortable. If you're concerned about the total weight of your bike, keep in mind that accessories add additional pounds. These are some of the most popular commuting accessories:
  • Fenders are especially important if you commute in your work clothes. They protect your clothing from mud and dirt, and keep your bike clean as well.
  • Headlights and taillights are important accessories, not just for convenience but also for safety. Some lights are battery operated, but many bikes sport hub-powered (energy comes from the bike) lights, so you don't have to worry about replacing batteries.
  • A chain guard is another important safety accessory. It will keep grease off your pants, but it can also prevent loose clothing from getting stuck in your chain. Some chain guards cover the entire chain; others cover small portions. 
  • Many commuter bikes have racks positioned over the rear wheel to store your belongings or groceries. You can hang panniers from these racks for more storage. Racks and baskets are also available on the front in some bikes.
  • A bell is a nice accessory to have, because it can alert pedestrians that you're coming. If you live in a crowded urban area, you'll find that your bell comes in handy.
  • If you have a long commute, you may also want a water bottle mount or cup holder. Water bottle mounts are more common, but several commuter bikes also hang a small cup holder from the handlebars.
  • If you make frequent stops, you'll appreciate a kickstand. For cargo bikes, a kickstand is a necessity so you can load the bike. Most cargo bikes come with double kickstands so the bike doesn't tip over while loading.