Jamis Commuter 1

Reviewers say the Jamis Commuter 1 is a great commuter bike for beginners. The comfy saddle and swept-back handlebars get high marks for being beginner-friendly, and the suspension seatpost provides a comfortable ride. The aluminum-framed Jamis Commuter 1 comes in multiple sizes for men and women, and the 2009 model has been updated with a leather-finish saddle and grips. Although the 29-pound Jamis Commuter 1 gets good reviews for new commuters, it doesn't have many accessories. You'll have to add your own fenders or rack to the included mounts, and it doesn't include headlights or tail lights. If you have more money to spend, Jamis offers higher-end commuter models with better components and more accessories -- the Jamis Commuter 3 (MSRP: $700) or Jamis Commuter 4 (MSRP: $1,100) -- but they are significantly more expensive. If you don't have a lot of hills on your way to work, the Kona AfricaBike (MSRP: $375) is a single-speed option that comes with a number of commuting accessories, including a rear rack, basket and bell, but the AfricaBike weighs 12 pounds more.

We found the best review of the Jamis Commuter 1 in Bicycling magazine. The bike is featured in their annual buyer's guide, and editor Loren Mooney also recommended the Jamis Commuter 1 on an episode of CBS' "The Early Show. " In addition, the Jamis Commuter 1 is featured in a list of budget-friendly commuter bikes on AssociatedContent.com.