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Choosing a hybrid or comfort bike

Which hybrid or comfort bike is right for you

This month, choose to celebrate Earth Day in a real, practical manner. Instead of taking four wheels to work or school, choose two wheels! Not only will choosing to ride your bike have a tangible impact on your health and fitness, it will also have a great impact on the environment.

Hybrid or Comfort bikes are popular for many reasons. They are a comfortable, approachable, eco-friendly means of getting out with family and friends, running errands, exercising or commuting to work. They don't pretend to be ultra-fast racers and they aren't overbuilt tanks for the off-road trails. They are the middle—an excellent combination of comfort, efficiency and fun.

Hybrids and Comfort bikes, though technically different, cater to essentially the same market and may be called any number of different names. Don't worry about it. Read through this buyer's guide to see what features make hybrids so popular and then come in to ride one yourself. We highly encourage test-rides!

As you look at bikes, you will see the names Hybrid, Comfort and Cruiser (among several others) used. Here is a quick look at what each generally mean, though some bikes may share qualities of all categories. Don't worry! You need to find a bike that YOU like, not one that fits any particular definition.


hybrid bikesHybrid bikes

Also commonly referred to as "Cross", these bikes are the combination (or cross, or hybrid) of a road bike's large diameter wheels and a mountain bike's comfortable, upright position, flat handlebars and low gearing. It is the larger diameter wheels that make the hybrid the quicker, more efficient choice for riding on the pavement. Within this category, you can find models with wider or skinnier tires, rigid or suspension forks, more or less upright positions and lightweight frames.


comfort bikesComfort bikes

In most cases they are nearly identical to a hybrid bike, though they use a mountain bike's smaller diameter, sturdier wheels with generally wider tires. One could also look at them as a mountain bike with smoother, more pavement-oriented tires. The durability of the stronger wheels draws people who have rougher commutes, like to ride on trails or are heavier riders.


cruiser bikesCruiser bikes

Beach bikes, beach cruisers and boardwalk cruisers are all other terms for simple, comfortable bikes designed for casual riding along easy, flat pathways. Most use time-proven coaster brakes and count baskets or a rear rack as their main "feature".


Other considerations with Hybrid & Comfort bikes

Don't get bogged down in worry about what your hybrid's frame is made of–doing so misses the whole point of buying a comfortable, easy-to-ride bike. You will see frames made from steel, aluminum and possibly carbon fiber, depending on the price range you are looking at. As price rises, so does the quality and lightness of the frame on your bike, but these types of bike are so feature-rich, there are far more cool things to look at than frame material.

Most Hybrid and Comfort bikes come with some form of suspension in the front and rear of the bike. This suspension is what makes the ride so comfy, though it comes in many mechanical forms. Different people want different amounts of suspension. Where and how you ride will also dictate how much you need. On your test rides, just be aware of the options available and try different combinations to find one that suits your needs.

One of the greatest advances in bicycles in the past few years has been the wide range of gearing available. Many riders returning to the sport recall "It was so hard to get up the hills!" or "I always had trouble moving the lever to the right spot and the bike would forever make this clacking or grinding noise." Here is what you need to know about gearing on a modern bicycle. The gear range on most any Hybrid or Comfort bike is huge! Regardless of how many specific gears a bike has, the lowest will allow you to ascend hills with ease and allow you to cruise as fast as you want going down. You can tackle any terrain while staying seated, pedal at the rate that is right for you and not feel limited at all.

Brakes are another area that has seen great improvement in recent years. If it has been a while since you've ridden, you may not even recognize some of them! Modern brakes can be divided into two categories—Rim Brakes and Disc Brakes. Rim brakes, most commonly a "v-brake" on today's hybrids, are what you may be most familiar with. Though the caliper itself may look different, the brake operates by squeezing a rubber block against the rim, just like brakes always have. They are simple, light and amazingly powerful compared to previous designs. Disc brakes borrow technology from the motorcycle/automobile world and combine it with bicycle simplicity. There is a steel rotor mounted near the center of each wheel and a brake caliper bolted to the fork or rear frame. As with car brakes, they work very consistently even when wet and the brake pads last a very long time. Disc brakes are a great choice for riders who commute, live in hilly areas or ride in lots of wet weather.

Lastly, seats are an important topic and perhaps the main reason a person may not like to ride. The selection of seats available is huge and finding the right one may seem like the search for the Holy Grail. Know this—whether you want a seat that is skinny or wide, thin or thick, light weight or sprung like a couch, it is out there. Each person has different needs and wants here, so the best thing to do is talk about it with one of our staff. Chances are that the seat that comes on your Comfort bike will be the best you've ever ridden. On the off chance it is not, however, we can find one that fits you like a glove.

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$449.99
It all started with an idea that we could improve upon an American classic. Today, the Electra Cruiser has more than 25 years of refinement built in to enhance the riding experience with modern styling. The result is a less clunky, more ergonomic ride that features our patented Flat Foot Technology•. The single-speed Cruiser 1 is simplicity at its finest. It's right for you if... You appreciate the look of a classic beach cruiser, but don't mind extra comfort and modern styling. The Electra Cruiser is a simple, durable bike perfect for a sun-soaked ride on the boardwalk or cruising the streets to your favorite taco shop. The tech you get The single-speed Electra Cruiser 1 features a sturdy steel frame paired with alloy rims and stainless-steel spokes on RetroRunner tires. Custom swept back handlebars and coaster brakes make this an easy-to-use and comfortable ride. The final word Nothing compares to the comfort and style you find on an Electra Cruiser. We changed the game by moving the pedals forward, relaxing the angle of the seat and opening up the entire frame geometry. Our Cruisers are simple, fun and easy to ride. All you need to do is choose your favorite color and apply sunscreen. Why you'll love it - The beach cruiser was our first love. Its timeless style can transport you to a Southern California beach no matter where you are. - It features our patented Flat Foot Technology® for amazing comfort and control. - Cruise comfortably on 26" RetroRunner tires and an easy-to-use coaster brake. - Add a bell, basket, fenders or a surf rack to make the most of those long summer days.
$449.99
It all started with an idea that we could improve upon an American classic. Today, the Electra Cruiser has more than 25 years of refinement built in to enhance the riding experience with modern styling. The result is a less clunky, more ergonomic ride that features our patented Flat Foot Technology. The single-speed Cruiser 1 is simplicity at its finest.
$449.99
It all started with an idea that we could improve upon an American classic. Today, the Electra Cruiser has more than 25 years of refinement built in to enhance the riding experience with modern styling. The result is a less clunky, more ergonomic ride that features our patented Flat Foot Technology. The single-speed Cruiser 1 is simplicity at its finest.
$499.00
Our classic heritage Dutchi is elegant, feminine, and independent. The upright riding position makes this single-speed very comfortable for everyday use, and the low step-through frame allows for easy on and off. If there ever was a frame designed for trips to the flower market or picking up freshly baked bread, this is it.
$500.00 - $560.00
Pedal to work, meet friends for coffee, or build up fitness on the bike path. The Alight fits right into a fun, heathy lifestyle. Casual Comfort An upright riding position and flat handlebars make commuting or a casual spin comfortable without compromising efficiency. Fun Fitness The lightweight, balanced geometry of the ALUXX-Grade Aluminum frame provides an energizing combination of speed and stability. Stylish Versatility Equipped with integrated mounts for racks, fenders, or panniers, this bike blends urban style and road bike agility.
$560.00
Ride to work, ride for your health, get away from it all with a weekend adventure. Here's a bike that does all of the above. With its comfortable positioning and smooth ride quality, Escape is the way to go. With its lightweight ALUXX aluminum frame, confident handling, and fast-rolling 700c wheels, Escape lets you ride any road or path in comfort and style. It's a great choice for commuting, fitness riding, or just for fun. This versatile all-rounder is designed with a flat handlebar and upright rider position, which gives it a confident, sporty feel that's suitable for city streets or country roads. It also comes with rack and fender mounts so you can add accessories to make it fit your needs. Balanced and efficient Lightweight ALUXX frame, smooth-rolling 700c wheels, and confident upright positioning offer a balanced, efficient ride quality. Versatile and capable A wide range of gears helps you increase your speed and tackle hills with more control. Rugged reliability Puncture-resistant tires and integrated rack mounts keep you rolling on tough city streets and more adventurous rides.
$569.99
Simply elegant. Casually cool. As a beach cruiser should be. You can feel the Electra difference with our patented Flat Foot Technology®, adding a whole new level of comfort and control. With a range of 7 gears and linear pull brakes, the Cruiser 7D is ready to roll. It's right for you if... You enjoy the causal ride of a beach cruiser, but still appreciate quality, craftsmanship, and of course, style. The Cruiser 7D is the best of both worlds, offering plenty of gears to give you range beyond a quick ride around the block in flip flops. Not that there’s anything wrong with that. The tech you get The Cruiser 7D features a lightweight, aluminum frame, Shimano 7-speed gearing with a Revo Twist shifter and alloy linear pull brakes. Electra's patented Flat Foot Technology® provides an upright ride for comfort and control with the added cushion of balloon tires. The final word For comfort and style, nothing compares to an Electra Cruiser. We changed the game by moving the pedals forward, relaxing the angle of the seat and opening up the entire frame geometry. Our Cruisers are simple, fun and easy to ride. All you need to do is choose your favorite color and apply sunscreen. Why you'll love it - Get the classic look of a beach cruiser with added details that take it to the next level. - Comfort and control are key with Electra's patented Flat Foot Technology®. - The linear pull brakes and 7-speed drivetrain give you range and stability. - Add a bell, basket or a surf rack to make the most of those long summer days.
$569.99
Simply elegant. Casually cool. As a beach cruiser should be. You can feel the Electra difference with our patented Flat Foot Technology®, adding a whole new level of comfort and control. With a range of 7 gears and linear pull brakes, the Cruiser 7D is ready to roll. - Get the classic look of a beach cruiser with added details that take it to the next level. - Comfort and control are key with Electra's patented Flat Foot Technology®. - The linear pull brakes and 7-speed drivetrain give you range and stability. - Add a bell, basket or a surf rack to make the most of those long summer days.
$569.99
The Electra Cruiser 7D has everything you're looking for in a classic beach cruiser, and a little bit more. Infused with Electra's legendary style and patented Flat Foot Technology, the 7D offers a solid range of gears to handle any hills you may encounter on your way to the beach, your friend's house or around the neighborhood. It's right for you if... You value a high-quality, easy riding beach cruiser with an upright riding position and plenty of gears to get you to your destination comfortably and in style. The Cruiser 7D is built to withstand years of use. Choose from a variety of fun, fresh colors and get ready to turn some heads. The tech you get Patented Flat Foot Technology provides optimal comfort and control. The Shimano Tourney 7-speed with MEGARANGE gearing and Shimano Revo twist shifter allow for smooth and easy shifting. A sturdy cantilevered frame, alloy rims and stainless-steel spokes will keep you riding in style for years to come. The final word For comfort and style, nothing compares to an Electra Cruiser. We changed the game by moving the pedals forward, relaxing the angle of the seat and opening up the entire frame geometry. Our Cruisers are simple, fun and easy to ride. All you need to do is choose your favorite color and apply sunscreen. Why you'll love it - The Electra Cruiser 7D embodies the simplicity of the beach cruiser with enough additional gears to tackle some hills. - Features our patented Flat Foot Technology for amazing comfort and control. - Cruise comfortably on the boardwalk or bike path with 26" RetroRunner tires. - Add a bell, basket, fenders or a surf rack to make the most of those long summer days.
$629.99
This modern day classic is built to ride. It’s lightweight. It’s durable. It’s comfortable. The wide range gearing is perfect for everything from the bike path to beer runs. The 7D comes equipped with an alloy frame, 7-speed drivetrain and fenders for all-weather riding. - Lightweight 6061-T6 aluminum frame - Shimano Acera 7-speed w/Megarange gearing - Shimano Revo twist shifter - Painted alloy fenders - Sealed cartridge bottom bracket - Alloy crankset w/44t alloy chainring and guard - Alloy dual pivot caliper brakes - Double-wall alloy rims - 700 X 35C tires
$639.99
With its sweeping curves, the Pure City Step-Through has the classic look of a cobblestone street with a smooth modern feel. Whether you're headed uptown, downtown, or just around the corner, if you're on this bike, you'll always be taking the scenic route! Speeds to meet your needs We designed these bikes to thrive in whatever city you call home. Because not every city is created equally, we built two different gearing options so you can pick that set-up that's right for you. The 3-speed gives you a small range of gears to cycle through and the internal hub is unmatched for ease of use and creating a clean, minimalist look. The 8-speed gives you a wider range of gears to tackle tough hills and haul heavier loads. - Wider range of gears for taming hilly cities or hauling heavy loads. - Higher top speed before "spinning out". - Cheaper to own, repair, and replace.
$639.99
With its sweeping curves, the Pure City Step-Through has the classic look of a cobblestone street with a smooth modern feel. Whether you're headed uptown, downtown, or just around the corner, if you're on this bike, you'll always be taking the scenic route! Speeds to meet your needs We designed these bikes to thrive in whatever city you call home. Because not every city is created equally, we built two different gearing options so you can pick that set-up that's right for you. The 3-speed gives you a small range of gears to cycle through and the internal hub is unmatched for ease of use and creating a clean, minimalist look. The 8-speed gives you a wider range of gears to tackle tough hills and haul heavier loads. - Wider range of gears for taming hilly cities or hauling heavy loads. - Higher top speed before "spinning out". - Cheaper to own, repair, and replace.
$650.00
With its lightweight ALUXX aluminum frame, upright positioning and high-quality parts that give it a smooth, comfortable ride, the Escape Disc is totally versatile and totally fun to ride. It now features a high-quality composite fork and innovative D-Fuse seatpost. Both are great for smoothing out rough roads, absorbing shocks and vibrations, and giving you a smoother, more comfortable ride. The disc brakes deliver powerful braking performance in dry or wet conditions, and the 700c wheels with Giant EasyRide Tubeless tires (on select models) keep you rolling with speed, efficiency and a reduced risk of flats. As an added bonus, there’s clearance for larger tires up to 45mm in width, which makes it easier to ride rougher roads. It comes with integrated mounts, so you can customize your ride with racks or fenders. Whatever road or path you choose, Escape Disc is ready to roll. KEY PERFORMANCE FACTORS Balanced and efficient Lightweight ALUXX frame, fast-rolling 700c wheels, and confident upright positioning offer a balanced, efficient ride quality. Versatile and capable Powerful disc brakes and a wide range of gears help you increase your speed and tackle hills with more control. Rugged reliability Puncture-resistant tires feature the Giant EasyRide Tubeless system (on select models). Integrated rack mounts make it easier to carry your daily essentials or load up for weekend adventures.
$650.00
You have places to go, people to see, and fitness goals to achieve. We get it—life moves pretty fast, so it's a good thing we made Sirrus to help you with all of it. Wherever you're heading, Sirrus will take you there. This Sirrus features a reliable set of components that are built to withstand years of daily abuse, like comfortable Body Geometry touchpoints and fuss-free mechanical V-brakes. So, as you push yourself to reach your goals, you'll feel more connected to your bike and know that you have the perfect partner with Sirrus. - Lightweight A1 Alloy frame with clean internal cable routing delivers a bike that is 1.1lb (.5kg) lighter than previous version. - Reflective graphics on frame and tires for maximum visibility. - Upright position with Body Geometry touchpoints for comfort and control.
$660.00
Quick As You Like A swift, sporty bike that’s perfect for getting a workout, city cruising, or just getting out and feeling good. Highlights - Lightweight aluminum frame w/ 360° reflective accents - Shimano 7-speed drivetrain with triple chainring crank - Powerful rim brakes Where it thrives: In town, leisurely rides, on crowded streets What it's built for" Agility, visibility, comfort
$675.00
Day in, Day out. A bike for any day and anywhere. Fun and light to rip around the neighborhood for meet ups, running errands, or Sunday fun days. Highlights - Light, durable aluminum frame - Integrated connectivity with Cannondale App - 7-speed Shimano gearing with disc brakes Where it thrives - In town, leisurely rides, on crowded streets What it's built for - Agility, comfort, durability
$675.00 - $800.00
Day in, Day out. A bike for any day and anywhere. Fun and light to rip around the neighborhood for meet-ups, running errands, or Sunday fun days. Highlights - Light, durable aluminum frame - Integrated connectivity with the Cannondale App - 7-speed Shimano gearing with disc brakes Where it thrives - In town, leisurely rides, on crowded streets What it's built for - Agility, comfort, durability
$680.00 - $950.00
Frame : ALUXX-Grade Aluminum Fork : ALUXX-Grade Aluminum Rigid fork Shifters : Shimano N3 Crankset : Alloy forged 52T
$735.00
Quick As You Like A swift, sporty bike that's perfect for getting a workout, city cruising, or just getting out and feeling good. Where it thrives: In town, leisurely rides, on crowded streets What it's built for: Agility, visibility, comfort Highlights - Lightweight step-thru aluminum frame w/360 reflective accents - Shimano Tourney TX 14-speed drivetrain with disc brakes. - Integrated connectivity with the Cannondale App Connect An integrated wheel sensor helps track your activity (like speed, distance, and calories burned), registers your bike, reminds you of needed service, and more, all through the free Cannondale App Be Seen The Quick's graphics feature bright 360 reflective elements for that extra measure of safety in low-light conditions Fast and Easy To blend speed with comfort, Quick uses road-bike style wheels fitted with larger volume tires for better bump absorption, grip, and durability Confident Control Our OutFront steering geometry makes riding easier. It delivers agile handling by positioning the wheel further out in front for more stability, more control, and less chance of toe overlap Versatile A bike of all trades. Plenty of reflective accents and mounts for racks and fenders make Quick perfect for rides through the city, and it's sporty enough for harder riding to keep you healthy and fit Comfortable & Capable Comfort comes standard thanks to bump-absorbing SAVE micro-suspension, and a riding position that's upright for visibility and ease, yet forward enough for efficient speed
$760.00
Everything you need to tap into the pure and simple joy of riding a bike. With its comfortable rider position, 8-speed gearing and wide, smooth-rolling tires, Vida will get you spinning with a smile on your face. It has disc brakes for smooth stopping power, plus a comfortable saddle and grips.
$760.00
Everything you need to tap into the pure and simple joy of riding a bike. With its comfortable rider position, 8-speed gearing and wide, smooth-rolling tires, Vida will get you spinning with a smile on your face. It has disc brakes for smooth stopping power, plus a comfortable saddle and grips.
$769.00
With a nod to the classic Dutch city bikes from which it takes its name, the Linus Dutchi 3 is an ideal vehicle for all your two-wheeled trips. From the office to the grocer, the Dutchi's beautiful steel frame and 3-speed internal drivetrain offer an easy, comfortable ride with an upright position so you can sit up and watch the world cruise by. The comfy saddle and genuine leather grips look as good as they feel. Light aluminum wheels with wide, versatile tires make the most of every pedal stroke. And, the Dutchi sports full fenders and a rear rack, too!
$769.00
The Roadster Sport 3i was designed to be your go-to everyday bike. Is the more user friendly version of the Roadster classic with a 3-speed internal gears that make it extremely reliable and trouble-free. It’s your choice for quick rides to the market or work, and leisurely trips along the avenue. Key Bike Features: - Painted steel fenders with retro brackets - Front and rear reflectors - Genuine leather grips with handmade stiching - Touring saddle
$800.00
Day in, Day out. A bike for any day and anywhere. Fun and light to rip around the neighborhood for meet-ups, running errands, or Sunday fun days. Highlights - Light, durable aluminum frame and fork - Integrated connectivity with the Cannondale App - Wide-range 9-speed gearing with hydraulic disc brakes Where it thrives - In town, leisurely rides, on crowded streets What it's built for - Agility, comfort, durability
$850.00
Day in, day out A bike for any day and anywhere. Fun and light to rip around the neighborhood for meet ups, running errands, or Sunday fun days. Highlights - Light, durable aluminum frame - Integrated connectivity with Cannondale App - 7-speed Shimano gearing with disc brakes Where it thrives - In town, leisurely rides, on crowded streets What it's built for - Agility, comfort, durability
$950.00
Day in, Day out. A bike for any day and anywhere. Fun and light to rip around the neighborhood for meet ups, running errands, or Sunday fun days. Highlights - Light, durable aluminum frame and fork - Integrated connectivity with Cannondale App - Wide range 9-speed gearing with hydraulic disc brakes Where it thrives - In town, leisurely rides, on crowded streets What it's built for - Agility, comfort, durability
$1,075.00
Quick As You Like A swift, sporty bike that’s perfect for getting a workout, city cruising or just getting out and feeling good. Highlights - Lightweight aluminum frame and carbon fiber fork w/ 360° reflective accents - Shimano Altus/Acera 18-speed drivetrain w/ hydraulic disc brakes - Integrated connectivity with Cannondale App Where it thrives - In town, leisurely rides, on crowded streets What it's built for - Agility, visibility, comfort
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