Cycling can be an excellent form of exercise. Research has found that cycling while commuting to work is linked to a reduced risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease. It’s also a great way to get your heart rate up while getting plenty of fresh air.
If you’re ready to get started, there are plenty of bikes to choose from. Before purchasing a bike, it’s important to choose one that’s equipped to handle the type of cycling you’d like to do. Are you looking for a budget-friendly cruiser, or a mountain bike that can handle rugged terrain? Maybe you’re searching for an e-bike to shorten your commute.
Reviewed & Approved
Schwinn’s GTX 3 Hybrid Bike is our best overall pick because it rides comfortably, has 21 speeds, and is easy to pedal on both trails and pavement. If you’re looking to invest in a high-quality ride, we recommend REI Co-op’s Cycles CTY 1.1 Step-Through Bike, which absorbs shock well and has reliable brakes.
We researched dozens of bikes for women and evaluated them based on material, comfort, durability on different terrains, and price. These are the top options on the market for every commute, adventure, and beach ride:
We chose Schwinn’s Women’s GTX 3 Hybrid Bike as the best overall choice because it boasts a lightweight aluminum frame and has a 21-speed drivetrain, which will help you navigate obstacles on slick city streets, rugged off-road paths, and everywhere in between.
Best Overall
Schwinn GTX 3 Hybrid Bike
21-speed drivetrain
Two frames for different heights
Works on rocks and pavement
Brakes may need frequent readjusting
Gears may not shift fluidly
The bike also features alloy V-brakes, which are good for crisp stops. And, its all-terrain tires should keep your rides feeling smooth and comfortable—whether you’re cycling on- or off-road. The Schwinn Women’s GTX 3 Hybrid Bike comes with a 15-inch frame or a 17-inch frame, which is suitable for riders between 4 feet, 11 inches to 5 feet, 10 inches tall.
Price at time of publication: $550
Key Specs:Style: Hybrid | Height Capacity: 4 feet, 11 inches to 5 feet, 10 inches | Weight: 42.05 pounds | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
Versatile, comfortable, and durable, Co-op Cycles’ CTY 2.1 Step-Through Bike is loaded with features that give it a smooth, nimble ride. Its 24-speed drivetrain will give you the kind of fluid gear shifting you need to flexibly dodge obstacles and tackle different kinds of terrain, and its hydraulic disc brakes are designed to be reliable in any weather condition.
Best Splurge
REI Co-op Cycles CTY 1.1 Step-Through Bike
Fluid gear shifts
24-speed drivetrain
Three frames for different heights
Heavy
The Co-op Cycles CTY 2.1 Step-Through Bike has a relaxed silhouette that will keep you upright as you ride, helping you cut down on hunching over your handlebars. It also has a shock-absorbing suspension fork to keep bumps to a minimum—even when you encounter obstacles.Price at time of publication: $649
Key Specs:Style: Hybrid | Height Capacity: 5 feet to 5 feet, 9 inches tall | Weight: 30.9 pounds | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
The Royce Union All-Terrain Mountain Bike is easy to handle and control, making it a great option for riders of all experience levels. The bike has a no-rust aluminum frame, which is durable enough to support you—but not so heavy that it’ll weigh you down. With a pair of all-terrain tires, you can maintain momentum in a range of conditions. They also offer less rolling resistance than many other mountain bike tires, making the Royce Union All-Terrain Mountain Bike a versatile ride.
Best Mountain Bike
Royce Union RMT Womens 21-Speed All-Terrain Mountain Bike
Fluid gear shifts
Easy riding for all
Two frames for different heights
Better look rather than quality of design
Hard to assemble tightly
The bike comes with a 15-inch frame or a 17-inch frame for riders between 5 feet and 5 feet, 10 inches tall. Additionally, the bike’s weight capacity is 300 pounds.
Price at time of publication: $460
Key Specs:Style: Mountain | Height Capacity: 5 feet, 7 inches to 5 feet, 10 inches | Weight: 41.8 pounds | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
If you want a bike you can bring with you on the go, the Schwinn Loop Folding Bike is an excellent option. The durable steel bike is both reliable and versatile, and its seven-speed drivetrain will help you nimbly shift gears. Featuring smooth tires and linear pull brakes, your ride will be smooth, comfortable, and easily maneuverable.
Best Folding
Schwinn Loop Adult Folding Bike
Creates smooth rolling commutes
Foldable with a carry bag
Front and rear linear pull brakes
Assembly may be complicated
Prone to breakdowns
What sets this bike apart, though, is the fact that it folds up. When folded, the bike ends up being nearly half its original size. Instead of locking the bike on a bike rack, you can simply toss it in its nylon carry bag and bring it with you for on-the-go exercise and transportation.
Price at time of publication: $490
Key Specs:Style: Folding | Height Capacity: 4 feet, 6 inches to 6 feet, 2 inches | Weight: 37.4 pounds | Weight Capacity: 230 pounds
If you’re looking for a comfortable, laidback ride, it’s pretty hard to go wrong with Electra’s Cruiser 1 Step-Thru, which features a single-speed drivetrain. Its brakes kick in in the most intuitive way possible—simply pedal backward, and your bike will come to a crisp, efficient stop.
Best Cruiser
REI Electra Cruiser 1 Step-Thru
Rides comfortably
Easy riding for all
Available in four colors
Not suitable for long-distance rides
Not designed for varied terrain
The bike also has a low center of gravity which is designed to keep you stable on all your rides. The knobby tires are also helpful in ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride on any textured terrain. If you’d like to stay in a natural upright position as you ride, the bike’s step-through silhouette makes it easy.
Price at time of publication: $400Key Specs:Style: Cruiser | Height Capacity: 5 feet, 1 inch to 5 feet, 8 inches | Weight: 36 pounds | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Designed with the city in mind, the Hiland Road Bike offers both speed and control in smooth conditions. The bike’s 22-inch wheels will give you a high-speed ride, while its 14-speed shifters will help you nimbly maintain control as you bike. With double caliper brakes, you can easily stop on slick surfaces while the aluminum alloy frame provides you with lightweight and durable support.
Best Road Bike
Hiland Road Racing Bike
Lightweight and durable aluminum frame
Seven-speed shifters for control
Maintains good speed
No thorough assembly instructions
Occasional missing parts
The Hiland Road Bike comes with a 21.6-inch frame or a 25.6-inch frame. The 21.6-inch frame makes the bike suitable for riders between 5 feet, 8 inches and 6 feet, 1 inch tall. And the 25.6-inch frame makes it suitable for riders between 6 feet, 1 inch and 6 feet, 4 inches tall. The bike’s weight capacity is 300 pounds.
Price at time of publication: $370
Key Specs:Style: Road | Height Capacity (size 55 cm): 5 feet, 8 inches to 6 feet, 1 inch | Weight: 33.4 pounds | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
If you’re looking for a quality hybrid bike at a reasonable price point, the Schwinn Discover Hybrid Bike is a solid choice. The bike’s aluminum frame is lightweight but durable, so you can feel supported as you nimbly tackle bends and curves. The 21-speed drivetrain also allows for fast, easy gear changes.
Best Hybrid
Schwinn Discover Hybrid Bike
Fender keeps dirt off rider
Changes gears fast
Quick to assemble
Handlebars not fully upright
Suspension and fork can be jerky
Crafted with linear-pull brakes, you’ll be able to make precise stops rain or shine. The bike performs best on commutes and bike paths, but thanks to its shock-absorbing suspension fork, you can take it on tougher trails, too.
Key Specs:Style: Hybrid | Height Capacity: 5 feet, 7 inches to 6 feet, 2 inches | Weight: 35.5 pounds | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
Public Bikes’ C7 boasts a classic step-through design, which means you can expect to sit upright when you cycle. This natural seating position should keep you comfortable on all your rides, allowing you to focus on more important things—like changing gears and exploring new terrain.
Best for Beginners
Public Bikes C7
Rides comfortably
Two frames for different heights
Available in eight colors
Sizing may be inaccurate
May lack durability
It comes with a seven-speed drivetrain, which you can use to tackle hills and obstacles like a pro. And thanks to the limited gear range, you can nimbly navigate routes without an overwhelming amount of options. Available in eight sleek colors and available in a small/medium frame or a medium/large frame, it shouldn’t be too tough to find an option that belongs in your collection.
Price at time of publication: $650
Key Specs:Style: Step-through | Height Capacity: 4 feet, 10 inches to 5 feet, 10 inches | Weight: 32 pounds | Weight Capacity: Not listed
The Vilano Step-Through City Bike is an urban-style hybrid bike, fit for recreation, exercise, and commuting. The bike’s lightweight steel frame will help you nimbly navigate your morning commute, while its strong tires will keep you in control as you gain speed. The bike’s seven-speed drivetrain will help you flexibly shift gears as you maneuver different portions of your route, and its linear pull brakes will help you come to a smooth, efficient stop.
Best for Commuters
Vilano Step-Through City Bike
Stops with linear pull brakes
Seven twist grip gears for controlled rides
Tires handle many road conditions
Gears marked by dots rather than numbers
The Vilano Step-Through City Bike comes in a single size, which is suitable for riders between 5 feet and 5 feet, 6 inches—though the seat is adjustable to accommodate a greater height range.
Price at time of publication: $399
Key Specs:Style: Hybrid | Height Capacity: 5 feet to 5 feet, 6 inches | Weight: 32 pounds | Weight Capacity: N/A
Aventon’s sleek, user-friendly Pace 350 Step-Through EBike is our recommendation for riders who want an electric bike. It comes with some impressive features, including an LCD display that syncs with (and can charge) your smartphone and five levels of pedal assist. A headlight and tail lights offer safety during dusk or nighttime rides, while a throttle helps the bike reach speeds of up to 20 miles per hour.
Best Electric
Aventon Pace 350 Step-Through Ebike
Reaches speeds of up to 20 MPH
Available in two sizes
Bright, full-color display
Expensive
The bike comes in two sizes, to accommodate riders between 5 feet, 1 inch, and 6 feet, 4 inches. You can also choose from two stylish colors: bright white or a subtle purple. The price point is much higher than others on our list—but with a one-year warranty and 14-day returns, you can shop confidently.
Price at time of publication: $1,299
Key Specs:Style: Electric | Height Capacity: 5 feet, 1 inch to 6 feet, 4 inches | Weight: 49 pounds | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
How We Selected the Best Bikes for Women
We reviewed dozens of bikes from the most trusted and popular retailers to select the top bikes for women. First, we asked the manager of a bike shop which qualities to look for when purchasing a bike. We evaluated each bike based on its riding style, gears, and durability. We also considered the weight of each bike, style, portability, and ease of assembly.
What to Look for in Bikes for Women
Riding Style
There are several different kinds of bikes, and each kind is designed for a different style of riding. Road bikes are equipped to handle smoother surfaces, like sidewalks and city streets. Mountain bikes are equipped to handle more rugged terrain, like off-road trails. And hybrid bikes are designed to handle both. Consider the kind of riding you intend to do, and shop for a bike that accommodates your riding style.
Use Case
You’ll want to look for a bike that matches the type of riding you plan on doing most often. Are you riding for fitness or recreation? Will you be taking your bike on long morning commutes, or simply riding it around the block? If you’re an avid cyclist, you may want a performance option that’s built to last, like Royce Union’s RMT All-Terrain Mountain Bike. If you’re a first-time or recreational cyclist, you may prefer a budget-friendlier option that’s a little easier to use, like Vilano’s Step-Through City Bike.
Frame
Women’s bikes usually have one of two types of frames: a regular (also known as a step over) frame or a step-through frame. Visually, they look different—regular frames typically have an extra piece of horizontal metal between the seat and the handlebars that you have to step over in order to get on the bike. Step-through frames don’t have this piece, which means they’re easier to get on and off of. The type of frame doesn’t affect the bike’s performance.
One note: If you are thinking about attaching a child seat to your bike, you’ll want to make sure the seat is compatible with your bike’s frame. A rear frame-mounted seat will only work with a regular frame bike. Rear rack-mounted and front-mounted seats are compatible with both types of frames.
Gears
Bike gears are designed to help you comfortably navigate different kinds of terrain. If you intend to bike a lot, you may want a bike with plenty of gears you can nimbly shift between. If you prefer to go on shorter, more recreational rides, you may not need as many gears to choose from.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What size bike should I get for my height?
- In general, you can use the bicycle manufacturer’s sizing chart to determine the right size bike for your height. For bikes that need very specific sizing, such as road bikes, the sizing process may be more involved, so you should work with a local bike shop for the best fit.“We measure the rider’s inseam, torso, arm lengths, overall height, and flexibility to determine exactly which size would be best for the rider,” says Tyler Jones, store manager at Erik’s Bike Shop in Eden Prairie, Minn.
- How much does a good quality bike cost?
- “A good, high-quality bike is relative to the shopper’s desired cycling discipline and what their expectation of performance is,” says Jones. Generally, you should expect to pay between $300-$600 for a recreational bike for adults. Some high-performance bikes, like Aventon’s Pace 350 Step-Through EBike, may start around $1,000. Less expensive bikes may not have as many useful features, and likely won’t be as durable. More expensive options may have a more modern design and added features, like easy-to-read displays.The cheapest bike on our list, Vilano’s Step-Through City Bike, is often available for under $250. And our top overall pick, Schwinn’s Women’s GTX 3 Hybrid Bike, was $450 when we published this list.
- What are the main differences between women’s bikes and men’s bikes?
- The main difference between women’s and men’s bikes is the size and fit. Women, on average, are shorter than men and have proportionally shorter torsos and longer legs, so women’s bike models generally have shorter stack heights and shorter reach lengths.Some women-specific commuter and cruiser bikes are built to accommodate wearing a skirt, so the top tube is much lower than the tubes on men’s versions. The right bike for you will be the one that fits you best, regardless of which gender it’s intended for.
In general, you can use the bicycle manufacturer’s sizing chart to determine the right size bike for your height. For bikes that need very specific sizing, such as road bikes, the sizing process may be more involved, so you should work with a local bike shop for the best fit.
“A good, high-quality bike is relative to the shopper’s desired cycling discipline and what their expectation of performance is,” says Jones. Generally, you should expect to pay between $300-$600 for a recreational bike for adults. Some high-performance bikes, like Aventon’s Pace 350 Step-Through EBike, may start around $1,000. Less expensive bikes may not have as many useful features, and likely won’t be as durable. More expensive options may have a more modern design and added features, like easy-to-read displays.
The main difference between women’s and men’s bikes is the size and fit. Women, on average, are shorter than men and have proportionally shorter torsos and longer legs, so women’s bike models generally have shorter stack heights and shorter reach lengths.
