The 5 Best Urban Bike Reviews for Commuting in 2017
Urban bikes, or city bikes, are marked by many distinct features that distinguish them from their mountain bike and road bike counterparts. Specifically designed for short-distance commuting, urban riding, and performing tasks, urban bikes are typically outfitted with storage racks and feature an upright position for riding as well as a smaller range in gears.
Built strong enough to handle the various elements associated with urban-style environments, urban bikes typically are free of superfluous accessories, with a concentrated focus on functionality, durability, and simplicity over performance-oriented attributes.
Typically available in solid colors and often in retro framed bodies, urban bikes usually feature large tires that are optimal for city riding. Heavier than their road bike counterparts, urban bikes are made to maneuver the city terrain safely, efficiently, and reliably.
If you are interested in purchasing a new urban bike and would like to find out the top models available in 2017, read on below for comprehensive, information-packed reviews that will help you make the best choice for your highly individual needs.
1. Raleigh Bikes Back Alley Urban Road Bike
Designed specifically for the single-speed bike rider, the Raleigh Bikes Back Alley Urban Road Bike is all about functionality.
Featuring a rear-hub with flip-flop style mechanism, flat handlebars to keep you in an upright position and provide you optimal levels of visibility, and comfortable elements such as a Raleigh Classic road saddle and microsuede lock-on-style gripping for a classic aesthetic, this bike has everything a city dweller needs for their on-the-go tasks and daily commute.
Pricing | Weight | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|
Less than $300 | 29 pounds | 9 x 28.8 x 51 inches |
PROS:
- Single-speed style Urban Bike
- Rear hub with flip-flop style mechanism
- Flat handlebars to maintain an upright position and provide optimal visibility
- Microsuede lock-on styled gripping for comfort and a classic aesthetic
CONS:
- It is highly required that an experienced bike mechanic assembles this bicycle
2. Critical Cycles Harper Single-Speed Fixed Gear Urban Commuter Bike
The Harper Fixed Gear Urban Commuter Bike from Critical Cycles features a hand-built diamond frame that is tig-welded and backed by a lifetime guarantee.
The high-tensile composition features industrial-grade steel for unparalleled long-lasting durability and reliability.
Touted by consumers as encompassing beauty, function, and affordability, this bike is packed with high-end components from internationally recognized brand names.
Comfortable is paramount in the Harper Urban Commuter Bike. With its riser-style handlebars, riders comfortably maintain an upright position that fosters good posture and back health.
Equipped with front and rear brakes, riders are given complete control over their ride quality, and provided the utmost in safety and security in their speed control, stopping time, and more.
Pricing | Weight | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|
Around $200 | Varies on size | Varies on size |
PROS:
- Handcrafted steel track diamond frame
- Offers barspin
- Front and rear brakes for total control over your ride
- Riser-styled handlebars
- High-tensile steel composition offers unparalleled strength and reliability
- Comes standard with 30 mm deep-v rims
CONS:
- Occasional manufacturing defects reported by consumers
3. Firmstrong Urban Lady Beach Cruiser Bicycle
Firmstrong endeavors to create bikes that encompass functionality, style, and affordability, while creating a product that provides an experience for riders, rather than just a method of transportation.
Inspired by classic-style cruiser bikes, the Urban Lady Beach Cruiser Bicycle is a retro beauty that is made to smoothly and leisurely roll along on boardwalks, trails, paths, streets and more.
Ideal for casual riding endeavors, this single-speed bike is a great choice for many beaches, city, and paved environments.
In keeping with the casual and effortless vibe, no extraneous cables are hanging off the bike nor are there any complicated gear-shifting control systems to contend with.
With this product coming 80% preassembled, consumers can be ready to leisurely ride about the city in no time at all.
Pricing | Weight | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|
Less than $300 | Starting at 38 pounds | Starting at 7.9 x 27.3 x 53 inches |
PROS:
- Provides easy, effortless, and relaxed riding
- Optional customized color matching for fenders
- Gorgeous, unique, retro design is eye-catching and timeless
- 15-inch strong, durable steel frame
- Aluminum wheels
- White-walled tires add to the retro vibe
- Balloon tires provide a cushioned and comfortable ride
- Easy-to-use, uncomplicated coaster-style brakes
- Oversized seat has built-in springs for heightened comfort
- Widely spaced handlebars with rubber grips for comfort
CONS:
- Requires tools for finishing assembly
- Confusing instruction manual
4. 6KU Aluminum Fixed Gear Single-Speed Fixie Urban Track Bike
The 6KU Urban Track Bike is made for consumers ready to navigate the concrete jungles within the city. With its all-black facade and overall monochromatic look, this urban bike is sleek, modern, and in line with the contemporary feel of big cities.
Featuring riser-styled bars, a lightweight alloy frame and fork, dropouts made from stainless steel, and industrial-grade aluminum construction elements throughout, this bike is packed with all the features that an urban dweller could wish for in a bike.
Pricing | Weight | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|
Less than $400 | Varies on size | Varies on size |
PROS:
- Affordable urban bike packed full of premium design elements
- Elegant monochromatic color scheme
- Modern and contemporary aesthetic
- Perfect for short-run, recreational commuting, performing tasks, and leisure riding
- Front and rear brakes are exceptionally easy to remove
CONS:
- Consumers have complained about receiving bikes from the manufacturer that differ from the pictures shown on the advertisement
5. Critical Cycles Beaumont-7 Seven Speed Lady's Urban City Commuter Bike
This retro cruiser-style bike from Beaumont is a wonderful way to commute across the city in style. With a range of 7 speeds, this bike is in stark contrast with the usual single speed urban bikes found on the market.
Regarded by many consumers as the ultimate urban bike for the city, the Beaumont’s timeless aesthetic is complemented by its artfully constructed spokes and storage carrier.
Despite its classic old-time looks, this bike is outfitted with cutting-edge design elements such as a rear derailleur from Shimano and a Shimano Revo grip-style shift control to provide riders with a precision riding experience and offering complete command of the bike.
Perfect for leisurely riding, performing chores, and commuting to work, the Beaumont will have you traveling in enviable style.
The Lightweight hand-built step-thru steel frame design with an upright riding position designed for urban commuting, leisurely riding, and exercise.
Equipped with Shimano 7-Speed drivetrain and RevoShift grip shifters for ultimate precision, speed, and control.
Front and rear alloy brakes to keep you safe and in control of your ride at all times
Wanda 700x35C tires grip the ground for a dependable ride every time
Arrives 85% built and comes with assembly tools and instructions, so you can easily finish putting together your bike!
Pricing | Weight | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|
Around $200 | 33 pounds | 7 x 27 x 51 inches |
PROS:
Cons:
- Consumers have reported of having to repair components such as brake cables relatively soon into the user experience.
For more valuable information on the different kinds of urban bikes available on the market today, visit us at bikingtribe.com.
With our crew of highly-trained specialists, we are among the leading sites online for information pertaining to bicycles, security, performance, and more.
