Reviews & Buying Guide

Foldable bikes, or folding bicycles, have seen a significant increase in market popularity in recent years. These highly convenient bikes are utilized by urban commuters, weekend road warriors, high-frequency travelers, and anyone who wants to bike but is short on space. However, the lesser-known counterpart to the urban folding bike is the folding mountain bike. In fact, some of the best folding bikes on the market are designed specifically for use on the trails and mountains. As well as an advanced folding mechanism, some of these bikes now boast an aluminum frame or carbon fiber frame, suspension fork, decent sized wheels, and a wide range of other great features that make riding easier than ever and outdo many regular bikes. Though they might be rarer, the best folding mountain bikes of 2017 are some of the best folding bicycles that consumers can find on the market to making riding and mountain biking more fun than ever.

From wheel size to suspension and price, foldable bikes come in a huge variety of options and models. Consumers might be put off by the niche eccentricities of these bikes; however, at the end of the day, the features and benefits that make the best bicycles overall, are some of the same that account for the best folding mountain bikes. If you are not on any kind of budget, you will not have to make many sacrifices in your folding bikes features specification quality. However, for those who do not have a money tree in their yard, sacrifices and decisions must be made in order to find the best folding mountain bike for you.

The Best Folding Mountain Bikes

Most folding bikes that are available on the market are designed to ride on a 16-inch wheel or a 20-inch wheel. This acts to increase the bicycle’s portability and to keep down on the unit’s weight. Those who find value in a folding bike must prioritize the mobility and storability of the bike over some of the features which get pushed to the engineering wayside. With folding mountain bikes, riders find that the size of the design and the lightweight specifications make for a smooth, easy trail ride. Of course, there are pros of a folding mountain bike and there are certainly cons as well. However, if you are one who prizes the freedom to take your ride everywhere you go, then a folding mountain bike will offer unparalleled advantages to your rides mobility.

1. Stowabike 26" MTB V2

With a total carrying weight that is under 40 pounds and a price tag under $150, the Stowabike 26" MTB V2 is the cheapest folding mountain bike on our list and a good folding mountain bike for those on a tight budget. However, don't let the price tag fool you. This is a worthy bike to be on our list of the best folding mountain bikes in 2017. The unit is designed with a 26-inch frame and, in addition to the trails and off-road rides, this bike will serve perfectly fine for city commuters as well.

The big Wanda tires are great for conquering rocks and puddles, while its steel frame offers maximum durability. The Stowabike 26" MTB V2, features an 18-speed gear shifter and is perfect for the beginning biker, who wants the mobility of a folding bike. Unfortunately, with the financial savings, also come some limitations. This folding mountain bike is possibly not the best option for those looking to take long-distance trail rides, as the Stowabike 26" MTB V2 is heavier than its higher priced competitors. One of the reasons that bikes are not commonly constructed out of steel anymore, concerns the likelihood of the frame rusting over time. This is especially true for the Stowabike 26" MTB V2 mountain bike since, by its very nature, the bike will be traversing the natural elements, which includes puddles, rain, and moisture of all kinds. Still, for the value, the Stowabike 26" MTB V2 is the best folding mountain bike for beginners and those who only hit the trails occasionally.

2. Camp Alloy 26" Folding Bike

Coming in under $300, the Camp Alloy 26" Folding Bike is the best folding mountain bike for the price. Unlike the previous model, the Camp Alloy 26" Folding Bike features a dual suspension frame, which makes it better for traversing the rough and rugged wilderness trails. The quick release front wheel makes storage and transportation easier than ever and is designed to remove the handlebars as well.

The dual suspension frame is assisted by a 21-speed Shimano gear set and a double-walled alloy disk brake system with CNC side rim. This bike is well made for speed and handling and comes almost totally assembled. This model is able to be completely folded down and stowed within ten seconds after dismounting and its 29”x37”x13” folded dimension makes it able to be fit perfectly into the most compact vehicles. The Camp Alloy 26" Folding Bike is the best versatile budget folding mountain bike in 2017. Great for commuters, weekend trail riders, and those who want to get into the world of folding bikes.

3. Cyrusher FR100 Men's Full Suspension 24 Speeds Folding Mountain Bike

Coming in around $700, the Cyrusher FR100 Men's Full Suspension 24-Speed Folding Mountain Bike, is the best folding mountain bike in 2017 for the serious rider. The frame is made from 100% aluminum alloy and is designed as a dual suspension model. The Cyrusher FR100 Men's Full Suspension 24-Speed Folding Mountain Bike features a gear shifter system of 24 speeds and full front and rear disc brakes for premium stopping power. The design of this folding mountain bike is specific and impeccable, featuring ergonomically designed handlebars, a fully adjustable seat, and anti-slip wear resistant tires for the harshest off-road conditions. This bike is a little bit pricier, which might not be great for the mountain biking beginners; however, the quality of design and construction which is presented in this folding mountain bike makes it great for hardcore trail riders and commuters alike.

Big Decisions to Make, and Lots of Places to Go

Whether or not you should get a folding mountain bike is up to your individual preferences, uses, and needs. The greatest benefit in getting one of the best folding mountain bikes in 2017 is the world of activity and mobility which is opened to riders. If you have never used a folding bike before, now is the time to check them out. If you like the idea of having a bike that is an asset, instead of a burden then we encourage you to invest your time and effort into deciding which of the above items is the best folding mountain bike for you. And—always remember—no matter how great your folding mountain bike is, it is always necessary to wear a helmet on your trail ride or your daily commute. Be fit, mobile, safe, and ride on, with one of the best folding mountain bikes of 2017.

Great Hybrid Bikes for Your Budget

Cycling is arguably the best way to integrate a physical activity into your life rhythm which does not take up an already occupied time slot in your daily routine. For those who want to live a more active, more exciting, and richer life, biking offers many benefits, as opposed to that of fossil fuel transportation. Biking is the fastest, cheapest, and most reliable non-fossil fuel powered transportation method and there are hundreds and thousands of options on the market to choose from. There are mountain bikes, electric bikes, tour bikes, folding bikes, comfort bikes, road bikes, and hybrid bikes to name but a few. Then there are the innumerable features such as disc brakes, carbon forks, suspension forks... the list is endless and a trip to the local bike shop may be in order. However, many would-be bikers can't find a bike of quality at the right price that fits their needs. Not to worry, you’re not the only one and that is why we have put together a review of the 6 best and cheap hybrid bikes on the market.

Hybrid bikes are a great type of cycling transportation for commuters, cross country bikers, and adventure bikers that are beginners and expert bikers alike. Hybrid bikes offer some of the best features from road bikes, touring bikes, and cruisers in a design that is easy to ride and comfortable to ride for extended periods of time. Unlike road bikes, the best cheap hybrid bikes on the market are designed with a wide, cushioned saddle and feature a handlebar design which encourages an upright riding posture. Unlike cruiser bikes, hybrids feature a 700c wheel, as opposed to the much thicker, 26-inch wheels. Thicker wheels result in more effort expended to propel the bike. Hybrid bikes offer the easy riding of a road bike and the comfort of a cruiser bike with the carrying capabilities of a touring bike, making them perfectly useful for every facet of life.

Hybrid Bike Types

Hybrid bikes are a combination of numerous bike types, which has spurred the creation of subcategory hybrids of a more intricate specification. Hybrid bikes can be categorized as being either a cross bike, a commuter bike, a city bike or a comfort bike. Some are meant for productivity, over comfort and visa versa. Likewise, some are built for extended riding and others are built for speed.

Cross Hybrid Bike

Designed with a road bike frame and meant for fitness and speed, cross hybrid bikes feature flat handlebars, as opposed to the common drop-down bars that are a feature on racing bikes. Cross bikes are designed with 700c wheels, as are racing bikes; however, the tread is slightly thicker, which gives the bike the ability to cross over into rougher terrain and handle surfaces with greater stability. The features and benefits of a cross hybrid bike make it perfect for seamlessly crossing over from road biking to off-road biking.

Commuter Hybrid Bike

The closest type of hybrid to a touring road bike, the commuter hybrid bike features all the necessities for a daily bike commuter. Designed with 700c wheels and 28 mm tires, the commuter bike can get up to speed and stay there with minimal effort. It often features derailleur gearing and a closed chain guard, as well as a range of frame mounting options made possible by the mounting rack. A distinguishing feature of commuter bikes is the front and rear light, essential for commuting through busy streets and staying safe in nighttime traffic.

City Hybrid Bike

For commuters in a big city, a standard commuter hybrid might not be strong enough to handle the potholes, glass shards, and sharp metal pieces that come with an urban landscape. For this reason, City hybrid bikes are designed to accommodate wheels and tires that closely resemble that of a mountain bike. The added tread thickness and wheel diameter make it possible to roll over sharp debris, without popping the tire or tube. A city hybrid bike often is designed for middle to upright seating positions and features full fenders to enable users to ride in all sorts of weather conditions.

Comfort Hybrid Bike

On the opposite categorical end of the spectrum from road bike hybrids, comes the comfort hybrid. This type of hybrid closely resembles the classic cruiser and features a modified mountain bike frame. The tall head tube is designed for an upright riding posture and often has very cushy saddles and road-style handlebars. The comfort hybrids can be great for relaxation and recreation but are not optimal for anyone looking for an efficient tool. These are the best for people who plan to use their bikes only a couple days out of the week.

6 Best Cheap Hybrid Bikes

1. Vilano C1 Comfort

As one of the cheapest best hybrid bikes on the market, the Vilano C1 Comfort comes in around $165. This is a comfort hybrid, designed for an upright riding position and comfortable sitting position. The C1 Comfort features 21-speed gear shifters and a kickstand, which arrives in the box mostly having been assembled. The Vilano C1 Comfort is the best hybrid bike for recreational, light use.

2. Vilano Diverse 2.0 Performance Hybrid

For just a little more, buyers can get the Vilano Diverse 2.0 Performance Hybrid priced around $220. The 2.0 Performance Hybrid is a commuter bike, which is close to resembling a racing road bike. The bike features Shimano components and 700c wheels, similar to many racing road bikes, as well as a lightweight, 6061 aluminum frame. This is the best cheap hybrid bike for commuters and daily cyclists.

3. Diamondback 2016 Insight 1

For those who are looking for a commuter bike of a higher caliber, the Diamondback 2016 Insight 1 comes in around $450, making it perfect for commuters who plan on a high bike usage rate. The bike arrives in the box, needing to be assembled by the user. This is a possible drawback; however, users will have a tough time finding a bike of quality which arrives fully assembled. The Diamondback 2016 Insight 1 is a great bike for the riders who need more customization ability and plan on constant riding.

4. Diamondback 2016 Trace

The Diamondback 2016 Trace Hybrid features an Aluminum dual-sport frame and SR Suntour NVX forks, which makes this bike perfect for users who plan to take it off the beaten path every once and in a while. The 2016 Trace is offered from around $500 to $600 and is the best city hybrid bike on the market for around $500. The bike features a 24-speed Shimano Acera Drivetrain and Tektro Aries disk brakes, perfect for secure braking in wet conditions. The Diamondback 2016 Trace will be perfect for city commuters and back-country commuters alike.

5. Northwoods Ladies Hybrid Bicycle

Coming in under $200, the Northwoods Ladies Hybrid Bicycle is the best cheap touring hybrid bike for ladies on the market. It comes complete with a rear rack and fenders, making it perfect for carrying purses, packages, groceries and more. The lightweight aluminum frame is designed to accommodate 700c wheels, for maximum speed and pedaling ease, as well as incorporating a 21-speed Shimano gear set. The Northwoods Ladies Hybrid is optimal for recreation, and steady commuting.

6. Schwinn Men’s Network 3.0 hybrid bicycle

Available under $350, the best cheap hybrid bike on the market overall has to be the Schwinn Men’s Network 3.0 hybrid bicycle. Schwinn designs and builds some of the industry’s best bicycles and they have not deviated from that tradition with the Network 3.0. This versatile bike is perfect for speeding down a smooth road, traversing a minefield of sharp pebbles and puddle jumping through the woods. Built with the speed of a road bike, the durability of a mountain bike and the comfort of a cruiser, the Schwinn Men’s Network 3.0 Hybrid Bicycle can be classified as the best cross hybrid bike for the price on the market.

Rear Bike Light Buyer's Guide

Whether you are simply traveling to work or going off-road mountain biking, cycling is a fantastic form of physical activity, transportation, and just plain old fun. There are mountain bikes, road bikes, rear suspension bikes, tour bicycles, folding bikes, road bikes... the list is endless. In addition, there are innumerable performance and safety features, such as off-road lights, disc brakes, aluminum frames, carbon fiber frames, rear suspension, and so on. Even though the rate of accidents for bikers is negligible to that of cars, accidents with cyclists can still happen and that is why safety features are not just a good idea, but are vitally important. On a bike, one's safety precautions are limited to that which can be secured to the body of the bike and the body of the rider. This is especially true for those who commute in cities or often bike on roads with automobiles, having bike lights is essential not only for the rider’s safety but also that of other drivers. Smart, safe bikers, will be guided towards getting one of the 5 brightest rear bike lights on the market, as well as to always wear a helmet. Biking is a safe form of activity and transportation if riders take the necessary precautions and use the proper safety measures.

Rear Bike Light Guide

If you are biking without safety lights, you are putting yourself, other bikers, and drivers at great risk. In the middle of a sunny day, lights are more or less unessential to practicing safe biking. However, in the evening, at night, and on dark, overcast days, a bike light can save your life. No driver wants to hit a biker on the side of the road and it is up to the bike rider to enable drivers and passersby to keep themselves safe. Rear bike lights are especially essential to that end.

While biking next to cars on the road—as is required by law—cars will approach the biker from the rear. A rear bike light aims to make approaching cars aware of the presence of a biker and to easily be identified from a distance. Riding in a major metropolitan city is quite different than riding through the Mojave Desert. However, the ability to identify your presence to drivers who are behind you is essential and there exist many rear bike lights on the market, which boast features aimed to benefit riders of differing needs.

Flashing Lights

Anyone can go to WalMart and get a cheap little light to put on their bike. Alternatively, they can rummage through most tool boxes until they find that old flashlight and the duct tape and do a little DIY fix-up. However, this is not smart for a biker. The first step to choosing the right tool for the job is to know your individual needs. If you bike around the city, then brighter the light is the better. Rear bike lights with flashing features and programmable light designs are great for high traffic areas. If you live in a rural area, you may not need the flashing lights; however, a super bright rear light is optimal for long stretches of dark roads.

Battery Life

Another important factor to consider is the battery life of any one unit and what source of power it uses. Many cheaper rear bike lights are designed to take AA or AAA batteries. This is fine if you are not a frequent rider or a commuter. The problem with batteries like this is that they will lose their luminescence as the battery is drained and the rider will not be easily made aware of it until a problem arises. Rechargeable batteries allow a rider to get in the good habit of always recharging their rear bike light at the end of a ride. These units are designed with USB chargers, making them very convenient to charge, even during a ride.

Lighting System

High output lighting systems are the brightest option but often carry a higher price tag. LED lights are extremely common in the bike light market; however, the quality of any unit is variable. Lumens are the standard unit of measurement for the quantity of visible light which is emitted by a light source and the higher the better. LED lights can be designed to produce a high level of luminescence but it will take more searching to find the brightest rear bike lights on the market.

5 Brightest Rear Bike Lights

1. Cygolite Hotshot 50

Under $30 and featuring the ability to adjust the brightness level and flashing pattern, the Cygolite Hotshot 50 is the best classic rear bike light. It doesn't do lots of fancy tricks but what it does do, it does well. This light produces 50 lumens of visible light, which is twice as powerful as the Hotshot 50s predecessor. The lights are LED and this unit offers over 500 hours of battery life. This rear bike light produces a huge amount of visibility from a distance and is a wonderfully functional safety feature for any rider.

2. Ultra Bright Bike Light Blitzu Cyborg

The Blitzu Cyborg Ultra Bright Bike Light is the next step into the present standard of rear bike lights. The rechargeable unit produces over 165 lumens of visible light using red LED lights. The unit is 100% wireless and features an 180-degree visibility range. This is the best rear bike light on the market for the value and the durability, coming in under $20. The Ultra Bright Bike Light is built with a watertight casing, protecting the battery and lights from the worst that mother nature can dish out.

3. BLITZU Cyborg 180T Bike Light

The BLITZU Cyborg 180T Bike Light is the next step up and is still under $20. Producing 180 lumens of light, this rear bike light also comes with a biker’s multi-tool, making it the best rear bike light on the market for the benefits included. Brighter than the Ultra Bright and including a complimentary Allen wrench multi-tool, the Cyborg 180T is a perfect bike light for those who want the ability to mount their rear light in a variety of places. No tools are required for the installation and users can strap the light to any part of the bike’s rear or to the rear of their helmet.

4. REARAND Smart Bicycle Light Bike

Taking the silver medal for the best and brightest rear bike light on the market, the REARAND Smart Bicycle Light Bike allows a glimpse into the future of sports gear. This light is equipped with wireless remote technology so that the rider can change lighting options and toggle pattern controls without taking their hands off of the handlebars. This rear bike light is the brightest and safest bike light on the market, featuring two rear laser beams, which cast a lane of light directly behind the rider. The units 29 LED lights make for superb visibility up to 150 feet away and all for under $35.

5. Cycliq Fly6[v] HD Rear Bike Camera and 30 Lumen Tail light

Coming in as the gold medal winner, the Cycliq Fly6[v] takes the win by a mile. Considerably more pricey than the REARAND, this Cycliq light comes in around $140. However, it is more than a rear bike light. The Cycliq Fly6[v] is also a rear bike camera that features 30 lumens of tail light, an HD lens, and up to 6 hours of battery life. For those who prioritize the safety and security of themselves and their loved ones, the Cycliq Fly6[v] is our choice for the best rear bike light.

That Make Your Bicycle Look Amazing

Nowadays, bikes have so many great performance and safety features. Whether you prefer mountain bikes for rough terrain, road bikes, electric bikes, or any other kind of bike, there are features such as improved suspension forks, disc brakes, lightweight aluminum frames, and many more. However, one feature that offers safety, a great look, and is easy to assemble at an affordable price is the bike bell. Bike bells have come a long over the last few years and offer many extra features. The 10 best bike bells that make your bike look amazing also make you a safe, responsible rider. Bicycle bells are tools for increasing the safety of bike riders, pedestrians, and motorized vehicles. They audibly alert those in the area of your vehicle's presence when other forms of communication such as yelling may be insufficient. Though there are fewer places that require you to equip one as a rider than there used to be, it might still be a good idea to investigate the areas where you ride so you aren’t blindsided. With all the hip trends nowadays and fewer strict regulations, it’s quite understandable why having a bell equipped is considered perhaps a rarity. That being said, there is good news for those who want to practice their dedication to safety and simultaneously appeal to the high aesthetic standards of the public. In order to find the right bell for you or someone else, we need to create base criteria that account for looks and function which will make this matchmaking process more manageable.

Since beauty is in the eye of the beholder, we will try to provide an array of different styles for various tastes. Functionality will include details from how does a bell sound to how difficult installation and removal is. Since being smart with money tends to pay more than less, we will provide the estimated costs of each bell to help you form an informed estimation of ROI. We will summarize 10 of the best bells to accomplish these objectives.

The 10 Best Bike Bells That Make Your Bicycle Look Amazing:

Knog Oi Bike Bell

The Knog Oi Bike Bell is the best bike bell for those who like things with solid and subtle looks. When installed, its harmonious nature comes alive. On the right bike, it will make your bars look brand new to you and make strangers realize that you have good tastes in bikes. While a little more than your average bell, we find its impressive set of aesthetics to be worth the price of admission.

Origin8 Time Clock

The Origin8 Time Clock is the best bike bell for those who want a reasonably priced bike bell that has an old school look. There is a lite version of this bell; however, even though it is about half of the price of the original, we find the downgraded aesthetic to defeat the purpose of getting a good looking retrofit.

TransIt Dingo Bell

The Transit Dingo Bell is the best bike bell for people who want to be efficient with their wallets. Don’t worry, it looks much better than the name might imply. Sure, it’s not Ferrari, but it’s no 1980’s rabbit either. Since it’s quite cheap, you’ll get your money’s worth.

Spurcycle

The Spurcycle Bell is the best bike bell for people who are looking for unmatched quality. Everything about this bell demonstrates well thought out design. The price may be heavy for some, but you’ll most definitely get what you paid for. The ring is convincing, sounds great, and has a substantial duration for increased awareness. The dome is beautifully shaped and takes up little space. There are two options for stunning finishes, you can get either the pure raw metal (vibrant silver) and the diamond-like carbon coating (rich deep black). Since Spurcycle is manufactured in the US, it’s a smart choice for Americans who consider themselves to be conscious consumers.

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Rockbros Bike Bell

The Rockbros bell is the best bike bell for those who want an alternative to the Spurcycle. While the build quality may be less and the ring not as loud as the Spurcycle, its look is convincing and its function sound (pun intended). As long as you don’t need the bell right away and are willing to wait, you can save yourself some cash by ordering one from Hong Kong through your web browser.

Orp Smart Horn

The battery powered Orp Smart Horn is the best bike bell for bike enthusiasts who like their stuff to have some attitude and functional versatility. From the popping shape to the wide selection of fun wacky colors, there is nothing lame about this bad boy. Other than looking really cool, the features of this nifty gadget scream intelligence! The equipping and removal process is straightforward and quick with the elastic clipping design. All the functions for the sounds & lights are efficiently crafted with the use of just 2 inputs, a push button, and a push lever. For those who might be worried about battery life, the good news is that it should last long enough even for people who have a long commute to work and back. On a full charge it should last about 3 hours when the lights are in a constant-on mode, and 11 hours in slow-strobe mode. We understand that the price isn’t low by any means, but this guy would check off all marks on any tech guru’s list.

Incredibell Clever Lever

The Incredibell Clever Lever is the best bike bell for those who like smoothly shaped clean looking designs. Since it’s constructed to be small, the Incredibell Clever Lever will feel right at home on your bars. Its lever has been uniquely designed with a 360° pivot, which means you can find the position that works for you. Oh, and we almost forgot to mention that this bell has a double tap to its ring to help to alert others around you.

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Incredibell Jellibell

The Incredibell Jellibell is the best bike bell for kids! With 5 juicy colors to select from, there is sure to be enough choices for every child. The Jellibell is translucent, so kids can learn and appreciate the engineering of this useful device.

Crane Suzu Lever Strike Painted Brass Bell Maple

The Crane Suzu Lever Strike Painted Brass Bell Maple is the best bike bell for bike riders who want to add confidence to their bike. With the black background and mid-level red leaves with bright red highlights, this bell will allow you to express yourself in a tasteful way.

Hotelfietsbel (hotelbikebell)

The Hotelfietsbel is the best bike bell for the masterpiece mindset of interesting people. Some may feel that this bell will outshine their bike. For those who take pride in sophistication, however, will immediately recognize perfection!