Hybrid Bikes Under $500
A “hybrid” bike is your typical bicycle. It’s somewhere between a mountain bike and a road bike, perfect for traversing neighborhoods and sidewalks as well as dirt and grass. While they don’t have the ruggedness of a mountain bike or the speed of a road bike, they’re a great option for anyone who just needs transportation or exercise, or just some fun.
Unfortunately, good bikes tend to be expensive, and cheap bikes tend to, well, be cheap. But we’ve looked at some models under $500. And now you can see whether any of them might work for you.
Schwinn GTX
710 ratings (4.0 stars) on Amazon
$356.95 (minimum price)
Schwinn is a big name in bicycles and is synonymous with quality. This GTX hybrid bike has everything you need. All the tools are provided for assembling the bicycle. The bike features 28-inch wheels, 21-speed shifters, and front and rear alloy disc brakes.
Whether you just want to have some fun riding around the neighborhood or you need a way to commute to work, the Schwinn GTX hybrid bike fits the mold. Like all Schwinn bikes, the GTX comes with a limited lifetime warranty for as long as you own the bike. Also keep in mind that this model is best for those between 5 ′2″ to 5 ′9″ tall.
Sixthreezero EVRYjourney Women’s Beach Cruiser Bike
2,285 ratings (4.4 stars) on Amazon
$449.99
If you’re looking for a little more style, a little more glamour, then this could be your pick. This bike is perfect for urban commuting and designed with comfort in mind. It features a low-swooping frame, making it easy to get onto the saddle, which is set in a low position to keep the center of gravity low and to make it easy to put both feet on the ground while remaining on the seat.
This 7-speed bicycle comes with 26-inch wheels. Though most of the assembly is already done when the bike is delivered, it does require some work, and those inexperienced with bicycle maintenance and repair might need to go to a bike mechanic to ensure everything is functioning properly. It even comes with a cargo rack for a backpack or small luggage.
Schwinn Discover Hybrid Bike for Men and Women
2,061 ratings (4.2 stars) on Amazon
$404.87 (for model pictured—comes in black with straight A-frame for $529.99)
Is it wrong to have another Schwinn on this list? Maybe, but we can’t help that they make good bikes. They’re one of the oldest and most reliable bicycle manufacturers in the world. Maybe you want a comfortable upright riding experience but don’t want to look like you’re touring Italy. This model also features a lowered frame, making it easy to swing your leg over, and it also has a cargo rack.
This 21-speed bike is fit for riders between 5’1” and 6’1”, so if you’re on the taller side, don’t pass up this option!
Schwinn Men’s Network 3.0
413 ratings (4.0 stars) on Amazon
$373.43
We already have two Schwinn bikes, so why not three? This 21-speed bike truly is a hybrid between road bike and mountain bike. With the slightly swept-back handlebars and a quality padded seat, you can comfortably ride sitting up like a true city explorer. But it’s not so cruiser-like that you can’t take it on a light trail. The alloy rims are lightweight but plenty strong and sturdy. The front wheel has a quick-release function to store and transport the bike easily.
Sixthreezero EVRYjourney Men’s 26-Inch Hybrid Cruiser Bicycle
235 ratings (4.1 stars) on Amazon
$449.00 (on sixthreezero.com)
This is another great cruiser with a more masculine aesthetic. If you’re going for a little more road and a little less mountain, then this might be the one for you. It’s ideal for leisure rides in the city or for urban commuting. Of course, it comes with a rear cargo rack and swept-back handlebars for an extra comfortable ride. What’s also great is that the bike can be fitted for anyone between 5’0” and 6’4” tall, which covers nearly everyone.
It comes in 3-speed and 7-speed models, which is more than enough for what this particular bicycle is designed for. Remember to get it tuned up by a professional bike mechanic to ensure you get the most out of it.
Sixthreezero ReachyourDestination Hybrid Bike
119 ratings (4.3 stars) on Amazon
$420.00 (on sixthreezero.com)
You probably have realized by now that Schwinn isn’t the only bike company we’re repeating. Maybe you want a nice cruiser but don’t want to be caught dead with your hands on swept-back handlebars. We understand. Those aren’t for everyone. The 7-speed ReachyourDestination will help you, well, reach your destination, and you’ll do it in style! You can have all the comfort and convenience of a city cruiser, but with a little more edge to take on the rougher terrain (but not too rough). This model can fit riders from 5’0” to 6’2” tall.
Whether you’re looking for something all-terrain or just need a stylish cruiser to traverse urban landscapes, these are all great options. Whatever bicycle you end up getting, we recommend that you bring it to a professional bike mechanic after you have assembled it. A mechanic will have to the know-how to fine-tune the bike’s alignment and catch any potential problems, saving you lots of headache later. Good luck and happy riding!