Top 15 Best Commuter Bikes Under $500 Reviews 2021

Are you still searching for the best budget commuter bike 2021? Luckily, you’re in the right spot, as I’m sharing my list and guide in this article. Read on to know more.

A lot of people are becoming more conscious of their health and the environment. You can see that with the growing number of bicycles in the streets. Indeed, commuter bikes are becoming so popular among young professionals and teens.

Practically, you can choose any kind of bicycle for commuting in your urban and suburban areas. Before the pandemic strike, several people use road bikes, mtbs, and even the best affordable hybrid bikes to travel for work or in your nearby store.

It is suggested for overweight riders to pick an excellent heavy-duty bike like a mountain bike for overweight and tall riders because they have big gear, big wheel size, and big saddles. Alternatively, many riders love the idea of better lightweight bikes for their convenience and can carry around the bicycle parking lots. Lightweight bikes are better options than the mountain bikes.

In my article, I’m going to help you out choose the best commuter bikes in 2021. It is a daunting task for beginners and intermediate cyclists to choose the right kind of bike for your all-around urban trailing. Nonetheless, I’m making things smooth and easy for you by writing this article.

Without delays, read on and discover which commuter bike under $500 best suits your need and finances.

What are The Best Commuter Bikes Under $500?

Finding the best budget commuter bike 2021 is like looking for a needle in a haystack. Why? Because there are hundreds of bike models from different brands that including Firmstrong, Golden Fixed, Royce Union, Raleigh, Roadmaster, and Schwinn. If you are a beginner in cycling, you’ll be having a difficult time in choosing.

Consequently, I will be imparting my list of the best cheap commuter bikes with excellent quality for this article. Check out my top 15 best commuter bikes and maybe you’ll find the right one for you.

Best Overall: Firmstrong Urban Commuter Bike

Above standard quality bike parts and accessories.

Runner Up: Golden Fixed-gear Commuter Bike

Impeccable bike frame and stability for urban cycling.

Best for Women: Royce Union Hybrid Commuter Bike

Simple to assemble and friendly design for women.

Best for Budget: Roadmaster 26″ Commuter Bike

Marked down a price with standard quality.

Best for Casual Rides: Schwinn Huron Cruiser Commuter Bike

Low maintenance and efficient city cycling.

Best for Fast Ride: Takara Kabuto Road Commuter Bike

Best partner when you want to go faster.

Best for Dual Suspension: Eurobike Mountain Commuter Bike

Better than hardtail and rigid suspensions.

Best for Acceleration: Schwinn Volare Hybrid Commuter Bike

Drivetrain and wheels supports quick speeding process.

Best for Foldable Bike: Goplus Foldable Commuter Bike

7-speed, space-saving, lightweight, durable, easy to maintain.

Best for Commuter Hybrid: Sixthreezero Hybrid Commuter Bike

Cheap and quality hybrid commuting bike. Enjoy both paved and off-road surfaces with this model.

The Best Commuter Bikes Under $500 – Comparison Chart

I have made this comparison chart to quickly compare the top 15 best commuter bikes’ features under $500.

Top 15 Best Commuter Bikes Under $500 Reviews in 2021

Here is the central section of my article, and it’s about time for you to read the specs, pros, and cons of my list of affordable commuter bikes under $500. I hope you will be able to find the right one for you.  

Best Overall: Firmstrong Urban Commuter Bike 

Product specs

Item weight	30 lbs
Frame	Stainless steel 17”
Wheel size	26”
Suspension	Rigid
Gear	1-speed

Key features

• Classic cruiser frame design
• Coaster brakes
• Large saddle with two shock springs underneath

Firmstrong is an excellent commuter cruiser bike even if you plan to ride around town for 500 to 1000 miles. I like the design because it is very classic and the white rims just complement with its black frame.  

In terms of performance, you will love its coaster brakes and fixed gear setting. There is less cable and squeaking with its brake system, which provides sufficient power to make a quick stop. Meanwhile, its fixed-gear environment is suitable for both beginners and intermediate riders.

I also like the simple leather design on its grip handle. It is comfortable to the hands and exudes a good grip. Moreover, the saddle is just right for its size and cushion. Overall, impressive quality for a reasonable budget price.

Runner Up: Golden Fixed-gear Commuter Bike

Product Specifications:

Item weight	25 lbs
Frame	Tig-welded stainless steel
Wheel size	27”
Suspension	Rigid
Gear	1-speed

Key features

• Crank Alloy 46T 130 CBD
• Bike tires: 700c x 25 Kenda 
• 32 Hole Flop Hub
• Riser handlebar

I find this as your second-best choice for a commuter bike since its design and performance are designed for urban terrain. First off, its frame is made from stainless steel, which can withstand the harsh and corrosive air inside the city. Its front fork is sturdy enough as well to absorb shocks along the way.

It uses linear rim V-brakes that is cost-efficient in its overall performance. If the brake pads are worn out, you can easily replace them at any bike shop for an affordable cost. Its drivetrain is also solid enough to take on your urban rides without getting anxious for the slopes on the road.

Best for Women: Royce Union Hybrid Commuter Bike

Product specs

Item weight	42 lbs
Frame	Aluminum 15”
Wheel size	27”
Suspension	Hardtail
Gear	21-speed

Key features

• Alloy linear caliper brakes
• Kraton grip handle
• Shimano Revoshift gears and derailleurs

Overall, its design and parts are great and friendly for women. Nonetheless, males can choose a masculine color for their preference. Its secure step-through bike frame is reasonable, so you have a hassle-free riding on your bike.

The comfort spoils of this commuter bike will be its leather padded saddle and grip handle. The slightly oversized seat proved great for easing comfort on your butt and lower back. Meanwhile, the grip handle design is excellent in promoting proper gripping for your entire trip.

It also has the Shimano revoshift, an excellent entry-level gear, and shifter set. It has 21 gear combinations that come useful when riding on different terrains. Moreover, Shimano is one of the affordable and quality brands for gears and derailleurs.

Besides, if you want more hybrid bikes for beginners, here are some excellent bikes recommended by experts in the cycling world.

Best for Budget: Roadmaster 26” Commuter Bike

Product specs

Item weight	50 lbs
Frame	Stainless steel
Wheel size	26”
Suspension	Hardtail
Gear	18-speed

Key features

• Riser handlebar
• 18-speed Shimano derailleurs
• Chrome rims

Its frame is stable and sturdy enough to tackle rough and paved terrains. It is an excellent entry mtb commuter bike for beginners and the old soul for an affordable price.

You can enjoy its 18-speed setting to test your leg power and analysis in changing your gear combination. It uses Shimano gears and shifters, while an SRAM for its drive twist. The gear shifting is accurate but slower compared to the higher tier of Shimano gears and derailleurs.

Overall, it is proper mtb for commuting to your work or around town. Likewise, the price is light on your pocket.

Best for Casual Rides: Schwinn Huron Cruiser Commuter Bike

Product specs

Item weight	49 lbs
Frame	Stainless steel
Wheel size	26”
Suspension	Rigid
Gear	1-speed

Key features

• Retro design
• Durable cruiser frame and handlebar
• Oversized padded saddle
• Coaster brakes F/R

Cruiser bikes are an excellent option when you want a smooth urban and beachside rides. This cruiser bike from Schwinn will never disappoint you from getting around town trails for an affordable cost.

The riser handlebar design and its distance from the saddle exude your upright position for your entire trail. With that, you have reduced risk for lower back pains. The rubber tires have a smooth and symmetrical tread design, which gives you optimal traction for paved surfaces.

Its coaster brakes at the front and rear forks work as expected. Later, you can upgrade its coaster brakes to a mechanical disc brake system.

Best for Fast Ride: Takara Kabuto Road Commuter Bike

Product specs

Item weight	35.2 lbs
Frame	Tig-welded stainless steel
Wheel size	27”-28”
Suspension	Rigid
Gear	1-speed

Key features

• Caliper brakes
• Flip flop hubs
• 32-hole alloy rims
• Kendra 700c x 32 tires

Takara is one of the reputable brands when it comes to fixed gear commuting bicycles. Its Kabuto road bike model proved its reputation as one of the prime choices for all-around urban cycling.

Its steel frame is ergonomically designed to withstand air resistance in your trail. In combination with its drivetrain, you can readily enjoy a swift ride with this commuter road bike. Likewise, its parts are made from standard quality that ensures your long-distance city trailing.

Moreover, you will have zero worries when you encounter rough roads ahead because its 32-hole rims and Kendra tires can effectively sustain these challenges. Its overall vertical height and braking mechanism supports a rider with a height of 5’8″ and taller.

Best for Dual Suspension: Eurobike Mountain Commuter Bike

Product specs

Item weight	51.3 lbs
Frame	Stainless steel
Wheel size	27.5”
Suspension	Full suspension
Gear	21-speed

Key features

• Mechanical disc brakes
• Dual suspension
• Aluminum rims 27.5.”
• Shimano shifters and derailleurs
• Suitable for riders with height 5’4″ to 6’0″

I like the sporty appeal of this commuter mountain bike. Its design can seriously take on your paved and off-road rides. By looking at it, you will have an impressive feel with its stainless steel frame. It is durable and reliable enough to hold all parts and absorb shocks in your trails.

Aside from its dual suspension, its wheels have double-wall aluminum rims and rugged rubber tires to support your weight effectively. Likewise, it highly works well with its front and rear suspensions to ensure your comfortable ride.

In terms of speed settings, it uses standard Shimano thumb shifters and derailleurs. The gear transition is precise and accurate. Overall, it is an awesome mtb for your daily commuting activities.

Best for Acceleration: Schwinn Volare Hybrid Commuter Bike

Product specs

Item weight	28 lbs
Frame	Aluminum
Wheel size	28”
Suspension	Rigid
Gear	14-speed

Key features

• Shimano shifter and derailleur
• Alloy linear brakes
• Alloy wheel rims and cranks

Schwinn is one of the famous brands for commuter bikes. This hybrid bike from Schwinn proves as an ideal entry choice for beginners and intermediate bikers. Its frame is light and durable to withstand your regular rides from home to work. Likewise, you can use it for your daily exercise as well.

Its drivetrain can also survive your off-road trails since it is made from sturdy alloy materials. The Shimano thumb shifters and derailleurs exude a precise shifting of the chain from one cassette to another. Meanwhile, its alloy crank can effectively resist wear and tear when you pedal harder.

This model’s setback will be its brake mechanism because it is less aggressive than mechanical and hydraulic disc brakes. Nevertheless, you can upgrade it in the future.

Best for Foldable Bike: Goplus Foldable Commuter Bike

Product specs

Item weight	32 lbs
Frame	Stainless steel
Wheel size	20”
Suspension	Rigid
Gear	7-speed

Key features

• Shimano shifters and derailleurs
• Foldable steel frame
• Rim v-brakes
• Adjustable seat post

The assembling process of this folding bike is simple and straightforward. You can reasonably complete it in less than an hour because 85% of it is pre-assembled already. If your place has a rampant case of stolen bikes, then it is a cost-efficient choice. You can fold and bring your bike inside your home and office without taking so much space.

Aside from its affordable price, its parts and performance are never cheap. It has the entry-level Shimano shifters and rear derailleurs for precise chain shifting. In terms of wheel durable, it is dependable. Overall, I find this an exceptional space-saving commuter bike for the busy urban life.

Best for Commuter Hybrid: Sixthreezero Hybrid Commuter Bike

Product specs

Item weight	50.1 lbs
Frame	Stainless steel 19”
Wheel size	26”
Suspension	Rigid
Gear	7-speed

Key features

• Shimano thumb shifters and rear derailleurs
• Cruiser bike style
• Fenders and padded saddle
• Linear pull-up brakes

I like this bike because it combines the features of a hybrid and commuter bike. With that, it provides you with sufficient comfort and performance for your urban cycling.

It has a cruiser style; thus, you can expect a lower chance of back pains, enhancing an upright position. You can also adjust the seat post to match your height. With that, you can exert sufficient force on the pedal and drivetrain.

Overall, its performance and durability are impressive for the price. Likewise, you can count on its speed setting as you change from low to high gear settings.

Best for Everyday Ride: Kent Springdale Commuter Hybrid Bike

Product specs

Item weight	45 lbs
Frame	Aluminum 6061
Wheel size	27”-28”
Suspension	Hardtail
Gear	24-speed

Key features

• Linear/caliper pull-up brakes
• F/R fenders
• 36-spoke wheel rim
• Front fork suspension

This commuter bike from Kent Springdale is one of the go-to choices for students and employees. Its bike frame is stable and sturdy for your all-around daily commuting. Likewise, you can use this stroll around your neighborhood together with your friends and colleagues.

Its aluminum bike frame is lightweight and proved highly effective in resisting the natural wear and tear process. For its performance, you can rely on its Shimano shifters and derailleurs.

For its safety features, it has durable caliper brakes and front fork suspension. The latter highly contributes to your comfortable ride, alongside with your padded saddle. It also has fenders to keep you neat and free from mud.

Best for BMX Style: Retrospec Cruiser Commuter Bike

Product specs

Item weight	41 lbs
Frame	Stainless steel
Wheel size	26”
Suspension	Rigid
Gear	1-speed

Key features

• Kendra BMX tires 26×2.15
• Promax v-brake system
• Alloy saddle
• BMX Alloy threadless steam 22.2mm
• Steel moto-style handlebars

This is another cruiser commuter bike for students and young professionals. When you are an enthusiast for a healthy lifestyle and preserving nature, this won’t fail you. Its bike frame is durable and stable to support your urban cycling experience.

Its brakes work as expected, though not as reliable disc brakes; it is still pretty neat for its price. Because it has a fixed gear setting, you will have less hassle with maintenance and repairs. Nonetheless, you can think of upgrading its gears to a variable speed gear and drivetrain.

Overall, it is a beautiful commuter bike for work and as a gift to your children.

Best for Comfort: Hiland Hybrid Commuter Bike

Product specs

Item weight	37.2 lbs
Frame	20.5” stainless steel
Wheel size	27”-28”
Suspension	Hardtail
Gear	24-speed

Key features

• Aluminum frame
• Mechanical disc brakes
• The 7-speed setting, Shimano gears, and derailleur
• Best for riders with heights between 5’1″-6’1″
• Leather insulated grip handle and saddle
• Fenders

This hybrid commuter bike can flawlessly run fast on paved surfaces. It will not let you down with its reliable traction on dry and wet surfaces. Aside from its economical price, all parts are made from high-quality materials: alloy, steel, and aluminum.

When it comes to making a quick or gradual stop, its mechanical disc brake system works like a professional. Moreover, it has a sporty urban look, which has a lovely appearance. Overall, I find it as a suitable candidate for your commuter bike under $500.

Best for Comfort: Sannysis Retro Commuter Bike

Product specs

Item weight	35 lbs
Frame	Carbon steel 26”
Wheel size	70 cm
Suspension	Rigid
Gear	1-speed

Key features

• Bike length 195 cm
• Seat height 75-90 cm
• Handlebar height 95-100 cm

If you are a fan of the retro bikes, then this one from Sannysis is the right candidate. I like the robust and sporty appeal of this urban commuter bike. The frame promotes your upright position while cycling. There is sufficient comfort because of its padded saddle and sturdy structure.

Its sturdy rubber tire compound also helps in the shock absorption in every turn. Moreover, the number of rims and its material component proved essential for its healthy engineering function.

Overall, the performance of this fixed gear commuter bike is worth the price. Likewise, its mechanical disc brakes work seamlessly as expected.

For more comfort bikes for women, it is recommended to check out this list of 15 best comfortable bikes.

Best for Lightweight: Gama Commuter Bike

Product specs

Item weight	29.5 lbs
Frame	Gama aluminum 18”
Wheel size	27”-28”
Suspension	Rigid
Gear	7-speed

Key features

• The natural step-through bike frame
• Tan brown suede leather coating for its saddle and grip handle
• Mechanical disc brakes
• 7-speed Shimano shifters and derailleur

For the last candidate, this can serve well for male and female riders. For the female, you will like the natural step-through bike frame. In terms of performance, you’d be surprised that its entry-level Shimano gear set works impressively for your satisfaction. The chainring does not fall out from its designated cassette and sprocket.

The entire drivetrain is solid enough to resist the fast wear and tear process on your daily use. Likewise, I also like the added comfort from its padded saddle and rubber grip handle. Overall, it is a beautiful commuter bike to have for yourself or your kids.

Commuter Bikes Under $500 Buying Guide: How to Choose The Right Bike?

At last, you are done reading through my rundown list of the top 15 best budget commuter bikes 2021. Now, let us look into the details of the things you need to look for a good quality commuter bike under $500.

Consider Bike Design

Practically, your commuter bikes under $500 can have a different design, brand, or type. It can be a hybrid bike, mountain bike, road bike, or a fat bike. Considering you will be most of the time on paved roads, then a road bike is ideal.

However, to simultaneously trail on both off-road and paved road surfaces, getting a hybrid or mountain bike is a great choice. You need to weigh price, type, and purpose in choosing the right bike design and kind.

Check The Brakes

Most commuter bikes under $100 will have the pull-up rim brakes because it is affordable and easy to maintain. Rim or linear brakes are the go-to choices for beginners and commuters in their all-around trailing.

However, for a commuter bike under $500, you can enjoy a better braking system, mechanical disc brakes. It provides a more durable and more consistent stopping force on your ride. It requires higher maintenance than your rim V-brakes.

If you are to spend more on safety, choosing a commuter bike with hydraulic disc brakes is most suitable. It needs more maintenance, yet you are better assured of a more robust braking force. This becomes very useful in highly steep downhill terrains.

It Must Be Comfortable

Trailing in the city must be comfortable on your part, whether going for work or just circling your neighborhood. In that case, you need to check the saddle, seat post, frame, and grip handle of your commuter bike.

The saddle must have sufficient cushion to ease the bumps and shocks in your ride. It also reduces stress on your lower back. Meanwhile, a good grip handle must promote excellent hold without stressing your hands and wrist.

Likewise, choosing a commuter bike that suits your height is also good. With that, you will have zero stress from riding on your bike. If you are 5’1″ to 5’6″, then choosing a 26″ to 27.5″ bike tire is ideal. For people taller than 5’7″, a bike tire of 27.5″ to 29″ will be effortless.

Durable Bike Frame

For a commuter bike under $500, you can already enjoy those models with bike frames from stainless steel, light alloy, and aluminum. It would be great if you can choose those with an aluminum frame because it’s lightweight and highly resilient to corrosion.

Performance

When it comes to your commuter bike’s performance under $500, you will check its gears and tire traction. Nevertheless, braking capabilities would also be included in this matter.

Choosing how many speed settings you want for your bike is a matter of personal preference. Some users would prefer a single-speed environment because it is less hassle. It is also an excellent choice for those with durable leg power.

Meanwhile, the usual number of gear combinations you can expect for a commuter bike under $500 is 10 to 21 gear combinations. If you are traversing steep upward terrain, then go to a low-speed setting. In contrast, a higher speed setting is required when descending downhill.

Frequently Asked Questions

Besides guiding you in choosing the best mountain bike for you, I have compiled a few of the customers’ common questions about MTBs. I have supplied the answers and hope this will help you in your decision process.

What are the best types of commuter bikes?

The best-selling commuter bikes out there include the following – hybrid bikes, electric bikes, foldable bikes, road bikes, and single-speed bikes.

Is having your commuter bike suitable?  

Practically, it is a matter of preference and your budget. Most people are buying commuting bikes for environment-sake and physical wellness. Aside from it’s not emitting any carbon dioxide, you are burning calories in your ride.

How many gears do commuting bikes have?

A cheap commuting bike can have a single speed for convenience and less hassle with maintenance. Nevertheless, commuting bikes can have multiple gear combinations up to 21 or 27 gear settings.

What is the ideal distance for commuting using your bicycle?

Based on surveys, trailing for a distance between 5 to 10 miles is still considered commuting.

What is the average time of commuting using a bike?

When there is heavy traffic flow, the average time for bike commuting is 1 hour and 15 minutes. Nonetheless, for regular commuting without any traffic, the usual time is between 15 to 20 minutes.

My Top Pick

This is the last part of my article, and I am glad that you have reached this portion. By now, I think you have already chosen a commuter bike. Nevertheless, from my list, my top pick commuter bike under $500 is Firmstrong Urban Commuter Bike.

You can find an extreme balance between aesthetics and functionality for this commuter bike. Apart from affordable prices, it can reliably safely get you from point A to point B. You can have upgrades on its parts later on.

If you have other inquiries or suggestions, please write that on the comment box. You can share this article as well to your friends and colleagues who might find this useful. Thank you again!