Types Of Bikes
Which Type Of Bike Is Best For You?
With so many choices and bike styles how are you to know what is best for you and your intended usage?
This guide will help break down the different segments and show some their pros and cons.
Once you've determined the right type of bike for you head on over to our bicycle sizing guide to see what size best suits you.
Of course we are here to help if needed! Just shoot us a text below.
Gravel Bikes
The king of the multi surface rides. With "road bike like" speed, disc brakes and big volume grippy tires a gravel bike can go just about anywhere quickly. Pavement or dirt..no problem!
Pros
- Lightweight
- Versatile
- Speedy on many different surfaces
Cons
- Not as fast as a true road bike on pavement
- Slight weight penalty over "classic" road bikes
Hybrid Bikes
With comfortable seating and solid durability a hybrid bike is a jack of all trades bicycle. Hybrids are the workhorses of the cycling world. Great for commuting and general fitness.
Pros
- Comfy
- Durable
- Easy To Ride
Cons
- Can be heavy compared to a road bike and not as fast
Road Bikes
The lightweight speed champs. If you are looking to cover ground and climb those hills with less effort nothing does it better than a good road bike.
Pros
- Lightest of all the bike styles
- Great climbers
- Fast
Cons
- Less durable than a hybrid or mountain bike
- More finicky positioning - proper fit is a must!
Mountain Bikes
The off-road winner. If you're looking to ride in the woods and enjoy skipping over rocks and roots as well as mud, a mountain bike should be your jam.
Pros
- Super daurable
- No better option in the woods or on choppy trails
- Versatility
Cons
- Heavy compared to a road or hybrid bike
- Slower on pavement
Electric Bikes
Need a little help sometimes in the peddling department?
An e-bike may just be your answer due to it's pedal assist motor and long range capability.
Pros
- Pedal assist
- Speed
- Can replace a car for commuting and errands
Cons
- Heavy
- Upfront expense
Touring And Bikepacking Bikes
If longer rides, smelling the roses and carrying alot of stuff with you is your thing then a touring bike should be on your radar.
Designed to be very stable and with the ability to carry and haul, a touring bike may just be your next purchase.
Pros
- Longer wheelbase means added stability at speed
- More neutral handling
- Able to carry heavy weights (loaded panniers etc)
- Durable
Cons
- A bit heavier than standard road bikes
- Not a rocket ship
Commuter And Urban Bikes
If you're looking to get around the city or thinking of commuting this is where you want to be.
With comfortable geometry and added durability and the ability to carry lights loads, an urban commuter might just be the way
Pros
- Comfortable and stable
- Design features that are great for commuters
- Generally a bit more durable than your fitness hybrids
Cons
- May be heavier depending on model and design
- Might not be the fastest option if speed is a must
Folding Bikes
These bicycles take the cake when it comes to saving space.
Folding bikes are great for apartments, dorms and for storing them in other tight spaces.
Pros
- Folds up for space savings
- Lightweight
- Can take on boats, trains and more
Cons
- entry level models can be inefficient as compared to standard bikes
Cyclocross Bikes
Designed to be a road bike with some off-road chops, the original gravel bike if you will.
These bicycles are at home on the race course or as a commuter and the occassional longer bumpy ride.
Pros
- Lightweight - makes for a great CX race bike
- Generally geared lighter than a road bike
- Can be a great commuter bike or bumpy ride bike
Cons
- Not a mountain bike
- Won't beat a road bike in a drag race
Cruiser Bikes
Originating on the boardwalks and at the beaches, cruiser style bikes are the cadillac of bicycles.
With big volume balloon style tires and swept back bars you are sitting upright and cruising in comfort all day long!
Pros
- Comfort
- Easy rider
- Super smooth
Cons
- Heavier than a hybrid or road bike
- Can be sluggish on the hills
Fixed Gear Bikes
One of the most simple bikes that exist, the "fixie" is a great option for folks looking for a straight forward, uncomplicated setup.
With one gear, you have no derailleurs to worry about or tune.
Pros
- Simple
- Durable
- On the lighter side
Cons
- Can be difficult on hills for some folks
- A commitment to a single gear
Recumbent Bikes
If you're looking for a more laid approach to your cycling a recumbent bike may just be your answer.
You're in a semi-prone position with your pedals out in front for easy pedaling. Kind of like riding that recliner down the street!
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Great for folks with physical and balance challenges
- Available in 2 wheel and 3 wheel configurations
Cons
- More cumbersome than a standard bicycle
- More hard to transport
- Can be heavy depending on materials
BMX Bikes
Since the 1970's BMX bikes have been at the top of every kids list.
Simple, incredibly durable and they don't take up much space.
Pros
- Incredibly durable
- Small in size
- Generally lightweight vs mountain bikes
Cons
- Not efficient on long rides due to small wheels and single gear
Kids Bikes
The original freedom machine, a bicycle will open up your lil' one's eyes to the great big world.
Avaialble in many different colors and sizes so your kiddo can get what they want and need for a great time!
Pros
- All the things!
Cons
- Your kiddos may have too much fun!