Are you ready to go cycling and need the best bikes for women? Having the correct information can help you get a comfortable ladies’ bike that suits your riding style and budget. This article shows the different bike types for women, the best women’s bikes in 2024, how to choose the right one for you and other helpful tips to help you get riding. Read on!
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Table of Contents
Types of Bikes for Women
- Road bikes
Road bikes feature drop handlebars, slim tires, and lightweight frames for a comfortable ride and to cover long distances. Basically, they are designed to focus on comfort, distance, and speed.
- Mountain bikes
They are highly versatile and suitable for off-road cycling. This type of ladies’ bike features full suspension, wider tires, and flat handlebars to provide traction and an enjoyable ride on rough terrains. Even though they are designed basically for off-roading, you can still ride them on any road. However, mountain bikes are often slower than road bikes.
- Hybrid bikes
Hybrid bikes offer the option of a mountain bike to handle rugged terrains and a road bike for agility and speed. This type of bike comes with an upright riding position and flat handlebars. They are also called city bikes, commuter bikes, and urban bikes.
How to Determine Women’s Bike Size
Knowing the bike size you need is one of the first steps to getting the best bicycle for women. Bikes are sized and measured in a couple of different ways. Understanding it can be challenging, but we will help you solve the riddle and provide a general guideline.
- Have a Clear Idea of Bike Measurement
When talking about ladies’ bike measurements, wheel size, and frame size are the two primary measurements. The frame size of a bicycle is the primary consecration as it determines how small or big a bike is. It comes in small, medium, or large sizes and may be measured in centimeters or inches. Most women’s mountain bikes are measured in inches, and it varies from 13-14 for extra small and 15-16 for small, and 17-18 for medium to 19-20 for large.
You can get most road bicycles for women in centimeters, and the frame sizes vary from 44-46 for XXS, 47-49 for extra small, 50-52 for small, 53-55 for medium, and 55-57 for large. Cruiser, commuter, and hybrid bike sizing are often like mountain bikes, even though some are measured like road bikes.
As for wheel sizes, most modern mountain bikes for women have two wheel sizes, including 27.5 and 29 inches. However, 26-inch wheels are standard on older pre-owned mountain bikes. On the other hand, road bicycles offer 622 mm diameter (700C) wheels.
Note that the bike sizing chart of the brand you want to go for is your best bet to knowing the actual size to shop for. So, check the manufacturer’s website to understand how they size their bikes and know the size that works for you.
- Test ride before purchase
Test riding makes it easy to know if a bike is a good fit for you. Most bike shops allow you to test your preferred bike for safe handling and comfort, and some even allow you to have the bicycle for one or two days.
You can know a bike fits you if it is comfortable reaching the handlebars, easy to swing your leg over the bike, stand over the bicycle’s frame, and still have both feet on the ground.
However, if you are buying from an online store, the test ride option may not be available. In this situation, get the correct body measurements, check the size chart on the website, and compare your measurement to it.
What Are the Best Bikes for Women?
1. Schwinn Discover Hybrid Bike for Women
This women’s Schwinn bike is built to last as it matches a smoother ride with incredible durability. It perfectly fits the rider’s body with a custom-shaped frame and sweeping handlebars. The hybrid women’s bike has a front fork suspension that makes your ride smooth by isolating vibrations. It provides the most comfortable rides possible with the padded leather saddle seat. With all the excellent features it offers, the Discover Hybrid is one of the best Schwinn bikes for women.
Pros
- Parts are easily adjustable to suit the rider
- Durable, lightweight, and sturdy
- It offers a good range and control
- Exceptional stopping power with linear-pull brakes
Cons
- Not suitable for tall riders
- Some customers find it challenging to understand the manual
Highlights
- Reinforced suspension fork to improve stability on rough terrain
- Metal alloy crank to enhance durability
- Gear rack to carry extras
- 21-speed combinations with a twist shifter
- Aluminum frame
2. Schwinn GTX Comfort Adult Hybrid Bike
As one of the best bikes for women, the Schwinn GTX guarantees you comfort, style, and speed. It has alloy rims, light 700c wheels, and a lightweight frame for an enjoyable experience. With the multi-use tires, you can ride this hybrid women’s bike on different terrains and for various sports. It is also suitable for short-distance trips.
Pros
- Versatile tires and durable front rims
- Suitable for all types of terrain
- A durable and lightweight frame
- Easy assembly
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Some customers complaint about the hard saddle
Highlights
- Adjustable padded seats and flat-bar-style handlebars
- Impressive dual mechanical disc brakes for reliable stopping power
- Durable 17-inch aluminum frame
- A 21-24 speed gear system for efficiency
3. Schwinn Loop Adult Folding Bike
The Schwinn Loop is one of the best adult bikes for women as it offers a low stand-over frame and an attractive look. It is available at an affordable price even though high-end folding commuter bikes’ capabilities and features are included. As an economically specialized women’s road bike, commuting every day is more effortless.
Pros
- Folds down and compacts very quickly
- Extra gears for a more leisurely ride
- Great build quality
- Attractive design
Con
- Heavy, making it a little challenging to carry around
Highlights
- Reinforced aluminum frame for stability, strength, and durability
- Upward-facing rear luggage rack for easy folding and carrying your bag
- 7-speed drivetrain for better efficiency and performance
- Front and rear linear-pull brakes for excellent stopping power
4. Co-op cycles CTY 1.1 Step-Through Bike
This bicycle offers reliable, brand-name components, and it is one of the best women’s bikes for casual riding. Its lowered crossbar and full rack months and fender are designed to make mounting easier. As one of the best women’s bikes for beginners, the Co-op cycles CTY 1.1 Step-Through Bike offers perfect gearing to tackle various terrains. It also features an upright geometry to provide a relaxed position when riding.
Pros
- Good braking power
- Larger tires provide a smooth ride on rough terrains
- Versatile drivetrain for excellent gearing
- Multiple mounts
- Strong frame
Cons
- It is not suitable for longer rides
Highlights
- Versatile 3X8 Shimano drivetrain with 24 gears to meet different riding needs
- Powerful mechanical disc brakes for good stopping power in dry and wet weather
- 700×40 Kendra K-1024 multi-surface tires with protective shields
- Stiff and lightweight double-butted 6061 aluminum frame
5. Electra Cruiser 1 Step-Through Bike
The Electra Cruiser 1 Step-Through is a good women’s bike with a muscular, elegant, and clean look. Its geometry provides you with a full leg extension and a relaxed position for riding. The bicycle is one of the best bikes for women looking for a low-maintenance machine with simple, high-quality components. Whether a teenager or an adult, this bicycle is a perfect choice for riders from 5’ to 5’11’’.
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Fitting with a child seat and rear rack is effortless
- Durable and sturdy steed
- Relaxed geometry
Cons
- Some riders don’t find the saddle comfortable
- It does not come with fenders
Highlights
- Custom bend handlebars and Flat Foot Technology for an improved ride experience
- Steel frame for durability
- 2:1 gear ratio for a comfortable ride on moderate hill climbs
- Wide RetroRunner 26×2.125” tires for a stable ride
- Electra Comfort elastomer saddle
6. Specialized Aethos Comp – Rival eTap AXS
This specialized women’s bike balances undeniable style and is extremely lightweight with excellent ride quality. As one of the best lightweight bikes for women, it has a high-end drivetrain and wheels. It handles well, provides excellent acceleration, and has a tight wheelbase. You might need to spend more getting this bike as its price is on the high side, but it is worth every penny.
Pros
- Great design that provides the ultimate feel, ride, and style
- Improved stiffness and balance without affecting durability or weight
- Very light frame
Cons
- Price is high compared to rivals
Highlights
- Featherweight carbon frame and fork for effortless riding
- Low-maintenance hydraulic disc brakes and wireless electronic shifting
- 32mm tire clearance for greater control and stability
7. Specialized Fuse Comp 29
Looking for a super capable and maneuverable trail hardtail bike for women? Specialized Fuse Comp 29 has excellent features to meet your needs. It has a fork with plenty of travel, the geometry is slack to improve confidence on decent, and you can get a floatier ride when you fit the frame with 27.5+ tires and wheels. If you are a rider looking to enjoy an exhilarating riding experience on a trail hardtail and putting in the effort isn’t a problem, this specialized women’s bike can be a good choice.
Pros
- Excellent frame with good features
- Plenty of range and many gears
- Grippy and wide tires for plenty of traction
- Good maneuverability
Cons
- Too heavy for dedicated distance sluggers
Highlights
- Knobby tires for excellent control in corners and when accelerating
- Low-slung top tube for snappy handling
- 12-speed drivetrain
- Smooth-operating dropper post
- Aluminum frame and hydraulic disc brakes
8. Royce Union RMT 27.5” Women’s 21-Speed All-Terrain Mountain Bike
With its 21-speed variation, the Royce Union RMT 27.5” Women’s All-Terrain Mountain Bike is undoubtedly one of the best bikes for women. It has many unique features that focus on suiting and impressing every rider. The mountain bike for women has a perfect braking system, various frame sizes to fit different body types and structures, and handles well to ensure seamless riding.
Pros
- Easy to shift gears
- Handles and pedals with solid grips
- Large base wheels for a smooth and stable ride on rough terrains
- Better uphill and downhill performance
- Easy assembly
Cons
- No storage facility
Highlights
- Alloy linear-pull brakes for good stopping power
- Lightweight aluminum frame that is suitable for any weather condition
- 21-speed variation for high speed
- Five different frame sizes and an adjustable seat to meet your riding needs
Best Bikes for Women – Comparison Chart
Best Women’s Bike | Images | Drivetrain | Frame Material | Brake | Best For |
 | 21-speed combinations | Aluminum | Linear-pull brakes | City commuters | |
 | 21-24 speed gear system | Aluminum | Dual mechanical disc | Adults and short-distance trips | |
 | 7-speed | Aluminum | Front and rear linear-pull brakes | Adults and city commuters | |
 | 3X8 Shimano drivetrain with 24 gears | Aluminum | Mechanical disc brakes | Casual riding and various terrains | |
 | 2:1 gear ratio (Single speed) | Steel | Coaster brake | Riders from 5’ to 5’11’’ | |
 | 12-speed wireless electronic shifting | carbon | Hydraulic disc brakes | All ages and riding needs | |
 | 12-speed | Aluminum | Hydraulic disc brakes | Mountain biking | |
 | 21-speed variations | Aluminum | Alloy linear-pull brakes | Off-roading |
What to Look for in Bikes for Women
- Handlebars
Women have a narrower shoulder width than men, so you should ensure that the bike you pick has a narrow handlebar. Also, the setting of gear levers and brakes should provide comfort for small hands.
- Saddle and Gears
The best bikes for women should have clear cutout saddles that support female anatomy. If you intend to do more recreational and shorter rides, go for bikes with shorter gears. However, you should go for a bicycle with many gears if you want to bike a lot. Ensure you can nimbly shift between the gears.
- Riding style and Used case
Do you need a bike to maneuver mountains or rough terrains, explore the city road, or one that can handle both? Consider your riding style before purchasing the best women’s bike for you.
Additionally, it would help if you considered the brake type, frame and wheel sizes, and cranks.
Second-Hand Bike vs. New Bike
Most buyers consider used bikes because of their low prices. However, for better service, new ones are great. Yes, there are different opinions on second-hand bikes, but if you know how to search, negotiate, and compare, you will get the best in no time.
If you can pay more and want product security (warranty), choose a new bike. However, pick second-hand bikes when you are sure the model is well-maintained. Also, you can test the rider before payment.
FAQs about Bikes for Women
- What tire pressure to use?
Typically, the tire pressure for road bikes is 80 to 130 psi. Hybrid bikes require 40 to 70 psi tire pressure, and mountain bikes need 25 to 35 psi.
- What Cycling Gear Do I Need?
The cycling essentials gear checklist should include gloves, padded tights or shorts, a spare tube, a wicking top or jersey, and a saddlebag for comfort and convenience. The core gear includes clear lenses or sunglasses, a first-aid kit, water, sunscreen, and energy food.
- Why Order a Bike Online?
Ordering bikes online enables easy identification of features and models, and it also helps you get the best bikes for women at giveaway prices.
- Is there a difference between women’s and men’s bikes?
Yes, there is a difference in fit and size, and bike makers consider frame geometry when modeling height and other bike features. So, generally, the best women’s bikes have a very low-top tube, broader and shorter saddles, and brighter color options than men’s bicycles.
- What are the basics that beginner cyclists fail at?
Most of the mistakes beginner cyclists make are wearing undies beneath shorts, selecting the wrong saddle heights, and wearing the wrong clothes. Some also make the mistake of buying a bicycle with too-high gears and neglecting the bike shop.
- What are the differences between cheap and expensive bikes?
The significant difference between the two bike types is quality. Most cheap bikes have low features and might not have a warranty, but expensive ones come with premium services.
Conclusion
Choosing the best bikes for women in 2024 depends on an individual’s preference. Before purchasing a bicycle, ensure to check the features of your preferred choice. The ladies’ bikes mentioned in this article are comfortable, reliable, and capable of meeting your needs. So, you can’t go wrong picking one. However, if you have another bike in mind, our buyer’s guide will come in handy to help you choose the ideal and best women’s bike.
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