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We Found the 6 Best Bikes Under $500, After Over 1,000 Hours of Pedaling

For cycling the city, pedaling on pavement, tackling tough terrain, and more

Bikes under 500 test tout

Verywell Fit / Kyle Dornath

Whether for exercise, recreation, or transportation, the health benefits of cycling are numerous. Bikes can encourage you to get outside, boost cardiovascular health, promote weight loss, and more. But the cost of bikes can often be a deterrent. Luckily, we found the best bikes under $500 to help you enjoy cycling without exceeding your budget. According to cycling expert Blake Phelps, this price range is ideal for city, cruiser, and hybrid bikes. You can find budget-friendly mountain and road bikes, though he suggests a higher budget for premium options.

To find the best bikes under $500, we consulted three cycling experts to understand the different types of bikes and what key features to look for when shopping. Then, we tested eight bikes over 1,000 hours of riding to determine the best option for each style of riding. Our top picks received high scores for ease of assembly, stability, performance, adjustability, comfort, and overall value. Another reason to trust us? A cycling and triathlon coach from our Review Board reviewed this article for accuracy and how to find a high-quality bike on a budget.

Five Main Bike Styles

  • Road Bike: Designed to ride on roads, these bikes usually have thinner tires and rear wheel gears. 
  • Mountain Bike: For tougher terrains, mountain bikes boast durability features, such as knobby tires.
  • City Bike: Ideal for short distances and convenient commutes, city bikes come equipped with features like fenders and kickstands.
  • Cruiser: Also known as beach cruisers, these bikes are designed for casual riding, featuring larger seats and positioning the rider more upright.
  • Hybrid Bike: Blending design elements from various bike types, hybrid bikes provide versatility for riding across a variety of terrains.

Best Overall

Pure Cycles Coaster Bike

Pure Cycles Coaster Bike

Pure Cycles

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Assembly
    5/5
  • Stability
    4.5/5
  • Performance
    4.5/5
  • Adjustability
    5/5
  • Comfort
    5/5
Pros
  • Comes with assembly tools

  • Feels smooth over bumps

  • Made with durable, quality materials

Cons
  • Lack of gears makes uphill riding difficult

Key Specs

Style: City bike | Height Capacity: 64 to 74 inches (depending on bike size) | Max Weight Capacity: 250 pounds | Bike Weight: 26 pounds | Frame: Steel

Who It’s For

Best for a casual cyclist who wants a bike for commuting, basic transportation, and recreational riding.  

Why We Love It

Pure Cycles’ Coaster Bike is our top choice for its easy setup, comfortable ride, and exceptional durability. It comes with a universal bike wrench set, which proved useful not only during assembly but is now a regular addition to all our bike rides for added safety. We found that the perforated seat is well-cushioned and easy to adjust with a simple untwist of the accessible lever. And the foam-coated handlebars feel grippy and soft, even without cycling gloves

Crafted with a steel frame, the Coaster Bike is stronger than aluminum models, effectively absorbing impact from rough terrains and bumps. We comfortably navigated hills, grassy and gravel paths, and even wet conditions, thanks to the thick, grippy tires that provide reliable traction. Plus, we think the durable construction will help this bike last for years of outdoor riding. 

Potential Flaws

  • The bike doesn’t have gears, which can make biking up hills difficult, especially for inexperienced riders. 

Best Hybrid

Batch Bicycles The Lifestyle Bicycle

Batch Bicycles The Lifestyle Bicycle

Batch Bicycles

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Assembly
    4/5
  • Stability
    5/5
  • Performance
    3.8/5
  • Adjustability
    4.5/5
  • Comfort
    4.5/5
Pros
  • Stable at any speed

  • Easily adjustable settings

  • Comfy bike seat

Cons
  • Handlebars are not very durable

Key Specs

Style: Hybrid bike | Height Capacity: 54 to 75.6 inches (depending on bike size) | Max Weight Capacity: Not listed | Bike Weight: 32 pounds | Frame: Steel 

Who It’s For

Best for getting around town, cruising in nature, and commuting to work. 

Why We Love It

For everyday, fitness, and recreational riding, we love Batch Bicycle’s Lifestyle Bike. It’s constructed with a durable steel frame which we found promotes stability at all speeds. When put to the test on pavement, grass, gravel, and hills, the grippy, knobby wheels provided reliable traction. Meanwhile, their wider width offered cushion and shock absorption. 

This bike has seven gear settings, which proved to be more than enough for the ascents and descents we experienced when riding in different settings. The seat position, handlebars, brake levers, and shifter are all easily adjustable incrementally, allowing us to fine-tune our riding alignment. And we can’t forget to mention the comfortable, well-cushioned bike seat

Potential Flaws

  • The endcaps on the handlebars fell off mid-ride, but this was only a minor inconvenience.

Best Mountain Bike

Mongoose Colton Mens and Womens Mountain Bike

Mongoose Colton Mens and Womens Mountain Bike

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Assembly
    5/5
  • Stability
    5/5
  • Performance
    3.8/5
  • Adjustability
    4/5
  • Comfort
    5/5
Pros
  • Made with durable, quality materials

  • Feels smooth over bumps

  • Can easily adjust gears while riding

Cons
  • Noisy on paved roads

  • Brakes could be better

Key Specs

Style: Mountain bike | Height Capacity: 67 to 73 inches (depending on bike size) | Max Weight Capacity: Not listed | Bike Weight: 35.5 pounds | Frame: Aluminum

Who It’s For

Best for beginner mountain bikers and recreational riders.

Why We Love It

Mongoose's Colton Mountain Bike is straightforward to set up, requiring only a single pair of hands. The robust aluminum frame sets it apart, providing greater durability compared to the many steel alternatives we tested. Along with the grippy tires and pedals, this frame makes the bike an excellent option for beginner to intermediate mountain bikers.

The combination of the sturdy frame, large wheels, and thick tires allowed us to achieve speeds exceeding 25 miles per hour on gravel while maintaining stability. We tested the bike on various surfaces, including pavement, gravel, and tough terrains. Additionally, the seven easily adjustable gear settings facilitated smooth uphill riding during our tests.

Potential Flaws

  • When riding this bike on paved roads, we experienced some mild noise and vibration. 
  • The disk brakes not only demanded substantial pressure for effective stopping but also developed a noticeable squeak.

Best City Bike

Retrospec Beaumont Plus City Bike

Retrospec Beaumont Plus City Bike - Step Through 8 Speed

Retrospec

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Assembly
    4/5
  • Stability
    5/5
  • Performance
    5/5
  • Adjustability
    4.5/5
  • Comfort
    5/5
Pros
  • Sleek style

  • Can tackle brief intervals of different terrains

  • Can easily adjust gears while riding

Cons
  • Somewhat difficult assembly

  • No storage features

Key Specs

Style: City bike | Height Capacity: 60 to 70 inches | Max Weight Capacity: 250 pounds | Bike Weight: Not listed | Frame: Steel 

Who It’s For

Best for city dwellers who want a sleek, stylish bike for getting around. 

Why We Love It

Once assembled, this sleek, stylish city bike provides a comfortable way to traverse through your city. We found that Retrospec’s Beaumont City Bike is lightweight yet extremely sturdy, making it easy to maneuver through traffic and crowds. While it’s designed for city riding, we found that this bike offers enough traction and shock absorption for navigating small gravel patches as well.

Elevating aesthetics, safety, and comfort, the chic leather handlebars, handy bell, and wide well-cushioned seat make a statement. During our test rides, we found it easy to transition between the eight gear settings. The higher gears proved advantageous for uphill climbs and the strong breaks provided reliable downhill stopping power.

Potential Flaws

  • We found the assembly to be somewhat difficult for beginners. You may need an extra set of hands. 
  • Though this didn’t impact overall performance, there are no storage features. You may want to attach a seat pouch or cup holder for more convenience.

Best Cruiser

State Bicycle Co. The City Bike Single Speed

State Bicycle Co. The City Bike Single Speed

State Bicycle Co.

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Assembly
    4.5/5
  • Stability
    4.5/5
  • Performance
    4.5/5
  • Adjustability
    4.5/5
  • Comfort
    4/5
Pros
  • Sleek style

  • Feels smooth over bumps

  • Light and portable

Cons
  • Somewhat difficult assembly

  • Handlebars are not adjustable

Key Specs

Style: City bike | Height Capacity: 66 to 76 inches | Max Weight Capacity: Not listed | Bike Weight: 29 pounds | Frame: Steel

Who It’s For

Best for casual riders on smooth and flat terrains. 

Why We Love It

State Bicycle Co’s City Bike boasts a leather seat and handlebars, as well as sleek color options, to help you get from point A to point B in style. But it doesn’t just look good, this cruisier performs well too. During testing on grass, light gravel, and paved roads, we noticed a smooth and stable ride.

The lightweight steel frame enhances portability but still feels durable and high-quality. We enjoyed pedaling on the go. We love that you can swap out the pedals for compatibility with specific cycling shoes, though we enjoyed the provided pedals. Plus, the bike includes a rear rack and bungee cords to keep your items secure. 

Potential Flaws

  • Getting the fender over the tire was particularly difficult, so beginners may need assistance with assembly. 
  • We wish that the handlebars were adjustable to better accommodate riders of different heights.

Best Gear Range

Huffy Stone Mountain Hardtail Mountain Bike

Huffy Stone Mountain Hardtail Mountain Bike

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Assembly
    4.5/5
  • Stability
    4/5
  • Performance
    4.5/5
  • Adjustability
    4/5
  • Comfort
    4.5/5
Pros
  • Easy assembly

  • Interchangeable seat and handlebars

  • Light and portable

Cons
  • Not as much shock absorption as other options

  • Seat is somewhat uncomfortable

Key Specs

Style: Mountain bike | Height Capacity: 58 to 70 inches | Max Weight Capacity: 250 pounds | Bike Weight: 35 pounds | Frame: Steel

Who It’s For

Best for the beginner bicyclist who wants to ride in varied settings. 

Why We Love It

If you’re just getting started with cycling, we love Huffy’s Stone Mountain Bike because it’s easy to set up and one of the cheapest options we tested. It also boasts 21 speed settings, which cycling coach Sarah Kaufmann says is plenty for recreational riding. Plus, the lightweight steel frame enhances portability, allowing us to effortlessly carry it upstairs and stow it in the car trunk.

In testing, we found that the wheels provide a smooth, stable ride on flat terrains. The seat and handlebars are easily adjustable, yet we discovered that the handlebars' thickness and spacing were just right, eliminating the need for any modifications. And while the option to switch out pedals exists, we opted to keep them since they worked perfectly fine.

Potential Flaws

  • The frame and wheels don’t provide enough shock absorption for tough, bumpy terrains.
  • We found the seat to be thin and uncomfortable, but you can easily swap it out.

Bikes Under $500 We Also Tested

We tested a total of seven bikes under $500 but only included six in our final list of recommendations. While the following option did boast some useful features, we found that it didn’t quite stack up to the competition. 

  • Kent 700C Men's Ridgeland Hybrid Bike is easy to assemble and offers a smooth ride on all terrains. But we noticed that the seat is uncomfortable and the brakes are inconsistent. The detachable handlebars also detached mid-ride, almost leading one of our testers to injury.  
The front tire on the Vilano Shadow 3.0 Road Bike with Integrated Shifters

Verywell Fit / Kyle Dornath

Where We Stand

After testing seven bikes under $500, Pure Cycles’ Coaster Bike is the clear winner for its ease of assembly, high-quality materials, and smoothness when riding over all terrain types. As we continue to test out bicycles at home, we will update this list of recommendations should any new insights or information arise. 

What to Look for When Shopping for a Bike Under $500

  • Style: When shopping, it’s important to consider what style of cycling you intend to use your bike for. Then, choose between one of the five main bike styles to best suit your preferences. For rougher rides and off-road terrains, choose an option with wider and grippier wheels, like Pure Cycles’ Coaster Bike. Conversely, if you prefer paved roads, select a bike that offers comfort, such as Retrospec’s Beaumont Plus City Bike.
  • Height Capacity: Every bike is designed with a specific height capacity for its rider—an essential component to consider when shopping. According to Kaufmann, proper sizing is vital to ensure enjoyable, comfortable, and safe rides. Riding a bike that is not appropriately sized cannot only result in a subpar and uncomfortable experience but can also compromise control during your rides. 
  • Bike Weight: Consider your cycling style when looking at the weight of a bike. Lighter bikes, like Pure Cycles’ Coaster Bike, are better for control, climbing, speed, and preventing fatigue on long rides, Kaufmann says. Meanwhile, heavier bikes give you more stability for descending, says Todd Daines, rental manager at Deer Valley Resort.  
  • Weight Capacity: The weight capacity of a bike refers to how much rider weight it can handle. This number depends on each bike’s unique materials and structure. It’s essential to purchase a bike that’s suited to your weight to promote a safe and enjoyable riding experience. Most of the bikes we tested, like the Huffy Stone Mountain Hardtail Mountain Bike, boast a 250-pound weight capacity. 
  • Materials: Most modern bikes are made from aluminum, steel, or carbon, Daines says. Aluminum bikes are usually less expensive but tend to be heavier. Most of the bikes we tested, including Huffy Stone’s Mountain Bike, are steel-made. Carbon options are the most expensive and can be found in many bikes over $500. 

How We Tested the Bikes Under $500

To find the best bikes under $500, we’ve tested eight options from top, trusted brands. When we test bikes at home, we evaluate each one based on the following criteria:  

  • Ease of Assembly: When the bikes first arrive, we unbox and assess each one: Does it come assembled? If not, how much time does the assembly take? If applicable, we note how easy the setup instructions are to follow and whether or not we need assistance. For options that include a setup service, is it easy to schedule? Does the service come to us? Finally, we test out any adjustability options (like swapping out the pedals or the seat) and check for any initial scratches, missing equipment, or other flaws.  
  • Stability: Once the bike is set up, it’s time to take it out for a ride to assess for stability and smoothness. During each ride, we pay attention to how sturdy or wobbly we feel on the bike at varying speeds. We ask questions like: How thick are the wheels? Do we feel safe on all terrains? Does the overall construction of the bike feel durable? For options with rear racks, we also test how stable it is at keeping gear in place. 
  • Performance: Throughout the testing period, we continue to assess the bike's overall performance: How does it perform on various terrains? Is the ride stable, smooth, and safe? Does the bike do a good job of absorbing bumps? Is it easy to change directions? For bikes with multiple gear options, we observe the number of available gear settings and assess how easily they can be changed during a ride. We also pay attention to how much effort is required when going uphill versus downhill. Bikes earn high scores for performance if they provide an easy, enjoyable, and safe ride. 
  • Adjustability: Can the seat, pedals, or handlebars be adjusted or swapped out? If so, we find out how easy it is to do so. We also pay attention to how well the saddle can accommodate our pedal stroke. If the bike offers multiple gear settings, we navigate through them during the ride, noting the ease of adjustments and whether they are incremental. Finally, we examine any additional accessories that come with the bike, such as lights or child seats, and assess how user-friendly they are.
  • Comfort: Next up, we assess our overall comfort during each ride on the bike. We consider the feel of the handlebars (do they feel comfortable? Are they the right size?), the seat (is it adjustable? Is it adequately wide and padded?), and the weight of the bike (does it feel too light or heavy?). We prioritize bikes that help us feel comfortable and confident during rides.
  • Value: At the end of the testing period, we check the price of each bike to determine whether it is reflective of the bike’s performance in each previous category. We consider whether we would personally pay the listed price, or potentially even more. Bikes earn high value scores if we think the price is justified and if we would recommend them to a fellow rider or friend. 

Our Experts

  • Todd Daines, rental manager at Deer Valley Resort in Park City, Utah 
  • Blake Phelps, operations manager at Vail Resorts in Aurora, Colorado
  • Sarah Kaufmann, cycling coach and owner of K Cycling Coaching in Salt Lake City, Utah 
The Huffy Stone Mountain Hardtail Mountain Bike in the back of a hatchback car

Verywell Fit / Mike Navarro

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do bikes last?

While various factors—like materials and craftsmanship—are a determining factor in a bike’s longevity, Daines suggests that high-quality options can endure up to 25 years. To maximize the lifespan of your bike, ensure proper storage and maintenance by scheduling regular tune-ups.

How often do bikes need tune-ups?

You should schedule a tune-up yearly, Daines says.

How many miles can you put on a bike's tires before replacing them?

The lifespan of a bike’s tires depends on their quality. Premium tires usually last 2,500 miles. Those designed to withstand more rigorous use (like touring) may last up to 4,000 miles, while tires used for racing may need to be replaced at around 1,000 miles.

How expensive is a really good bike? 

You can get a great bike—for more casual riding—for under $500. But mountain bikes designed for athletes and professionals will cost between $1,500 and $3,500, Phelps says.  

Do expensive bikes make a difference? 

Phelps suggests that spending extra money on a bike is worthwhile up to a certain point— emphasizing that while the latest technology may look impressive, there may also be diminishing returns. Still, according to Daines, some high-tech features, like wireless shifting, may justify the spend for serious riders.  

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Jack Byram is a fitness writer and outdoor exercise enthusiast. He loves taking a chance to get on a bike whenever he can, especially if it involves being on a mountain. Jack knows the value of a bicycle, and for this article, he sought out expert input to supplement and better accommodate a wide range of riders.

Additional reporting by Lindsey Lanquist

As a seasoned health and fitness writer, Lindsey Lanquist understands how vital quality product recommendations can be. She is careful to recommend products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them.