A Guide To the Best Commuter Bike Under 200 Dollars

A Guide To the Best Commuter Bike Under 200 Dollars

Well, in most cases, your options are quite limited as far as new bikes under $200 are concerned. Luckily, and somehow surprisingly, commuter bikes are different. And today, I will present all the available alternatives including the best commuter bike under 200.

In short, if you’re under a budget and have been hunting for a cheap commuter bike, your chase is like to come to an end by the end of this resource.

The reason behind their fairly cheaper costing in comparison with the aerodynamic racing bikes is their cheaper parts and presence of non-sophisticated feature(s).

Now, since I know you’re eager to meet the various under 200 dollars commuter bikes for sale, we will go right into business:

I’ve assembled the various hottest commuter bikes for cyclists on a budget below.

In a Rush? Here are Our Top Picks

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COLUMBA 26 inch 18 Speed Folding Bike (Black)
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COLUMBA 26 inch 18 Speed Folding Bike (Black)
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What is a Commuter Bike?

best budget commuter bike under 200

A commuter bike is nothing else but a bicycle you use to commute (travel) from home to your place of work, college, or for the occasional shopping.

As a matter of fact, the popularity of urban and commuting bikes has triggered an intriguing phenomenon called bicycle commuting in countries such as Denmark and the Netherlands.

Here, armies of workers cycle to work every morning creating quite a spectacle in cities in these countries.

The Rise of Commuter Bikes

While the commuter bicycles have always been there, the enactment of the Bicycle Commuter Benefit Act in 2008 gave them an extra boost.

Do you remember the bailout bill? The commuting benefit was buried in there and gave a small (up to $20) monthly benefit to workers who would cycle to work.

Today, you will meet all manner of commuters on our roads: Hobbyists, fitness enthusiasts, pro-health, lifestyle cyclists, and more.

Of course, commuter bikes have been favored by the fact that cycling is considered ‘greener’ vis-a-vis other popular modes.

What Is a Good Commuter Bike?

A good commuter bike should have certain qualities. These and other factors (more later) were key when we were selecting the candidates for the best commuter bike under 200.

Here are the basic hallmarks of the best commuter bicycle:

  • A Sturdy Frame:

For the frame, you want a material that lasts a lifetime. Steel and aluminum alloy frames largely outlast the rest.

  • Saddle:

Like with every other bike, a bad saddle can make you to hate biking for the rest of your life.

Whether it’s a cheap commuter bike or a beginner commuter bike, a comfortable seat will keep unnecessary pain and discomfort away.

  • Fitting Tires:

You’ll be better off with tires that perfectly suit your daily terrain. Thinner tires shine in streets while their wider counterparts are kings of rough surfaces.

  • Appearance and Style:

Various styles are available in the best bike under 200 category. You can opt for the classic 3-speed commuter bike with its legendary elegance or choose a utilitarian urban commuter bike and everything in between.

Style choice comes down to your taste.

  • Storage:

You may want to be carrying some groceries, books, or gym gear to or from work. Availability of practical storage (racks and others) is therefore necessary for the best commuter bike under 200.

  • Fit and Sizing:

Nothing is as important as fit and sizing when evaluating the best road bikes under 200 dollars. Of course, you know this: bikes that fit you well are a joy to glide with.

Refer to the manufacturer’s sizing chart if unsure.

And More…

  • Lightweight Build:

Sleeker and lighter constructions will never weigh you down so the ride is more enjoyable.

  • Grips:

Grips are one of the smallest accessories but absolutely one of the most influential in determining how cozy your commutes will be.

The market is flooded with impressive choices including special ergonomically-shaped brands so take your time.

  • Wheels:

The 28-inch (700c) is quite dominant though the smaller 26-inch and 27.5 inch offer better maneuverability.

  • Pedals:

It’s true that your beginner commuter bike often comes with standard flat pedals (platform pedals). Now, these work well for short to medium distance. You may be forced to upgrade to clipless (or caged) pedals if you do longer distances.

  • Brakes:

Sometimes the teeming traffic can be crazy meaning you need your dream bike to stop on a whim.

Finding great brakes is super important so we have prioritized this in our search for the best city commuter bike.

  • Suspension:

The presence of an expansive suspension system means that you can roll along irregular surfaces without feeling the discomforts.

How Many Gears Does a Commuter Bike Have?

The number of gears in the best commuter bike under 200 varies a lot. Nonetheless, you will really struggle without the correct gearing. The thing is you require more gears if you frequently cycle on tough climbs.

That being said, best-selling commuter bicycles may have anything between two gears and can go up to twenty seven.

Types of Commuter Bikes

The key to landing the best commuter bike under 200 is focusing on models that are practical and comfortable for your style of riding.

You also want a bike that is:

  1. Reasonably durable.
  2. Good for adverse weather biking.

Consequently, manufacturers have released numerous kinds as they battle for a share of the expanding commuting community market.

Knowing the kind of bike that fit your commuting duties and how they differ will definitely simplify your decision making:

Here are the commonest varieties:

Commuter Road Bikes

You will perhaps fair best with the best commuter road bike if you’re love clocking long distances.

You see, commuter road bikes like the Men’s Kent Road-Tech Bike beat the rest in term of comfort- the most essential quality for you to have fun through the many miles.

Besides, they are optimized to go fast especially on the tarmac, which happens to be their natural terrain.

Upright Commuter Bikes

Here you sit upright thanks to the flat handlebars.

This posture is also cozier than when clinging on the drop handlebars that rule on some expensive road commuter bikes.

This means you will not be stressing your back or neck and you can ride for hours on end and not feel a pinch.

I recommend that you select a model like Vilano Men’s  700c Hybrid Bike Retro City Commuter particularly if you like to get better at cycling uphill.

Reasons?

The bike is not only stylish (check the comfortable grips and matching suspension saddle), lightweight, and durable but it’s also multi-speed – it comes with 7 Easy-shifting seven-speed gear system so it’s fantastic for inclines as well as other terrain.

And while at it, the linear pull brakes are sure to help you stop at a dime.

The Speedy 700c wheels are the icing on the cake for what is a brilliantly designed daily commute, city riding, or campus bicycle.

Urban Commuter Bike

This sub-type is purposed for making frequent short, averagely paced rides through fairly flat urban areas.

It could also be awesome for a relaxed afternoon riding with pals and is superb in all pavements.

The best urban commuter bike maintains consistent cruising speeds and is among the most stable commuting bikes.

The fast moving Retrospec Harper Single-Speed Fixed-Gear Urban Commuter Bike best represents this unsung family of commuter bicycles.

Beginner Commuter Bikes

The best way to get into commuting is to slowly ease your way in- and this requires that you’ve a commuter bike that’s less intimidating.

I am referring to a bicycle with all the basics yet comes maximized to suit the needs of new riders.

This is where a beginner commuter bike comes in…

They are simple yet performers, remains firm even when it rains, and most importantly, have plenty of safety features like outstanding, front and rear braking systems, reflectors,  protective guards, and more.

It may not be an under $200 but the Raleigh Detour 2 Step-Thru Comfort Bike is pretty impressive….

First, there is the step-through frame that will make you find hopping in and out from it super easy.

Secondly, the upright geometry, comfy grips, and saddle make it one of the comfiest bikes for starters.

Another argument favoring this is the 700 x 40C tires…These have built-in puncture protection so you will rarely experience annoying flat tires.

And when you get the hang of biking, the 21 gears will surely make your daily commutes a treat.

Women’s Commuter Bike

Women’s commuter bikes stand out from the crowd due to their pretty looks, ease of getting into and out of (the step-through design is recommended), and customized women-friendly extras.

For instance, a typical womens commuter bike has shorter top tubes and longer seat tubes to accommodate their usually shorter torso and match women’s longer legs respectively.

Still there, the saddle is made wider to cater for the additional distance between women’s sit bones and the narrower handlebars.

The market has a number of immensely popular ladies bikes but most, like the Sixthreezero EVRYjourney Women’s (one of the very best womens commuter bike)will set you back hundreds of dollars.

Luckily, a few including the Retrospec Beaumont-7 Seven Speeds Commuter Lady’s Bike are nearly as good and come at about $200.

Trek Commuter Bike

Trek Bikes Company is one of the most trusted brands in the whole bikes industry because of their long standing association with quality.

In the commuting scene, they make one of the most adventurous commuter bicycles and are the top choice for riders obsessed with pleasure, biking freedom and fun in our open roads.

If you’re looking for the surest way to cycle while relaxing under the enchanting city sounds and vibes, then you should pick a trek commuter bike.

The only drawback is that these bikes have hefty prices and are no go zones for buyers looking for the best budget commuter bike.

Men’s Commuter Bike

Men do extremely well with ‘men-tuned’ frame geometry, an accomplished built, and resilient city bikes.

Speedsters prefer top notch drivetrains and powerful brakes, for example, the tough hydraulic disc brakes for security reasons.

You may also notice other qualities that give mens commuter bikes quick handling characteristics such as ultra-light frames, drop/ racing style handlebars, and narrow high-pressure tires.

All in all, we met a couple of inspirational commuter bicycles for the contemporary man at this price level but it’s the Aluminum Road Commuter Bike (Shimano 21) that won us over.

You will certainly love the drop bars, the handy water bottle mounts, and undoubtedly, the superior 21 speeds.

Folding Commuter Bikes

Folding bikes rides akin to full-sized bikes but you can fold it down in seconds and carry it neatly onto the elevator or have it cozied up conveniently just next to your office desk.

These bikes also suit those who don’t intend to be riding the entire distance to work and instead complete part of their journey by public transport.

The market leader in the folding commuter class seems to be Columba’s 26″ Folding Bike (with Shimano 18 Speed) as a result of its incredible design that artfully combines the best from the vintage models and the trending.

Commuter Bikes Under 500 Dollars

Overtime, you may decide to upgrade as you seek to get more out of your daily rides. May be the next level would be to jump to the under 500 dollars bracket.

The best commuter bike under 500 is synonymous with exquisite quality, luxury, and unending delight.

This comes from the smooth shifting (a near permanent attribute), generous padding in their seats, upright poise which has you sit pretty all along the way, and more.

The Diamondback Bicycles Trace Dual Bike is one of the stars here- it oozes confidence crisscrossing towns and is always eager to take you further.

Best Commuter Bike Under 200 Reviewed

1. Men’s Kent RoadTech Road Bike

Would you want a commuter bike that can also serve as a road racer? Then the 700c Men’s Kent RoadTech Road Bike is your best bet.

This green-black steel-framed road bike comes with a Vitesse racing seat and a drop handlebar that give you the road bike racing experience. Its high-profile Vitesse rims also give it a racing spark, boosting your cycling confidence.

So, you can count on the bike for fast commuting, whether it’s to work or college.

700c Men’s Kent RoadTech comes with a 21-speed Shimano gear, thus a perfect choice for the steep roads.

The bike features alloy caliper brakes that give it an unmatched stopping force. Plus, its 700c tires enable it to ride on roads while its standard pedals encourage simple pedaling smoothly.

On the other hand, its steel frame gives it extra strength to bear up to 200 pounds. Overall, this best commuter bike under 200 is lighter that easy to maneuver.

Highlight Features

  • Steel frame
  • Vitesse racing seat
  • Vitesse racing rims
  • Drop bar
  • 21-speed Shimano gearing
  • Caliper alloy brakes

2. Vilano Men’s Hybrid Bike

Are you looking for an urban bike with a vintage touch? Irrefutably, what you need is the Vilano Men’s Hybrid Bike 700c Retro City Commuter.

This best budget commuter bike under 200 comes with a retro-urban steel frame that makes it a timeless pick. Principally, it’s one of those bikes that never go out of fashion.

Vilano Men’s Hybrid Bike 700c comes in a durable construction to withstand the test of time.

With its 7-speed speed shifters, gear changing is almost effortless. I do not forget its linear-pull brakes that boost the bike’s incredible stopping power.

Vilano Men’s Hybrid Bike comes with chrome fenders, a locking kickstand, and a spring-loaded rear rack.

Its matching saddle comes with suspension to absorb bumps. So, the saddle together with the rear rack absorbs impact shock.

And more, it features water bottle mounts, matching grips, and free pedals for a comfortable ride.

Highlight Features

  • Hi-ten steel frame
  • Suspension saddle
  • Matching grips
  • Chrome fenders
  • 7-speed twist shifters
  • Spring-loaded rear rack

3. Retrospec Harper Commuter Bike

When it comes to urban commuting, the Retrospec Harper Commuter Bike doesn’t disappoint.

This steel-frame commuter bike comes with a flip-flop hub that allows you to choose between a freewheel and a fixed-gear.

Its steel frame is high-tensile to promote optimal durability. Additionally, the frame absorbs bumps, making this urban bike a great off-road choice.

With its robust metal build, Retrospec Critical Cycles can bear up to 220 pounds.

It comes with standard deep-v rims and 700c Kenda tires that quickly move over road surfaces. Plus, it has a pair of reliable handbrakes for safe slowing down and VP-freestyle pedals for comfortable pedaling.

Besides, it has a riser handlebar for a comfortable hold.

So, all its components promote a comfortable and smoother commuter bike under 200.

Retrospec Critical Cycles Harper comes with all assembly tools to allow you to ride it almost immediately.

Highlight Features

  • Hi-ten steel frame
  • Dual disc brake
  • Deep-v double-layer rims
  • 700c Kenda tires
  • Riser handlebars
  • VP-freestyle pedals

4. Raleigh Detour Comfort Bike

The Raleigh Detour Comfort Bike is one of the most comfortable hybrid bikes out there. This is not your standard commuter road bike. No. It’s also a fantastic long-distance city cruiser.

Raleigh Detour 2 comes in a women-specific step-thru frame that promises maximum comfort to female cyclists. The frame also enjoys an upright geometry that puts the commuter in an upright riding position.

This bike comes in varying sizes, suiting women who are between 5 feet and 6 feet.

It features a 12-speed Shimano drivetrain with shifters that makes hill-climbing hassle-free. And to ensure you have a comfortable hold of the handlebar, the bike comes with comfy grips.

Its saddle is also pretty comfy to allow you to cycle long hours.

What’s more, Raleigh Detour 2 features slick 700c puncture-proof tires that freely roll on road surfaces.

Highlight Features

  • Step-thru aluminum frame
  • 21-speed gearing with Shimano shifters
  • Puncture-proof 700c tires
  • Comfy saddle
  • Comfy grips
  • Upright geometry

5. Sixthreezero EVRYjourney Women’s Hybrid Cruiser Bicycle

Any commuting woman will fall in love with the Sixthreezero EVRYjourney Women’s Hybrid Cruiser Bicycle.

Seriously, what’s there not to like about this best commuter bike cheap buy?

For starters, it comes in a 17.5-inch step-thru aluminum frame that suits the female anatomy. The frame makes it comfortable for urban commuting and around-two cruising.

Impressively, its frame is cream in color with a brown saddle and grips. So, the color combination is girlish.

What’s more, the bike features matching full fenders to bring out a holistic feminine look.

Its saddle is not just aesthetic but also comfortable and durable as it features soft, synthetic leather.

Its low-swooping frame plus foot-forward saddle promote an upright posture.

What’s more, its pedal position is strategic for comfortable riding and stopping, and you can count on its powerful dual handbrakes for slowing down.

Even better, it comes with 2-inch slick tires for a stable and smoother ride.

Highlight Features

  • Step-thru 17.5-inch aluminum frame
  • 7-speed gearing
  • Dual handbrakes
  • Synthetic leather seat
  • Full fenders
  • 2-inch sleek tires

6. Vilano Aluminum Commuter Road Bike

The Vilano Aluminum Commuter Road Bike has everything you expect from a premium model.

Mark you; it’s all on a budget.

This best city bike under 200 comes in a silver lightweight double-butted aluminum frame. So, it’s not just comfortable to ride but also to transport.

Additionally, the frame gives it extra strength to support the vast adult weight.

With its 21-speed gearing with thumb shifters, this bike can handle just about any situation.

From the hilly roads on your way to work to the bumpy slopes on your way from college, the Vilano Aluminum Commuter Road Bike is the to-go machine.

This bike has narrow, high-pressure tires that quickly roll over paved surfaces. And above, it has drop handlebars that minimize air drag.

Highlight Features

  • Double-butted aluminum frame
  • 21-speed Shimano drivetrain
  • Thin, high-pressure tires
  • Drop handlebars
  • 26-inch wheels

7. Columba Folding Bike

Columba Folding Bike
  • 26 inch wheels, steel frame.
  • 18 speed shifter and derailleur. alloy front and rear V-brake.
  • Kenda 26" tires/Black-26"x1.5"/Monarch-26"x1.95"/Lavender-26"x1.75".
  • Quick removable front handle stem, with alloy silver color cap & PVC black bell.
  • Front/rear steel hub, steel kick stand.

If you want a commuter bike that you can fold easily and fit in your car trunk, you can’t go wrong with the Columba Folding Bike.

The transportation is hassle-free, and so is the storage because of its intuitive foldable frame. It can fold to fit in a space as small as 35 by 14 by 29 inches.

This bicycle comes in a size 26 steel-frame design to suit 5’10”-6’2” riders.

It features double suspension, which means it’s intended for off-road. So, you can count on it to offer you a bump-free rode.

Columba 26-Inch Folding Bike has impressive dual v-brakes, which offer it remarkable stopping power.

Even better, this 200-lbs capacity commuter bike runs on a powerful 18-speed drivetrain with speed shifters.

The drivetrain enables you to take the ascents confidently and conquer them.

Columba Folding Bike comes with supersize 26-inch Kenda tires that roll over varying surfaces.

Some of its additional accessories include a steel kickstand, a PVC bell, and a removable front-handle stem.

Highlight Features

  • Foldable steel frame
  • Double linear-pull brakes
  • PVC bell
  • Dual suspension
  • Steel kickstand
  • 18-speed gearing
  • 26-inch Kenda tires

Commuter Bike Accessories

Extras such as headlights, side safety lights, and fenders make your life on the road easier. And while it’s true that some adds on depend on your personal favorites, some such as the best commuter bike helmet are a must-have for your personal safety.

I don’t even need to remind you about the grim statistics…cycling without a helmet can have calamitous consequences.

Water bottle mounts, spring loaded rear racks (for holding plenty of cargo), front plus rear fenders, LED front, and rear bicycle lighting, and even an anti-pollution mask are all beneficial according to where and how you cycle.

FAQs

What Bikes Are The Best For Commuting?

Following in-depth research online, here are the best commuter bikes under 200:

  1. Men’s Kent Road-Tech Bike: Best Commuter Road Bike
  2. Vilano Men’s  700c Hybrid Bike: Best Upright Commuter Bike
  3. Retrospec Harper Commuter Bike: Best Urban Commuter Bike
  4. Raleigh Detour 2: Best Beginner Commuter Bike
  5. Sixthreezero EVRYjourney Women’s: Best for Women
  6. Vilano Aluminum Road Commuter Bike: Best for Men
  7. Columba’s 26″ Folding Bike: Best Folding Commuter Bike

How Many Miles Should I Cycle Daily For Weight Loss?

Generally, daily moderate cycling at a speed of 15 MPH for about 30 minutes a day can help you burn approximately 1500 calories. That’s not bad for someone who is starting to cycle for weight loss.

However, if you want to lose more weight, you have to step up your intensity or cover more distance.

How Much Should I Pay for A Commuter Bike?

Commuter bikes vary in prices depending on bike quality, bike brand, and whether you are buying new or used.

When buying new, expect to spend about $500-$2000 on a premium quality commuter bike. Anything below $50 may not suffice.

However, you can get a decent commuter bike for under $200.

Is 10 Miles Too Far To Bike To Work?

Overall, it depends on your willingness to ride, your physical fitness, and the type of bike when it comes to commuting.

Covering 10-20 miles is a reasonable target as that works for most commuters. However, I’ve seen some commuters doing up to 30 miles a day, which is just remarkable.

How Do I Choose A Commuter Bike?

Remember the following buying tips when choosing a commuter bike:

  • A commuter bike should be comfortable
  • A sturdy frame promises durability and value for money
  • The bike should come in the right size, fit, and easy-ride design
  • A sleeker and even lighter bike won’t weight you down
  • Powerful brakes and drivetrain are the correct measures of a good commuter bike
  • Don’t forget about the suspension if you’ll be riding on bumpy roads

Conclusion

There go our recommendations for the best commuter bike under 200 dollars group.

Can you see that you are actually spoilt for choice?

Remember to consider the fundamental factors I highlighted earlier even as you think of your other personal preferences.

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COLUMBA 26 inch 18 Speed Folding Bike (Black)
Rating
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Image
COLUMBA 26 inch 18 Speed Folding Bike (Black)
Rating
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