With the cost of train travel rising, fuel costs at an all-time high and increasing rush hour car traffic due to workers and the school-run brigade clogging up the roads, it’s time to ditch the frustrating and expensive commute and saddle up.
No, we’re not suggesting going horseback but mounting the good ol’ trusted bicycle – the real workhorse of the commuter cyclist world.
Avoiding the ULEZ and Congestion Charge zone expansions by switching car to cycle will also contribute to helping the environment and reducing toxic air pollution levels – plus, it will save you a pretty penny too.
What’s more, by taking advantage of ‘Cycle to Work’ employee schemes you can save even more of your hard-earned cash, enabling you to splash out on a more luxurious model. With an abundance of apps on the market, there is nothing more satisfying than tracking your fitness levels and beating the time it takes you to peddle into work – and in some cases, it may even prove quicker to cycle to work than endure a train journey. Plus the health benefits are phenomenal.
Craig Fulton, independent bike specialist at Moore’s Cycles explains, “We have seen a marked uplift in the demand for hybrid bikes especially from customers new to cycling and considering an alternative form of commuting. A hybrid will provide the most versatile bike for commuting and leisure. Flat bars tend to be more popular than drop bars through traffic and provide more control when off-road on towpaths or in parks. With the addition of e-bikes, with folding versions proving more and more popular, they allow you to go further and faster with less effort.”
This review features a range of road and hybrid bikes, folding bikes and e-bikes. Your choice will depend on whether you have a more leisurely through-the-city cycle, a more demanding route that involves a range of terrains and could see you peddling on road, uphill and through trail, or perhaps you commute from afar by train into a station and then cycle from there. Whatever your journey, you’ll find an affordable option below to suit you below.
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GIANT Contend AR1
Confession time – we’ve always been a big fan of GIANT for both MTB and road bikes. Reliable, slick and on the forefront of cycling innovation, this is an iconic label.
The Contend AR1 follows in that vein and is ideal for a commuter cycle from afar into the centre of town. It’s a versatile all-rounder which enables you to power along the pavement and then switch to any gravel tracks you may encounter without pause for thought or the need to adjust your riding technique.
The integrated gear and brake system on the drop handlebars are really intuitive to use and the disc brakes are powerful – just what you’ll need on the rush hour roads. It had been raining on the morning of the road test, but the braking power remained consistent and confident. What’s more, its D-Fuse composite seatpost soaks up the road vibrations you may encounter to offer you a smooth and more enjoyable ride.
It’s also incredibly lightweight; impressively weighing in under 10 kilos (the courier jokingly queried whether there was actually a bike in the box that it was delivered in!) with the frame itself specifically engineered to “produce a balanced, all-rounder feel that blends confident rider positioning with agile cornering and acceleration” – a statement that we wholeheartedly concur with.
Weight: 9.4kg
Key tech info: ALUXX-Grade Aluminium frame; Advanced-grade compostive fork; Shimano 105 Shifters, Front and Rear Derailleurs; Shimano 105 hydraulic Brakes; Shimano FC-RS510, 34/50 Crankset; Giant Gavia Fondo 2 Tyres, tubeless
Buy now £1799.00, GIANT
20 inch Bike BTWIN 900 Folding Bike
Some hybrid commuters may opt to travel by rail into a central station and then cycle into work from that point - therefore a folding bike will come in handy. It compacts down to minimise space on a busy train yet is quick and easy to switch to riding mode.
This rather slick option from BTWIN ticks all the boxes and looks the part. The lightweight aluminium frame has a simple-to-use side-fold system with a lever to ensure a swift transition, and a frame lock system to ensure it stays closed once you’ve finished with it.
It took me just under twenty seconds to unfold and mount. Very nifty. Once up and riding, the nine-speed gear system takes on gruelling tarmac along my commute through London with surprising ease, allowed me to pull off quickly once the lights changed to green and full-on peddle on the flats.
I particularly relished the comfortable ergonomic handles and the padded seat for comfort. Even during daylight hours, visibility is crucial – especially in rush hour traffic - so the integrated reflective strips are a welcome addition as are the reinforced anti-puncture tyres whilst tonking it through some of the more dubious streets I encounter along the way.
These tyres also incorporate ‘Skinwall technology’ to reduce weight and improve performance. Both the front and rear battery-powered lights are screwed on to the bike to avoid risk of theft and are sufficient enough although you may want to add your own. It has a compact design (78cmx66cmx44cm), which make it a really nifty option.
Weight: 12.2kg
Key tech info: T6 aluminium frame and fork; Shimano Sora 9-speed drive train; 20” x 1.75” anti-puncture tyres; 170mm aluminium cranks
Buy now £499.99, BTWIN
Ribble Hybrid AL Commuter - SRAM - 2.0
This is one clean, classy and stylish British-made bike with a snazzy but traditional racing green finish. If you are seeking something with that retro feel and a modern edge, the Ribble’s Hybrid AL Commuter - SRAM - 2.0 will be right up your street.
It’s delivered within 48 hours and out of the box, it’s pretty much ready to ride. There are just a few easy installations to put together the handlebars, seat and pedals.
Being a typical bloke, I managed to work it all out correctly, without the need of checking the supplied instructions. I know, I was quite amazed. However, I would highly recommend a good read through the step by step guide and check everything is tight and right.
From there, it’s an extremely enjoyable and comfortable smooth rolling cruise to work through the city streets as the sun rises and mist disappears. I found the tyres and seat really decent on bumpy towpaths and in particular made a point of directly hitting a good few uneven surfaces to test impact and cushioning.
The Ribble is a delightfully responsive ride with a superb hydraulic braking system to boot and in wet weather they should work like a dream. It has great functionally with the easy to use 1x11 speed trigger paddle gears.
On the cosmetic front, some individuals may find the mudguards and pannier rack a little twee - others may argue it’s cool, but there is no denying the fact that these are great practical extras included and fit with the whole ethos of the bike. You can naturally ‘spec up’ (the leisure edition looks epic by the way) as well as their fab e-bike range.
Tested on a series of 45min commutes on road, cycle lanes and river towpaths with a smile.
Weight: 11.3kg (XL)
Key tech info: 6061-T6 Alloy frame, Hybrid AL Disc full carbon forks, SRAM NX1 Trigger Shifter, SRAM NX 1x11 Long cage rear derailleur, Tektro HD-R280 Hydraulic Disc brakes,SRAM NX 1x11 speed gearing, Selle Royal Essenza saddle, LEVEL 700c wheels, Schwalbe G-One tyres
- Gareth Richman
Buy now £899.00, Ribble
Birdbike
Built by the same designers and engineers who introduced the electric scooter to our streets, this new state-of-the-art high-tech electric Bird Bike combines all the best elements of mountain, road and electric bikes on the market to create one helluva ride.
The powerful 250w motor will have you whizzing up steeps smoothly and along the straights safely. I found the integrated backlit handlebar dash display a fun addition and despite some e-bikes offering a limited range, this option gives you a good 60-miles (on eco setting).
The lights are also integrated and include a ‘brake light’ to warn fellow riders or vehicles that you’re slowing down. Neat. The removable battery is easy to charge and replace onto the bike. I couldn’t fault the experience from start to finish. An absolute joy.
Available from Halfords, this step-over A frame will be joined by a step-through V-frame this summer. Available in Stealth Black, Gravity Grey and Starling Blue. Perfect for your commute, or even leisurely ride around town. People WILL stare in awe. Be warned…
Weight: 23.4kg
Key tech info: 7-speed Shimano chain-drive; 36v removable battery; 250w motor; commercial grade aluminium alloy frame; Tektro disc brakes; Kenda Kwick K Shield+ tyres
Buy now £1999.00, Halfords
Brompton C-Line Explore
For the connoisseurs amongst you who appreciate expertly engineered solutions, look no further than the classic brand Brompton – the go-to folding bike of choice.
Nothing matches the ingenuity of a Brompton bike that transforms down into a small, locked package that is barely larger than the wheels itself. I managed to fold and unfold mine in well under twenty seconds and it fits into one of life’s little pleasures category. ‘Nothing folds like a Brompton folds’ as they say.
But don’t be fooled by its small presence, this is a workhorse and will have you whizzing through the streets to work in no time. It isn’t the lightest of bikes but the 6-speed drivetrain is sufficient and effective enough to power you along.
I carried mine into Waterloo station (and no, I didn’t take up an additional seat for my folded bike – take note), unfolded and away I cycled into Soho for a breezy – and quite exciting – ride experience.
It’s really comfortable, perhaps down to the ergonomic frame design and lovely Brooks saddle (only the best for Brompton), and as I’d chosen the high handlebar option (low and mid-level also available, depending on your riding style preference),
I was sat fairly upright and took in the views. And when you catch yourself smiling as you cycle along, you know you’re having fun.
Now that I’ve tested one, I’d actually feel comfortable riding longer distances too, which speaks volumes of its efficiency.
The option of luggage racks for your work or gym bag is useful. Brompton offer three models in their C-line with an array of bold colour options, and further options in their lines along with an electric-powered version so you can match the model to your riding style. What are you waiting for? Go and unfold your happiness…
Weight: 12.1kg
Key tech info: 6-speed drivetrain; precision drawn heat-treated steel tubing main frame; Brooks Cambrium C17 saddle; Schwalbe marathon Racer tyres; 6061 forged aluminium crank
Buy now £1350.00, Evans Cycles
Specialized Sirrus X 3.0
This hybrid bike option from Specialized will have you eagerly leaping out of bed when your morning work alarm beckons you – it’s the kind of bike that makes cycling a joy rather than a chore.
Maybe it’s due to super lightweight premium aluminium frame or the single drivetrain that empowers your peddling.
The tyres are slightly larger than a road bike which gave me more confidence in my grip on the road (it had been raining through the night) and you naturally have a slightly more upright cycling position on this flat handlebar, saddle and frame configuration - making my trip feel that much more pleasurable.
I like to pelt along the flats as much as the next cyclist but with so many wonderful views to take in through London (this being one of the main reasons I cycle to work as opposed to being stuck underground on a packed tube), the balance feels ‘just right’.
These tyres also enable me to make use of some of the gravelly short cut options rather than sticking to the tarmac.
The braking system felt much more sturdy and secure than other cycles I’ve tried in the past which, given some of the maniacs on the road (and I’m referring to drivers, pedestrians and fellow cyclists) gave me the confidence to power on. I paired this bike with my Specialized Torch 1.0 road shoes for a dreamlike experience.
Weight: 11.3kg
Key tech info: A1 premium aluminium frame, butted tubing, internal cable routing; Shimano Deore 10spd Cassette, Rear Derailler and Shift Levers; Hydraulic front and rear disc brakes
Buy now £759.00, Tredz
Velobello Chelsea Dutch Style Bike
The brainchild of a high-end interior designer, Velobello’s range of city bikes is seriously impressive. The label’s keen eye for design and aesthetics is not lost.
Every detail has been carefully considered, from form and function to beauty and practicality. Each handmade Velobello bike oozes style and a certain charm that echoes the classic Dutch bicycle.
We opted for the 6-speed Chelsea Dutch style bike (being a London-based business, each bike is named after an iconic area of the city) with its step-through design that has you sat upright with its uber comfortable saddle and vintage style handlebars – it demands that you take in the sights of our wonderful city.
Ideally suited for city-dwellers crossing town, the six-speed gears (shifted by Shimano) and lightweight steel frame ensure a passive and rather decadent ride.
The built-in bag rack and mud guards add to the overall aesthetic along with the rear wheel and dress guard that also protects your clothing.
This bike is all about stunning aesthetics and has nailed the iconic look that many bikes try to but fail to achieve, all seamlessly without compromising on function. I opted for the pistachio colour (stunning) but this bike is also available in red, cream and blue.
If you’re feeling braver, opt for the single speed Soho bike in bronze - an urban street bike that already warrants design icon status.
Weight: 15kg
Key tech info: Steel frame and forks; Krypton steel crank set; Shimano Tourney 6-speed gears and Shimano RS35 gear shifter; KMC Z33 chain; Promax V calliper brakes
Buy now £395.00, Velobello
Liv Avail AR 2
After years sneering at Tour de France-style middle-aged-men-in-Lycra on the way to work, I’ve only gone and joined them.
Well, not quite - but I’ve joined the road bike brigade, anyway. A lifetime of riding stable, upright hybrids had me hooked, but after months of leaving my bulky Scott bike out in the rain I fancied something a little more nimble that I could carry down stairs (and keep up my fellow weekend riders in Richmond Park).
The trusty steed that came to my rescue and helped me take the plunge? The Avail AR 2, courtesy of pro women’s bike brand Liv Cycling, which comes in an sexy orange-turquoise colour and earned me more compliments on my first ride than I’ve had in decades of cycling.
The dropped handlebars, breaks and gears obviously took some getting used to and I won’t pretend I felt as stable going around corners for my first couple of rides (sorry, south London drivers).
But oh, the lightness! The speed! The beauty! Hills felt like a breeze and the bike felt much more fitted underneath me than other road bikes I’ve tried, with a women’s-specific design that’s easily adjustable for short-armed, long-bodied riders like me. Just take a multi-tool in your pocket for the first couple of rides.
Riding feels lightweight but surprisingly balanced, with 32c tyres that are thick enough go off-road if you fancy it. Plus there’s space for a rack if you fancy a summer bike-packing trip.
I tested my Avail for a couple of commutes and made myself a promise that I’d save it for weekend rides going forward, but now I’ve tried my new speed machine, I might struggle to put it down (especially when riding it to work means a precious extra few minutes in bed).
Beware fellow hybrid loyalists: once you’ve tried a road bike as smooth and slight as Liv’s, you might just find yourself struggling to go back.
Weight: 9.8kg
Key tech info: ALUXX-Grade aluminium frame; Advanced-grade composite fork; D-Fuse seatpost; disc brakes, 32c tyres (and compatible with tyres up to 38c), select models are tubeless
- Katie Strick
Buy now £1349.00, Rutland Cycling
Cowboy 4 ebike
This is no ordinary e-bike. It has a slick, stealth-like presence on the road, and on each of the two 10-mile commuter rides I made, a bystander felt compelled to comment on how cool the bike was. THAT is when you know you’re riding something special.
I have always considered the use of an e-bike a bit of a cop out and have consciously weaved in my cycle commute into my weekly exercise regime. There are mornings though when I wake up and the legs just aren’t up to it (who’s are at 6am?) and this is where a battery-powered bike comes into its own.
It still requires you to pedal and input some energy but the additional support takes the sting out on any ride - no burn in your thighs required. With a simple push of the peddle, the motor kicks in intuitively and you’re up and, well, cycling.
The bike has a carbon belt as opposed to the usual chain which spans smoothly and the hum of the motor – especially as you get your nose ahead of everyone else as the lights turn green – is very satisfying.
What’s more, once you’ve downloaded the app and docked your phone onto the handlebars (the bike also charges your phone battery), you can use the map to navigate around and even check your speed.
The app can even alert you if someone attempts to steal your bike and with real-time tracking, you’ll soon recover it. There is also has a ‘crash detector’ that will notify your nominated person giving them your exact location. Good peace of mind, especially on the busy London roads.
In terms of battery life, you’ve got up to 70kn in the tank before the battery needs recharging which involves a simple unlocking of the battery compartment and plugging in. The battery power offers a max assisted speed of up to 25km/h. Impressive and within the law.
The hydraulic disc breaks react instantly to slow you down as the motor disengages. The resilient puncture-resistant tyres have a flexible grip and fill you with confidence, even at speed around the harshest of curves. The front and rear lights are integrated into the frame to give you visibility day or night (and no need to worry about separate batteries).
The aluminium frame and forks are available in three colour options; black, sand or khaki. Comes with a very comfortable Selle Royal saddle as standard.
Additional accessories such as a kickstand, Kryptonite u-lock, pannier and helmet. Theft insurance and Cowboy Care also advisable.
Weight: 18.9kg
Key tech info: Carbon belt; removable rechargeable battery
Buy now £2490.00, Cowboy
Verdict
So, after miles of peddling the tarmac of London, we’ve whittled down our personal favourites from the impressive list above.
From the e-bikes, the Cowboy 4 hands down powers ahead with its ease-of-use, power and slick design. It really does feel futuristic as you navigate your way to work. Heads will turn and people will comment.
The BTWIN 900 Folding Bike edges it in the folding bike category with its simplicity and style, especially at the very affordable price point. It’s surprisingly nimble and extremely comfortable to ride.
And finally, the all-round classic road/hybrid bike award goes to… GIANT Contend AR1. It’s a versatile and lightweight (sub 10kg!) gentle giant that is a joy to ride regardless of the varying terrain that awaits you on your way to work. What’s more, its super stylish and gives you confidence to take on even the most gruelling of commutes.
