The Best Commuter Bikes of 2024

Trek has been producing some of the best electric bikes on the market for a few years and that experience shows in the design of the Allant+ 7S Gen 2 ($3,500). The whole package is perfectly dialed to meet the demands of the modern commuter with useful, user-friendly features and excellent integration of the motor and battery system. With a premium Bosch mid-drive motor, an excellent component spec, sleek looks, and a super smooth ride, this bike gets our nod as the best overall in this guide.

Trek wisely chose Bosch’s Performance Line mid-drive motor to provide pedal assistance. This high-end motor provides a very refined power delivery with torque sensors that deliver assistance based on your pedaling effort. It is impressively smooth while helping to propel you along at up to 28 mph in its highest output setting. The 4 levels of pedal assistance provide a great range depending on your needs, and the settings can be adjusted through the controls/display with further customization, activity tracking, mapping, etc., possible through the Bosch app.

The impressive performance of the Bosch mid-drive motor and other mid-drive systems comes with a couple of caveats. The Allant+ 7S doesn’t have a throttle, so if that’s something you want, you’ll need to look into bikes with rear hub motors. While it absolutely assists your pedaling and makes it easier to ride faster, it also demands a little more effort on the part of the rider, comparatively speaking.

Bosch’s Purion 200 control unit sits by the left grip and is easy to reach with the thumb when switching between assist modes. It also has lights to indicate remaining battery life and assist level, though that information is also shown on the large digital display in the center of the handlebar. The display is easy to read and shows relevant ride info like current speed, assist level, and battery life as a percentage.

The 500 Wh battery is cleanly integrated into the downtube of the sturdy frame for a streamlined and relatively classy appearance. That battery is quickly and easily removed should you need to for charging off the bike or for security reasons. While it isn’t the largest capacity, Bosch’s mid-drive motor uses power quite efficiently, and we were able to ride over 40 miles on a single charge in the lower assist modes.

The Allant + 7S’s ride is impressively smooth and stable, and handling is sharp and intuitive. The 27.5-inch wheels with 2.4-inch tires smooth over road imperfections, and the 63 mm travel SR Suntour suspension fork provides extra cushion for inevitable encounters with cracks or potholes. The rest of the build includes a nice selection of quality Bontrager components, a Shimano 9-speed drivetrain, and powerful 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes.

Rounding out the build are commute-friendly features like full-coverage front and rear fenders, a sturdy rear rack to attach panniers or other accessories, and front and rear lights that run off the battery so you can see and be seen out on the road. The Allant+ 7S Gen 2 is nicely equipped and ready to roll, whether you’re running errands, zipping back and forth to work, or just riding for fun.

In the past decade, Rad Power Bikes has become one of the biggest players in the electric bike market, and for good reason. The brand has consistently put out quality e-bikes of all kinds at prices that won’t make you do a double or triple take when you see them. Rad Power’s product line is ever-changing and evolving to create more refined bikes with the latest in electric bike technology. A great example is the new Rad Power Radster Road ($2,199), a fantastic electric commuter that makes riding to work or running errands around town a whole lot easier and more fun.

The Radster Road is a completely new model in Rad Power’s line, not a redesigned version of the RadCity. The frame has a whole new look, the wheels are bigger, and they’ve upgraded the battery, sensors, controls, and features to make it a great electric commuter. We’ve been testing this bike for months, and it has far exceeded expectations.

While Rad Power previously only made Class 1 and 2 e-bikes that would top out at 20 mph, the Radster Road is capable of Class 3 speeds up to 28 mph using pedal assist with its powerful 750W rear hub motor. You don’t have to ride it that fast, of course, and it can be configured in Class 1 or 2 settings as well. Five levels of pedal assistance provide a great range of pedaling support, and the power delivery feels smoother and more natural thanks to the new torque sensor. It also has a twist throttle that helps get going from a stop or whisk you along at up to 20 mph when you don’t want to pedal.

The controls and display are also excellent. An all-in-one control unit by the left grip is easy to reach with the thumb when shifting through pedal assist modes or turning on the turn signals. The large display is centered on the handlebar, shows all the info you need at a glance, and is easy to read. The removable Safe Shield 720 Wh battery is semi-integrated into the frame and is UL Certified to UL-2271. Safe Shield batteries have each cell within the battery encapsulated in a heat-absorbing resin with the goal of reducing the risk of battery fires.

The Radster Road has 29-inch wheels with 2.2-inch wide Kenda Kwick puncture-resistant tires, and it rolls ultra-smooth and is super stable with a very natural handling feel. The plump tires absorb impact for a comfortable ride, and the 80 mm travel Suntour suspension fork takes the edge off potholes and bigger cracks in the road. Speeds are kept in check by powerful Tektro hydraulic disc brakes that work impressively well.

Fit-wise, the Radster Road is easy to get along with. It comes in two frame sizes — regular and large — to fit riders between 4’11” and 6’4″. The riding position is agreeably neutral, and the step-over height is relatively low, making it easy to mount and dismount. The one thing that isn’t agreeable, however, is the 74-pound weight. This bike is undeniably heavy and hard to transport or carry up and down stairs.

The Radster Road is fully equipped with features that make commuting easier and safer. The headlight and taillight are bright, so you can see and be seen, and the latter also functions as turn signals. It comes with front and rear fenders, a bell, and a rear cargo rack that can support up to 55 pounds. Rad Power also sells a huge range of accessories to customize your ride. Another nice feature is the one-touch fob security, which allows you to lock and unlock the controls with the touch of a fob or a passcode.

If you’re looking to ditch the car but still want to get around quickly and easily, the Rad Power Radster Road is worthy of serious consideration. This bike is fast, handles great, and comes fully equipped for your commuting or everyday riding needs at a reasonable price. Or, check out the Radster Trail if you’re looking for something with knobbier tires for more adventurous pursuits.

Read Review: Quick, Affordable, Easy-Riding Commuter E-Bike: Lectric XPress 750 Review

Lectric bikes burst onto the e-bike scene a few years back with its super affordable XP folding model. Since then, the brand has been steadily improving its bikes and expanding its product lineup to include models like the XPedition cargo bike and the new XPress electric commuter 750 ($1,299 or Base: $999). While these bikes are quite different from the original XP, the impressive value that the brand offers remains.

Nowadays, there are a lot of budget-friendly e-bikes on the market, but the XPress 750 stands out in an increasingly crowded lower-end market with its impressively powerful motor. Unlike many affordable bikes that are somewhat underpowered, the XPress 750 boasts its namesake 750 W rear hub motor that provides up to 85 Nm of torque. This makes it easy to get up to its top pedal-assisted speed of 28 mph, so you can avoid being late to the office and better keep up with traffic. It is also equipped with a throttle to help get going from a complete stop or cruise along at up to 20 mph when you don’t feel like pedaling.

Of course, you don’t have to ride it at full blast all the time. Five levels of pedal assistance let you choose how fast you want to go depending on the terrain or situation. The torque sensor does an admirable job of delivering power based on pedaling input, but it definitely feels a bit jumpier and less refined than the Rad Power Radster described above or any mid-drive system. If you don’t need that much power, Lectric also sells the XPress base model with a less robust 500 W motor for $300 less.

The controls are straightforward and easy to use, and the color display is centered on the handlebar in an easy-to-see location. The large display screen shows you all of your important stats, including assist level, current speed, remaining battery, and distance traveled.

With a 672 Wh battery, the XPress 750 has plenty of juice, but we found its range to vary pretty dramatically depending on the assist level. The same is true of any e-bike, of course, but the XPress really drained the battery pretty quickly in level 5. It was much more efficient in lower settings, and it was easy enough to get 30 miles or so between charges. However, that big battery and powerful motor undoubtedly contribute to the somewhat hefty 57-pound weight.

The build is budget-oriented and far from flashy but still perfectly functional. The 27.5-inch wheels and 2.1-inch tires provide good stability and predictable handling, while the 80 mm travel suspension fork takes the edge off bumps in the road. Our biggest gripe was with the shifters, which are somewhat awkward to operate compared to the trigger style on more expensive models.

With a budget price, it’s not surprising the XPress 750 is somewhat light on included features. Thankfully, it comes with integrated front and rear lights to help you see and be seen. Lectric also offers add-ons like a rear rack, fenders, mirrors, and more that can be selected at checkout. It also comes in black or white and step-thru and high-step frames to suit varying heights and preferences.

Packed with a bunch of features like a Brose mid-drive motor, knobby 27.5-inch tires, quality components, and a sleek style, the Ride1Up Prodigy V2 ($2,395) is a great option for commuting, leisure riding, or trail riding. It also happens to be one of the least expensive mid-drive motor-equipped bikes on the market, and we think it’s an outstanding value.

The star of the show is the Brose mid-drive motor with a torque sensor that provides instant feedback to your pedal strokes with an almost-silent motor assist. Though there is no throttle button on the bike, it includes five different pedal assist levels that can zip you around at up to 28 mph and up and down rolling terrain with ease. This bike provides one of the most natural feeling and intuitive riding experiences out of any electric bike that we’ve tested.

While we used this bike primarily for commuting and leisure rides around town, it’s also off-road capable with a 100 mm suspension fork and knobby 27.5-inch tires. We cruised around our local Lake Tahoe dirt and gravel trails at high speeds with smiles on our faces. While it handled dirt and gravel with ease, things got a little choppy when we ventured onto slightly more technical trails with bigger roots and cobbles. As a 58-pound hardtail bike, it’s going to be limited to less technical trails.

Commute-friendly features like front and rear fenders, integrated front and rear lights, and a sturdy rear rack ensure you’re ready for anything. Ride1Up also sells a number of compatible accessories so you can customize your setup. The Prodigy V2 is also offered in both step-over and step-thru frame designs in both the traditional 9-speed drivetrain setup or with the Enviolo Trekking Internal Gear Hub with CVT and a Gates Carbon Drive belt for $300 more.

This bike’s 500 Wh battery is a little less than what we see on heavier electric cargo bikes but should be sufficient for most daily trips, with a claimed range of 30-50 miles. We regularly rode 10-12 miles on rolling terrain, only taking up a quarter of a charge during each outing. 

One important note is that the bike frame is a bit on the smaller side. Ride1Up states that it fits people up to 6’-1”. Our 5’-11” tester thought it fit him well, right on the edge of perfect vs. being too small, while our 6’-0” tester with longer legs thought it was just a bit too small for him. This minor fit issue could be remedied with a longer seat post, which is an affordable fix.

Overall, the Prodigy V2 provides an excellent combination of surface versatility, performance, and affordability. It’s a fun, cool-looking, capable on- and off-road bike that we would gladly recommend to anyone looking for a mid-tier electric commuter bike at a reasonable price. It’s a fantastic option if your daily commutes or errand runs involve smooth gravel roads, unpaved paths, or less-than-perfect pavement.

Specialized has been a dominant player in the high-end electric bike market for some time. The brand’s electric mountain bikes are consistently some of the best, and the Vado has undergone many tweaks and updates over its 7-year lifespan. The latest and greatest Specialized Turbo Vado SL 2 EQ 6.0 Carbon ($6,500) is more than just a mouthful. It’s a premium, lightweight e-bike that comes fully equipped for your commuting needs — for a price.

Believe it or not, the EQ 6.0 Carbon model we tested isn’t the most expensive option in the lineup. That distinction goes to the LTD version, which costs a whopping $8K. That said, the EQ 6.0 comes with a more robust component spec and feature set that make it better suited to commuting. As expected for the price, the component spec is top-tier, with name-brand components attached to the sleek carbon fiber frame. Highlights include 700c DT Swiss gravel bike wheels and 47 mm wide tires, a Shimano XT 12-speed drivetrain, and carbon cranks. Commuter-friendly features include fenders, a rear rack, and integrated lights.

Assisting your pedaling effort is Specialized’s 1.2 SL mid-drive motor. This motor puts out 320 watts of power and 50 Nm of torque, with smooth assistance based on advanced torque sensors. It will support speeds up to 28 mph, but unlike many bikes that do the work for you, this motor provides a more subtle boost to your pedaling effort. This is great if you’re among the many who want a little extra boost but still want to get some exercise on the way to work, but those looking for a free ride are better off looking elsewhere.

The Vado’s controls are low-profile and intuitive, and the Mastermind H3 display shows what you need to know at a glance. Riders also have the option to customize settings and monitor data like heart rate, power, and cadence through the Specialized app. Additional features like Apple Find My and the Turbo System Lock Anti-theft help protect your investment.

The fully integrated 520 Wh battery provides a very ambiguous “up to 5 hours” of range. Given the lower motor power and a higher level of rider input when riding, we were able to ride around for four days before needing a charge. Specialized also provides the option of a range extender battery ($450, sold separately) that provides an additional 160 Wh and mounts discreetly in a bottle cage.

With a weight of just under 40 pounds, the Vado SL 2 EQ 6.0 Carbon is much lighter than most electric bikes. This makes it not only much easier to pick and carry, but it also makes it feel much more nimble with natural handling that feels much more like a “normal” bike. The well-chosen components contribute to this as well, particularly the versatile tires, which are equally good on pavement as they are on gravel detours. Specialized’s integrated Future Shock 3.2 damper allows for 20 mm of suspension at the handlebar and does wonders to provide comfort over rough surfaces.

On top of all that, the Turbo Vado SL 2 EQ 6.0 Carbon simply looks great. It hides its e-bike-ness well, with an impressively sleek design, light weight, and natural handling. It’s not the most powerful bike around, but it’s arguably one of the best electric commuters available — if you can afford it.

So, you’re interested in a lightweight electric commuter like the Specialized Turbo Vado, but you don’t want to spend that much? The Velotric T1 ST Plus ($1,549) weighs just 39 pounds and sells for a fraction of the price. With an impressively low weight, this bike handles and rides a lot like a “normal” bike but with an extra pedaling boost from the 350-watt rear hub motor.

At first glance, the T1 ST Plus looks like a non-electric bike. The 352.8 Wh battery is cleanly integrated into the downtube of the frame, and the rear hub motor hides inconspicuously between the brake rotor and the cassette. Even the cables and wires are routed internally for an extra clean look. The only thing that really gives it away is the slightly chunkier down tube and the small control unit on the handlebar — but even that is low profile and barely noticeable.

GearJunkie’s Editorial Director, Sean McCoy, was immediately impressed with the Velotric T1 during testing. From the unboxing and assembly process to the design and finish — this bike simply looks good and comes with nice components considering its budget-friendly price tag. One of the most notable impressions was the low weight. At 39 pounds, this bike rides like a regular bike, not a moped. It also makes it possible to carry up and down stairs or load onto most bike racks — it doesn’t exceed the weight limit.

The 350 W rear hub motor isn’t the most powerful, but its smaller size helps keep the weight down while still providing a nice boost to your pedaling effort. Unlike some electric bikes, it doesn’t do all the work for you, but it amplifies your pedaling and definitely makes it easier to accelerate and maintain speed. It ships in class 1 settings with a top speed of 20 mph, but you have the option of bumping that up to 28 mph if you prefer. Still, it takes a little effort on the part of the rider to go fast — no free rides here. It doesn’t have a throttle, either.

Velotric updated the T1 ST Plus slightly since Sean tested it. It now comes with an all-in-one control unit by the left grip that includes a small display to show your speed, assist level — there are 5 — and trip distance. It also works with the Velotric app, Apple Health, and Apple Find My, plus it has a USB port to keep your device charged on the go. Front and rear lights run off the bike’s battery, so you’re visible to motorists, too.

So, what’s not to like about this affordable electric commuter? First, the battery isn’t removable, so you’ll need to be able to park the whole bike somewhat close to an outlet for charging. We also found the pedal assistance to be a bit jumpy at times compared to some of the more refined motors on more expensive bikes.

Still, the Velotric T1 ST Plus is a great electric commuter bike for those seeking a more “normal” bike weight and ride feel with the added bonus of pedal assistance. Not only can you actually pick this bike up and carry it, but it won’t drain your bank account, either.

Electra has been producing affordable bikes for about as long as anyone can remember. While the brand may be better known for beach cruisers, Electra makes a wide range of bikes, including the reasonably priced Loft city bike models. We had the chance to test both the Electra Loft 7i ($600) with the 7-speed internal hub shifting and the Electra Loft 7d ($500) with a 7-speed derailleur drivetrain. Both proved to be excellent options for flatter terrain and urban environments that won’t break the bank. Electra sells the Loft models in both step-over and step-thru designs in two frame sizes as well, so you can be sure to find what suits you best.

The Loft bikes have a “Dutch style,” European flare, and timeless elegance that will seemingly never go out of style. Simply put, these bikes look good. The rigid aluminum frames have a simple design with classic lines and they come in several frame color options as well. The components have also been wisely chosen to up the retro appeal.

We tested both the Loft 7i and 7d in the step-over frames, which come in medium and large sizes and are intended to fit riders between 5’4″ and 6’4″. Our 6-foot-tall tester fit easily and comfortably on the large, while his 5-foot 7-inch testing assistant found the medium to be a perfect fit. The Loft step-through frames come in small and medium sizes for riders between 5’0″ and 6’3″. Regardless of the frame style and size, the swept-back handlebars create an upright, casual riding position that is far from racy or aggressive and well-suited to the city style of the Loft.

The primary differentiator between the Loft 7i (internal hub) and the 7d (derailleur) is the choice of drivetrain. Both have 7-speeds, but the 7i uses the internal hub, while the 7d has a more typical external derailleur. Both systems provide roughly the same gear range, so it really comes down to personal preference when choosing. Having used both, we preferred the smoother shiting and lower maintenance of the 7i’s internal hub system. It’s worth pointing out that even though these bikes have 7 speeds, the gear range is somewhat limited and best suited to flatter terrain or gently rolling hills. We tested them in a hillier area and had to put in some work on the steeper climbs.

The 700c wheels roll fast, and these bikes have a notably smooth feel. With skinnier 37 mm tires, the handling is precise, although it can feel a tad twitchy given the short reach and swept-back bars. But maneuvering around town at modest speeds feels just fine. The tires are best suited to paved surfaces and they provide a little cushion for small cracks and bumps in the road. Speed control is tasked to standard caliper rim brakes, which aren’t the most powerful but work dutifully to maintain control.

A chainguard protects your work pants from picking up grime and grease on the commute, while front and rear fenders protect you from road spray if you get caught in a passing shower. The 7i comes with a rear rack, but you’ll need to purchase one separately for the 7d — another potential reason to spend the extra $100 for the 7i. Add some aftermarket bike lights and a pannier bag, and you’ll be ready for just about anything.

If you’re looking for a classy city or commuter bike to ride to work or around town, the Electra Loft 7i and 7d are among the best values we’ve found. These bikes come nicely equipped at a price that’s easy on the wallet.

If portability and storability are high on your list of priorities, it doesn’t get much better than Brompton’s folding bikes. Invented in 1975, this unique 3-part folding bike is one of the most recognizable and certainly one of the most compact designs on the market. Say what you will about the looks. We found our P-Line Explore 12-Speed ($3,250) test bike to be surprisingly fun to ride.

Over the years, Brompton’s product line has grown substantially to include a range of frame materials, drivetrain configurations, price points, and even electric models. Still, folding bikes are all that Brompton makes by hand in its London factory. Subtle changes have been made over time, of course, but the general idea has remained the same — portable, storable, and convenient bikes for urban environments.

Our test bike arrived in a box just a bit bigger than the P-Line Explore in its most compact, folded size — roughly 1/3 the size of a standard bike box. All that was required to set up was to unbox it, unfold it, attach the seat and left pedal, and pump up the tires. The process took about 10 minutes, and we were ready to roll. That said, we do suggest reading the instructions, as there are helpful folding and unfolding tips that streamline the process moving forward — it only takes about 20 seconds once you have it dialed.

On the road, the Brompton P-Line doesn’t handle like a full-size, non-folding bike, but we didn’t expect it to, either. What we did expect was for it to feel much twitchier, nervous, and unstable than it did. We found it rolls surprisingly quickly, the handling was predictable and fairly calm, and it was, of course, incredibly easy to maneuver. It wouldn’t be our first choice for longer rides or trying to get anywhere as quickly as possible, but for jaunts around the neighborhood or getting to and from the train station and the office, it’s much more efficient and fun than walking.

It’s important to note that while we were pleasantly surprised, the handling isn’t on par with larger wheeled bikes. That said, those bikes don’t fold down into a tiny package that weighs just 23.2 pounds, fit under a desk or in a closet, and roll like a piece of carry-on luggage. There is a tradeoff for its convenience, but that tradeoff wasn’t as big as we thought it might be.

The P-Line comes in two drivetrain configurations: 4-speed and 12-speed. We tested the latter, which has a 4-speed derailleur paired with a 3-speed internal hub. This setup provides a sizeable gear range should you need it. We did find, however, that the hub shifting wasn’t the smoothest with the drivetrain under power, and it worked much better with predictive shifts before climbing any hills. Otherwise, the brakes worked well, the seat was comfy, and the high handlebar and long seatpost worked fine for our six-foot-tall tester.

Should you spend $3,250 on a folding commuter bike? That’s entirely up to you. With options ranging from the A-Line 3-Speed ($1,150) up to the titanium-framed T-Line 12-Speed ($5,850), there’s no shortage of options and price points to choose from. What we can say is that the Brompton P-Line proved to be far more fun and confidence-inspiring to ride than expected while delivering on its promise to be exceptionally light, compact, and easy to store when not in use.

If you happen to be a multimodal commuter — traveling pathways by train, bus, or car — a folding bike can make your life a lot easier. Perhaps you’re short on storage space at home or the office. Again, a folding bike may be the right fit. There are plenty out there that could make this list — but you get what you pay for, and folding bikes are pretty complicated.

If you’re thinking of getting a folding bike but the above-mentioned Brompton is a bit too rich for your blood, you can spend quite a bit less for the entry-level Tern Node D7i ($1,199). Even then, “entry-level” isn’t the right term for this bike, in fact, it’s got some pretty advanced features that make it a great non-electric folding model, and a killer value to boot.

The aluminum frame comes equipped with Shimano components and offers seven speeds. Instead of a traditional derailleur, the Node has a 7-speed internal rear hub that is not only low maintenance but won’t get knocked out of whack when the bike is folded up, and you’re squeezing it onto a train or a closet in your apartment. Speaking of folding the bike, it’s a simple process that takes mere seconds and it weighs just over 31 pounds. It’s far easier to lift into the trunk of a car or haul up a flight of stairs than many other options out there.

The 24-inch wheels roll smoother, faster, and handle more normally than smaller wheels often found on other folding bikes. Puncture-resistant Schwalbe Big Apple tires handle the tarmac with ease and provide a little cushion for the cracks in the city streets. At the center of the front wheel is a dynamo hub, which generates power while riding to power the integrated front and rear lights. This ensures your lights will be working any time you ride, and you don’t need to remember to charge them or change batteries. Front and rear fenders help keep road spray off your work shoes, and a rear cargo rack rounds out the useful features.

Given the larger wheel size that gives the Tern Node D7i more natural handling, it doesn’t fold up quite as small, nor is it as light as other folding models like the Brompton P-Line. Regardless, it’s still much smaller than non-folding bikes and conveniently fits into tight spaces, including trains, closets, or behind your desk at work. With a full suite of commuter-friendly features and a low-maintenance design, the Node D7i is a great folding commuter bike. We call it “budget”, but it’s better than that.

We’ve tested quite a few electric cargo bikes over the years, and the Tern HSD P5i ($4,599) is our pick for the best electric cargo commuter. It’s a bit smaller and lighter than most e-cargo bikes, so it’s a bit easier to handle and deal with, yet it can still support up to 397 pounds of total weight. It’s got a quality Bosch mid-drive motor and a 5-speed internal hub drivetrain, and a Gates CDX belt drive for low maintenance.

Cargo bikes are inherently bigger and heavier than other types of bikes, but the HSD P5i is a surprisingly compact option. At 61.5 pounds, it’s still no lightweight, but it weighs less than similar models without sacrificing much, if anything, in carrying capacity. This lighter weight makes it a bit easier to handle in tight spaces, like rolling it onto a train or around your office hallways. Tern also made it easier to store when not in use with a folding handlebar and its ability to stand on its end, significantly reducing its profile.

Tern only makes premium electric bikes, and that’s evident in their use of the Bosch Performance mid-drive motor. This motor system doesn’t allow for the use of a throttle, but it provides some of the smoothest and most natural feeling pedal assistance on the market. The torque sensor responds to your pedaling input, and the motor puts out up to 75 Nm of hill-flattening power. The Bosch controls and display are also some of the best around, and it integrates with the eBike Flow App for virtual bike locking, system updates, and customization. A removable 545 Wh battery provides the juice and plenty of range for daily commutes or joy rides around town.

A 5-speed Shimano Nexus internal hub and Gates CDX belt drive keep the drivetrain super simple, yet with the pedal assistance, there’s ample gear range. On top of that, you’ll barely ever have to do any maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Hydraulic disc brakes provide heaps of stopping power. The Tern HSD P5i has 20-inch wheels with 2.15-inch puncture-resistant tires that keep the steering nimble and the center of gravity low. The caveat is that smaller wheels are a bit twitchier overall than bigger hoops. Still, the longer wheelbase and 70 mm suspension fork help keep things stable and smooth out the ride.

The large rear rack of the HSD P5i is one of its most notable features. This rack can support up to 176 pounds of cargo, and you can fit all manner of baskets, bags, panniers, and kids’ seats to customize your cargo-carrying abilities. Of course, the $4,599 price tag is a pill to swallow, but this is a premium bike that backs that price tag up with quality components and excellent performance.

If you’re seeking a quality cargo bike to bring the kids to and from school, do grocery runs, or cart lots of gear on your daily commutes, we think the Tern HSD P5i is one of the best you’ll find.

In a market where the lines are often blurred between genres of bikes, the Orbea Diem 20 ($4,699) is a thoroughbred urban commuter. This slick and stylish bike comes at a premium price, but it’s also loaded with high-quality, low-maintenance parts and all the features you’ll need for navigating the urban jungle.

The Diem 20 is part of Orbea’s 3-bike Diem model range. All Diem models feature the brand’s distinctive patented Diamond Glide frame, which helps them stand out from the masses. Although the specs and prices vary between them, they are all offered in four frame sizes and the same three color options: spaceship green, ivory white, and glitter anthracite.

The mid-range Diem 20 comes with a Shimano EP6 mid-drive motor that produces up to 85 Nm of torque. This means it doesn’t have a throttle, but it also means that it delivers power smoothly and naturally, along with your pedaling effort, with ample power to reach its top speed of 28 mph. We found it easy to get up to speed and power up inclines when needed. It has three assist levels, Eco, Trail, and Boost, all of which can be adjusted through Shimano’s E-tube app.

The simple bar-mounted control unit is attached by the left grip. This all-in-one unit makes it easy to switch between assist levels, and it uses small lights to indicate assist level and remaining battery life. This leads us to our biggest complaint about the Diem 20 — it doesn’t have a display. Instead, Orbea intends for you to use your smartphone as a display. They even included a stem-mount system — although you need a special phone case or mount to use it — and a USB-C port to keep your device charged.

The Diem 20 comes with an integrated 630 Wh battery which provides plenty of range. If you need to ride extra far or just wanted to extend periods between charges, Orbea sells an optional range extender to add 252 Wh of battery capacity.

Instead of a traditional chain-driven drivetrain, Orbea equipped the Diem 20 with a Gates Carbon Drive CDX belt and a Shimano Nexus Inter-5 internal rear hub. There may be fewer gears to choose from, but this simplified drivetrain requires virtually no maintenance and doesn’t get your work pants greasy the way that chains can.

We found the Diem 20 to provide a comfortable and confident ride with nimble yet steady handling. It’s quick, responsive, and confidence-inspiring, while the fenders, integrated lights, and low-profile rear rack all add to its utility and convenience as a commuter bike. If you’ve got some money to spend and don’t mind using your phone as a display, this highly integrated and futuristic-looking electric commuter is certainly worth a look.

Priority makes a fairly large range of bikes for all types of riding and riders including our best overall non-electric commuter, the Priority 600, and electric models like the Current E-Bike ($3,299 to $3,499 depending on drivetrain). With a very powerful mid-drive motor, quality component specification, and a low maintenance belt and internal hub drivetrain, the Current makes a strong argument to be your next electric commuter.

Priority is a brand that is on board with less traditional drivetrains, and it utilizes Gates Carbon Drive belts, gearboxes, and internal hubs across its entire line. For the consumer, these drivetrain setups typically require significantly less maintenance, don’t get nearly as dirty, and don’t get knocked out of adjustment the way that external derailleurs can. This means less grease on your work pants, fewer trips to the bike shop, and less worry about pushing your bike into small spaces — you won’t bash your derailleur on anything.

We tested the Current with the Shimano Inter-5 internal hub with 5 speeds. It is also offered with an Enviolo heavy-duty hub with a $200 bump in price. We found the Shimano internal hub to work well, with smooth shifts between gears, even under load. Otherwise, the two build options are identical, with a nice component spec that you’d expect for the price. Sturdy wheels, durable tires, and powerful brakes all combine for a confident ride. Unlike the Trek Allant+ 7S, the Current has a rigid fork, so it isn’t quite as forgiving over rough terrain, but it is otherwise a pretty smooth and stable ride.

Priority’s mid-drive motor also works well and puts out a whopping 140 Nm of torque. Like other mid-drive systems, it uses torque sensors and delivers power to match your pedaling effort. The Current ships in class 1 settings with a top speed of 20 mph, but it can easily be bumped up to class 3, where it has no problem hitting 28 mph in its highest assist level. Five levels of pedal assist provide a great range of speed and assistance.

The 500 Wh battery is nicely integrated into the downtube of the frame and is removable for charging off the bike if needed. It provides ample power for a claimed range of 20 to 50 miles depending on assist level, terrain, and pedaling input. We found that we could easily get right around 20 miles when ripping around at full speed on assist level 5 and much more than that in lower settings. If you need more juice, Priority also sells a huge 574 Wh range extender ($800) that attaches to a cargo rack and more than doubles your range potential.

A simple handlebar-mounted control unit by the left grip makes for a relatively easy change between assist modes, and a large screen in the center of the handlebar shows all of your ride info at a glance. While it works just fine, the control unit itself feels a little dated and doesn’t have the best ergonomics. The orientation of the glass on the screen also makes it invisible if you’re wearing polarized glasses — but it works really well if you’re not.

Integrated front and rear lights work well to help you be seen by motorists, and the front light is actually bright enough to light your way home in the dark. Front and rear fenders are also included. Add a rear cargo rack and maybe some panniers, and you’re ready to tackle commutes, errand runs, or whatever adventures come your way.

Read Review: Aventon Soltera.2 Review: An Ideal Urban E-Bike on a Budget.

If you’re looking for an affordable transportation solution, the Aventon Soltera.2 ($1,199) electric commuter bike is among the best values we’ve found. The Soltera is lightweight for its category and boasts features and performance that make it competitive with similarly priced electric models.

With a rigid aluminum frame, 700c wheels, and (relatively) skinny tires, the Aventon Soltera looks a lot like your average city bike. It rolls fast yet retains a surprising level of agility that makes it super easy to maneuver, and its handling is very intuitive. Unlike many city bikes, the Soltera has a riser handlebar, so the seated position is a bit more neutral, relaxed, and comfortable. The step-over frame comes in three sizes — small, medium, and large — to fit a claimed user height range of 5’3″ to 6’2″.

Given that it comes with skinnier, 38 mm wide tires, the Soltera is best suited to use on paved surfaces like bike paths and city streets. They do offer a little bit of cushioning, but these are fast-rolling tires that aren’t the best if your commutes include gravel paths or sections of trail. Still, they’re perfect for their intended use of zipping around town or riding to work.

The Soltera.2 hides its e-bike-ness quite well. The 360 Wh battery is integrated into the frame for a fairly streamlined look, and it can be easily removed for charging should you need to get it closer to an outlet. The 350W rear hub motor also goes mostly unnoticed until you’re twisting the throttle or using any of the four levels of pedal assistance, that is. While it isn’t nearly as powerful as the Lectric XPress 750, it provides a good level of pedaling support to get you humming along at 20 mph with pedal assistance or the throttle on flat ground.

The Soltera.2’s color display and controls are very easy to read, understand, and operate. Aventon’s app also makes it easy to make changes to the settings through your phone — like bumping the top pedal-assisted speed of the bike to 25 mph if you to get around a little faster.

The smaller battery and motor contribute to the Soltera’s lower weight, which, at 46 pounds, is significantly less than the Rad Power Radster Road, for example. This weight also helps this bike maintain its nimble and natural handling feel and makes it much more reasonable to carry up a flight of stairs or load onto a bike rack. Still, the 360 Wh battery provides ample range for most people’s needs — Aventon claims “up to 46 miles.” There’s plenty of power available to roll 15 miles each way to work and back, but know that you’ll get less range in higher pedal assist settings or when using the throttle heavily.

The Soltera.2 comes equipped with integrated front and rear lights. The rear lights also work as brake lights and turn signals. The integrated lighting is a great feature that not only helps you be seen by motorists, but ensures that you can see if your commutes happen to take place in less than ideal light conditions. Aventon also sells a range of compatible accessories like racks, fenders, and more, so you can dial in your bike to your specific needs.

If you prefer a bike that will look like art in a small apartment, the Brooklyn Bicycle Co. Bedford 8 ($600) is it. This classic city bike looks as good hanging from a wall as it does while you’re riding it, and its budget-friendly price makes it a great value.

The Bedford has a traditional diamond-shaped, durable steel frame and serious style points. The steel isn’t your parents’ 1970s steel — it’s a much lighter steel alloy but with the same strength and durability. It rolls on 700c wheels, which are smooth and fast, along with 32 mm wide puncture-resistant tires that take the edge off cracks in the pavement without slowing you down.

With a wide range 8-speed drivetrain, there are plenty of gears to help you tackle rolling hills on your way to the office or for cruising around town. The rim brakes aren’t the most powerful, but they work adequately to keep your speed in check while helping to keep the bike’s price down. It comes in three frame sizes, so most riders should be able to get a good fit, and the seated pedaling position is relatively upright and casual. Prefer a step-through frame? Brooklyn Bicycle Co. makes a whole range of other options that are equally affordable.

The sleek army-green paint — it also comes in black or raw colors — along with a comfortable vegan leather saddle and grips give the Brooklyn Bedford 8 a vintage style that’s hard to ignore. Given its low price of $600, it isn’t too surprising that it is somewhat light on features, but you can easily add aftermarket fenders, lights, and racks if/when you need them.

For $100 less, the Electra Loft 7D is a great deal that’s nearly identical but already comes equipped with fenders.

Can’t stop, won’t stop: the fixed-gear aficionado motto. Nothing beats the simplicity of a fixed-gear bike, nor does anything else provide the same commuter-chic style. A perfect example? This stealthy matte black fixie from State Bicycle Co.

The State Bicycle Co. Wulf ($400) is the brand’s base model, but it’s designed to blend in and look unobtrusive when you need to lock it outside of a dive bar. Yet, it still looks classy enough to hang on your wall or walk into your office. The Wulf is part of State’s Core Line, which consists of numerous rigid single-speed/fixie options in a range of different colors.

The Wulf is about as simple as it gets. It has a traditionally shaped rigid steel frame, rim brakes, and only one gear. It comes with a flip-flop hub, meaning if you prefer to run it single-speed (and coast) and use standard brakes (included with the bike), that’s an option. Or, you can set it up as a fixie and maintain your hipster street cred. The choice is yours. Either way, it’s essentially a zero-maintenance bike — other than keeping the tires inflated and occasionally lubing the chain.

All that simplicity does come at a cost. The rigid frame can feel a bit harsh at times, and the forward-leaning geometry is somewhat aggressive, though it is typical of this style of bike. Having just one gear also means that starting from a complete stop takes some power, and the Wulf is best suited to flatter terrain. And, if you choose to ride it as a fixie, then you’ll want to practice riding — especially slowing down — a bit before hitting the city streets.

While many brands don’t offer extra-small fixed-gear models, State Bicycle Co. actually carries frame sizes from 46 to 58 cm. That’s great news for the shorter folks out there. State also provides numerous upgrade options when purchasing, so you can dial in the bike how you like or make sure you’re set up with lights and a lock right out of the gate. If you want an affordable, simple, stylish, and functional bike for kicking around the city, look no further.

If you talk about bombproof bikes, the Surly name will almost certainly come up in conversation. These bikes are built to last no matter what you put them through. Surly makes a range of bikes, from pavement-pounding city bikes to hardtail mountain bikes and even longtail cargo models.

True story: Former GearJunkie reporter Molly Hurford’s first cyclocross bike was a borrowed 5-year-old Surly Cross Check that’s still being passed around to young riders in New Jersey 12 years later.

For a cyclist looking for a bike that can handle anything from light gravel grinding to long cross-country tours or a simple 2-mile commute, the Surly Disc Trucker ($1,999) is a great option. The steel frame might be heavy, but it will outlive most other bikes on the market — this is a bike your grandchildren can inherit — and it has timeless appeal.

The Disc Trucker is Surly’s touring bike that’s made for exploring on mostly paved roads. This means it has a comfortable, ride-all-day geometry and it’s ready for racks and fenders for optimal commuting or loading it down with gear for overnight adventuring. Plus, it can fit up to 2.1-inch tires on 26-inch wheels or 47-mm tires on 29-inch wheels, making it capable of light gravel use, too.

The 3 x 9-speed drivetrain provides a truly enormous gear range for tackling steep hills or riding over mountain passes with loads of gear. The rest of the build is well chosen for the price with functional, but not flashy components. If you’re looking for a quality bike for use around town and on your next bike packing adventure, the Surly Disc Trucker is worthy of serious consideration.

Co-op Cycles, REI’s in-house bike brand, has come a long way in a few short years. After retiring the Novara brand, REI rebooted its cycling program and now offers sturdy bikes at reasonable prices. Not to mention, a bike purchase includes free tune-ups and dividends if you’re a Co-op member.

The REI Co-op CTY 2.1 ($799) offers a perfect, basic, no-frills commuter bike with 700c x 40 mm Kenda tires and Tektro hydraulic disc brakes for good stopping power. It comes with the Shimano Altus 16-speed drivetrain, so you’ve got plenty of gears for tackling hills without needing to grind it out.

Meanwhile, the aluminum frame keeps the weight relatively low, even if you opt to add fenders or a rack to carry work gear. A 63 mm travel suspension fork is also a nice touch to take the edge off cracks or bumps in the road. The 40 mm wide Kenda tires are slightly knobby, so they roll well on pavement and can handle some light gravel pathways as well.

The Co-op CTY 2.1 comes in two frame styles, step-over, and step-through, so you can choose what works best for you. The step-over frame comes in five sizes from XS to XL, and should fit riders between 5’0″ and 6’3″. While it doesn’t come with fenders or lights, those can easily be added to set it up for changing weather and light conditions.

Overall, the REI Co-op CTY 2.1 is an affordable option for anyone seeking a quality commuter that won’t break the bank.