The best single speed hybrid bike should offer a little bit of everything: road, mountain and touring. A hybrid bike is the ideal solution if you want to try out different terrains, but how can you tell a do it all bike from the others? And even if you can find these hybrid bikes, which one do you choose?
Hybrid bikes are not built equally, but you don’t have to worry about ending up with a lemon as I have reviewed the top hybrid bikes available. In this guide we will take a close look at what separates the great hybrid bikes from the mediocre, plus I have a detailed buyers’ guide so you will know what features to look for.
To start off let’s go over the factors and considerations to ensure you end up with a decent hybrid bike.
How to Choose the Best Single Speed Hybrid Bike
There are two major elements to consider when you’re buying a hybrid: the features and fit. The features refer to the components like the brakes, frame, pedals, fenders etc. The fit is in reference to the size and how comfortable you will be.
Wheel Size
There are two sizes to choose from:
- The standard size for hybrid bikes is 700c. If you’re a beginner this is the one you’ll want to use.
- Some hybrid bikes have 26 inch wheels like other bikes. These are smaller than the 700c wheels.
- The wheels built into these bikes are standard and should work just fine, but as you ride, consider looking into other types especially if you’re going to do a lot of off-road stuff.
Bike Suspension
Single speed hybrids either have a front suspension or no suspension.
- No Suspension: some hybrid bikes don’t have suspension because it just adds to the weight and reduce pedal efficiency. If you ride a lot on smooth streets and paved surfaces, it is possible to do without it.
- Front Suspension: urban bikes are often equipped with front suspension fork that function as shock absorbers. This can be a handy feature when you’re riding on rough roads.
- There is no general consensus when it comes to suspension. However it really depends on what you plan to do. If you’re going to spend your time mostly on smooth streets it probably won’t be necessary. But if your bike is going to double for a cross country or trailing, suspension will be in order.
Brake Type
There are two types of brakes used on hybrid bikes, rim and disc.
- Rim Brakes: rim brakes have pads that attach to the wheel rims.
- Disc Brakes: disc brakes are equipped with brake pads which are bind to the brake rotor set on the wheel hub. There are two types of disc brakes: the mechanical disc brake requires manual adjustment due to the pads wearing out, and the hydraulic disc brakes that automatically adjusts as the pad starts to wear out.
- The bottom line is it is better to go with hydraulic disc brakes. Yes it can be more expensive than other brake types, but you can be sure of its reliability and that it will work when you need it. Hydraulic disc brakes also provide stronger braking with less effort.
Bike Frame Materials
Most bikes have an aluminum frame, but carbon fiber and steel are becoming more common.
- Aluminum is light, affordable, stiff and durable. There was a time when aluminum frames couldn’t handle rough roads, but new aluminum bike frames are more versatile.
- Steel is not as light as aluminum, but it is stronger and provides a good deal of flex. Lightweight steel frames have become increasingly popular and more affordable.
- Carbon fiber is stronger than steel and lighter than aluminum, but it costs more. While carbon fiber frames cost more, there are efforts to bring the price down by making the seat posts and forks fiber instead of the entire frame. For the most part however, you should do fine with a steel or aluminum frame.
Other Considerations
Some hybrid bikes place more emphasis certain elements, i.e. on mountain biking, city riding etc. Look into this first and determine if it is what you want. You should also look into the brands used by the bike’s components: they should be standard otherwise maintenance and upkeep will be difficult.
Recommended Single Speed Hybrid Bike Reviews
Without further ado we now present the top hybrid bikes. These are all high quality and can handle different terrains and even the most demanding riders, so have a look.
1. Firmstrong Urban Lady Beach Cruiser Bicycle
The Urban Lady was built for smooth, easy riding, and its multiple gear options (1, 3 and 7) lets you cruise on different terrains.
In addition the bike comes with an extra-large seat for comfortable riding.
The single speed bike is easy to use, and its double coil springs ensure the ride is soft and smooth. While it is a fun bike to ride, the Urban Lady can also climb hills. The bike has wide and durable whitewall tires that act as shock absorbers so you don’t feel any sudden jolts while on the bike.
Highlighted Features
- Ideal for girls 4 ft. to 5 ft. 2 in tall
- Available in different colors and speeds
- The 24 inch tires make for easy riding
- 13-1/2-inch durable but light steel frame
2. Hiland Road Hybrid Bike Urban City Commuter Bicycle 700C Wheels with Single-Speed White
City life can mean that you don’t have much time to get in a good workout and still get about your daily work. Cycling, as a mode of transport, helps you hit two birds with one stone. Let’s take a look at the Hiland Road Hybrid Bike Urban City Commuter Bicycle 700C Wheels with Single-Speed White. This single-speed bike is great for city riding. The frame is made of steel, making it durable.
The 700C wheels will give you decent speed as you ride through the city. You can choose your frame size, from 50cm to 58 cm. it has a retro design and looks good, with no excess branding. It looks clean.
Pros
- The bike comes in different sizes
- You can get good speed
- It looks good
- It is easy to assemble
Cons
- It doesn’t come fully assembled
- It can seem heavy
3. Takara Sugiyama Flat Bar Fixie Bike
Are you considering buying the Takara Sugiyama Flat Bar Fixie Bike? Let’s take a look at what you will be getting with this bike. The frame is 58cm and comes in different colors. The wheels are 29inches. For added safety, this bike has both rear and front brakes.it also comes with a flip flop hub with a fixed gear.
Concerning warranty, the manufacturer gives you a 180-day warranty on defects on the frame and a 60-day warranty if the defect has to do with the components. If you want it to last you a while, it is better to ride it on a smooth surface rather than on rocky terrain, or gravel, which can damage the rims since there isn’t much suspension.
Pros
- It looks good
- The stickers come off easily if you don’t want to ride around with them on.
- It’s affordable
- It is durable and should allow you to use it extensively before you need to send it in for maintenance.
Cons
- You will need to assemble it in part by yourself which isn’t always easy
- It is best used for flat terrains, such as city roads
4. Schwinn GTX 2.0 Comfort Adult Hybrid Bike
Are you considering getting the Schwinn GTX 2.0 Comfort Adult Hybrid Bike, Dual Sport Bicycle, 16-Inch Aluminum Frame, Light Blue? The frame on this bike is an aluminium sports frame. The fork is made for versatility. The frame will fit riders up to 6feet 2inches tall. When it comes to safety, you will not need to worry too much since this bike has alloy v-brakes, to ensure that you can stop when you need to. It has alloy double-wall rims. Which makes it lightweight. Also, it has a 21-speed shifters.
Pros
- It has a good braking system
- The tires this bike comes with are multi-use and hence can give you good traction on the road.
- The rims on this bike are durable.
Cons
- It is on the higher end of the pricing.
- They are better suited for casual rides, rather than long rides on rough terrain.
5. Kulana Women’s Cruiser Bike
This stylish bike is just right at home on the beach as it is on smooth streets, underscoring its versatility.
The built is solid and handling is responsive, something new riders will appreciate.
The welding on the bike is top notch and the same thing can be said for the paint job. Unlike other cruiser bikes the Kulana is highly resistant to scratches.
There is some assembly required but it’s not going to take a long time. It doesn’t have any major components either so no major tweaking or adjusting required.
Highlighted Features
- Easy to reach handlebars
- Steel fenders are full wrap
- Good sized cruiser seat
- Steel cruiser frame and fork
Final Verdict on Single Speed Hybrid Bikes
There was a time when the bike was just that, a bike, but now there are a lot of variants that deciding what to buy can be confusing. The idea behind the hybrid bike is to provide you with an all-in-one solution. It’s proven to be a popular concept and now there are lots of them available online.
So which is the best single speed hybrid bike? I can say with confidence the five bikes we have reviewed above can satisfy your requirements. Whether you are into mountain biking or looking for a road bike, these will do.