Like a cross between a road bike and mountain bike, hybrid bikes are a good way to let you experience the true joy of nature no matter the conditions and importantly, at a more inexpensive price point.
Whether this is your first bike or an alternative for the old one, 500 bucks is a good start.
But when standing in front of the market, there are some must-consider features to help you distinguish between affordable bikes and garbage. The list below will help you!
Here are the 10 best hybrid bikes under 500:
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Top 10 Best Hybrid Bikes Under 500 Reviews 2020
sixthreezero EVRYjourney Men’s Step-Through Hybrid Alloy Beach Cruiser
The sixthreezero EVRYjourney is my choice for the most functional among the step-through hybrid cruisers for men.
It features a lightweight aluminum grade, smooth-rolling 2-inch semi-slick tires, and a comfy black synthetic leather saddle.
The bike also has a foot-forward design with a low center of gravity to keep your riding gesture naturally upright, protecting your back against pressure and allowing your legs to extend comfortably for the ride.
Riding this bike over cracks or bumps isn’t a matter because its ultra-large 26” wheels deliver very excellent shock absorption ability.
If you’re a beginner rider, its front and rear handbrakes will give you plenty of pieces in mind for stress-free and safe stopping. To prevent dirt from movements and slow-down bike there comes with two matching fenders.
Pros
- Very easy to ride, control, and stop -> suitable for everyone
- Feature a low center of gravity and foot-forward design to deliver natural upright riding posture, protecting your back from pain
- Ride smoothly on cracks and bumps
- Prevent dirt from movements and slow-down bike efficiently
Cons
- No hex wrench included in the package to adjust the bike before riding
- Gearing is a bit loose
- Brake cables are too long -> I wish there were more attached points
Product Specs
Vilano Diverse 3.0 Performance Hybrid Road Bike 24 Speed
Vilano Diverse 3.0 is a hit for this price.
Although you’ll need to tune it before riding, the shifters work really great. They are Shimano EF 51 3/8 Speed with an integrated brake lever to do trick excellently with good handling.
Disc brakes and trigger shifters are two super-stars of this product. They give a solid feel of control on downhill rides even when hard shifting. Compared to the Giant, this is certainly a successful upgrade at just ½ the price you would pay at any bike store. So it bangs for bucks.
The 8-gear rear cassette is also worth-considering. It offers decent flexibility when climbing uphill. Besides, it is much lighter and more joyful to ride than big-chain mountain bikes.
If you are looking for a hybrid bike for the next long-distance cross country tour, I highly recommend this one.
Pros
- Shift smoothly, do trick excellently, and handle greatly
- Give a solid feel of control on downhill rides even when hard shifting
- Highly flexible when climbing uphill
Cons
- Not good shock absorption so when riding on urban road bumps, all shocks will be transmitted right to your butt area
- Wish it had s touch higher gearing
Product Specs
Schwinn Discover Hybrid Bikes
If you’re living in an area surrounded by neighborhoods, this Schwinn Discover is a perfect hybrid bicycle for routing, cycling, or cruising around the trails to keep you stay in shape.
Mechanically, no problems.
It appears to be well-constructed and sturdy with a lightweight frame, and great grips. So far, this is an ideal beginner bicycle but doesn’t feel like a beginner bicycle for a novice rider.
With a 21-speed SRAM grip shifter compatible with 4-finger brake levers, it can handle different terrains like a breeze, from hills to road conditions.
Particularly, the seat is comfier than I thought. After a year and over almost 1500 miles, it’s still holding out very well.
Overall, from my experience, it has many features commonly found in higher-end hybrid bikes, such as full suspensions, high-grade aluminum frame in addition to a luggage rack and fenders. But the price? It’s just under $300 so what else to ask?
Pros
- Feature 21-speed SRAM grip shifter to handle different riding conditions like a breeze
- Includes a luggage rack and fenders while it’s priced just under $300 -> very inexpensive
- The seat is very comfortable to handle long-distance rides
Cons
- The manual is unclear and not helpful -> time-taking for installation
- Don’t include hex wrench in the package -> if don’t have one, you’ll have to buy it
- The crossbar might be a bit too high for short riders
Product Specs
Schwinn Men’s Network 3.0 700C Wheel
This Schwinn 700c Network 3.0. is another hybrid bike that I highly suggest for budget-minded riders.
It’s lightweight, size adjustable, and especially, fast. It features Innova 700c tires, 21-speed E-Z fire shifters, and a low crossbar 18-inch aluminum frame. But making it outstanding is the steel front shock which offers just the right amount of stiffness for superb bump absorption.
Regardless, the brakes, rims, and gears are also perfect out of the box. It allows you to ride faster and more smoothly on both bike paths and paved streets with high stability and pedaling power.
I particularly love the triangle-shaped seat as it makes a great lifting point to let the rider carry it upstairs on their shoulders more easily.
There are added mounts for a rear rack, water bottle holder, and kickstand with rubber tip.
Pros
- Very fast and smooth with superb bump absorption
- Give you more pedaling power to ride on different terrains
- Many practical add-ons, such as a rear rack, water bottle holder, and kickstand
Cons
- When the kickstand is down, the bike tends to fall over to the right side, especially if its front wheel is turned to the right
- Need frequent air pumping to the tires
Product Specs
Schwinn Siro Comfort Hybrid Bikes 700c Wheels
Thanks to the sweet combination of a comfy saddle and street tires with a 21-speed rear derailleur and Schwinn aluminum hybrid frame of a mountain bike, this is a great choice for people who want a bike to do some exercises on the weekends.
In other words, this is the best fitness hybrid bike out there to keep you in shape.
It can go on most streets with excellent brakes, smooth-shifting gears, and wonderful riding experience. Work greatly on pavements and even slight mountain trails! If you usually hit up multiple surfaces on one trip, this is surely for you.
With the added downshift trigger, you can drop down some gears at once when hitting a steep slope or hill.
It’s also easy to assemble. All you have to do is just adding the front wheel, pedals, seat, and handlebars, taking around 20 to 45 minutes on average depending on your experience.
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- You can drop down some gears at once when hitting a steep slope or hill
Cons
- Not built for rough mountain trails
Product Specs
sixthreezero EVRYjourney Women’s Step-Through Hybrid Alloy Beach
This sixthreezero EVRYjourney version has everything needed for a perfect hybrid bike for ladies.
It comes with minimal construction to prevent losing all of your savings with the assembly, multiple gears to handle on multiple terrains at times, and adjustable frame for longer legs.
You’ll also love its shifting, too. It is very fluid – you can switch between gears quickly as well as shift the crank back and forth with one hand.
The best thing is, it has wider cruiser handlebars for extra comfort to your wrists and shoulders, at least compared to the hybrid bars. And the Shimano components are much better than non-Shimano parts at this price point.
The rear bike rack included is a big bonus, especially if you want to carry someone else with you for a ride. Overall, if you’re in need of a hybrid bike for commute, leisure, and cruise rides, look no further than this.
Pros
- Suitable for longer legs
- You can switch between gears quickly and control it with just one hand
- Provide decent comfort to your wrists and shoulders
Cons
- The leather handles are loose
Product Specs
Giordano RS700 Hybrid Bike
With two size options and an inseam of 29 to 33 inches, the Giordano RS700 is my recommendation for tall riders within 5 feet 7 inches to 6 feet 2 inches.
Handle 264 pounds of max loading weight like a breeze.
It highlights 21 speed Shimano Shifters and derailleurs, non-corrosion aluminum frame, and durable steel fork for reliable performance.
The biggest selling point is a perfect combo of real road bike geometry and a flat handlebar. It puts you in a more aggressive riding gesture without compromising of convenience and comfort – something that the traditional road handlebars hardly do.
I personally impressed with its shifting levers during my testing. They feel very natural and move through the gears flawlessly to let you zip down most roads with ease.
Fans of this Giordano also satisfied with its sharp look. It brings a lux Italian to feel that doesn’t look like a starter bike at all so you’ll be riding this with both comfort and style.
All-in-all, with just under $250, you will have as much fun riding experience as other guys with their $2000 bike.
Pros
- Can fit tall riders within 5 feet 7 inches to 6 feet 2 inches and handle 264 pounds of max load
- While putting you in a more aggressive riding gesture, it doesn’t sacrifice convenience and comfort while riding
- Sharp look with an Italian feel, allowing you to ride with style
Cons
- Stickers are bubbly and look a bit weird
- Small pedals
Product Specs
Diamondback Bicycles Edgewood Hybrid Bike
The lack of shock in hybrid bikes seems like the biggest nightmare of most long-distance riders but with this Diamondback, you can rest the heart.
Its components and finish are relatively quality and very smooth. Particularly, the and saddle is ultra-large with added cushioning to handle bumpy roads, cracks, and rough trails better. Its sport geometry construction also puts you in a more upright pedaling position.
From my experience, this bike is 9/10 in comfort and the best thing is, its gears don’t slip when I ride up hills. It’s also heavy-duty enough to withstand heavy riders.
Assembly is fairly easy. Your initial task is just putting the front wheel on, then the seat and handlebars. Some minor adjustments might be needed in the hand brakes but that’s not very technical.
Pros
- Comfortable enough to ride on bumpy roads or long-distance touring
- Feature more upright pedaling position for extra comfort
- Gears don’t slip when I ride up hills
- Handle heavy loading weights with ease
Cons
- Instructions aren’t helpful
- Chain makes noise
Product Specs
sixthreezero Explore Your Range Women’s Hybrid Commuter Bicycle
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By delivering prominent speeds and power, the sixthreezero Explore is a nice selection whether you want to scout the city for new adventures or battle the hordes during the morning commute.
A bit similar to the previous siblings, it features a lightweight aluminum frame with a low-profile step-through construction for easy on/off, especially if you’re a short rider.
As this is a hybrid bike designed for women, its saddle is specifically softer and comfier so you won’t feel numbed or painful during long rides. And its adjustable Seatpost with tilted handlebars allows you to easily customize the height for a more comfortable experience.
Take note that this sixthreezero bicycle features less gearing than other counterparts so it’s more suitable for leisure rides.
Besides, there is a rear rack included for optional baskets and panniers if wanted. Price-wise is the last-but-not-least bonus for any people in a tight budget.
Pros
- Offer prominent speeds and power
- Softer, comfier saddle with adjustments to let you customize to your height and riding gesture better
- A rear rack included for optional baskets and panniers
Cons
- Unclear instructions
- Not ideal for gravels or rough terrains
Product Specs
Vilano Diverse 2.0 Performance Hybrid Bike 24 Speed Road Bike 700c
The Vilano Diverse 2.0 is designed with versatility in mind.
It highlights 700c x 35c tires, Tourney TX derailleurs, and 24 speeds with Shimano EF 51 ergonomic integrated brake shifters to ride through any conditions with no difficulty.
The bike also gives a comfy experience.
By featuring an upright riding gesture, reliable alloy linear pull cantilever V-brakes with a flat handlebar, it can go distances with little to no fatigue or pressure, especially on your low back, shoulders, and wrists.
In general, this is the best bet for an afternoon on the rail trail or weekend group rides.
Pros
- Versatile – can ride through rough to flat terrains with full control
- Reduce fatigue on your shoulders, wrists, and low back significantly
Cons
- Wish the rear brake to be slightly shorter with a better finish
Product Specs
The Ultimate Guide To Choosing Best Hybrid Bikes Under 500 In 2020
Handlebar shape
When it comes to choosing the best hybrid bikes under 500 dollars, there’s a basic rule of thumb: The further the distance between the seat and handlebars, the comfier.
And up to now, there have been four main types of handlebar shapes:
- Moustache bar
- Riser bar
- Flat bar
- Drop bar
Frame materials
While most hybrid bikes are crafted from aluminum, there are still models made of carbon fiber or steel. The main differences between them are:
Carbon fiber is the highest-quality material out of three, being stronger than steel and lighter than aluminum. Its biggest flaw is an expensive price point.
Steel is the heaviest material. In turn, it gives a sweet spot between flex and strength for smoother, comfier ride.
Aluminum is the cheapest with an emphasis on stiffness, non-corrosion, and strength. But under the strong impact, it’s prone to bend or deform.
Brake types
Speaking of brake types, you will have to choose between disc brakes and rim brakes.
Disc brakes:
The brake pads of disc brakes will grip onto the brake rotor located on the wheel hub.
In comparison, this type is more durable than the rim brakes, making it cheaper in the long term. And it delivers stronger stopping power with less finger strain requiring so you can have more pieces in mind to ride it on wet terrains or steep hills.
But speaking of pad replacement, it would be more difficult than the rim brakes and the initial costs are usually higher.
Rim brakes:
As its pads grip onto the wheel rims, you will easily know when they wear out to replace and besides, the replacement process isn’t challenging as the disc brakes. Rim brakes are also known as an economical option for budget-minded riders.
However, take note that this brake type will wear out your bike’s wheel rim faster, implying for more frequent replacement.
Another flaw is less stopping power, which is a bit risky to ride on muddy or wet conditions. Not to say that it forces you to use more finger effort to aggressively brake it.
FAQs
How Do I Choose A Hybrid Bike?
There are three main things you should keep in mind when choosing a good hybrid bike are handlebar shape, frame materials, and brake types. To learn more, kindly read my detail buying guide above.
Are Hybrid Bikes Good For Long-Distance?
Yes, they are.
To ride it over long distances with comfort and safety, the bike should be equipped with a comfier seat, front and rear suspension, and disc brake.
Does A Hybrid Bike Need Suspension?
As suspension forks are commonly made of steel, which adds weight and makes pedaling less efficient, most hybrid bikes don’t include this component.
Can You Ride A Hybrid Bike On Trails?
It’s probably suitable for paved or unpaved bike trails. In fact, hybrid bikes aren’t as efficient and lightweight as road bikes so they can’t handle rough trails, like off-road mountain bike trails.
Is A Hybrid Bike Faster Than A Mountain Bike?
Yes, it is
In comparison, a hybrid bike is much lighter to pedal more easily and quickly on pavements.
Can Hybrid Bikes Go Off-Road?
Yes, they can.
It’s because hybrid bikes are a combination of mountain bikes and road bikes to hold up well for more sedate off-roading conditions.
What Is The Right Hybrid Bike Size?
This factor actually depends on the rider’s height. To give you simpler solutions, take a peek at this table:
Conclusion
I understand that any shopper is after the best hybrid bike under $500 for their specific needs, which is the reason the bikes reviewed here were picked based on overall rating, expert advice, and experience.
It’s your turn now!
Thanks a lot for reading and good luck.