Cheap hybrid bikes: 10 practical picks that won’t break the bank

Hybrid bikes are a great solution for many commuters and leisure cyclists who prefer a flat handlebar to the nose down position of a road bike.

• What is a hybrid bike?

A hybrid is often the most practical and versatile choice for commuters and recreational riders who travel over mixed terrain. If you want your ride to take in a mixture of roads, cycle paths, tracks and trails, a hybrid could be the bike for you.

The riding position of a hybrid is more upright than a road bike, with an emphasis on comfort over outright performance. Hybrids usually arrive with the correct fittings and mounts to fit mudguards and racks for further practicality.   

• What is the best bike for cycle commuting?
• Which kind of bike should I buy?
• Best road bikes: how to choose the right one for you

Riverside 500

• Buy now from Decathlon (£279)

The Riverside 500 might be cheap but it packs a lot of kit for the cash. Mechanical disc brakes mean consistent braking whatever the weather. Its aluminium frame is kinked at the top tube to make it easier for a rider to mount and dismount.

A basic front suspension fork should take the sting out of bumps on rougher routes, while nine gears should help you winch yourself up the steepest of climbs.

Boardman MTX 8.6

• Buy now from Halfords (£500)

The Boardman MTX 8.6 looks great value at its RRP, yet it’s currently available with a chunky discount. We like the look of the alloy frame, which features smoothed welds for a clean look.

The 27-speed Shimano Altus transmission will give you a gear for every scenario and Tektro hydraulic disc brakes are great to see at this price.

The MTX also has a suspension fork to keep you comfortable on rougher surfaces. The puncture-resistant Schwalbe Tyrago tyres are also a great choice.

Specialized Crosstrail 

• Buy now from Tredz (£475)

The sharp-looking Crosstrail is a popular hybrid from Specialized.

There’s a quality Shimano Tourney transmission with a wide spread of gears and mechanical disc brakes that won’t be hampered by poor weather conditions.

The Specialized own-brand tyres are 38mm wide and should provide plenty of grip and cushioning.

Schwinn Circuit 

• Buy now from Evans Cycles (£370) 

The Schwinn Circuit is a keenly-priced, practical hybrid with an aluminium frame and steel fork.

The wide spread of 21 Shimano gears should keep you pedalling up steep climbs, while mechanical disc brakes are unusual at this price and should provide improved braking in wet weather conditions, compared to rim brakes.

Carrera Subway 2

• Buy now from Halfords (£350)

 The Carrera Subway 2 is one of BikeRadar’s all-time favourite hybrid bikes. It’s a simple no-frills machine that offers an enjoyable ride thanks to smart component choices.

When we reviewed the Subway 2 back in 2017 we appreciated its relatively low weight, the wide range of slick shifting gears and the excellent stopping power from its Tektro hydraulic disc brakes.

Giant Escape 3 

• Buy now from Tredz (£349) 

Another popular hybrid is Giant’s Escape, and this model in particular appears to hit a real sweet spot in terms of value.

The simple alloy frame and steel fork won’t win any innovation awards but do provide the perfect base for a reliable commuter or leisure bike.

The V-brakes should require very little maintenance and fitting racks or mudguards won’t not be a problem as the frame has the required fixtures and fittings. 

Carrera Crossfire 2 Women’s 

• Buy now from Halfords (£300) 

The Crossfire is another top seller from Halfords and it’s not hard to see why. For its modest price, you get a convenient step-through alloy frame, mechanical disc brakes and a Suntour suspension fork. 

It’s available in three sizes so you shouldn’t have a problem finding one that fits you perfectly.

Riverside 100 

• Buy now from Decathlon (£149) 

The Riverside 100 from Decathlon is incredibly cheap thanks to the simple design of the steel frame and its affordable components.

Six gears should be enough to make a difference on hills and the lack of a front derailleur will make changing gear easier for beginner riders. Even the v-brakes are an upgrade from the cantilever designs you might expect to see at this price.

KTM Life Action Women’s (2018)

• Buy now from Tredz (£599) 

The step-through alloy frame of this KTM makes it easy to jump on or off of the bike. The Suntour NCX-D suspension fork should smooth out rough roads but can be locked out to make climbing and general riding more efficient.

Quality Shimano gearing and hydraulic disc brakes are great to see, particularly at this discounted price. This bike is available only in a tiny 46cm frame, so be sure to check the manufacturer’s size charts before you buy.