When I first started cycling ten years ago I didn’t know what type of bike I needed or which type of bike I should get. Everything I looked at within a reasonable budget was labeled as perfect for the beginner. There was so much choice, sound familiar? In the end, I had to do lots of research with some costly trial and error before I found the right bicycle for me. If I could do it again, I would certainly look at hybrid bicycles as a great option for starting cyclists. So, for this piece, I’m going to run through the top 10 hybrid bikes under $300 in 2023.
In the U.S. the cycling community has grown rapidly over the last five years. People are starting cycling to improve their health, protect the environment, and save money on commuting. With the increasing demand, the industry has also changed to accommodate a wider variety of needs. The Hybrid bicycle is a fairly new addition to the bicycle locker, balancing the best aspects of road bikes and best mountain bikes in one versatile piece of equipment.
10 Hybrid Bikes Under $300 Features Chart
1. Vilano City Bike |
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Frame | Steel | |
Fork | Steel | |
Wheel |
29″ | |
Brake |
Linear pull | |
Color |
Black | |
Speeds |
7 | |
For | Man | |
Type | Hybrid | |
2. Kent Hybrid-Bicycle |
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Frame | Aluminum | |
Fork | Suspension | |
Wheelset |
29″ | |
Brake |
Linear pull | |
Color | Black | |
Speeds |
21 | |
For | Man | |
Type | Hybrid | |
3. Schwinn Discover Hybrid Bike |
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Frame | Aluminum | |
Fork | Suspension | |
Wheelset | 28″ | |
Brake |
Linear pull | |
Color | Multi | |
Speeds : | 21 | |
For | Unisex | |
Type | Hybrid | |
4. Kent Pomona Comfort Bike |
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Frame | Aluminum | |
Fork | Steel | |
Wheel | 26″ | |
Brake |
Linear pull | |
Color | Blue, silver | |
Speeds |
7 | |
For | Woman | |
Type | Hybrid road | |
5. Prattbay Hybrid Bike |
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Frame | Carbon Steel | |
Fork | Steel | |
Wheelset | 26″ | |
Brake |
Linear | |
Color | Yellow | |
Speeds |
21 | |
For |
Unisex | |
Type | Hybrid | |
6. KADOCHNIKOVA Hybrid Bike |
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Frame | Aluminum | |
Fork | Iron Suspension | |
Wheel | 26″ | |
Brake |
Disk | |
Color | White, red, blue, yellow | |
Speeds |
21 | |
For | Unisex | |
Type | Hybrid | |
7. GINHAI Comfort Hybrid Bike |
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Frame | Aluminum | |
Fork | Aluminum | |
Wheel | 26″ | |
Brake |
Disk | |
Color | Yellow | |
Speeds |
21 | |
For | Unisex | |
Type | Hybrid | |
8. HUIJIAN Hybrid Bike |
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Frame | Aluminum | |
Fork | Carbon steel | |
Wheel | 26″ | |
Brake |
Disk | |
Color | Multi | |
Speeds |
21 | |
For | Unisex | |
Type | Hybrid | |
9. Schwinn Wayfarer Hybrid Bike |
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Frame | Steel | |
Fork | Steel | |
Wheel | 28″ | |
Brake |
Linear pull | |
Color | White | |
Speeds |
7 | |
For | Unisex | |
Type | Hybrid | |
10. Kulana Lakona Cruiser Bike |
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Frame | Steel | |
Fork | Steel | |
Wheel | 20-26″ | |
Brake Style |
Disk | |
Color | Multi | |
Speeds |
1-7 | |
For | Woman | |
Type | Hybrid cruiser |
N.B: Price Can Be changed! To know the real price click check the latest price.
How We Tested The Bicycles To Make Our Top 10 Lists
There is a correlation between the price and the quality of bicycles. Cheap bicycles are not always as good as expensive bicycles. That’s why we consider bikes for the money to make our list.
We read customer reviews, take opinions from genuine riders, and test riding each bike. Discuss its positives and negatives with our expert team. We noted which aspects of the bikes we liked and did not like. Finally, you made our top 10 cheap hybrid bicycles list for the money.
So, to wrap things up, we have a diverse list of the top class hybrid bikes for under $300 in 2023. The list is varied both in terms of the price range and the type of cycling the bike is suited for. When thinking about how much to spend consider how long you will realistically be cycling, how regularly, and how long before you’d like to upgrade.
If you want to just give cycling a go opt for the lower half of the budget. On the other hand, if you see this as a long-term hobby, you may want to spend a lot of your budget on a lasting bike.
Our 10 Best Hybrid Bikes Under $300
The hybrid bicycle is designed to be fast on roads for the weekday commute but also strong enough for off-road cycling on weekends. Hybrid bikes will typically have thicker cheap mountain bike tires, flat-handle bars, and multiple speeds or gears. The design of the hybrid is perfectly suited for beginner cyclists boasting a comfortable cycling posture, easy access to brakes and gears, and a lowered top frame making it easier to mount and dismount.
If you’re looking to explore as much cycling as possible on a limited budget a hybrid option is the way to go. Here are the top 10 hybrid bikes under 300 dollars in 2022.
1. Schwinn Discover Men’s Hybrid Bike
Editor’s Choice [For Men]
When looking for a good quality bike, the brand can be important. Schwinn is one of the most reliable and well-recognized cycling brands in the world. The company, originally from Germany, was the dominant producer of road bikes in America throughout the 20th century. You can rely on a Schwinn for excellent build quality, lasting durability, and great technology. It’s a little surprise that the Schwinn Discover Men’s Hybrid Bike is the first to feature on our list.
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Features and Benefits
- The Discover has suspension forks fitted both on the front fork and saddle. The fitted suspension absorbs the shock and bumps of rougher terrain without compromising your comfort. It also makes this bike a great option for going off-road.
- The bike has constructed from aluminum a lightweight metal. Light-weight construction materials make a bike faster and easier to ride. Aluminum is the perfect material for this price bracket as it is reasonably sturdy but also lightweight.
- The rear rack comes as standard. A rear rack is perfect for lightweight baggage meaning you can ride this to work without having to leave your lunch at home.
- 21-speed SRAM gear system. SRAM gears are designed for fast changes with minimal wear and tear making this perfect for beginner cyclists.
Specification
- Weight: 19.5 K
- Color: Black
- Materials: Aluminum
- Frame size: 17″
- Model: Discover
- Speed: 21
- Suspension: front
- Brake: linear pull
Key Factors
- Comfortable for riding anywhere
- Front Suspension for Smooth ride
- Comfortable Seat
Pros
- Front Suspension
- Suited to off-road
- Aluminum frame
- A rear rack as standard
- Great brand
Cons
- Can be hard going
- Requires regular maintenance
- Price high than the budget.
Why we like this
Overall the first entry on our list of cheap bikes under 300 is a solid choice for beginner cyclists. Boasting some excellent materials and a reputable brand, the Schwinn Discover is a safe bet for a first bike that will last a long time.
2. Schwinn Discover Women’s Hybrid Bike
Editor’s Choice [For women]
Another offering from the Schwinn Brand. The Schwinn Discover Women’s hybrid is a bicycle designed for the lady cyclist in mind. Featuring a lower crossbar for easier mounting and dismounting this bike is a good option for women looking to start cycling.
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Features and Benefits
- The swept-back handlebars mean the grips face further into the body than normal handlebars. ‘Swept Back’ handlebars are great for providing a comfortable upright riding posture.
- Linear pull brakes are brake cables that run straight from the handles to the brakes themselves. The alloy material used on these brake cables is designed for long-lasting and effective braking making this bike safer on the road.
- The lowered top frame bar is specific to the women’s version of this bike. Having a lower top bar makes the bike easier to mount and dismount regardless of what you are wearing.
- Schwinn suspension fork and padded saddle. The suspension provides comfort when riding over rough terrains, making this bike a versatile choice for adventurous city cyclists.
Specifications
- Weight: 19.5 K
- Color: Black & white
- Materials: Aluminum
- Frame size: 17″
- Model: Discover 2
- Speed: 21
- Suspension: front
- Brake: linear pull
Key Factors
- Comfortable to ride
- Cool looking with the smooth-riding
- Linear brake for safe riding.
Pros
- Comfortable ride
- The excellent braking system for safety
- Easy to mount and dismount
- Good for riding posture
- Specialized for women
Cons
- Aluminum frame, not the most durable
- The rear carrier adds weight
- Needs a factory set up
- Price too high than the budget.
Why we like this
The Schwinn Discover Women’s hybrid bike is a bike designed for comfort. The construction materials mean it may struggle to perform on some tougher off-road terrains but, with all the useful features fitted as standard it represents great value for money. If you’d like to find out more about this model head over to read the customer reviews.
3. Vilano Diverse 3.0 Performance Hybrid Road Bike
The Vilano Diverse 3.0 Performance is a sleek-looking piece of equipment. Colored in all black the Diverse features a skinny frame to reduce weight and comes from established Italian bicycle manufacturer Vilano.
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Features and Benefits
- Hydroformed aluminum frame. Hydro-forming gives designers more room to maneuver than traditional methods. On the Diverse, you get a much lighter, sleeker-looking frame.
- Disc Brakes. Disc brakes are usually seen on bikes in a much higher budget range. They provide fast stopping in difficult conditions like rain or snow.
- Kenda tires. Kenda is a tire brand associated with pro-performance. They provide excellent grip with minimal traction meaning faster cycling without compromising safety
- Flat handlebars. Flat handlebars give a natural riding posture, so you won’t get aches and pains when first starting.
Specifications
- Weight: 26.5 p
- Color: Black
- Materials: Aluminum
- size: 53 cm
- User: Unisex
- Speed: 14
- Skill: Intermediate
- Brake: linear pull
Key Factors
- Cool Looking with high performance.
- Lightweight and comfortable to ride.
- Flat Tire and safe to ride.
Pros
- Pro tires
- Riding Posture
- Great for Inner-city cycling
- Looks great
- Ultra Lightweight
Cons
- May need a professional set-up to maximize performance
- Requires more maintenance than other options on the list
- In the upper of our budget
Why we like this
If you want a high-performance hybrid suited to speed cycling then the Vilano Diverse 3.0 Performance road bike is an excellent choice. The only criticism of this model is that it lacks a little comfort and requires some maintenance to perform to its full potential. Still, with the best bikes under 300, the Vilano Diverse 3.0 is one of the best hybrid bikes available right now.
4. Giordano RS700 Hybrid Bike
The Giordano RS700 is a sturdy bike designed with the mountain range in mind. As a hybrid, you can use it in the city with no problems but it is the first bike on our list of Top selling hybrid bikes for this budget. that leans toward off-ride mountain biking.
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Features and Benefits
- The RS700 features a heavy-duty steel fork on the front wheels. Steel is a sturdier metal than aluminum but also heavier.
- The steel fork makes the bike more suited to covering rougher terrains and will last longer than its aluminum counterpart.
- Quick-release front wheels. The quick-release is a system that allows you to remove the front wheel by hand-making tire changes quickly and easily.
- Aluminum frame. To compensate for the additional weight of the steel fork the rest of the frame is constructed from lightweight aluminum. Less weight equals more speed and agility on the road.
- The Giordano RS700 is available in both medium and large sizes meaning it caters to a wider range of cyclists.
Specifications
- Fork: Suspension
- Color: white
- Frame: Aluminum
- Model: Rs700
- Speed: 24
- Suspension: front
- Brake: Disc
Key Features
- Durable and long-lasting model.
- Perfect for riding anywhere.
- Suspension Fork and frame.
Pros
- Suited for off-road cycling
- Durable and built to last
- Available in a wide range of sizes
- Easy to change tires
- Comes from a reputable brand
Cons
- Quick-release wheels are easier to steal
- Heavier than a lot of bikes on our list
- The top end of the budget
Why we like this
The Giordano is a great option for cyclists with a sense of adventure. Designed with off-road cycling in mind the bike’s steel forks, and overall durability promises good value for money. See the reviews for yourself.
5. Kent Springdale Men’s 21-Speed Hybrid Bicycle
The next offering on our list of affordable cheap hybrid bikes is retro-styled kent Springdale. The Springdale is a stunningly attractive bicycle featuring brown leather grips and saddle on a sleek, jet black frame.
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Features and Benefits
- The looks. With its chrome highlights, brown leather caveats, and jet black frame, Springdale has an effortless vintage-cool look.
- Perfect for showing up at the office and impressing the coworkers
- The quick-release saddle clamp combine looks with functionality allowing you to easily remove, or replace, the saddle.
- Rear rack and fenders. Designed with the city commuter in mind Springdale has a rear rack for luggage and wheel fenders to prevent getting splashed by mud and water. Ideal for trips to the office.
- Shimano Tourney Rear Derailleur. Shimano is a huge name in the industry manufacturing over 50% of all bicycle components in the world today. Their tried and tested gears are designed to stand the test of time.
Specifications
- Weight: 19.05 K
- Fork: Allow Crown
- Frame: Aluminum
- Color: white
- Size: 29″
- Model: Springdale
- Speed: 21
- Suspension: front
- Brake: Linear pull
Key Factors
- Lightweight Frame and Fork.
- Well, Build.
- Cool looking.
Pros
- Eye-catching retro design
- Quick-release saddle
- Good quality parts
- Designed for city commuting
- Functionality
Cons
- Limited Versatility
- The brakes could be better
- Only available in limited size
Why we like this
The Northwood’s Springdale is a top hybrid bike for inner-city travel. It is much less versatile than the other hybrid bikes on this list but that is to be expected given its much lower cost. With looks to die for and useful additions like wheel fenders and rear baggage holders, Springdale is a shrewd choice for those in need of a commuter bike. This is one of the great hybrid bikes under $200.
6. Kent Avondale Men’s Hybrid Bicycle
Kent is an American manufacturer that has been producing bikes for over a hundred years. The modern-day Kent bicycles have a lot of clouds. You will typically find Kent bicycles to be well made with all sorts of useful extras and features.
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Features and Benefits
- Aluminum V-brakes with sure-stop one lever Anti-lock braking system. Brakes are important and Kent offers the best braking system on our list of cheap hybrid bikes for the money.
- The anti-lock system prevents slipping particularly in wet or icy conditions.
- Shimano grip-shifts gears. Grip shifts mean you can change gears without moving your hand off the handlebars. This is ideal for those just starting who want to keep safe at all times.
- Lightweight Aluminum frame. Having a lighter frame is perfect for traveling in the city and reduces the amount of effort you need to put in to get around.
- Dipped handlebars. The bicycle’s dipped handlebars help to maintain a comfortable posture and reduce stress on the shoulders and neck whilst cycling.
Specifications
- Frame: Aluminum
- Color: Black
- Materials: Aluminum
- Model: Avondale
- Speed: 21
- Weight: Lighter
- Brake: V
Key Factors
- Lightweight and smooth ride
- V brake and safe to ride
- Classical Desing.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Good for city travel
- Safe
- Excellent brakes
- Reputable brand
Cons
- The top end of the $300 budget
- Not good for off-road
- No rear baggage holder or fenders as standard
Why we like this
The Kent Avondale offers some of the best specifications anywhere on this list. For under $300 it is astounding to get antilock brakes and a hand-built aluminum frame. Where this bike struggle off-road and the lack of suspension makes it uncomfortable. Having said that, the lack of suspension makes it a faster ride in the city so the success of the Kent Avalon will be based on what you need.
7. Vilano Men’s Hybrid Bike 700c Retro City Commuter
The Vilano Retro city commuter is a striking model. Featuring a simple, but beautiful black frame and brown leather highlights the Vilano has been designed with the busy commuter in mind.
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Features and Benefits
- Strong and sturdy steel frame. One of the only bikes on our list to be made entirely from steel. The steel does add weight but is also sturdier than aluminum, making this a long-lasting investment.
- Chrome fenders and rear spring-loaded rack. The use of chrome makes this bike stand out. It’s not all looks though. The functionality of the rear rack and fenders will be very useful to regular city cyclists
- 700cc wheels, give you high ground clearance. Ground clearance is essential to the speed and stability of a bicycle. The Vilano has both.
- Bolt-on wheels. The Vilano features bolt-on wheels rather than quick-release which acts as a theft deterrent because the wheels can’t simply be removed by hand.
Specifications
- Weight: 32 p
- Color: Black
- Frame: Steel
- User: Man
- Speed: 7
- Suspension: Rigid
- Brake: linear pull
- Size: 53 cm
Key Factors
- Urban Frame made with Steel
- Good Stopping while riding
- Longer lasting.
Pros
- Lasting build
- Excellent functionality
- Designed for the commute
- Beautiful looks
- Theft Deterrent
Cons
- A bit one dimensional
- Heavier than aluminum bikes
- Brakes could be better
Why we like this
I like Vilano because they always manage to balance their undeniable style with some serious substance. The 700c City Commuter has been designed for the city cyclist and is quick, nimble, and built to last. Where it struggles is in the off-road category and those who wish to take the bike out for weekend trips to a range may find it limited.
8. Mongoose Men’s Banish 2.0 Hybrid Bike
Mongoose has been in the cycling industry for the last thirty years or so. When I think of Mongoose bikes I normally would think about specialized cycling manufacturers. Mongoose made their name by producing competition-ready BMXs and mountain bikes. The Banish 2.0 is a foray into the world of hybrid bikes for Mongoose. Being a specialist mountain bike manufacturer the Mongoose Banish 2.0 is a hybrid bike designed to handle the rigors of off-road cycling.
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Features and Benefits
- 3 piece cranks are when the pedals are made from three separate pieces rather than one molded shape. The 3 piece crank is a traditional accompaniment to the mountain bike because it is more shock-resistant and sturdy than the regular pedal manufacturer.
- Light-weight aluminum shock. The front forks are fitted with a lightweight suspension which makes this bike ideal for off-road excursions on the weekend. It also protects the frame from damage when riding on bumpy surfaces.
- Front and rear disc brakes. As I have said already disc brakes are pro-standard, offering instant stopping power with little to no wheel lock.
- Black alloy wheels. Metal alloys blend the lightweight nature of aluminum with the sturdiness of steel. To see them on a bike in this price range is rare.
Specifications
- Weight: 21.77 k
- Color: Silver
- Frame: Aluminum
- Model: Banish 2
- Speed: 21
- Suspension: Front
- Brake: Disc
- Size: 29″
Key Features
- Front suspension with good brake
- Well Build
- Rear Dick Braking system.
Pros
- Great brakes
- Front Suspension
- Off-road capability
- Built to last
- Excellent build materials
Cons
- The top half of our $300 budget
- Available in limited sizes
- Specialized
Why we like this
For the specs alone the Banish 2.0 is an impressive offering from Mongoose. The alloy wheels, disc brakes, and front suspension are just not normally available in this budget. For that reason, the Mongoose Banish 2.0 takes a deserved place on our list of cheap hybrid bikes under this budget available in 2022.
9. Roadmaster 700C Adventures Men’s Hybrid Bike
Roadmaster is a brand that has been producing cheap, good-value bicycles for nearly 70 years. The Roadmaster brand has changed hands several times in that period moving from the Brunswick cycle company to Pacific Cycles in recent years. The Roadmaster Adventures is the latest bike they have released in an attempt to stay relevant in the modern cycling industry.
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Features and Benefits
- A steel sports cycle frame. Manufactured from steel the Roadmaster guarantees a long life expectancy and will require little to no maintenance after purchase.
- Alloy wheels. Impressively the Roadmaster adventures are fitted with excellent, lightweight metal alloy wheels. Alloy wheels provide strength and stability without compromising on weight.
- The price is undoubtedly a huge benefit in opting for the Roadmaster. By far the cheapest cycle on our list, making it a wise choice for those just starting out
- 7 gears. For the price, having any gears at all is a bonus and a huge help for traversing those busy hills and rougher terrains.
Specifications
- Weight: Lighter
- Color: Black
- Frame: Steel
- Wheel: Alloy
- Model: Adventures
- Speed: 7
Key Features
- Lightweight easy to ride.
- 7 Gear for riding on any train
- Beginner bike and budget-friendly.
Pros
- Cheapest on our list
- Alloy Wheels
- Sturdy manufacture and materials
- Versatility
- No need for maintenance
Cons
- Very limited in terms of specs
- A little heavy
- You may need to upgrade after the first year
Why we like this
The Roadmaster is a brilliant first-time buyer hybrid bike for the money. Given the cost, this bike isn’t going to blow you away but there are a few features that are impressive, the alloy wheels and sports frame. It represents great value for those on a limited budget who want to try cycling first before deciding to upgrade to a more complex machine later on.
10. Retrospec Venus City Comfort Hybrid Bike
To close this list we have another achingly beautiful city hybrid bike from Retrospec. The Venus Dutch step-thru city comfort bike is inspired by the Netherlands where cycling is king. The bike has a lower top bar for easy mounting and is by far the prettiest thing on this list.
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Features and Benefits
- The looks. Take a look at it now. The frame comes in a range of beautiful colors including mint green and retro cream. Also, the bike is highlighted with brown decals, tan inner tubes, and chrome. Venus is a stunningly good-looking piece of cycling equipment.
- Shimano Altus gears. Shimano manufactures the best gears on the market and the specialized Altus drivetrain promises easy changes whilst pedaling making this bike a versatile choice.
- High tensile steel frame. The use of a steel frame means a longer-lasting bike with less time spent having to maintain it.
- The accessories. Fitted with a rear rack, chrome fenders front and back, a front lantern, and a chain guard the Venus offers the only ready-to-ride bicycle on our list.
Specifications
- Weight: Lighter
- Color: cream
- Gears: Altus
- Frame: Steel
- Suspension: front
Key Factors
- Pre-assembled ready to ride.
- Longer lasting.
- Cool Looking.
Pros
- Looks
- Steel tensile frame
- Longevity
- Low maintenance
- Accessories
- Looks, again
Cons
- In the top echelons of our budget
- Not suited to off-road cycling
- Not designed for high-speed cycling
Why we like this
If there is one bike on my wish list it’s the Retrospec Venus. I wouldn’t even have to ride it, I’d just have it in the garden to look at. Although a more costly cycle the accessories and overall build quality make this a great investment. You could happily be cycling this for the next 5 years at least.
Final Words
In this list, we have highlighted bikes that are suited for off-road and bikes that are suited to inner-city travel so think carefully about what your requirements are before making a choice. If you would like to know more head over to the link to check out in-depth reviews and grab yourself a bargain. Happy cycling.
Last Updated: September 18, 2023
This article makes me very happy for two reasons. Firstly, you have managed to show that it is possible to get quality hybrid bikes at a super affordable price. Secondly, you have listed the pros and cons of each item so that readers have no problem making a choice.
Thanks Maomi,
I really appreciate how you have taken into account the needs of all those who do not want to break the bank for a hybrid bike. Your list is very comprehensive and detailed, which will make it easy for beginners to explore their options.
Thanks Sorn
I have read several bicycle reviews in this particular budget. I haven’t seen much more details on every bicycle like in your article. I believe you made a lot of effort before making the top ten.
It is the most unbiased reviews I have seen ever.
Thanks for your article on this budget. I bought a Vilano 3.0 bicycle for me after reading your article. After riding this bicycle for seven day’s, I am commenting here for only thanks to bikejar team.
Good choice. Cheers Nile!!!
What’s the bike in the first picture, associated with the story?
I’ve been looking for a cool hybrid with the water guards.