Find the right bike › By budget
$700 – $1,500
Enthusiast: hydraulic brakes, wider gearing, lighter and tougher.
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Giant Talon 3 (29)
Mountain hardtail · 2025 · $$$$
A solid starter hardtail for dirt paths and easy trails, with Tektro hydraulic discs on 180/160mm rotors and a 12x142 thru-axle rear. The 2x8 Altus/Acera drivetrain on an 11-34 cassette is easy to service, but the 100mm SR Suntour XCE coil fork is basic and gets harsh on rough ground. XS and S use 27.5in wheels; M and up use 29in.
Sizes: XS: 5′1″–5′5″ · S: 5′4″–5′8″ · M: 5′7″–5′10″ · L: 5′9″–6′1″ · XL: 6′0″–6′4″ · XXL: 6′3″–6′7″
| Gearing | 2×8 (16 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | Front fork |
| Wheels | 29" × 56 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + Thru-axles: Stiff, and the wheels line up the same way every time.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Giant Cypress 3
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2022 · $$$$
A relaxed, upright comfort hybrid for paved paths and neighborhood loops. The adjustable quill stem lets you bring the bars up high, and the 1x8 microSHIFT drivetrain with a 12-42 cassette keeps shifting simple with a genuinely easy low gear. The steel fork and mechanical discs add weight and need the occasional cable adjustment as pads wear, and on a used one check that the quill stem is not seized in the steerer.
Sizes: S: 5′3″–5′7″ · M: 5′7″–5′11″ · L: 5′11″–6′3″ · XL: 6′3″–6′7″
| Gearing | 1×8 (8 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Mechanical disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 45 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Disc brakes: Stop well in the wet. Mechanical ones need the pads dialed in now and then.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
- − Older 1-inch headset: Fewer modern stems and forks fit.
- • Steel frame: Comfortable and repairable, but heavier than aluminum.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Mongoose Dolomite 26 Fat Tire
Mountain hardtail · 2025 · $$$$
A rigid fat bike for sand, snow and casual off-road cruising on 4-inch tires. It is heavy at about 25.6 kg, with a hi-ten steel frame, a 7-speed twist shifter on a thread-on freewheel, and mechanical discs front and rear. It has sold for years with few changes, so for a used one check the disc pads, the freewheel and the nutted wheels for wobble.
Sizes: One size (17 in): 5′4″–6′0″
| Gearing | 1×7 (7 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Mechanical disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 26" × 102 mm tires |
| Weight | 56 lb (25.6 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 1/5 |
- + Disc brakes: Stop well in the wet. Mechanical ones need the pads dialed in now and then.
- − Screw-on freewheel: Fewer gearing upgrades fit, and the rear axle is more likely to bend under heavy riders.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- − Heavy (about 56 lb): Harder to carry up stairs and slower up hills.
- • Steel frame: Comfortable and repairable, but heavier than aluminum.
Where to buy: Buy at Amazon · Maker's page
Specialized Sirrus 2.0
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2024 · $$$$
A good commuter and fitness hybrid, with Promax hydraulic discs, rack and fender mounts and a 2x8 microSHIFT drivetrain on an 11-32 cassette. The 32mm RoadSport tires roll quickly on pavement, and the frame takes up to 42mm tires for rougher paths. The hi-ten steel fork is the heavy, harsh part of the bike.
Sizes: XXS: 4′8″–4′11″ · XS: 4′11″–5′2″ · S: 5′1″–5′5″ · M: 5′5″–5′9″ · L: 5′9″–6′0″ · XL: 6′0″–6′4″
| Gearing | 2×8 (16 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 32 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
- • Steel frame: Comfortable and repairable, but heavier than aluminum.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Giant Escape Disc 2
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2025 · $$$$
A practical commuter and fitness hybrid for paved paths and the odd gravel stretch, with rack and fender mounts. The 1x9 drivetrain with an 11-46 cassette is simple to use, and the Tektro hydraulic discs stop well in the rain. The rigid alloy fork and 38 mm tires pass rough roads straight to your hands, so use the room for 45 mm tires if you want more comfort.
Sizes: S: 5′3″–5′7″ · M: 5′7″–5′11″ · L: 5′11″–6′3″ · XL: 6′3″–6′7″
| Gearing | 1×9 (9 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 38 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Diamondback Hatch 3
Mountain hardtail · 2024 · $$$$
A solid first trail bike for someone who also wants to commute, since the frame has rack and fender mounts. The Tektro hydraulic disc brakes stop well with light effort, and the XS and SM sizes get 27.5 in. wheels so shorter riders fit better. The 3x7 Tourney drivetrain and 100 mm coil fork are basic, so it is happiest on mellow trails rather than rough, steep ones.
Sizes: XS: 5′1″–5′4″ · SM: 5′4″–5′7″ · MD: 5′7″–5′10″ · LG: 5′10″–6′1″ · XL: 6′1″–6′4″
| Gearing | 3×7 (21 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | Front fork |
| Wheels | 29" × 57 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 4.5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- • 3 front rings: A wide range for hills, but more to adjust and a front derailleur to keep tuned.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Polygon Strattos S4
Road · 2024 · $$$$
A road bike for longer rides and fitness, with an aluminum frame, carbon fork, full Shimano Tiagra 2x10 and tubeless-ready wheels on 28 mm tires. The Tiagra rim brakes work well in the dry but wear the rims over time. On a used one, check the rim brake tracks, the chain and the cassette.
Sizes: XS: 5′1″–5′5″ · S: 5′4″–5′7″ · M: 5′6″–5′9″ · L: 5′9″–5′11″ · XL: 5′11″–6′2″
| Gearing | 2×10 (20 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Rim (caliper) |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 28 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 4/5 |
- • Rim brakes: Cheap and easy to service, but weaker in the rain and they wear the rims.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + Tubeless-ready wheels: Run lower pressure with fewer flats.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Polygon Xtrada 5
Mountain hardtail · 2026 · $$$$
A value trail hardtail for riders ready for real singletrack, with a 120 mm fork, Boost thru-axles front and rear, Shimano hydraulic brakes and a tubeless-ready setup. The 1x10 Shimano CUES drivetrain is durable and cheap to replace, but the SR Suntour XCM fork is entry level and the first thing a keen rider will want to upgrade. It ships direct, so plan on careful assembly and brake setup yourself or at a shop.
Sizes: S: 5′1″–5′5″ · M: 5′5″–5′9″ · L: 5′9″–6′1″ · XL: 6′1″–6′5″
| Gearing | 1×10 (10 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | Front fork |
| Wheels | 29" × 57 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Thru-axles: Stiff, and the wheels line up the same way every time.
- + Tubeless-ready wheels: Run lower pressure with fewer flats.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Trek Marlin 5 Gen 3
Mountain hardtail · 2025 · $$$$
A first real trail bike that doubles as a fitness bike, with wide 2.4-inch tires, Tektro hydraulic discs and a simple 1x9 Shimano CUES drivetrain. The coil XCT fork has a lockout but is basic, and the quick-release axles limit wheel upgrades. At about 15.1 kg it is not light, but rack mounts and internal routing give you room to make it your own.
Sizes: XS: 4′9″–5′1″ · S: 5′1″–5′5″ · M: 5′5″–5′10″ · ML: 5′8″–5′11″ · L: 5′10″–6′2″ · XL: 6′2″–6′5″ · XXL: 6′5″–6′8″
| Gearing | 1×9 (9 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | Front fork |
| Wheels | 29" × 61 mm tires |
| Weight | 33 lb (15.1 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Trek FX 2 Gen 4
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2026 · $$$$
A light, easy fitness hybrid for commuting and rides, about 12.1 kg, with hydraulic disc brakes that stop well in the wet. The Shimano CUES 1x9 with an 11-46 cassette is simple and has a very low gear for hills, and there are mounts for a rack and fenders. Tires top out at about 40 mm, so it is not built for rough trails.
Sizes: XS: 4′10″–5′1″ · S: 5′1″–5′5″ · M: 5′5″–5′9″ · L: 5′9″–6′1″ · XL: 6′1″–6′6″
| Gearing | 1×9 (9 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 35 mm tires |
| Weight | 27 lb (12.1 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Specialized Rockhopper Sport
Mountain hardtail · 2026 · $$$$
A beginner trail hardtail that is easy to live with, pairing a 1x9 Shimano CUES drivetrain and its wide 11-46 range with Shimano MT200 hydraulic brakes. The coil XCM fork is basic and the quick-release axles limit wheel upgrades, so think of it as a bike to learn on rather than one to build up. Wheel size depends on frame size, so check whether the size you want rolls on 27.5 or 29-inch wheels.
Sizes: XS: 4′8″–5′1″ · S: 5′0″–5′5″ · M: 5′4″–5′10″ · L: 5′9″–6′1″ · XL: 6′0″–6′5″ · XXL: 6′4″–6′9″
| Gearing | 1×9 (9 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | Front fork |
| Wheels | 29" × 60 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Cannondale Trail 6
Mountain hardtail · 2026 · $$$$
A solid first trail hardtail for someone who wants to ride real dirt but keep things simple. The Tektro hydraulic discs stop well and the 2x8 Acera setup is cheap to keep running, but the coil XCT fork is basic and the quick-release axles and square-taper crank limit how far you can upgrade it. XS and S roll on 27.5-inch wheels, M and up on 29.
Sizes: XS: 4′6″–5′2″ · S: 5′1″–5′4″ · M: 5′4″–5′8″ · L: 5′7″–6′0″ · XL: 6′0″–6′3″
| Gearing | 2×8 (16 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | Front fork |
| Wheels | 29" × 57 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Marin Bobcat Trail 3
Mountain hardtail · 2025 · $$$$
A capable budget hardtail for rougher trails, with slack trail geometry, a 120mm SR Suntour XCM fork with hydraulic lockout and a wide 780mm bar. The clutch microSHIFT Advent 1x9 with an 11-46 cassette keeps the chain quiet and gives a low climbing gear, and Tektro hydraulic discs on 180/160mm rotors stop well. The weak spots are the basic coil fork and quick-release axles rather than thru-axles.
Sizes: XS: 4′9″–5′2″ · S: 5′2″–5′5″ · M: 5′5″–5′9″ · L: 5′9″–6′0″ · XL: 6′0″–6′3″
| Gearing | 1×9 (9 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | Front fork |
| Wheels | 29" × 57 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
Where to buy: Maker's page
REI Co-op Cycles CTY 2.1
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2026 · $$$$
Good pick for commuting, paved paths and light gravel. The hydraulic discs stop well in the wet, the 1x8 with an 11-45 cassette is simple with easy climbing gears, and there are mounts for a rack, fenders and a kickstand. The 63mm coil fork adds weight, so expect a fairly heavy bike.
Sizes: XS: 5′0″–5′3″ · S: 5′3″–5′6″ · M: 5′6″–5′9″ · L: 5′9″–6′0″ · XL: 6′0″–6′3″
| Gearing | 1×8 (8 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | Front fork |
| Wheels | 700c × 40 mm tires |
| Weight | 32 lb (14.5 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
Where to buy: Buy at REI
Trek Verve 2 Gen 5
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2025 · $$$$
A comfortable upright hybrid for relaxed rides on paths and town streets, with 45mm tires, a suspension seatpost, swept bars and an adjustable-rise stem. The 1x9 Shimano CUES drivetrain with an 11-46 cassette is simple, and Tektro hydraulic discs stop well in the wet. Wheels use quick-release axles, and the suspension seatpost is worth checking for play as it ages.
Sizes: S: 5′1″–5′5″ · M: 5′5″–5′9″ · L: 5′9″–6′1″ · XL: 6′1″–6′6″
| Gearing | 1×9 (9 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 45 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Giant Contend 3
Road · 2025 · $$$$
A sensible first road bike for fitness and group rides on pavement, with a balanced position that is easier on the back than a race bike. The 2x8 Claris gearing with an 11-34 cassette gives a low enough gear for most climbs. The rim brakes and 28 mm tire limit keep it a pavement bike, and rim brakes lose bite in the wet and slowly wear the rims.
Sizes: XS: 5′2″–5′7″ · S: 5′5″–5′9″ · M: 5′7″–5′11″ · M/L: 5′10″–6′2″ · L: 6′0″–6′4″ · XL: 6′2″–6′6″
| Gearing | 2×8 (16 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Rim (caliper) |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 28 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 4/5 |
- • Rim brakes: Cheap and easy to service, but weaker in the rain and they wear the rims.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + Tubeless-ready wheels: Run lower pressure with fewer flats.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Specialized Sirrus X 2.0
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2025 · $$$$
Good pick for commuting and mixed pavement-and-gravel paths. The hydraulic discs stop well in the wet, the 42mm tires handle rough roads, and the 1x8 with a 12-42 cassette keeps shifting simple with easy climbing gears. The Hi-Ten steel fork adds some weight, and the tires are not tubeless ready.
Sizes: XXS: 4′8″–4′11″ · XS: 4′11″–5′2″ · S: 5′1″–5′5″ · M: 5′5″–5′9″ · L: 5′9″–6′0″ · XL: 6′0″–6′4″
| Gearing | 1×8 (8 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 42 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
- • Steel frame: Comfortable and repairable, but heavier than aluminum.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Specialized Rockhopper Comp 29
Mountain hardtail · 2025 · $$$$
A good hardtail for beginner to intermediate trail riding. The Deore 1x10 with an 11-46 cassette shifts cleanly, the hydraulic brakes are strong, and the tubeless-ready 25mm rims let you run lower pressure. The 100mm coil fork is the weak spot on rough trails, and the frame is dropper compatible if you want one later.
Sizes: XS: 4′8″–5′1″ · S: 5′0″–5′5″ · M: 5′4″–5′10″ · L: 5′9″–6′1″ · XL: 6′0″–6′5″ · XXL: 6′4″–6′9″
| Gearing | 1×10 (10 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | Front fork |
| Wheels | 29" × 60 mm tires |
| Weight | 31 lb (13.9 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
- + Tubeless-ready wheels: Run lower pressure with fewer flats.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Salsa Journeyer Claris 700
Gravel (drop bar) · 2023 · $$$$
A relaxed adventure bike for touring, bikepacking, gravel and commuting, with rack, fender and bottle mounts on the frame and the Fantail fork. The Claris 2x8 with a 46/30 crank and 11-34 cassette gives low gears for loaded climbs, and it clears up to 50 mm tires. The Tektro cable discs are the weak point, so on a used one check the pads, rotors and QR axles.
Sizes: 49: 4′8″–5′0″ · 51: 4′11″–5′3″ · 53: 5′2″–5′7″ · 55: 5′5″–5′10″ · 57: 5′8″–6′1″ · 60: 6′0″–6′5″
| Gearing | 2×8 (16 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Mechanical disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 38 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Disc brakes: Stop well in the wet. Mechanical ones need the pads dialed in now and then.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Giant Talon 1
Mountain hardtail · 2027 · $$$$
A strong pick for someone starting real trail riding: a 100 mm air fork, thru-axles front and rear, a clutched microSHIFT 1x11 with an 11-50 cassette, and Tektro hydraulic brakes with a 180 mm front rotor. The rims are listed as tubeless-compatible, but the Maxxis Rekon tires are wire bead, so plan on new tires if you want to go tubeless. No dropper post comes stock.
Sizes: XS: 5′1″–5′5″ · S: 5′4″–5′8″ · M: 5′7″–5′10″ · L: 5′9″–6′1″ · XL: 6′0″–6′4″
| Gearing | 1×11 (11 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | Front fork |
| Wheels | 29" × 61 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 4.5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Thru-axles: Stiff, and the wheels line up the same way every time.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Trek FX 3 Gen 4 (FX 3 Disc)
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2025 · $$$$
A light, quick fitness hybrid at about 11.5 kg, with a carbon fork, Shimano hydraulic discs and tubeless-ready rims. The 1x10 Shimano CUES drivetrain with an 11-48 cassette gives a wide range with one shifter. Tire clearance tops out at 40mm, so it suits pavement and smooth gravel more than rough trails.
Sizes: XS: 4′10″–5′1″ · S: 5′1″–5′5″ · M: 5′5″–5′9″ · L: 5′9″–6′1″ · XL: 6′1″–6′6″ · XXL: 6′6″–6′8″
| Gearing | 1×10 (10 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 35 mm tires |
| Weight | 25 lb (11.5 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
- + Tubeless-ready wheels: Run lower pressure with fewer flats.
Where to buy: Maker's page
REI Co-op Cycles DRT 1.2
Mountain hardtail · 2025 · $$$$
A step-up trail hardtail for singletrack, with a 120 mm Boost fork, 2.6-inch Maxxis tires, tubeless-ready rims and Shimano MT200 hydraulic brakes. The microSHIFT Advent X 1x10 uses its own cable pull, so the shifter and derailleur must stay Advent X. The SR Suntour XCM32 is a coil fork, so it is heavier and less tunable than an air fork.
Sizes: XS: 5′0″–5′3″ · S: 5′3″–5′6″ · M: 5′6″–5′9″ · L: 5′9″–6′0″ · XL: 6′0″–6′3″
| Gearing | 1×10 (10 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | Front fork |
| Wheels | 29" × 66 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 4.5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Thru-axles: Stiff, and the wheels line up the same way every time.
- + Tubeless-ready wheels: Run lower pressure with fewer flats.
Where to buy: Buy at REI
Trek Roscoe 6
Mountain hardtail · 2024 · $$$$
A fun trail hardtail for rough trails and learning jumps, with a 140 mm air fork, 2.6-inch tubeless-ready tires, 203/180 mm rotors and a dropper post, at about 14.4 kg. The Shimano CUES 1x9 with an 11-46 cassette is durable but has bigger jumps between gears than 11 or 12 speed. The Tektro two-piston brakes are entry level for long steep descents.
Sizes: XS: 4′9″–5′1″ · SM: 5′1″–5′5″ · MD: 5′5″–5′10″ · ML: 5′8″–5′11″ · LG: 5′10″–6′2″ · XL: 6′2″–6′5″
| Gearing | 1×9 (9 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | Front fork |
| Wheels | 29" × 66 mm tires |
| Weight | 32 lb (14.4 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Thru-axles: Stiff, and the wheels line up the same way every time.
- + Tubeless-ready wheels: Run lower pressure with fewer flats.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4
Road · 2027 · $$$$
A first road bike for fitness rides and fast commutes that also copes with rough pavement and light gravel. Thru-axles, a carbon fork, rack and fender mounts and tubeless-ready wheels make it a good base to grow with. The 2x8 Claris drivetrain and Tektro mechanical discs are entry level, so expect to adjust the brake cables as the pads wear.
Sizes: 44: 4′11″–5′0″ · 49: 5′1″–5′4″ · 52: 5′4″–5′6″ · 54: 5′6″–5′9″ · 56: 5′9″–5′11″ · 58: 5′11″–6′1″ · 61: 6′1″–6′3″
| Gearing | 2×8 (16 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Mechanical disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 32 mm tires |
| Weight | 23 lb (10.3 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Disc brakes: Stop well in the wet. Mechanical ones need the pads dialed in now and then.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + Thru-axles: Stiff, and the wheels line up the same way every time.
- + Light (about 23 lb): Quicker to accelerate and easy to carry.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
- + Tubeless-ready wheels: Run lower pressure with fewer flats.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Specialized Allez (Shimano Claris)
Road · 2025 · $$$$
A solid first road bike for group rides and commuting. The light aluminum frame and carbon fork ride well, and the rack and fender mounts make it useful year-round. The 8-speed Claris gearing is entry level and the mechanical disc brakes need cable and pad adjustment now and then.
Sizes: 49: 5′1″–5′4″ · 52: 5′4″–5′7″ · 54: 5′7″–5′9″ · 56: 5′9″–6′0″ · 58: 5′11″–6′2″ · 61: 6′2″–6′5″
| Gearing | 2×8 (16 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Mechanical disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 30 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Disc brakes: Stop well in the wet. Mechanical ones need the pads dialed in now and then.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + Thru-axles: Stiff, and the wheels line up the same way every time.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Polygon Strattos S4 Disc
Road · 2025 · $$$$
A solid all-weather road bike, with Shimano Tiagra 2x10, flat-mount hydraulic disc brakes, 12mm thru-axles and a tapered carbon fork. It is reasonably light at about 9.9 kg and the rims are tubeless-ready. The 140mm rotors are on the small side for long descents, and the 34x28 low gear can feel tall on steep climbs.
Sizes: XS: 5′1″–5′5″ · S: 5′4″–5′7″ · M: 5′6″–5′9″ · L: 5′9″–5′11″ · XL: 5′11″–6′2″
| Gearing | 2×10 (20 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 28 mm tires |
| Weight | 22 lb (9.9 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + Thru-axles: Stiff, and the wheels line up the same way every time.
- + Light (about 22 lb): Quicker to accelerate and easy to carry.
- + Tubeless-ready wheels: Run lower pressure with fewer flats.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Cannondale Topstone 4
Gravel (drop bar) · 2025 · $$$$
A good one-bike pick for gravel roads, light trails and commuting, with rack, fender and three bottle mounts. The 1x10 microSHIFT setup with an 11-48 cassette gives easy climbing gears and simple shifting, and the carbon fork and thru-axles keep the front end precise. The weak spot is the cable disc brakes, which need more hand force and more pad adjustment than hydraulics.
Sizes: XS: 4′10″–5′5″ · SM: 5′4″–5′9″ · MD: 5′7″–6′1″ · LG: 5′10″–6′4″ · XL: 6′3″–6′8″
| Gearing | 1×10 (10 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Mechanical disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 37 mm tires |
| Weight | 23 lb (10.5 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Disc brakes: Stop well in the wet. Mechanical ones need the pads dialed in now and then.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Thru-axles: Stiff, and the wheels line up the same way every time.
- + Light (about 23 lb): Quicker to accelerate and easy to carry.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Trek Marlin 7 Gen 3
Mountain hardtail · 2026 · $$$$
A trail hardtail to start on and grow with, with a RockShox Judy air fork, SRAM 1x12 Eagle on an 11-50 cassette, Shimano MT200 hydraulic brakes and a dropper post, at about 14.2 kg. It keeps quick-release style axles (100 mm QR front, 135x5 rear), which limits future wheel upgrades. The MT200 brakes are basic for long steep descents.
Sizes: XS: 4′9″–5′1″ · S: 5′1″–5′5″ · M: 5′5″–5′10″ · ML: 5′8″–5′11″ · L: 5′10″–6′2″ · XL: 6′2″–6′5″ · XXL: 6′5″–6′8″
| Gearing | 1×12 (12 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | Front fork |
| Wheels | 29" × 61 mm tires |
| Weight | 31 lb (14.2 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
- + Tubeless-ready wheels: Run lower pressure with fewer flats.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Polygon Strattos S5 Disc
Road · 2024 · $$$$
Good for fast endurance road rides and a first try at racing. Shimano 105 2x11 with hydraulic brakes, thru-axles and a carbon fork is a strong package. The 140mm rotors and 28mm tires are road-only, and the rims are tubeless ready but come set up with tubes.
Sizes: XS: 5′1″–5′5″ · S: 5′4″–5′7″ · M: 5′6″–5′9″ · L: 5′9″–5′11″ · XL: 5′11″–6′2″
| Gearing | 2×11 (22 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 28 mm tires |
| Weight | 22 lb (10.2 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + Thru-axles: Stiff, and the wheels line up the same way every time.
- + Light (about 22 lb): Quicker to accelerate and easy to carry.
- + Tubeless-ready wheels: Run lower pressure with fewer flats.
Where to buy: Maker's page
No paid placements: the order follows price, never a store or brand. Sizes come from each maker's chart. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.