Among all the transportation media that are available to the public, bicycles are one of the most eco-friendly and cost-efficient ones. You will not have to go through the hassle of fuels, licenses, or any of the other troubles that come with motorized two and four-wheelers.
Now, you might think that to get a decent unit among all the options that are available in the market, you might have to break the bank. But that is not always the case because there are many best bikes under 300. Yes, you read that right, under 300!
You will know what we are talking about after going through the entire article. Also, by the end, it will be much easier for you to choose one of the bikes for yourself.
Why You Should Buy a Bike Under $300
There are many reasons why you should opt for a bicycle instead of any other transportation system in this budget. The most crucial ones are:
Cost-efficient
As you will not have to worry about any fuel costs, you will be able to save a ton by commuting by cycle. They also require a minimal amount of maintenance, which makes them one of the hassle-free traveling options that are out there.
Environment Friendly
Unlike most of the available transportation systems, bicycles do not have any carbon emissions. They rely on muscle power which makes them the most eco-friendly traveling option.
Fitness
Bicycles can help you lose and maintain your body weight. With them, you can push your limits every day and substantially increase your endurance. You will not even have to change your diet plan if you ride by making a proper routine.
Beating the Traffic
Being stuck in traffic after a tiring day at work can infuriate you. In that case, if you opt for a bicycle, you will be able to easily squeeze through the lines of cars that are stuck in traffic. Thus, you can reach your preferred destination without having to deal with pesky traffic jams anymore.
Ease of Use
Bicycles can generally be parked everywhere. You will not have to worry about finding a parking spot or getting a parking ticket with a cycle.
12 Best Bikes Under 300 Reviews
The bright side of having so many options is that you can choose from a plethora of choices. But it is also quite easy to get bewildered among them. That is why we have gone through the most popular ones and chosen only the best twelve among them. Have a look at our list:
1. Sixthreezero Beach Cruiser Bicycle
Who said that curvy beach cruisers were for women only? Sixthreezero has also designed some specifically for men, and this piece is one of them.
The cycle comes with a classic curvy design that fits well for cruising around the beach, casual riding, and commuting small distances. It comes with a durably constructed 15 inches steel frame. With that, it will be able to withstand the pressure that harsh road conditions typically exert.
Just like the other beach cruisers, it also implements an upright riding style. Because of this riding position, the rider’s back will be aligned with the shoulder all the time. It will ensure a comfortable overall ride.
Besides that, it comes with a saddle that has two springs integrated to enhance the overall comfort. You will be able to ride for a long time comfortably sitting on this saddle.
The handlebar also comes with foam grips that will allow you to grasp it firmly while riding. You will be able to get good control over the direction because of this.
Instead of implementing any sort of brakes, it comes with coaster brakes. To stop the wheels, all you have to do is pedal backward. This brake style lets the cycle achieve a minimal outlook. It has no cables routing through the frame, and the black coating on the exterior makes the bicycle look sleek.
The cycle comes with a set of 24-inch wheels that are 2.125 inches wide. They are of aluminum which makes them both durable and lightweight. It also comes with large waffle tires on both wheels. They are air-filled and will provide a cushioned ride.
Pros
- Comes with a comfortable saddle
- The handlebar is comfortable to hold onto
- Utilizes an upright riding style
- Sturdy frame and wheelset
- Offers a cushioned ride
Cons
- The braking mechanism provides average stopping power
- Scratches pretty easily
2. IDS unYOUsual 20″ Folding City Bicycle
Among all the types of cycles that are available in the market, the foldable ones generally are the most compact and lightweight ones. And this one from IDS is one of the decent pieces available in the market.
People living in small apartments have a limited amount of storage space. As a result, storing a large-sized cycle can be a big hassle. But that will not be the case with this one. This one comes with a 20-inch frame that can be easily folded in half.
The cycle is quite lightweight too. It weighs only 32 pounds, which makes it extremely portable. Transporting it from one place to another or taking it back to your room will not be a problem at all.
Even though the cycle is small and compact, it can hold most of the riders easily. Both the seat and the handlebar are so adjustable that they will let you fine-tune the bicycle the way you prefer. Bikers will be able to adjust the height accordingly.
On the back, it comes with a rack that will let you hold envelopes and tie up stuff that needs transporting. It comes featured with a speed-shifting mechanism that is from Shimano. With that, you will be able to get the optimal speed for most road conditions.
The front and the back wheels come with 20-inch tires that are from WANDA. They will offer the right amount of traction that most terrains require. You will get excellent handling because of them.
Other than that, it comes with semi-alloy V-brakes on both the front and the back. They offer an adequate amount of braking power and will let you stop the wheels within seconds.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Easy to store
- Comes with a 6-speed gear shifter
- Features decent V-brakes
- Adjustable handle and seat
Cons
- Handlebars wobble a little bit
- Some ships with misaligned wheels
3. Sixthreezero Around the Block Women’s Cruiser
In the search for the best commuter bike under 300 that is catered toward women? Then this one from sixthreezero is probably the one that you were looking for all this time.
To start with, it comes with a classic beach cruising curvy design that will go well with most outfits. The cycle does not only look sassy, but it is also durable. It comes with a 17-inch steel frame that is quite sturdy. You can expect it to last for an extended time.
It implements an upright riding position that will align the back of the rider to the shoulders. This riding style will ensure that the biker is cycling comfortably. Other than that, the dual-spring saddle that it comes with will enhance the overall comfort and offer a redefined riding experience to the rider.
The handlebar also comes with a set of foam grips that will let you firmly grasp it while riding. You will have optimal control over the directions on the road.
Just like most of the variable gear cycles, it comes packed with a well-performing gear transmission system too. The 7-speed gear hub is from Shimano, and it will offer you the versatility of switching between different speeds for various types of road scenarios.
It comes with 26-inch wheels that are 2.125 inches in width and made from aluminum. They are lightweight but durable. The waffle tread tires that they come with will provide the right amount of traction on the road and offer a cushioned ride.
Both the front and the back wheels come with handbrakes. They are easy to trigger and will be able to provide the right amount of stopping power. You will not have to worry about your safety on the road.
Pros
- Sports a classic curvy design
- Comes with a durable frame
- Comfortable seat and foamed handle
- Versatile Shimano speed shifters
- Features decent brakes
Cons
- The exterior coating scratches easily
- Comparatively hard to assemble
4. LOOCHO Road Bike 21 Speed 700C Wheels
In your search for the best commuter bike under 300, you will stumble upon a wide range of options that will be from different manufacturers. But not all of them will come with a combination of durable components as this one from LOOCHO does.
To start with, it comes with an aerodynamic frame that is exceptionally durable. It will be able to handle the pressure that most of the city roads exert. The frame is welded precisely too. You can expect to get an extended lifespan from this cycle.
In the case of the overall outlook of the cycle, it comes with a sleek matte finish. It will stand out among the crowd. You will be able to ride with style on the city roads.
It comes with a 21-speed gear set that is from Shimano. The front has three gear shifters while the back has seven. They will offer you the versatility to switch to the optimal speed instantaneously. Shifting them is quite easy too. You will have a smooth riding experience on most terrains.
The cycle comes packed with a good set of disc brakes too. Both the front and the back wheels house one, and they will be able to offer you adequate braking power to make the bicycle stop within a matter of seconds. You will not have to worry about your overall road safety.
Besides that, the handle comes with comfortable grips. It will let you have a firm grasp and give you optimal control over the directions. You will be able to ride with both comfort and control.
Lastly, the bicycle will ship with about 90 percent ready. All you have to do is attach the remaining components with the included tools.
Pros
- Sports a sleek matte finish
- Comes with durable components
- Packs a 21-speed gear system
- Features powerful brakes
- Ships with about 90 percent assembled
Cons
- The shifters need tuning to work optimally
- Tends to ship with missing parts
5. Hiland 700c Commuter Bicycle
While searching for a bicycle in the market, you might want to get one of the best city bikes under 300. In that case, you should put this one from Hiland into your consideration list.
The cycle does not only come with a durable frame but also includes a well-built fork in the package. These two components have construction of hi-ten steel, which makes them extremely sturdy. They will easily be able to stand the everyday road abuse that a bicycle has to take while treading on harsh city roads.
Other than that, it comes with a 14-speed gear shifter that is from Shimano. The SY20A thumb shifter that it comes along with will let you switch to different speeds with just a flick of a switch. According to the terrain that you are on, you will easily be able to get the optimal pace that is required.
It even comes with an excellent set of wheels. Both the front and the back feature a 700c wheel frame that has aluminum rims. This aluminum construction will offer exceptional durability and ensure that no extra unnecessary weight is added to the cycle.
The wheels come housed with a set of high-performing tires. These tires have deep treads that will provide excellent traction on roads. You will be able to get superb handling with them.
Besides that, the bicycle is relatively lightweight too. It weighs just 26.9 pounds with everything installed. Its lightweight body will not only let you achieve high speed quickly but also allow you to maneuver it easily.
Lastly, the two-wheeler will ship to you at about 85 percent assembled. You will receive the tools for installing all the other components.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Comes with a durable frame and fork
- Features an easy-to-use gear shifter
- Equipped with a good set of tires
- Ships with about 85 percent assembled
Cons
- Some units ship with damaged parts
- The included pedals feel a bit cheap
6. NJ508 Folding Mountain Bike
Most people do not prefer small-sized foldable cycles. If you are one of them and were looking for a full-sized foldable mountain bicycle, then this one should put an end to your search.
Unlike most of the mountain cycles that are out there, it comes with a folding mechanism. With that, it will be able to get half of the original size. You will not have to worry about storing it because it can be crammed into tight spaces easily.
It comes featured with decently performing shock absorbers on the front. This advanced suspension system will efficiently dampen the shocks of the road and reduce road vibrations. You will have a comfortable ride on most of the terrains.
The cycle comes with 26-inch wheels. These three-spoke wheels are made from magnesium alloy. This construction makes them not only lightweight but also durable. They will be able to handle the stress of off-roads easily.
Other than that, the frame that the cycle comes with is also durable. It has a construction of carbon steel, which makes it both durable and lightweight.
Both of the wheels come with disc brakes installed. They are easy to trigger and will offer a substantial amount of braking power. You will be able to tread safely on both city roads and on mountain terrains.
It features an adjustable seat. You will be able to adjust the height of the seat according to your preference.
Lastly, the gear shifter that the cycle comes with is from Shimano. It has 21-speed transmission slots. You will be able to switch to the one that you prefer instantaneously.
Pros
- Comes with decently performing disc brakes
- Lightweight and durable
- The seat is adjustable
- Equipped with a 21-speed gear shifter
- Features disc brakes on both the wheels
Cons
- Cables are not adequately routed
- The color coating scrapes off easily
7. Takara Oni Single Speed Fixie Road Bike
Fixed gear cycles are the ones that offer the most straightforward riding experience. Among all the available options, this is one of the best-fixed gear bikes under 300 that you should put under your consideration.
The cycle comes with a durably constructed frame and fork. These two crucial parts are of high-tensile steel, which not only makes them durable but also lightweight. They will be able to withstand rough and uneven road terrains easily. Because of this construction, you can expect the cycle to last for an extended amount of time.
Even though the bicycle comes featured with durable components, it is relatively lightweight. The overall weight stands at only 34.2 pounds. This lightweight body will not only let you maneuver it easily but also will allow you to reach max speed in a short amount of time.
Instead of implementing a regular flat handle, it comes with a drop bar. It will allow you to ride in three different positions. You will be able to ride it on the bars, in the drops, or on the hoods.
The drop-bar handle comes covered with a soft rubber material that will let you firmly grasp the handle. You will get optimal control over the directions because of this.
Besides that, the cycle is exceptionally versatile too. It utilizes the rear flip-flop hub that fixie bicycles are well known for. By just adjusting the wheel, you will be able to switch your overall riding style. You can choose between the fixed or the freewheel mode in this regard.
Lastly, both the front and the back come with feature brakes that are from single-pivot alloy.
Pros
- Comes with a durable steel fork and frame
- Features a drop-bar handle
- Extremely versatile
- Exceptionally lightweight
- Boasts alloy V-brakes
Cons
- Equipped with averagely performing tires
- The seat will take a bit to get used to
8. Retrospec Beta Series Single Speed
Single-speed cycles are one of the easiest ones to maneuver. And, Retrospechas brought one of the best single-speed bikes under 300 to the market with their Beta lineup of cycles.
The cycle comes with a high-tensile steel frame that is built to last. It is incredibly durable and will easily be able to take on the stress of the road. Because of such construction, you can expect this cycle to last for an extended amount of time. The frame also has enough clearance for barspin.
It comes featured with a classic urban cycle design that is exceptionally sleek and minimalistic. The white and black color profile makes it look modern. It will definitely stand out in the crowd.
Just like most fixed-gear bicycles, this also comes with the ever-so-versatile flip-flop hub. With that, you will get two different riding styles. You can either ride it in the single-speed mode or the freewheel mode.
The cycle comes with wheels that boast double-wall rims. These deep-V 43mm wheels will easily be able to take the pressure of harsh road conditions. They come with CST tires that offer superior road performance. You will be able to get excellent traction in most road conditions.
Both the front and rear wheels come with Promax brakes installed. They will ensure your overall road safety by offering you adequate braking power. You will be able to tread on the city roads with full confidence.
Lastly, the handle comes with soft rubber grips that are from Retrospec Kraton. You will be able to hold them firmly for an extended amount of time with full comfort.
Pros
- Comes with a sleek design
- Features the versatile flip-flop hub
- Durable and sturdy
- Boasts excellent brakes
- Equipped with a durable wheelset
Cons
- The nuts of the wheels catch rust quite fast
- Brakes need a bit of tuning for optimal performance
9. Pure Cycles 1-Speed Urban Coaster Bicycle
In most cases, riders do not look for those fancy geared cycles. All they want is a simple one that will let them run those errands and go for a ride in around the town sometimes. If you are one of those, then you should put this one into consideration.
It comes with a durable steel frame that can absorb comparatively more road vibrations than most of the other cycles that are out there. The frame is lightweight too, which will let you reach max speed quickly. It features a customized geometry that implements an upright riding style to offer maximum comfort while riding.
The cycle is customizable too. You will be able to attach fenders, crates, and racks with it to make it the ultimate commuter grocery bicycle.
It comes with sealed bottom brackets that will let you smoothly spin the pedal. You will not have to exert that much amount of force to reach a high speed. It also utilizes the pedals for braking purposes. By just spinning it backward, you will be able to trigger the coaster brake.
Because of the coaster brakes that it implements, no cables are dangling on the body. This design lets the cycle achieve a sleek and minimalistic outlook.
It comes with a drome saddle that is extremely comfortable to sit on. Alongside that, the handlebar is swept back, and it has rubber grips to let you comfortably grasp it while riding. You will be able to ride for a long time because of those comfortably.
The wheelset that the cycle comes with features 700c wedge tires that are from WTB Freedom. They offer excellent traction on paved roads and let you get reasonable control over the cycle.
Pros
- Sleek and minimalistic design
- Comes with a sturdy steel frame
- Offers a comfortable and controllable ride
- Exceptionally customizable
- Pedals are easy to spin
Cons
- Brakes are not that praiseworthy
- The chain seems to rust quite easily
10. Firmstrong Single Speed Beach Cruiser
Beach cruisers have been picking up a lot of attention lately because of their classic curvy design. Just like most of the beach cruiser that is out there, it implements a curvy design. The classic frame is built with steel –making it extremely durable.
You will be able to cruise on the beach for an extended amount of time. The frame comes with glossy paint that will make it stand out from the crowd.
Other than that, the 20 inches frame will be perfect for most of the riders’ heights. Girls that are between 3 feet 2 inches and 4 feet 4 inches in height will be able to ride the cycle without any issues at all.
It comes with an oversized seat that has dual springs integrated to enhance the overall comfort of the ride. Alongside that, the handle also comes with soft rubber grips. You will be able to ride for a long time comfortably because of those.
The cycle keeps a minimalistic look by keeping no cables hanging around the body. It implements a coaster brake mechanism. By simply pedaling backward, you will be able to initiate the brake and stop the bicycle.
Besides that, the swept-back handlebar will let the riders ride in an upright position. This riding style will make sure that the back and the shoulders are aligned adequately. That means you will be able to ride for a long time without having to worry about back pain anymore.
Lastly, the wheelset that the cycle comes with features balloon tires. It will offer a cushioned ride. The bicycle also comes with rear and front fenders.
Pros
- Compatible with most of the riders’ height
- Comes with an oversized saddle
- Sports a classic curvy design
- The handle comes with soft rubber grips
- Features balloon tires
Cons
- A bit hard to assemble
- Some packages ship with missing parts
11. Mongoose Title Expert BMX Race Bike
There are not that many options in the case of BMX within this budget. But we have managed to find a beginner-level cycle, and we think you should have a look into this one from Mongoose.
The bicycle comes with a Tectonic T1 frame that has the construction of aluminum. This aluminum construction makes the cycle extremely lightweight. The overall weight of the body is just 2.8 pounds, which makes it extremely easy to carry it up and down the stairs and also reach the maximum speed quickly.
Other than that, the frame manages to keep a clean, minimalistic look by routing the cable internally. It adds extra protection to the wires and keeps them safe from wear and tear. The frame also has a headset integrated into it.
Besides that, the cycle comes featured with 160-millimeter three-piece tubular cranks that have 42T chainrings. It also has a Euro cartridge bracket on the bottom. These combined will let the rider pedal smoothly without having to exert too much force on it.
The wheelset that this bicycle comes with is the XLR8 from Arisun. It has aluminum double-walled rims that have front aluminum bearing hubs. The rear one has a 16T freewheel cog hub. It comes with 20 inches tires that will offer an adequate amount of traction in most road conditions.
Other than that, the handlebar that the cycle comes with is constructed from hi-ten steel. Along with the handlebar, the fork is joined with the frame by a 48 millimeters stem. The sealed bearing, along with those, will offer you excellent steering and control over the cycle. Lastly, the rear wheel comes with a V-brake that is made of alloy. The lever is easy to trigger too.
Pros
- Clean and minimalistic outlook
- Easy to pedal
- Tires offer adequate traction
- Effortless to steer and control
- Lightweight frame
Cons
- Will need adjustments for riders above 5’4″
- The front wheel does not have any brake
12. Pedal Chic Women’s 700c Hybrid Bicycle
We are going to finish off our recommendation list with this bicycle from Pedal Chic. Looking for a beach cruiser with hybrid functionalities? Then this is probably the one for you.
First of all, the bicycle comes in two different sizes to accommodate most of the riders’ heights. The small one is for riders that are between 5 feet 2 inches and 5 feet 6 inches and the medium one is for the ones that are from 5 feet 6 inches to 5 feet 10 inches.
In the case of the overall outlook, it kept the classic curvy beach cruiser design for the frame. The cables are routed adequately along with the body which lets the cycle keep a clean look. Also, the glossy exterior paint will make it stand out among the crowd.
The hybrid frame comes with a suspension on the front. It will dampen the shocks in harsh road conditions and offer the rider a smooth and comfortable ride. The absorbers also can minimize the vibrations of the paved road and provides a silent ride.
Besides that, it also includes a cargo rack on the rear. With that, you will be able to carry lightweight packages or do your daily errands easily. Both the front and the back wheels come with fenders. Because of those, you will be able to ride on wet, muddy terrains without having to worry about getting your clothes dirty.
Lastly, the cycle comes with a 21-speed gear transmission mechanism. It will let you select the adequate speed that the terrain that you are riding on requires. The gear shifter on the handle also makes switching between the speed slots easier.
Pros
- Comes in two different sizes
- Features front shock absorbers
- Offers a comfortable and smooth overall ride
- Sports a clean, minimalistic outlook
- Equipped with a 21-speed gear transmission system
Cons
- Unavailability of large-size frame
- The seat is a bit uncomfortable
Features to Look For Before Buying
Before you decide to invest your valuable money in a bicycle, there are some factors that you should keep in mind. These will let you properly scrutinize the cycles and get the very best one for your road adventures. These are:
Size
The first thing that you check is the size of the frame. Different cycles will ship with varying frame sizes that only riders of specific height ranges can adequately ride. If you get yourself the wrong-sized frame, you will have trouble cycling comfortably. The size chart goes something like this:
- 13 inches to 14 inches frame: For riders of height between 4 feet 10 inches and 5 feet 2 inches
- 15 inches to 16 inches frame: Riders who are in the range of 5 feet 2 inches to 5 feet 6 inches
- 17 inches to 18 inches frame: For riders who are between 5 feet 6 inches and 5 feet 10 inches
- 19 inches to 20 inches: Riders who have a height that is in between 5 feet 10 inches and 6 feet 1 inch
- 21 inches to 22 inches frame: For riders who have a height that is from 6 feet 1 inch to 6 feet 4 inches
Durability
The durability of the frame is another important factor that you should keep under consideration. If the body of the cycle is not sturdy, it will not be able to take on the stress that harsh road conditions typically exert.
That is why, in this case, you should opt for the ones that come with aluminum and steel frames. Those will be very durable and will be able to handle regular road abuses. Other than that, they will also offer you an extended lifespan, which will allow you to use the same bike year after year.
Tires
The tires of the cycle are another crucial component that you should look into before making a purchase. If the treads of the included ones cannot offer the right amount of traction on the roads, you will have trouble handling the cycle in harsh road conditions.
Other than the treads, you should also look into the tubes that are inside the tires. If they are wide enough and can hold a substantial amount of air, you will be able to enjoy an overall smooth and comfy ride on most of the terrains.
Brakes
For ensuring your overall road safety, you should scrutinize the brakes that come along with the bike properly. If the brakes can not offer adequate stopping power, you will not be able to stop the wheels of your cycle swiftly.
If you are looking for a substantial amount of braking performance, then you should go with the ones that come with disc brakes. Other than that, V-brakes will also be able to offer a good amount of stopping power, but their pads tend to wear out over time.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
A: Shock absorbers, otherwise known as suspension, usually come equipped on the front wheels of the cycle. They will dampen the bumps of harsh road conditions and will reduce the vibrations to offer a comfortable and smooth ride.
For cruising on city roads, you might not require them, but for off-road, they are an essential component.
A: Riding the bike on busy city roads can be a little dangerous. But if you take proper safety measures while riding, the risk drops down substantially. In this case, you should always wear a helmet and, if possible, try to wear knee and elbow pads.
A: The main difference that lies between a mountain bike and a road bike is the capability of offering a smooth ride on off-road terrains. Mountain bikes usually come with suspensions that will let your ride comfortably on bumpy terrains.
A: Yes, you can. Chains do need to be replaced if it gets too much rusty. In that case, you should go with the ones that have the exact length as the ones that you have.
A: You can change the stock gear shifter that your bike has with the compatible one. Other than that, you can also replace the entire gear transmission system with the ones that are compatible with your bike.
A: Folding bikes are usually compact and lightweight. For most of the bikes, you will be able to fold them in half, which will let you easily store and transport it. So, if you have a storage problem, we would say that it’s definitely worth it.
A: Yes, you can ride mountain bikes on both off-road and city roads.
Final Words
After going through the entire article, we hope it is now much easier for you to choose one of the best bikes under 300. We would like to conclude here by wishing you good luck and hoping for your utmost safety on the road.
