Home • Sport • 20 best bikes of 2023: which one to choose

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Rating of the best bikes in 2023: which one to choose

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  •  So, you've decided to buy a bike – to tone up your muscles, lose weight, ride eco-friendly, or just for fun. However, if you are reading this article, then there is a small problem – you are thinking which bike to choose? Especially for you, I have compiled a short guide to choosing the best brands of bicycles for adults, based on authoritative foreign sources and reviews from Yandex.Market.

  •  Due to logistical problems in 2022, there may be problems with spare parts for foreign models. That is why many Russian brands are included in the rating, for such bikes it will be easy to find the right part.

How to choose a bike?

Set a goal

  •  First of all, decide what exactly you need a bike for. The right question is the basis of choice. Different bikes are designed for different types of riding, and some are so specialized that any other activity will result in pain in the back and hands.

  •  Fortunately, most types of bikes are versatile, so you can ride to work, to the shops, over hills and dales on the same model. But if you want something more – you have to think.

Main types of bicycles

• Mountain bikes. One of the most popular types, which, if desired, can be turned into a universal one. Designed for any type of terrain.
• Road bike. For asphalt pavement and high speed.
• Hybrid bike. Something in between the first two, the most versatile type, on which you can feel comfortable both in the city and on the countryside.
• Gravels (the names “gravels” and “gravels” are also found). These are models suitable for different types of roads. They differ from road bikes with disc brakes, an increased wheelbase, a more comfortable fit and a longer range cassette. From hybrid – a wheel-drum.
• BMX bikes. For tricks and other acrobatics.
• Touring bicycles. Designed for long trips when you need to carry extra weight on the frame or in the trunk.
• Folding bikes. When you want to go on vacation at sea, but you don’t want to leave your “friend” either. Good for urban environments.
• Electric bicycles. Equipped with an electric motor that gives power and speed.

Money money

  •  Bicycles that are acceptable in terms of price and quality usually cost from 20 thousand rubles and more. And although there are good budget models in the review that are cheaper, they are rather an exception to the rule.

  •  If you're buying an inexpensive road or mountain bike, then a reliable unit with a quality frame and components starts at $25. The same goes for an inexpensive gravel or a quality hybrid. In this price category, the frame becomes lighter, but at the same time stronger, more ergonomic, and the components belong to economy lines, but well-known companies.

  •  If you plan to use a bicycle regularly and at the same time save money, I recommend spending at least 40. The components in such vehicles are reliable, sporty class, and with knowledge and skill, you can finish the model to the highest class by replacing components.

  •  And finally, if you can afford it, the price is from 110 thousand rubles, you will get a bike with a high quality body kit – durable, light and reliable.

The most important components of a bicycle

Frame. A well-chosen frame for growth is the key to success. Ideally, if a person sitting on a bicycle with a straight leg can rest his heel on the pedal from below. Another criterion is to stand on straight legs, the frame between the legs, the upper part of it is about 5 cm below the crotch.

Frame material may be different. Plain steel is still used in inexpensive models. Aluminum is not bad and quite cheap, it is used everywhere in the economy and middle price categories. New alloys have become even better, but they are also more expensive (usually from 50 thousand rubles). If the frame is aluminum, it is better to get a front shock absorber – it will not be so excruciatingly painful on country roads.

Wheels. 26 inches – "mountain", 28 inches – highway and city. Most of the offers on the market are "mountain", they are the most popular. Highway ones are rarer and will cost more. There is another 29 inches – for experienced cyclists or tall people.

As for tires, then if you like off-road – choose thick ones (they have better depreciation) and embossed ones (the tread provides better grip on the ground). If you plan to cut through good asphalt, you can get by with thin ones, with a width of 1,5 to 2 inches.

Brakes. These days, even inexpensive bikes can come with disc brakes. Economy options with a cable drive, expensive ones with a hydraulic one. Rim (like V-brake) are also found, and they are quite reliable. Choose wisely – brakes are very important for your safety.

Optional equipment

  •  Just buying a bike is not enough – you need accessories. Some of them are mandatory (especially those that provide security), while others are just nice to have on hand. This includes:

• Helmet. A must – of all the injuries to which a person on a bicycle is prone, head injuries are the most frequent. Therefore, a good helmet that will protect the precious contents of the skull and a pleasing face is a must.
• Lanterns. You need both to see yourself and for others to see you. By law, the bike must have at least two lights – front white (preferably LED) and rear red (it is desirable that it works in two modes – continuous and intermittent). Rechargeable USB lamps are a good choice.
• The call. Must-have for driving around the city, where children and animals strive to run under the wheels.
• Castle. U-locks are considered the most secure, although some chain locks are also good. A folding lock is not as strong as a u-lock, but it's better than easily bitable cable locks.
• Mud flaps. Needed for those who love to ride a bike in any weather. The most optimal are wide, the length of which is enough for half the wheel. Composite is best, tin is worst.
• luggage basket. You can put the necessary things in it for work (laptop, lunch box, thermos, etc.) or for a picnic in nature. If you plan to ride on rainy days too, buy a waterproof one. Best in terms of balance are two baskets located at the back on either side of the frame.
• Water bottle holder. The thing is necessary both for city trips and for rural roads.
• Bicycle Pump. There are small folding models that fit easily into a bag.
• Counter. By and large, it is not needed, but if you are pleased with the numbers, why not. It is always nice to know the number of kilometers traveled and the average driving speed.

Rating of bicycle manufacturers, or which bicycle companies are the most reliable

• GT bicycles – American company, the largest manufacturer of bicycles. Founded in 1972.
• Merida is a Taiwanese company that has been engaged in bikes for almost half a century. Her products are popular all over the world.
• World is an Austrian brand with an assembly plant in China.
• TRINX is a Taiwanese company that sells its products in 40 countries around the world.
• Stels is a brand of the Russian holding Velomotors.
• FORWARD – Another Russian company, one of the leaders in bicycle sales in the Russian Federation.
• Zhukovsky Bicycle Plant – the good old Desna bicycles were both produced in the USSR and are still being produced at the Zhukovsky Bicycle Plant to this day.

The best gravels and hybrid bikes of 2023

Hybrid Merida Crossway 100 Lady

• Frame material: aluminum alloy
• Wheels: diameter 28″, double rim
• Cushioning: Hard tail
• Female gender
• Number of speeds: 27
• Brake: rear disc hydraulic / front disc hydraulic

  •  Do you need a bicycle that can be used in the city and hit the river, and ride through the forest-fields to your heart's content? Well, Merida Crossway is at your service. It is equipped with a soft spring-elastomer fork – but if desired, you can pick up a hard fork without losing geometry.

  •  According to reviews, tires up to 50 mm without a pronounced tread or 47 mm with a tread can be installed on the Merida Crossway. Shimano's touring equipment is good enough that you don't have to change it. And the only drawback of this model is the high cost. However, it will pay off, as you can pass on this well-built and durable bike by inheritance.

Pros and cons reliable assembly maneuverable a large number of speeds price

Hybrid Welt Floxy 1.0 D 26 (2022)

• Frame material: aluminum alloy
• Wheels: diameter 26″, double rim
• Female gender
• Cushioning: Hard tail
• Number of speeds: 21
• Brake: front disc mechanical / rear disc mechanical

  •  This model of the Austrian brand, Chinese assembly and with the Japanese-Chinese Shimano/Microshift body kit is perfect for trips both around the city and on simple cross-country routes.

  •  Thanks to Artek MD-13 mechanical brakes, the bike brakes quickly and confidently on dry and wet roads. The aluminum frame kept the Welt Floxy down to 15.5kg. The bike itself can withstand a weight of 100 kg.

Pros and cons: suspension fork with 60 mm travel; comfortable walking saddle; comfortable fit; poor equipment – only the bike itself

Hybrid STARK Outpost 27.1 D (2022)

• Frame material: aluminum alloy
• Wheels: diameter 27.5″, double rim
• Cushioning: Hard tail
• Number of speeds: 21
• Brake: rear disc mechanical / front disc mechanical

  •  An ideal choice for short riders, and a large selection of speeds will allow you to choose your option for pedaling. ADC-11 mechanical brakes from the APSE brand stop the bike exactly where the owner needs it.

  •  The steering wheel may seem a little low, but it is ideal for high-speed driving. The frame of the "Stark" is strong and thick enough, made of aluminum alloy (there is a version with a steel frame). Body kit initial — Shimano Tourney. All the bumps in the road are taken over by the Easing ES-225 spring suspension fork.

Pros and cons high-quality tires Citron CT-1201 2,1 "reliable braking system can withstand weight up to 110 kg poor equipment – only the footboard

Hybrid STELS Cross 130 MD Lady 28 V010

• Frame material: aluminum alloy
• Wheels: diameter 28″, double rim
• Female gender
• Cushioning: Hard tail
• Number of speeds: 21
• Brake: rear disc mechanical / front disc mechanical

  •  This bike has an adjustable fork spring rate, and the fork itself is an SR Suntour NEX with 63mm travel, a touring level. The steering column is threadless, light, rigid and there is no danger that the threads can turn sour or break. The body kit is initial, but from a well-known manufacturer – Shimano Tourney.

  •  A large number of gears, as well as a reliable transmission, Cross 130 borrowed from mountain bikes. And the word Lady in the name indicates the female type of frame – with it there is less risk of tearing clothes when you sit on the bike, and it is more convenient for short people. But if you don’t like this frame, then there is an option and Cross 130 Gent.

Pros and consquick-detachable wheelsreliable brakeslightweight (14.5 kg) can withstand weight up to 100 kgpoor equipment, except, in fact, the bike is nothing

Hybrid TRINX FREE 2.0

• Frame material: aluminum alloy
• Wheels: diameter 28″, double rim
• Gender: unisex
• Cushioning: Rigid (hard)
• Number of speeds: 24
• Brake: rear disc mechanical / front disc mechanical

  •  This bike belongs to gravels – road models adapted to dirt roads. At the same time, in terms of the number of gears and cassette, it is close to mountain bikes.

  •  TRINX FREE 2.0 has a relaxed geometry that allows you to sit comfortably for long periods of time, while the bike is light (12.8 kg), which makes it easy to maneuver on the road.

  •  It features TRINX disc brakes and an entry-level SHIMANO body kit.

Pros and cons feels confident on the pavement and on the ground speeds switch clearly holds the rollover well the kit has a footboard and a bell threadless steering column wings will have to be bought separately

The best track, road and touring bikes of 2023

Road bike Format 5222 (2021)

• Frame Material: Chrome Molybdenum Alloy
• Wheels: diameter 28″, double rim
• Cushioning: Rigid (hard)
• Number of speeds: 16
• Brake: rear disc mechanical / front disc mechanical

  •  You can’t call this budget model with all your desire. What can justify such a high price?

1. First, endurance – a bike weighing 15,3 kg is designed for an owner weighing up to 120 kg.
2. Secondly, a light, beautiful and durable chrome-molybdenum alloy frame. It dampens vibrations well.
3. Thirdly, CST Traveler tires that provide reliable grip even on wet asphalt.
4. Fourth, the threadless design of the steering column.
5. Fifth, a reliable TRP Spyre mechanical brake system, 160 mm, which works with a light touch on the brake handle. It performs well in both wet and dry pavement.
6. Sixth, full-fledged rotors from TRP to improve "contact" with the brakes.
7. Finally, bonks under the down tube appeared in the model – you can place a trunk with tools or a thermos.

Pros and conspractical paintworkdurable constructionincludes trunk and fendersprice

Fixed gear bike Bear Bike Saint Petersburg 2021

• Frame material: aluminum alloy
• Wheels: diameter 28″, double rim
• Gender: unisex
• Cushioning: Rigid (hard)
• Number of speeds: 1
• Brake: rear caliper / front caliper TEKTRO R315

  •  If you make the top 10 best bikes for men and women, then the model from Bear Bike will definitely enter it due to its lightness (10 kg) and strength – it can withstand a rider up to 100 kg.

  •  This model has only one gear, which means that it is as simple as possible to use and maintain. The material of the frame and fork is steel, the saddle is made of vulcanized rubber, durable and comfortable for long rides.

  •  The steering wheel has rubber grips that are comfortable to grip. The Tektro R315 brakes fitted to this bike are popular and are often used on road and hybrid bikes. According to reviews, they brake well even on wet soil.

Pros and cons fast lightweight comfortable fit bushings on industrial bearings threadless steering column price

Track bike Bear Bike Armata 2021

• Frame material: aluminum alloy
• Wheels: diameter 28″, double rim
• Gender: unisex
• Cushioning: Rigid (hard)
• Number of speeds: 1
• Brake: front caliper

  •  Lightweight (8.5 kg) and agile, the bike will support a rider weighing up to 100 kg. The aluminum alloy frame provides fast acceleration and good aerodynamics. The Armata 2021 has only one brake, but it is simple and reliable – Tektro R525, from a well-known manufacturer of brake systems for bicycles.

  •  Another advantage of "Armata" is a modern and durable threadless design of the steering column. The benchmark for sports models.

Pros and cons comfortable faux leather saddle light weight quality build price

Touring bike Desna Cruise 28 Z010

• Frame material: steel
• Wheels: diameter 28″
• Cushioning: Rigid (hard)
• Number of speeds: 1
• Brake: rear foot / front missing

  •  Among the top 10 best bicycles manufactured by the Zhukovsky Bicycle Plant, Desna Cruise stands out both in weight – 17.3 kg and in a solid package, which includes metal fenders, a bell, a trunk and chain protection. But there is no pump included.

  •  The saddle of this bike is comfortable, spring-loaded, the frame is made of durable Hi-Ten steel, the height of the steering wheel is adjustable. "Desna Cruise" is great for active parents with preschool children – you can easily install a children's bike seat.

  •  The disadvantages include a small amount of lubricant, the manufacturer clearly saved.

Pros and cons durablecomfortable fitgreat for city trips with baby easy to assembleheavy little lubrication

Road bike STELS XT 280 V010

• Wheels: diameter 28″, double rim
• Cushioning: Rigid (hard)
• Number of speeds: 14
• Brake: rear caliper / front caliper

  •  The bike is made of ultra-light aluminum alloy, which reduced the weight of the structure to 12.5 kg. U-type walking brakes, which are equipped with the STELS XT 280 V010, are durable, if necessary, they can be assembled, disassembled and even repaired on their own.

  •  This model has entry-level Shimano attachments. And the tires are also “initial” – thin, they cling well to dirt and debris. Therefore, bike owners recommend changing them to Schwalbe Marathon.

Pros and cons light industrial bearings good reeling comfortable steering wheel – even a sweaty hand does not slip light reflectors thin tires

The best city bikes of 2023

City bike STELS Energy VI 26 V010

• Frame material: steel
• Wheels: diameter 26″
• Cushioning: Rigid (hard)
• Number of speeds: 6
• Brake: Front rim (V-Brake) / Rear band

  •  A solid, masculine both in appearance and weight (27 kg) tricycle bike for shopping trips, as well as delivering goods weighing up to 50 kg. It has both a front trunk and a large basket under the rear axle.

  •  The chrome-plated frame of this model is made of Hi-Ten steel, the fork is also steel. Of course, STELS Energy is not designed for trips along gullies or unpaved paths, but it will drive quickly and confidently around the city.

  •  The bike is equipped with front and rear steel fenders that will protect both rider and cargo from mud and splashing water. Thanks to the low profile frame, this model will be comfortable for both men and women.

Pros and cons high-quality assembly wear-resistant will help to carry large and heavy loads

City bike ALTAIR City low 28

• Frame Size: 19″
• Frame material: steel
• Wheels: diameter 28″, double rim
• Female gender
• Cushioning: Rigid (hard)
• Brake: rear foot

  •  Among the best bikes, this model is distinguished by its simplicity of design and good equipment, which includes:

• call,
• step,
• trunk,
• chain protection,
• wings.

  •  ALTAIR City low 28 does not have a front brake, only a foot brake. The saddle is wide and soft, and the frame is made of steel – stronger, but also heavier than the aluminum options. A slightly curved fork will soften the impact if the wheel hits a hole. Although the pedals are plastic, they have small “spikes” so that the foot does not slip off.

  •  Overall, this is an inexpensive, well-made bike for commuting to the store or work, and a great option for those who don't want to overpay for unnecessary options.

Pros and cons durable and neatly made design keeps rolling softly for a long time and lightly heavy for a city bike – 16,5 kg it is better not to ride on unmade roads – you will feel every pebble

City bike Desna 2200

• Frame material: steel
• Wheels: diameter 20″
• Cushioning: Rigid (hard)
• Number of speeds: 1
• Brake: rear foot / front missing

  •  "Desna" from the Zhukovsky Bicycle Plant is a long-standing bicycle brand, known since the times of the USSR, and once such a bicycle was a welcome gift for any teenager. A lot of time has passed since the collapse of the Union, but Desna is still afloat, and produces inexpensive and reliable models.

  •  Bicycle "Desna 2200" fell in love with Russian users for a reliable design made of steel and aluminum, good equipment (there is a trunk, chain protection, steel fenders and a bell), and low weight (14,8 kg).

  •  You can adjust the Desna for different heights of the owner, the maximum weight declared by the manufacturer is 70 kg, so the bike is suitable for both teenagers and adults.

  •  There are complaints that the pedal shaft and other parts of the bike are overtightened, so the bike may have to be “brought to mind” on its own.

Pros and Cons Maneuverable Lightweight Foldable Wide, spring-loaded saddle No assembly tools included No assembly instructions Requires "file work" to assemble

City bike STELS Pilot 450 20 Z011

• Frame material: steel
• Wheels: diameter 20″
• Cushioning: Rigid (hard)
• Number of speeds: 6
• Brake: rear and front V-break

  •  The small and sleek city bike is equipped with vector type brakes (V-break), which are comfortable and easy to set up and reliable in operation. It has a folding frame, so the bike can be carried in the trunk. Another advantage of this model is the package, which includes:

• chain protection,
• call,
• trunk,
• wings.

  •  Otherwise, the STELS Pilot 450 20 Z011 is a solid middle peasant in the price / quality bike rating. Weighing in at just under 16kg, it's rated for a maximum weight of 90kg, carries the entry-level Shimano Tourney body kit, and is great for shorter people. For quiet trips around the city, it is ideal, but for aggressive rides through mud, bumps and unpaved paths, it is better to look at another option.

Pros and cons high-quality assembly the steering wheel can be adjusted in height and inclination comfortable, wide pedals it rides well on a rolled ground the trunk, although it is, is flimsy low speed – up to 20 km / h

City bike SHULZ Goa Coaster

• Cyclist height: 150-200 cm
• Frame material: aluminum alloy
• Wheels: diameter 20″, double rim
• Cushioning: Rigid (hard)
• Number of speeds: 3
• Brake: Rear Foot/Front V-Brake

  •  Few bikes in the 2023 price/quality rankings can boast the weight of the SHULZ Goa Coaster at 12.3kg. With its lightness, this model can withstand a cyclist weighing up to 100 kg.

  •  SHULZ Goa Coaster is equipped with a planetary hub (in fact, a miniature gearbox), the advantages of which are a minimum of maintenance, a long service life and the ability to quickly switch gears even if the bike is stationary.

  •  I also note the generous package, which includes:

• case for storage and transportation,
• trunk,
• call,
• chain protection,
• wings,
• step.

  •  The saddle is made of artificial leather, very comfortable and soft. Anatomical grips allow you to securely grab the steering wheel, while the palm will not hurt or rub during a long trip.

  •  Buyers note that the handlebars of this bike are wide enough, so you have to hold it tightly and you won’t be able to ride relaxed.

Pros and cons foldable design accelerates quickly, rolls well light low paint quality low speeds

The best mountain bikes of 2023

Mountain bike (MTB) STELS Adrenalin MD 27.5+ V010

• Frame material: aluminum alloy
• Wheels: diameter 27.5″
• Cushioning: Hard tail
• Number of speeds: 21
• Brake: front mechanical / rear mechanical

  •  According to the manufacturer, this bike weighing 16 kg can support a rider weighing 100-110 kg. It is equipped with front and rear mechanical brakes, unlike the Stels Adrenalin D 27.5″ V010 model, which has hydraulic brakes.

  •  In addition to large, powerful wheels, this model has a comfortable seat and a solid construction – and the pedals and handlebars and frame are made of aluminum alloy. Another advantage is industrial bearings.

  •  However, according to owners, the tires are quite noisy on asphalt, and its Shimano Tourney attachments are entry-level, so it’s better to use the bike infrequently on rough terrain.

Pros and cons high-quality assembly wide, comfortable handlebar tires suitable for asphalt, dirt and mud good rolling, although heavy for acceleration paintwork is unstable to scratches brakes require tuning weak rear hub

Mountain bike (MTB) STELS Navigator 930 MD 29 V010

• Frame material: aluminum alloy
• Wheels: diameter 29″
• Cushioning: Hard tail
• Number of speeds: 24
• Brake: front mechanical / rear mechanical

  •  This bike weighs 15.6 kg and can support a rider weighing up to 120 kg (although the manufacturer only guarantees 100 kg). It has mechanical shock absorbers, and a strong but not heavy aluminum construction.

  •  You can choose different frame sizes, and for short people (a frame of 16.5 inches is suitable for them), for people who are taller (18-18.5 inches) and for people who are 185 cm and taller (20.5 inches).

  •  Thanks to the large diameter of the wheels, the bike behaves well both on asphalt and on uneven, rocky or muddy surfaces.

  •  When buying, keep in mind that the equipment of the STELS Navigator 930 is not rich, so the bottle holder and wings will have to be purchased separately.

Pros and consSturdy constructionComfortable steering wheelLarge wheels Non-scratch resistant paintwork

Mountain bike (MTB) STELS Miss 6100 MD 26 V030

• Frame material: aluminum alloy
• Wheels: diameter 26″
• Female gender
• Cushioning: Hard tail
• Number of speeds: 21
• Brake: front mechanical / rear mechanical

  •  One of the best mountain bikes in terms of price and quality is lightweight (15 kg), so even a fragile woman can take it out of the apartment and bring it into it. The brakes of this model are mechanical, the initial kit is Shimano Tourney. The kit comes with wings and a footrest, and the bottle holder will have to be purchased separately.

  •  Assembling this vehicle is quite easy, which is good, since according to customer reviews, there are no assembly instructions in the kit. The STELS Miss has good cushioning, a smooth ride, and is a great option for both short and long rides.

Pros and cons weight good grip good build quality disc brakes will have to be adjusted

Mountain bike 27,5″ RX 705 DISC ST 21sk RUSH HOUR

• Frame size 18″
• Frame material: steel
• Wheels: diameter 27.5″, double rim
• Gender: unisex
• Number of speeds: 21
• Brake: front mechanical / rear mechanical

  •  Looking for the best bike for a big rider? Then pay attention to this model from RUSH HOUR, with its own weight of 16.4 kg, it can withstand a rider up to 120 kg in weight. The frame is made of steel – very strong, although not too light.

  •  The body kit for this model, like most inexpensive bikes, is Shimano Tourney. The brakes are the simplest – disc, mechanical (RUIPUT DS310A), but reliable and allow the bike to stop quickly. Includes fenders, kickstand and reflectors.

  •  The RUSH HOUR steering column is threadless, thanks to which the steering wheel is firmly fixed, and at the same time turns smoothly.

  •  According to reviews, it is very easy to assemble the RX 705 DISC ST 21sk, and there are corresponding guides on YouTube.

Pros and cons of industrial bearingbright, eye-catching housingdurable designtransmissions are easy to switchhigh-quality tirespaint coating that is not resistant to chips and scratchesthe manufacturer saved on fork anthers, which is why oil seals can quickly become unusable

Mountain bike (MTB) FORWARD Apache 29 3.2 Disc

• Frame material: aluminum alloy
• Wheels: diameter 29″, double rim
• Cushioning: Hard tail
• Number of speeds: 21
• Brake: rear disc hydraulic / front disc hydraulic

  •  If you are looking for a model with hydraulic brakes among the best bikes in price and quality in 2023, then this is FORWARD Apache. It features Clarks Clout 160mm sports brakes that bring the bike to a stop where you want it to be with pinpoint accuracy. Great option for extreme mountain riding.

  •  Also, the advantages of the model include a threadless design of the steering column and a wide choice of speeds.

Pros and consthere are plastic fenders in the kitlarge diameter wheelstires are good for both asphalt and soil oak and heavy fork, as one of the buyers put it, although the saddle is ergonomic according to the manufacturer, it is rigid and narrow for large people

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