Getting back to cycling is one of the best things for seniors but it can get a bit confusing choosing the right bike for the right person.
Well, it doesn’t have to be complicated. I have ridden and tried every single bike out there (almost) and did my research to help out the seniors for the sake of my mum ( I wanted to make sure she stays healthy even after her 56th birthday this year).
I have compiled the list and reviews of the best bikes you can get for both men and women in their senior years, and gave out a detailed buying guide on what to look for when choosing a bike for a senior.
No one can’t deny how amazing bicycles are. They are fun, they keep you healthy, happy, and take you to places. It would take pages to lay out all the ways bikes can positively help you.
One doesn’t simply want to refrain from having fun as they age up, and we say – you don’t have to. Even seniors can comfortably enjoy a bike riding experience once you choose the right bike suited for seniors.
Hopefully, now you don’t have to surf through hundreds of bikes available out there. This will save you time and let you make the best decision to choose the best bicycle for seniors.
Buying Guide: Choose The Best Bicycle For Seniors
What to look for in a bicycle for seniors?
There are a few things to consider when you are buying a bike for seniors. Considering these few things will make sure you get the best-suited bike for a senior.
Buying the right bike for you makes all the difference. The right one will motivate you to go out and enjoy, and the wrong one will be a money waster that will rot in your garage.
We are considering that seniors are most likely to ride on paved roads, parks, or beaches rather than going for versatile riding and challenging trails.
We would still suggest something great for the seniors who are active and want a bit of challenge for the sake of exercise or fun.
We are not mentioning bikes based on gender. It’s the 21st century and we don’t discriminate bikes by shape. Hence, we will be mentioning the bikes simply as step through and step over versions instead of saying bikes for women and bikes for men respectively
Type of bike
All kinds of different bikes are available out there in the market, and it can be confusing. Once you understand why and for whom you wanna buy a bike, things become a lot simpler.
When it comes to seniors, you’d want something senior-friendly – that rides well around paved roads, parks, and beaches. Although it might vary depending upon each persona.
Mostly, a cruiser bike or hybrid bike would be most suitable for almost all senior riders out there. Electric bikes are also a great option for seniors. Check out our writing on the best electric bike for seniors to know more.
Frame & Size
No one frame is suited for all different seniors, yet this is the first and most important thing to consider.
Make sure the frame is a step-through frame in case the person has issues mounting a regular bike with a high top bar. It’s not quite easy for everyone to mount a regular bike.
Having a step through frame is such a comforting option. Also, make sure the bike is lightweight. Most seniors would prefer a lighter bike that they can flick around easily.
However, lightweight aluminum or carbon fiber frames are a bit on the expensive side. If the rider is strong enough to handle a slightly heavier bike, then a steel frame is a great affordable option.
No matter how good of a bike you get, it wouldn’t be worth a penny if you can’t ride it properly. To get the optimum output and fun from a bike, it should fit you. Go through the size guide to make sure the bike fits the rider.
Handlebar, seat, tires, and suspension
Handlebars that are upright and swept backward will give maximum comfort and support for easy and effortless riding.
The seating position should be lower, upright, and comfortable. Having a lower seat makes sure the rider can place both feet on the ground while seating on the saddle straight.
A comfortable and well-cushioned seat is extremely important as well. Better seats come with a dual spring setup and they are very wide for comfort maximization.
During riding, bumpy roads can cause back pain and discomfort. Having a good suspension on the bike, or having wider tires, makes all the difference. A good suspension and a pair of wider tires make the ride quality so much better.
Gears and Brake system
A bike with multiple speed is sure versatile, but it comes with a higher price tag and more maintenance is needed as well.
Single-speed bikes are awesome if the bike is intended to ride on paved roads and over short distances. However, if the neighborhood has uphill areas or different terrain, and the rider wants to ride longer distances, then getting a multiple-speed bike makes more sense.
Having multiple gears make sure it becomes easier for the rider to pedal on uphill or challenging roads.
Brake System
The brake system is yet another important factor. Someone wanting to ride a short distance might be okay with a coaster brake, all the rider has to is pedal backward. Coaster brakes are long-lasting and provide you a minimalistic look since wires do not hang here and there.
On the other hand, rim or V-brakes are okay to gave for small distance riding as well. If the rider intends to cruise at a higher speed and ride in urban areas, getting a disk brake variant is the best possible option even if it makes you spend a bit more.
Other Features
Having extra features is always nice to have. Features mentioned here are not absolutely necessary, but they are nice to have.
Rear rack: This helps you to carry stuff around easily.
Chainguard: Makes sure the chain stays clean and don’t get stuck with your pants
Mirrors: It looks cool and aids in riding without having to look back
Reflector: It increases visibility during nighttime riding
Headlight and horn: These two are much needed if the bike is ridden in a busy area at night
Fenders: Keeps your bike and clothes clean during the rainy season
Budget
Last but one of the most important things is the budget. Considering your budget from the first makes sure you save your time and look for the right category to begin with. Spending more doesn’t ensure the best fit, and spending a bit less doesn’t mean you get something bad.
What matters is how well you utilize the budget. Hopefully, with the buying guide, that shouldn’t be a problem. Furthermore, we have done all the research for you and created a list of some of the best bicycles for seniors.
Bike Reviews To Find The Best Bike For Seniors
Schwinn Discover Hybrid Bike for Men and Women
Product Specifications
- Derailleur: 21 speed
- Frame: Aluminum
- Brakes: Front and rear V brake
- Wheel Size: 28”
- Suspension fork: Yes
- Rider height: 5’4” to 6’2”
- Weight: 35 lbs
- Frame size: 16”/18”
Schwinn Discover Hybrid bike review ( Schwinn bikes for seniors)
A reputed brand and a proven bike. Schwinn discover is a delight to ride in the city and for leisure or commuting purposes. It has all the features to make it comfortable and stylish at the same time.
When it comes to looks, this is classic and you can’t go wrong with this.
The bike is functional and durable with a lightweight yet strong Aluminum frame. If maintained correctly, it will provide you service for a good amount of time.
You can choose between step through or step over frame as per your liking. Both the versions have the same specification.
Curved handlebar, suspension fork, quick release wheels, comfortable seat, 21 speed derailleur makes it a wonderful combination to ride in the city and take it to a challenging road condition if needed.
Anyone wanting to buy a proven and comfortable city bike will be perfectly happy with Schwinn discover. Besides, it could be one of the best exercise bicycles for seniors.
Note that: The bike is very easy to assemble using the manual they provide. You can also find the manual as a pdf from Amazon
Why We Like It
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Strong Built and lightweight
- Very comfortable
- Suspension Fork
- Fenders and Rear cargo
Keep Note
- No Disk Brakes
Sixthreezero Ride In The Park City Road bicycle
Product Specifications
- Derailleur: 7 speed
- Frame: Aluminum
- Brakes: Front and rear V brake
- Wheel Size: 26”
- Suspension fork: No
- Rider height:5’3” to 6’2”
- Weight: 33 lbs
- Frame size: 18”
Sixthreezero Ride In The Park Men and Women City bike review
This bike has one of the most popular designs out there, it’s a bit Europe vibe, especially the step through version.
The design language of this bike is very mature and premium. The attention to details with those leather handlebars is commendable.
This bike can handle paved road pretty well, but not suitable for unpaved bumpy roads. What’s super fun about the bike is its speed. The tires are on the thinner side, hence you can speed up like a road bike without having to bend and stay in an uncomfortable posture.
Adjusting the bike to fit you perfectly is super easy. You can adjust the seat height, handlebar height, and tilt without any problem.
Quick tip – if you are shorter than 5’0” to 5’2” and still wanna ride this bike, then changing the seat and lowering it down would work out for you. (check this video).
The curved handlebar, comfortable seat, quick-release wheels, and 7-speed derailleur make it a wonderful commuter bike that is comfortable and fast at the same time.
Anyone wanting to buy a proven and comfortable city bike to ride fast, will love Sixthreeezero Ride in the Park.
Why We Like It
- 7 speed variant
- Strong Built and lightweight
- Very comfortable
- Fenders and rear cargo rack
- Very Easy to assemble (online video guide)
Keep Note
- No Disk Brakes
Product Specifications
- Derailleur:21 speed
- Frame: Aluminum
- Brakes: Front and rear Disk brake
- Wheel Size: 28”
- Suspension fork: yes
- Rider height:5’4” to 6’2”
- Weight: 38.8 lbs
- Frame size: 17”
Schwinn GTX 2.0 Comfort Adult Hybrid bike review (Schwinn bikes for seniors)
Schwinn GTX 2.0 Comfort Adult Hybrid bike review (Schwinn bikes for seniors)
Once again, a Schwinn bike makes it on our list. This is a “go get it” type bike. It’s ready for anything you throw at it. It is designed modern, has step through frame, and looks clean and stunning.
The bike is packed with useful feature that makes it a versatile package. You can ride it on road for small commute, and you can ride it on trails or challenging terrains without any worries at all.
This is a bike for enthusiastic energetic seniors who seek fun. No matter what you wanna do, the bike has got your back. Schwinn hybrid bike is always there for you.
Upright sitting position, suspension fork, quick release wheels, comfortable seat, strong aluminum frame, 21 speed derailleur, and multi-use tires, makes it a wonderful combination to ride in the city and take it to a off road riding. The dual disk brake settings perfectly compliment the power this bike offers.
Anyone wanting to buy a go getter bike that is versatile, super fun, yet reliable will love GTX 2.0 – which we consider one of the best hybrid bikes for seniors.
Note that: The bike is very easy to assemble using the manual they provide. You can also find the manual as pdf from Amazon
Why We Like It
- 21 speed derailleur
- Strong Built Aluminum frame
- Multi-use tires (quick release)
- Disk brakes
Keep Note
- No Fenders
Raleigh Detour 2 Hybrid Bike
Product Specifications
- Derailleur:21 speed
- Frame: Aluminum
- Brakes: Front and rear Disk brake
- Wheel Size: 700 c
- Suspension fork: No
- Rider height:SM 5’4” to 5’7” / LG 5’10” to 6’1”
- Weight: 27.98lbs
- Frame size: SM 15/LG19
Raleigh Detour 2 and Detour 2 step thru Hybrid bike review
The design language is very minimalistic yet aggressive. The bike has a strong character to it. It can easily handle rider heavier than 300 pounds even though the bike is comparatively lightweight (28lbs).
For those who want a fast and strong bike will definitely love this one. Speeding is super convenient because of the quality 24 speed gears and slimmer tires.
The bike is fairly comfortable to ride on paved road, but not suitable for off road riding.
Curved handlebar, suspension fork, quick release wheels, comfortable seat, 21 speed derailleur makes it a wonderful combination to ride in the city and take it to a challenging road condition if needed.
Having said all of that, if you want a more comfortable version with suspension fork and padded seat with the reliability and strength of Raleigh brand, then check out – Raleigh Venture 2 comfort bike.
Anyone wanting to buy a go getter bike that is versatile, super fun, yet reliable will love GTX 2.0.
Why We Like It
- 24 speed derailleur
- Strong enough for heavy riders
- Light weight
- Fast bike
Keep Note
- Narrow seat
Sixthreezero Around The Block Men & Women Cruiser Bike
Product Specifications
- Derailleur: 1,3,7,21 speed
- Frame: Steel
- Brakes: Front and rear V brake
- Wheel Size: 26”/24”
- Suspension fork: No
- Rider height: 5’0” to 6’2” / 4’2” to 4’11” (options available)
- Weight: 35 lbs
- Frame size: 19”/17”
Sixthreezero around the block men’s and women’s beach cruiser bike review
What’s so wonderful about this bike is that it offers something for everyone. It comes in different ptions so that everyone can get their desired variant.
It’s a good-looking comfortable bicycle that can be ridden by shorter, taller, heavier, beginner, or any type of riders.
The bike is super comfortable and easy to ride which makes it ideal even for beginners. If you are someone who haven’t ridden a bike before, this is the one to go for. For this bike, comfort comes first. And that is ensured by wide, and well cushioned spring seat along with wider tires.
It comes different speed variant, different sizes, and a lots of different color schemes. You hop on to the bike and you will feel how easy and comfortable this bike is to ride. Every ride will give you a reason to smile.
Upright sitting position, strong steel frame, multiple speed options, different sizes, and comfortable seat makes it a wonderful bike for almost anyone who wants a leisure ride.
It’s such a proven and lovely bike that we couldn’t help but fall in love with it again and again. Beside that, the bike is super easy to assemble as well. Sixthreezero Around The Block offers durability, comfort, and reliability at the same time.
Why We Like It
- Value for money
- Strong Built Steel Frame
- Low Maintenance
- Affordable
- Cargo rack
Keep Note
- No Fenders
Other great options to look
Including Best Step Through Bikes For Seniors
Sixthreezero Evryjourney Steel Hybrid Bike
Product Specifications
- Derailleur: 7 speed
- Frame: Steel
- Wheel Size: 26”
- Frame size: 17”]
Sixthreezero Reach Your Destination Hybrid Bike
Product Specifications
- Derailleur: 7 speed
- Frame: Aluminum
- Wheel Size: 26”
- Frame size: 17”
Vilano 700C Retro City Commuter Hybrid Bike
Product Specifications
- Derailleur: 7 speed
- Frame: Steel
- Wheel Size: 26”
- Frame size: 17”
Raleigh Venture 2 Comfort Bike
Product Specifications
- Derailleur: 21 speed
- Frame: Aluminum Alloy
- Wheel Size: 27.5”
- Frame size:19”/17”/15”
Raleigh Venture 2 Step Thru Comfort Bike
Product Specifications
- Derailleur: 21 speed
- Frame: Aluminum Alloy
- Wheel Size: 27.5”
- Frame size: 17”/15”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is bike rides good for seniors? Is it safe for seniors to ride a bike?
When it comes to a senior, they have to actively put effort into exercising, whereas young people tend to have their daily dose of exercise through all the hustle they pull off.
Health is the greatest well there is, and for seniors – it is a serious concern.
Getting to ride a bike for a few minutes daily makes sure that seniors stay fit and healthy. It is a great form of exercise both physically and mentally. However, if someone has a serious condition and you are worried about that, consulting your doctor might be a good idea. Otherwise, bike riding is beneficial for seniors.
What kind of bike is easiest to ride?
Bikes that allow you to rest your foot on the ground while seated comfortably on the saddle are easier to ride. More to that, having an upright position and curved handlebar makes it easier for the rider as well. The rider feels more comfortable, relaxed, and secure.
This means hybrid, cruisers, and step through bikes are easier to ride.
Beginner riders, senior people, or people with arthritis or bad knees might want to get something easy to ride or have specialized bikes if needed.
What are the Best Bicycles for Seniors? (Best Bicycle for Older Person)
Some of the best bicycles for seniors are – Raleigh venture 2 comfort bike, Sixthreezero Around The Block cruiser bike, and Schwinn discover hybrid bike.
These bikes are comfortable, reliable, and among the best step through bikes for seniors.
Conclusion
Wouldn’t you want to maintain a healthy lifestyle without putting much effort into it? Of course, you would.
Getting a bike makes things simple and fun. You use it to commute and have fun, and your daily quota for exercise gets fulfilled as well.
Making the right choice once gets rid of having to make more choices ahead in life.
Get yourself a great bike using the best bike for seniors guide and step into a wonderful and healthy leisure activity.
You’ve still got a lot of life left in you to go some extra mile with that bike of yours.