Multiple types of city bikes are manufactured to facilitate convenient transportation within urban areas. Two primary factors that bind these city bikes together are their emphasis on providing a comfortable riding experience and their ease of maintenance. However, when it comes to their structural design, these bikes can exhibit significant variations from one another. Classic urban models serve as the starting point for classifying bikes intended for urban environments.

Classic city bikes

Classic city bikes typically have common features such as a straight-forward riding position, user-friendly controls, a comfortable frame, a convenient curved handlebar, smooth wide tires, a soft saddle. Most often, such models lack depreciation — there is no need for it when riding on smooth asphalt or paving slabs. City bikes provide maximum comfort for trips through the arteries of the "stone jungle", but at the same time they are practically unsuitable for cross-country riding, especially off-road.

Classic city bikes can have both closed and open frame geometry.

The frame of urban models can be aluminium or steel, attachments are mainly used as a body kit. It is worth noting that city bikes are typically equipped with all the necessary accessories straight from the factory. Let's delve into these points in more detail.

Frame geometry

According to the frame geometry, city bikes are conditionally categorized into two subcategories:

Number of gears

City bikes are typically designed to navigate city traffic smoothly and handle moderate inclines. They often come equipped with an entry-level transmission system offering a range of speeds from 1 to 7. Of course, there are exceptions to this rule, but they are not widespread.

Bicycles with a single-speed transmission are commonly called single-speed. These are the simplest models without gear shifting, equipped with the pedal brake or V-brake rim brakes. Note that single-speed bikes offer freewheeling, allowing the rear wheel to rotate independently of the pedals when coasting. Fixed-gear bikes lack the freewheeling feature where the pedals are constantly in motion while the rear wheel is spinning. But in some subcultures of riders, they are used for the urban rhythm of travel. It is important to note that this type of single-speed bike is not suitable for everyone, and it may require some time and practice to become accustomed to managing it effectively.

A planetary hub is often installed in city bikes — a durable and low-maintenance enclosed gear shifting mechanism.

As for multi-speed transmissions, there are two options for implementing gear shifting:

  • External transmission, consisting of a system (front sprockets), a cassette (rear sprockets), chain derailleur and shifters on the handlebar.
  • The planetary hub is a closed design gearshift mechanism located inside the rear wheel hub.
Good to know. “Why does a bike need so many speeds?” — the answers to this question are detailed in the relevant material.

In the realm of city bikes, the "planetary" gear system is highly regarded. It is appreciated for its easy setup, minimal maintenance requirements, reliable dust and moisture protection of transmission components. While bikes with a planetary hub typically offer a limited number of speeds (from 3 to 7), this gear range is considered sufficient for urban riding conditions.

Attributes of city bikes

As city bikes are commonly ridden in casual clothes, full-size fenders and a chainguard are essential features that are typically included in their design. Additionally, it can be beneficial to equip city bikes with a bicycle bell to alert inattentive pedestrians and encourage them to clear the bike paths. With regular trips along city streets at night, you must have lighting equipment — a headlight and a rear flashing light. In many models of city bikes, these accessories are included in the standard package.

Less commonly, city bikes are equipped with a handlebar basket for transporting various goods (for example, purchases from a supermarket), a luggage carrier with latches for securing goods. To enhance the convenience of parking city bikes, a foldable kickstand is also often provided.

An optional but stylish feature of city bikes is a vintage retro design. These bikes are styled to resemble antique bicycles, with distinct frame contours and white sidewalls on the tires. While these models may appear reminiscent of the past century, they are technologically on par with modern counterparts.

Cruiser bikes

Cruiser bikes are a special variety of classic city bikes, which are clearly inspired by the design of vintage motorcycles. Cruiser bikes are characterized by their elongated frame geometry, featuring a vertical riding position, a soft and comfortable saddle, and a wide handlebar positioned forward. Many cruiser models are equipped with wide-profile tires, which make it easy to roll even along the coastal zone on the beaches. These bikes are marketed as excellent options for leisurely rides and strolls.

Cruiser bikes differentiate themselves from other types with their sleek frame contours, reminiscent of classic motorcycles.

Cruiser bikes are usually equipped with either a transmission without gear shifting or a planetary hub with a range of 3 to 8 speeds. In terms of body kit and accessories, cruisers are also completely similar to classic city bikes. Riding a cruiser bike undoubtedly sets the rider apart and garners attention from onlookers.

Compact folding bikes

In a bustling city, it may not always be feasible to cover all distances solely by bicycle. There are instances where it is more convenient to reach the starting point of a cycling route using private vehicles or public transportation. It is unlikely that a full-size bike would be allowed on the subway or bus, but a compact folding bike in such situations can be a real savior.

Compact and mobile folding bikes are easy to store and transport in transport.

The main advantages of folding bikes are compactness and mobility when folded. In addition, the ability to fold the frame greatly simplifies the storage of the bike. Having a compact-sized folding bike makes it easier to find storage space in small living accommodations. Moreover, if there is no bike parking available near your workplace, you have the flexibility to pack the folding bike into a case and conveniently take it along with you.

Compact folding bikes often have smaller wheels, typically ranging from 16 to 20 inches in diameter. This makes them less suitable for long-distance travel. However, the advantage of having a gear-shifting transmission allows riders to conquer uphill climbs, steep hills and adjust pedaling force according to their preferred riding style.

Hybrid (road) bikes

To some extent, hybrid (road) bicycles can be considered as part of the urban bike category. This is something between classic city bikes and miners. Hybrid (road) bicycles inherit certain features from urban bikes, such as rigid suspension and larger wheels that facilitate high-speed riding. They also borrow elements from mountain bikes, including a sporty riding position, a wide range of gears, and a sturdy frame design.

Road models can be considered as a hybrid between city bikes and mountain bikes.

Road bikes are usually equipped with fixed protective fenders, chainguards, a kickstand and other characteristic attributes of city bikes. However, this option offers greater versatility, as road bikes perform well in both city traffic and light off-road conditions, making them suitable for long-distance travel. Do not confuse road models with tourist and even with highway models. The first are designed for long trips on different types of road surfaces, the latter for driving on smooth roads for maximum distances and at maximum speed.

Electric bikes

Cycling has been significantly influenced by technological innovations. With the purchase of an electric bike, there is no need to exert excessive effort by pedaling until one becomes excessively sweaty. The electric motor in the design of such models helps to overcome long distances and difficult routes without any extra effort.

Electric bikes provide pedaling assistance to the rider, to the point of being able to ride without pedaling at all.

Most e-bikes can support two modes of operation: full electric traction and pedaling assist. Electric traction enables riding without the need for pedaling, essentially transforming the bicycle into an electric moped. However, to achieve efficient traction, powerful motors are required, which impacts the cost and necessitates higher battery capacity.

Electric bikes with a hybrid mode of operation will be cheaper. These bikes require pedaling while riding, but the electric motor provides significant assistance, reducing the effort required for pedaling. The pedaling assistant is especially good on mountainous terrain. Additionally, it is worth mentioning that electric bikes can still be ridden without engaging the electric assistance, but pedaling becomes more challenging due to the increased weight of the bike caused by the electric motor and battery.


For leisurely cycling on asphalt streets and park paths, any city bike would be suitable. However, if you delve deeper, those who appreciate elegant design may prefer cruiser bikes, while female riders may find bikes with open frame designs more suitable. For conquering hills and cycling uneven terrains, bikes with multi-speed transmissions or electric assistance would be ideal. Road bikes excel on roads with poor surface quality or rough terrain. Lastly, if the intention is to frequently transport the bike on public transport or carry it to the office, compact folding bikes would be the best option.