The Best Bicycles for Seniors in 2024
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May 22, 2024
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Overall Rating:
View on Amazon What We Like ↓Exercise has been shown to help increase social well-being and improve cognitive function and mental health among older adults. Incorporating more physical activity into your routine can also help prolong life expectancy and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, stroke, and other health conditions.
If you’re looking to increase your level of exercise, biking can be an affordable new hobby. I’ve listed some of our favorite bicycles for seniors ranked by durability, comfort, and overall value.
Pro Tip: Looking for a recumbent bicycle or even a treadmill? Read our guide to the best exercise equipment for seniors.
The Best Bicycles for Seniors
- Schwinn Wayfarer : Best Overall
- Kent International Springdale Hybrid Bicycle : Most Affordable
- Priority Classic Plus Cruiser Bike : Best for Cities
- sixthreezero EVRYjourney : Best for Women
- Mobo Triton Pro : Best Recumbent Bicycle
How We Chose the Best Bicycles for Seniors
When I was choosing the best bikes for seniors, I rated them on the following criteria:
- Comfort: We looked for bikes that were comfortable to ride for multiple hours. Bonus points went to bikes that came with large, padded seats.
- Size and weight: Smaller bikes make for easier transport and a smoother riding experience, so we looked for bikes that were lightweight.
- Customer reviews: I personally tested all these bikes, but I didn’t want to depend only on my opinion, so I checked out each bike’s Amazon reviews too.
- Price: A long-lasting bicycle can cost upward of $1,000, but we looked for bikes that cost $600 or less.
- Warranties: We accounted for each model’s warranty, including what exactly it covered (parts, frame, or both) and for how long.
>> Read more: Best Recumbent Bikes for Seniors
Senior Bicycles Compared
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Schwinn Wayfarer
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Kent International Springdale Hybrid Bicycle
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Priority Classic Plus Cruiser Bike
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sixthreezero EVRYjourney
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Mobo Triton Pro
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| Rating out of 5 | 4.7 | 4.4 | 4.2 | 4.1 | 4.0 |
| Price | $399.99 |
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$499.99 |
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$599 |
| Warranty | Lifetime limited |
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5 years |
1 year |
30 days |
| Key features |
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Best Bicycles for Seniors in 2024
1. Schwinn Wayfarer - Best Overall
What We Like Most:
- Step-over or step-through frame
- Ideal for anyone 5-foot-4 to 6-foot-2
- Light mint, orange, and white color options
- Ideal for city biking
Overview
Cost: $399.99
If you want a bike you can ride on roads but you don’t want to spend more than $500, meet the Schwinn Wayfarer. It’s a bike designed for both men and women. Adjustable and lightweight, I found it to be the most versatile and the best overall value.
Performance
With its vintage look, I decided to ride the Schwinn Wayfarer on a summer trip to the Jersey Shore, and it was perfect for the boardwalk. It has seven speeds to choose from, and I settled on a higher gear so I could pedal leisurely. The wide, comfortable seat kept me feeling good for miles on end.
I tested the bike on a flat, paved path, riding it to the grocery store and around my neighborhood. Even though the bike is relatively cheap at only about $430, I found it to be pretty durable, despite what some Amazon reviews said. Even better, it came with a comfortable helmet, the only bike on this list to protect my head from falls.
I chose the step-through frame because it’s easier to get on and off. If you want a slightly larger frame — 18 inches vs. 16 — go with the step-over frame. The bike works well for anyone between 5-foot-4 and 6-foot-3, and I loved the huge height range even though I’m on the lower end. Schwinn suggests the bike is for women, but, as a man, I found it comfortable and easy to ride.
Drawbacks
The Schwinn Wayfarer’s frame is made of steel, unlike the Kent International Springdale, the Priority Classic Plus Cruiser, and the Sixthreezero EVRYjourney, which are all made of aluminum. Steel is more durable than aluminum, but it makes the bike heavier and more expensive than its aluminum counterparts.
Perhaps not so coincidentally, the Wayfarer is the only bike that did not list its weight. It’s described as “lightweight,” but I found it to be the heaviest (aside from the recumbent bike, of course.)
What Others Thought
The Schwinn Wayfarer has a four-star rating on Amazon, with 1,660 reviews. Customers generally thought the bike was a good value and loved the vintage aesthetic, although some people thought it wasn’t very sturdy. Multiple people complained that the brakes were constantly loosening and some parts broke as soon as a week after purchase. Still, people generally thought the bike was a good option for city riding. Just make sure you inspect it before each ride!
Our Verdict
Whether you’re taking a leisurely ride down a paved road or doing something more adventurous, the Schwinn Wayfarer is my go-to hybrid bicycle. Older adults will appreciate the step-through frame option, as well as the wide and comfy seat.
Pros
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Helmet included
- Lightweight
- Step-over or step-through
Cons
- Not recommended for more rugged biking
- Not the most durable
2. Kent International Springdale Hybrid Bicycle - Most Affordable
What We Like Most:
- Linear pull brakes
- Front suspension
- 21 speeds
- Kickstand included
Overview
Cost: $219.23 to $290.99
Starting at just under $220, the Kent International Springdale Hybrid is by far the cheapest bike on this list. It worked well on flat, paved roads and had the most speeds on this list at 21.
Performance
With a price less than $300, I was a bit concerned about the bike’s quality. Can a $220 bike really work on both paved roads and mountains?
Yes, in my experience. First, I liked the linear-pull brakes, which made it easy to stop the bike using only my hands. Second, the bike had by far the most speeds on this list — a whopping 21. That gave me the most control, no matter what Rhode Island terrain I was biking on — from the beaches of Narragansett to the streets of Providence. I also loved that the bike was aluminum and weighed only 40 pounds. When I needed to carry something, I just put it on the rear rack.
Since I have no mobility issues, I was fine with the step-over frame, which required me to lift my leg higher to mount and dismount the bike. That could be a dealbreaker for some people though.
All in all, I was happy with the bike’s durability and general quality, but some Amazon reviewers’ bikes came with broken parts. I recommend checking the package before you start riding, since the bike’s parts have only a one-year warranty. I didn’t have any issues with brake pads or gear shifts, but, as I saw in the Amazon reviews, my experience wasn’t universal.
Drawbacks
The Kent International Springdale is the only bike on this list that offers only a step-over frame, which means it took a bit more work to get on and off the bike. That could mean a bit of annoyance mounting and dismounting for riders with mobility issues, since they’ll need to come through the back rather than stepping over the middle.
What Others Thought
The Kent International Springdale has a rating of 3.6 out of 5 on Amazon, the lowest rating on this list. Similar to the Schwinn Wayfarer, people loved the look of the bike. Many were not satisfied with its quality, however, and multiple people complained of broken gear shifts. Some reviewers also mentioned the wheels bending during shipping. Generally, though, people were happy with the 21 gears and the bike’s functionality. With 297 ratings from around the world, 60 percent of which are four or five stars, it’s a good value for such a cheap bike.
Our Verdict
Despite some people receiving broken parts, I recommend the bike to riders on a budget. You can always get those parts fixed or replaced within the first year. It isn’t a good choice if you want a step-through bike, however, since it’s step-over only.
Pros
- 40 pounds
- 29-inch wheels
- Linear pull brakes
- Front suspension
Cons
- Only one-year warranty on parts
- 3.6-star Amazon rating
3. Priority Classic Plus Cruiser Bike - Best for Cities
What We Like Most:
- Step-over or step-through frames
- Available in matte black and navy blue
- Rigid suspension
- Aluminum frame
Overview
Cost: $499.99
With a lightweight aluminum frame you can buy in either a step-through or step-over model, the Priority Classic Plus Cruiser Bike is ideal for riding in cities. With the bike’s three speeds and a space to hold your water bottle, you can kiss public transportation goodbye.
Performance
I tested the Classic Plus on the streets of Providence, and I noticed immediately how lightweight it is: only 40 pounds, due to its aluminum frame. I also loved that the frame is available in both step-over and step-through styles in a variety of sizes from 26 to 36 inches. That makes the bike an option even for people with mobility issues. I’m not the tallest man who ever lived, so I chose the step-through bike with a 26- to 30-inch adjustable frame.
The bike has three speeds, which is more than enough for city biking unless you live in a particularly hilly city. Providence has only small hills, so it was enough for me to bike comfortably with a slight incline. I loved that the bike came with a cage for my water bottle, since it’s important to stay hydrated, and a kickstand for when I had to run into stores. The seat is padded, which allowed me to ride the bike for hours with great comfort. The tires stayed inflated even when I accidentally rode into a pothole, making it one of the more durable bikes on this list.
Drawbacks
The Classic Plus does not have a rear rack, which means there was nowhere to put my backpack except, well, my back. If you want a similar bike with a rear rack, check out the Schwinn Wayfarer or Kent International Springdale Hybrid. I also loved the box that came on the Sixthreezero EVRYjourney.
What Others Thought
The good news? The Priority Classic Plus Cruiser Bike has a five-star rating on Amazon. The bad news? There are only six ratings. That everyone gave the bike five stars says a lot, though, especially considering the mixed reviews for the Kent Springdale. People said the Classic Plus had a smooth ride, a comfortable seat, and a light weight. The only complaint was an issue with the pedal, but the person was able to contact customer support and quickly get the issue resolved. Once they installed the new pedals, they loved riding the bike for leisure.
Our Verdict
If you want a bike for city riding only, you’ll appreciate this easy-to-use, comfortable cruiser with a lightweight frame and a step-over option.
Pros
- Aluminum frame
- 40-pound weight
- Step-through or step-over
- Three speeds
Cons
- No rear rack
- Only three speeds
4. sixthreezero EVRYjourney - Best for Women
What We Like Most:
- 38-pound weight
- Hand brakes
- Available in orange, mint green, navy, and teal
- 24- or 26-inch frame
Overview
Cost: $455.61 to $498
I rode the Sixthreezero EVRYjourney around Providence, and I had no issues on flat ground or hills. Not only was the bike easy and comfortable to ride, but it also came in the best colors: teal, mint green, orange, and navy.
Performance
I’m not a woman — the intended user of the Sixthreezero EVRYjourney — but I still appreciated the choice of frame sizes (24 or 26 inches); the 38-pound weight, which made the bike easy to transport (thanks, aluminum!); and the hand brakes, which made for easy stops. The bike is step-through only, which made getting on and off easy. I loved riding it around Providence in an eye-catching orange.
It’s the lightest bike on this list, but it still felt sturdy and durable. I went with the 24-inch frame, which meant I had three speeds to choose from. If I had gone with the larger 26-inch frame, that number would have risen to seven. The bike rode smoothly on both flat ground and hills, and the rear rack and box with saddle made for convenient storage. Picnic, anyone?
I’d recommend this bike to anyone new to biking. The wide seat and high handlebars meant I got to remain in an upright position, saving me from joint pain. I could also adjust the bike at four points, so it’s a great option for people between 5 and 6 feet tall. I’m somewhere in the middle.
Drawbacks
The Sixthreezero EVRYjourney comes with only a one-year manufacturer’s warranty, which does not include returns. I prefer bikes with limited lifetime warranties, like the Schwinn Wayfarer, or at least a limited lifetime warranty on the frame, like the Kent International Springdale Hybrid Bicycle. Still, it’s better than the Mobo Triton Pro, which has only a 30-day warranty.
What Others Thought
The Sixthreezero EVRYjourney has a 4.5-star Amazon rating from over 2,200 reviews around the world. Even more impressive, 75 percent of the reviews are a perfect five stars, with customers praising the bike’s appearance, easy assembly, smoothness, comfort, quality, size, and packaging. The only area I saw numerous complaints about was durability, which seems to be a theme. Some people’s bikes had dented fenders, scratched front-wheel covers, or broken brake pads. That may be more of an issue with the shipping than the manufacturer itself, though, so make sure to inspect your bike before you take your first ride.
Our Verdict
If you want a stylish bike you can ride in the city that won’t hurt your joints, the Sixthreezero EVRYjourney is a safe option.
Pros
- Hand brakes
- Rigid suspension
- Available in teal, navy, mint green, or orange
- 24- and 26-inch frames available
Cons
- 24-inch frame is sold out, as of March 2024
- One-year manufacturer warranty
5. Mobo Triton Pro - Best Recumbent Bicycle
What We Like Most:
- Alloy steel frame
- Adjustable seat and frame
- Supports riders anywhere from 4-foot-2 to 6-foot-3 and up to 250 pounds
- Available in orange, blue, red, and silver
Overview
Cost: $429 to $599
The Mobo Triton Pro is the only recumbent bike on this list. Instead of balancing upright on two wheels, I laid back in my seat and balanced on two wheels in the back and one in the front. This bike is much easier to ride than a standard model, especially for people with joint issues.
Performance
The Mobo Triton Pro is ideal for leisure. When I was on vacation at Watch Hill Beach and not in a rush to go anywhere, I used it to arrive in style. Because of the recline of the seat and the additional wheel, the bike is ideal for anyone with joint pain or mobility issues. Just don’t expect to get anywhere too fast. It has one speed and one speed only, which meant my rides were relaxed at best.
I love biking, but I don’t love the way my back cramps up after an hour or more hunched forward. That wasn’t an issue with the Mobo Triton Pro. The seat’s back was at a slight recline, which meant I merely had to hold onto the handlebars at my sides, lean back, and let my legs do the work. I didn’t have to worry about balancing or falling over — which has been a huge fear of mine since a childhood bike accident — and this model is adjustable for people anywhere from 4 feet tall to 6-foot-3. Especially if you want to share your bike with your grandchildren, the Mobo Triton Pro is a fantastic option.
Drawbacks
Because it’s a recumbent bicycle, it didn’t have multiple speeds I could set for various inclines. I typically like setting higher speeds on hills to make it easier to ride and lower speeds on flat, paved roads for more control. It would have been nearly impossible to ride this bike on anything but a road, though, so speeds aren’t as necessary.
What Others Thought
The Mobo Triton Pro has a four-star rating on Amazon, with nearly 1,300 reviews. People had a lot of fun riding the bike. Reviewers found it comfortable and easy to assemble, and it offered great exercise — particularly for lazy days. Many people, however, mentioned the lack of gears. Since there is only one speed, it isn’t a good racing bike and it doesn’t work well on inclines. For slow speeds on flat roads, however, the Mobo Triton Pro provides a great value. Recumbent bikes can cost in the thousands, and this model starts at only $429 in silver.
Our Verdict
If joint pain is a concern, the Motor Triton Pro is the best option for pain-free biking.
FYI: Do you want to exercise in an upright position? Check out our guides to the best ellipticals for seniors and the best treadmills for seniors.
What Seniors Should Look for in a Bicycle
- Physical considerations: Make sure your bicycle is comfortable to ride. Cycling is better on the joints than running and it can actually lead to increased joint mobility, but make sure to test drive the bike before you buy it. Also take into account your balance and stability levels. If you don’t have a great sense of balance and want to avoid a fall, a recumbent bike could be a good option.
- Health considerations: According to data published in the National Library of Medicine, regular physical activity, such as biking, can improve the cardiovascular health of older adults. Cycling is a great workout for people with arthritis, according to the Arthritis Foundation, because it strengthens the muscles around the feet, ankles, and knees. People with arthritis may want to consider “comfort bikes” with higher handlebars and wide seats, which are ideal for biking on paved and flat roads.
- Preferences and lifestyle factors: Bikes on which you can sit upright will reduce the pressure on your back and can help your posture. It all depends on where you’re planning to ride. A comfort bike will do for city biking with paved streets, but it won’t work as well on more rugged terrain.
FYI:
If you’re looking for protection on your bike ride, a medical alert system can come in handy. To learn more, read our guide to the best medical alerts with GPS.
Types of Bicycles for Seniors
There aren’t specific bikes built for seniors, but these three types of bicycles are likely your best options.
- Cruiser bikes: With wide seats and large tires, cruiser bikes are the most comfortable for me to ride. They’re ideal for older adults with joint issues.
- Hybrid bikes: Hybrid bikes let you ride both on paved roads and in more rugged terrain such as bumpy roads and unpaved trails. If you want a versatile bike that balances comfort and performance, a hybrid bike is the way to go. They’re ideal for seniors without joint issues.
- Electric bikes: Electric bikes are good for people who may not have the strength and cardio required for a bike ride, but still want to bike for fun or transport. Some factors to take into account when choosing an electric bike include its range, top speed, battery-recharging time, and price, since they tend to cost in the thousands of dollars — much more than standard bikes.
Bicycle Maintenance Tips for Seniors
Regular maintenance is key to making your bike last. Try the following basic maintenance tips.
- Inspect your bike before each ride, making sure your tires are properly inflated, your chain is running smoothly, and your brakes are engaging properly.
- Clean and lubricate your bike, since excessive wear can cause friction and make it freeze up. Don’t use too much lubricant, though, because it can attract dirt and damage the bike’s components.
Some tasks are routine and can be done on your own, but you should bring your bike to a shop once a year for a professional inspection of the brake pads, hanger alignment, bearings adjustment, and more. Faulty brakes may not seem like a big deal, but they could be fatal in the worst-case scenario. Make sure your bike is in good shape before you take a ride.
According to the Federal Highway Administration’s National Household Travel Survey, biking among older adults is on the decline. In 2017, older adults made up 6 percent of all biking trips. By 2022, that number had dropped to just under 5 percent. Let’s get those numbers higher and improve our health by biking! With so many options that can be comfortable for seniors, you may be much more able to bike than you’d think.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Which type of bicycle is best for seniors?
A comfort bike is best for older adults because it has high handlebars and a wide, comfortable seat, which allows seniors to have good posture and sit in an upright position.
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What is a good bike for an older woman?
The Sixthreezero EVRYjourney is lightweight at only 38 pounds and has either a 24- or 26-inch frame. With hand brakes, a solid aluminum frame, and up to seven speeds, it’s ideal for older women. It’s also available in pretty colors — orange, navy, teal, and mint green — and it comes with reflectors and a box with a saddle. As of March 2024, it has a 4.5-star rating on Amazon from over 2,200 reviews, and costs between $455 and $498.
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Is 70 too old to start cycling?
No, 70 is not too old to start cycling. Cycling is a great way to get exercise and improve your cardiovascular health without sacrificing your joints. It’s a great way to improve your joint mobility even if you have arthritis. I recommend getting a comfortable bicycle designed for flat, paved roads to start with.
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What kind of bike should a 60-year-old get?
A 60-year-old should get a comfort bicycle with high handlebars and a wide seat. You will likely be riding on paved roads, so look for a bike designed for city usage.
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What is the most comfortable bike seat for seniors?
The most comfortable bike seat for older adults is the seat on the Schwinn Wayfarer. Made of vinyl, the seat left me comfortable after hours-long bike rides on both city streets and in the mountains.
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What is the easiest bicycle for seniors to ride?
A recumbent bicycle is the easiest for seniors to ride because it lessens the stress on the lower back and joints. The seats also tend to be larger and more cushioned than regular bikes’ seats, which makes them more comfortable for seniors. Older adults also don’t have to worry about balance on recumbent bikes, since they have three wheels.