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Bikes

What's behind our bike Ratings?

Experts at our National Testing and Research Center tested 2 models in bikes to see which ones perform best.

We look for:

Overall score
Based on handling, climbing, shock absorption, shifting, and weight. Because each type of bike is used differently, these parameters were weighted differently for fitness and hybrid/comfort bikes.
Handling
Evaluated by judging the bicycle's responsiveness at moderate speed, as well as its responsiveness and stability at higher downhill speeds. Because each bike type is used differently, this parameter was weighted differently for fitness and hybrid/comfort bikes.
Shock absorption
Scored based on a judgment of how well the bicycle dampens the impact forces caused by hitting road irregularities. All bicycles were tested over a poor, defect-riddled stretch of pavement and over regularly-spaced paver blocks. Because each bike type is used differently, this parameter was weighted differently for fitness and hybrid/comfort bikes.
Climbing
Scored based on gearing and crank arm length and a judgment of ease of pedaling effort to climb a steep quarter-mile long hill. Because each bike type is used differently, this parameter was weighted differently for fitness and hybrid/comfort bikes.
Shifting
Bikes were ridden on level pavement while the testers evaluated and scored the amount of effort required to change speeds and how smooth the transitions were through the range of gears.
Weight
Weight rounded to nearest pound for size tested. Weight includes pedals as sold with the bike.
Number of gears
The number of gears the bike has.

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Recommended bikes

Recommended bikes are standout choices with high scores. They include CR Best Buys, which offer exceptional value. When narrowing your choices, weigh features, price, and attributes that matter to you.

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Bike buying guide

To find the bike that is right for you, read our expert advice on which features to consider and how to find the best value.

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Bikes Ratings

Find out which Bikes scored the best on our tests. Our tests are based not only on government and industry standards but also on standards our specialists think should apply, which re-create the experience you will have with the product.

Latest bike ratings

Bike manufacturers are fragmenting the market with models that combine features from various categories, so choosing the best bike for you can be tricky. If you're looking for information about bikes, Consumer Reports is your best resource. Consumer Reports’ bike reviews will give you honest buying advice that you can trust. Use our bike buying guide to discover which features are most important to consider. We also provide unbiased Ratings and bike reviews to help you choose the best bike for your needs.

Ratings & recommended bikes

Bikes (2)

Buy the best type of bike for the primary type of riding that you do.

It is important to ride any bike you want to buy. One particular bike may not fit you as well as another because of differences in how manufacturers size bikes, as well as bike geometry. Buy the bike that both fits you the best and performed well in our Ratings. Do not purchase a bike by mail order or via the Internet until you have tried it in a store.

The intended use of bicycles varies. They are primarily a recreational product, but are also used for commuting, delivery, exercise, and racing.

Bike buying guide

In Consumer Reports' most recent report, we paid from $280 to $1,800 for the four types of bikes we tested–and we found that more money buys a lightweight frame made of carbon fiber, aluminum (or a combination of both materials), or high-strength steel and other high-quality components, but we did find some lower-priced standouts.

If you are looking for a bike, read our bike guide and take these preliminary steps.

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