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Somewhere along the way, cycling has become popular again. Like, seriously popular. Those who haven’t cycled in a long time are getting back in the saddle, and those of us who have barely cycled since childhood (ring a bell?) are considering testing the waters. The sport’s revival is down to two things: its ability to provide an alternative means of commuting when we finally return to the office (because who wants to step foot on a sweaty tube, really?) and its multitude of fitness benefits. Cycling is great cardio exercise, and much cheaper than public transport when you work out the cost per ride.
Of course, if you’re in the latter category – i.e. *not* a seasoned cyclist and currently sans bike – it’s unlikely you want to spend upwards of a grand on one of the very best bikes for women. Sure, you get what you pay for and they’re totally worth the investment – but if you want to test the waters first, you might like to treat yourself to something that’s more accessibly priced.
Bikes from the likes of Evans Cycles, Halfords and Tredz are going out of stock at an alarming rate right now, so we’ve come to the rescue. In the name of the renaissance of cycling, we’ve found seven genuinely good bikes from some of the top cycling brands in the country – all for under £300.
We know what you’re thinking: surely these bikes can’t be of good quality if you’re spending so little. But they are! In fact, Collette Clensy, European Marketing Manager at female-dedicated cycling brand Liv reassured us that “more investment doesn’t always mean an increase in value for money.” She said: “What you should spend is subjective and depends on the type of cycling you want to do – you can easily get a good commuter bike for less than £500.
“We would suggest spending what you can,” she said. “This usually means better components and finishing kit which will make for more enjoyable riding. What is essential is to select a bike that you’ll enjoy so you’ll be looking forward to every ride.”
The best commuter bike under £300 is the Pinnacle Lithium 1 2020 Women’s Hybrid Bike, available for £290 from Evans Cycles. It’s their best-selling, go-everywhere, do-it-all hybrid – part mountain bike and part city bike. It has a lightweight alloy frame, powerful and consistent brakes and city tyres which offer great traction and excellent rolling ability on the tarmac. If it’s something reminiscent of Marianne’s bike in Normal People you’re after (no judgement here), this Ryedale bike from JD Williams costs £279.99 and comes with a basket for your picnic gear. It has been designed with the needs of female riders in mind, and although it’s not great for off-roading and track cycles, the low-frame, mudguards and sprung saddle make for comfortable riding around the city.
