- Commuting by bike is not only better for the environment, but it's also good for your health and much more enjoyable and stress-free than rush-hour traffic.
- We've rounded up the best gear you'll need to get started commuting to work, school, or even for weekend getaways.
- Check out our picks for the best commuter bike, bike helmet, bike lights, bike lock, bike panniers, smartphone mount, and more.
Many of us have our morning routines down to a science. Between showering, dressing, choking down some food and coffee, and getting out the door, we know - down to the minute - how long it takes to get from bed to office chair. We do this to sleep-in as much as possible. So, why would you give up driving to work in favor of a slower bike commute?
Riding a bike to work or school is better than driving or even taking public transportation because it's eco-friendly, costs less in the long run, and gets your blood flowing so you are at your best when you arrive at your job or class. Plus, when you get your exercise during your commute, you don't have to schedule additional time at the gym.
And, many cities have made commuting by bike a more attractive option, thanks to dedicated bike lanes.
For less than $700, you can buy the basics - a bike, a helmet, a lock, and lights - and start commuting to work immediately. From there, you can slowly build up your arsenal of gear to make your experience more and more enjoyable.
Below, we list the best solutions in each category, but if you are looking for more budget-friendly alternatives, we recommend checking out the guides we link to at the end of the slides. Whether you are looking to buy the bare minimum to get started cycling to work or you want to go all out on a luxury experience, we've got the best of the best for your commuting needs.
Here is everything you need to commute by bike:
- Best commuter bike: Brooklyn Bicycle Co. Franklin 3
- Best bike helmet: Lumos Kickstart Bike Helmet
- Best bike lock: Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Mini Bicycle U-Lock
- Best bike fenders: Planet Bike Cascadia Bike Fenders
- Best bike light: Cygolite Streak 450 Hotshot SL Bike Light Combo Set
- Best headlamp: GRDE Zoomable 3 Modes Super Bright LED Headlamp
- Best bike computer: Sigma ROX GPS 12.0 Sport Basic Cycling Computer
- Best bike rack for your car: Thule T2 Pro XT 2 Bike Rack
- Best bike pump: Lumintrail Mini Bike Pump
- Best multitool: Schwinn 9-in-1 Tool
- Best smartphone mount: Vibrelli Universal Bike Phone Mount
- Best bike bag/pannier: Ibera Bicycle Bag PakRak Clip-On Quick-Release All Weather Bike Panniers
- Best waterproof bike clothing for your commute: Co-op Cycles Waterproof Cycling Clothing
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