Are comfort bikes good for commuting?

Should you buy a comfort bike for commuting?  Probably not.  If you’re plan is to only use the bike for commuting then you’d definitely be better looking into a road or hybrid bike.

  However, if your commute is less than a couple miles and on smooth flat terrain then you could get away with a comfort or cruiser bike.

Comfort bikes weren’t originally designed for commuting.  Comfort bikes are designed for uses such as leisure riding to the local shops or around town.  The wider tires, suspension seat, inward curved handlebars are all features to provide comfort for short distance riding.

There designed for light exercise.  And not medium to long distance commutes.

Medium and longer distance commutes on a comfort bike would ironically not be “comfy”.  You’ll find yourself tiring because you won’t have fast rolling wheels like the road and hybrid bike have. 

You’ll also find yourself taking a lot longer to get to work.  Overall it wouldn’t be the best use of a comfort bike which you can find some of the better uses here.

If you believe that a comfort bike is for you, you’re probably best of asking the question.  Will I be using it for one of the following uses?

  • Leisure riding
  • Short distance commutes (Less than 2 miles)
  • Running local errands and to the local shops

If you are then looking at brands such as Schwinn and Raleigh would provide you with a good range of quality comfort bikes at affordable prices that isn’t going to break the bank.

James Dawson

After learning how to ride a bicycle much later than all the other kids, James Dawson hasn't looked back. The author now actively rides a bicycle as a part of the community cycling group and competes regularly in local competitions. Aside from that, he loves technology and always keeps up to date with the latest cycling tech.