The 6 Best Bikes for Seniors & Older Adults

Cycling is an excellent form of recreation and exercise that can work for you throughout your entire life. But I understand it can be difficult to find out which bicycles are perfect to be one of the best bikes for seniors. Don’t worry! All bikes for seniors in this article are comfortable, functional, and easy to handle without breaking the budget. And now, let’s jump right into the reviews of the best affordable bikes for older people. In this article, I review 6 of the best bikes for seniors for 2022.  

1. Prodigy by Ride1UP
2. Schwinn Discover H
3. Stride Step Thru
4. sixthreezero EVRYjourney Women’s Hybrid Cruiser
5. VIVI Electric Bike
6. sixthreezero Around the Block Men’s Cruiser Bike

Read more: Detailed Buying Guide – Bicycles for Seniors

The Ride1Up Prodigy is an amazing bike that just has so many uses. It is so well suited to seniors and makes everything so easy when it comes to getting around without using a car.

The frame is a lightweight aluminum painted in a matt black, giving it a beautiful, classy, and modern look. The forks are also aluminum and keep the steering feeling nice and light even though the bike is relatively heavy.

One of the biggest selling points of this bike is the electric motor. It is fantastic. It gives you such great assistance and just adds such a lovely flow to the bike. It’s a Brose TF Sprinter motor made in Germany. It makes an incredible 90nm of torque paired with a 36v 14ah battery. It will give you 30-50 miles of riding with minimal effort from yourself.

The wheels are 27.5”, paired up with some large 2.4” Maxxis Forecaster Tires. This will give you a lovely amount of comfort and plant you to the road like very few bikes can. 

Another great thing I like about this bike is the hydraulic disc brakes. They are super low maintenance and stop on a pin. It also has a Shimano Gearing set up, which is excellent and gives silky-smooth shifting. 

Another great feature of this bike is the front and rear lights. These are powered by the internal battery. The fenders and rear pannier rack also make it great for shopping. The bike isn’t the cheapest, but it is incredible.

The Schwinn Discover model has a lightweight aluminum frame that makes it easy to move your bike around without feeling like you have to pump iron.

The Schwinn front suspension fork buffers impact shock to give you a comfortable and smooth ride. 

Promax alloy linear pull brakes give you complete stopping power when you need it the most.

The Discover is available in 28-inch or 700C wheel sizes that allow you to navigate a variety of riding surfaces. 

Tackling hills will be a cinch with the 21-speed drivetrain and Shimano rear derailleur that allow you to easily and safely shift gears while your bike is in motion.

You can ride in a comfortable upright position with the swept-back handlebars. This bike has padded hand grips that keep your hands moisture-free and that give you a firm hold as you ride.

The Schwinn Discover lives up to its name with a rear cargo rack and kick-stand that will make urban rides and shopping excursions a source of continued enjoyment.

You will also appreciate the front and rear fenders that keep clothes clean as you enjoy your smooth ride over mud and on wet city pavement.

I’m a big fan of the Stride bikes, and when I heard they had made a budget commuter e-bike, I couldn’t wait to find out more. 

Firstly it looks fantastic. It’s very classy and it has been made with comfort in mind. The frame is a lightweight aluminum and it’s paired with suspension forks for incredible comfort.

It has a 500w motor which gives the user up to 40 miles worth of trouble free cycling. The bike also has a Shimano groupset which gives you plenty of options to help you get up and down hills.

The Wheelset is 700c made with extra durability, so it’s super strong and can take on anything, including cobbles. These lovely wheels are paired up with 26″ x 1.75″ tires, giving a satisfying amount of comfort and decent speed.

The sixthreezero EVRYjourney Women’s Cruiser is available in four gearing options and two wheel sizes to give you the greatest number of possible combinations.

The 26-inch model is available in 1, 3, 7 and 21 speeds. The 24-inch size offers 3-speed and 7-speed options.

The EVRYjourney Women’s Cruiser is also available as a 26-inch 7-speed 500-watt electric bike. Check this link if you are interested in electric bikes from sixthreezero.

The EVRYjourney’s lightweight frame comes in 14-inch and 17.5-inch sizes that let you adjust the bike for the best fit. 

Its comfortable upright riding style eases pressure on your back and gives a great riding experience on long rides.

This bike’s Shimano external hub makes it easy to navigate a variety of riding terrains. Its 1.95-inch whitewall tires provide a cushioned ride and roll smoothly on a variety of riding surfaces.

The EVRYjourney is for riders who are between 5 feet to 6 feet 2 inches tall and can safely carry people who weigh up to 300 pounds.

A step-through that is low and swooping makes it easy for cyclists of all weights and heights to mount and dismount.

If you are looking for an absolute beast of a bike that will take you anywhere from beaches to the shop and even down a mountain bike trail, this is the VIVI Electric bike, and it’s incredible.

The VIVI is a serious bike. It has an Aluminum lightweight frame with a suspension fork. This beast is powered with a 36v 350w motor with a max speed of 20mph and a range of 25-50 miles depending on terrain.

It has large 1.95” tires mounted on 26” wheels. Not only is this bike going to take you anywhere, but it will offer you such a comfortable ride, and you really can take this bike anywhere.

The bike also has a 21 speed gearing system which is going to give you a few options. Disc brakes for epic stopping power and even a front light so you can see at night. If you’re planning on using it for commuting, you have fenders to keep the mud off too.

The sixthreezero Around the Block Men’s Cruiser comes with 24-inch wheels and either 3 or 7 speeds. The 26-inch size is available with 1, 3, 7 and 21-speeds.

This sixthreezero model also features a 26-inch 7-speed 250-watt electric bike to give you yet another option.

The 24-inch bike has a durable 15-inch steel frame to give you a stable ride on a variety of terrains. The front hand brake and rear coaster brake provide you with plenty of control on all your sudden stops.

The 26-inch model has a 19-inch steel frame and offers as many as 21 speeds. Friction shifters and more gears make light work of hills, rough surfaces, and long distances.

Front and rear brakes put stopping power at your command when you need it and allow you to navigate numerous riding surfaces safely.

Around the Block bikes have wider 2.125-inch wheels and waffle tread tires that give you stability and traction, making it easier to roll your bike on hills and rougher terrain.

Bikes for Seniors Buying Guide

There are many good comfort bikes for seniors these days. You might be wondering how you might go about choosing the best comfort bike for yourself.

I have assembled answers to some topics that might be of interest to you as you prepare to make your purchase.

Is bike riding good for seniors?

Yes, bike riding is very good for seniors. Some seniors have age-related aches and pains, or they suffer from conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia.

Bike riding is one of the best forms of exercise for older persons because it provides aerobic exercise that causes little impact on joints.

Cycling gives you an excellent opportunity to stretch your limbs as you ride, providing a gentle way to tone your muscles and to develop flexibility. Riding a bicycle increases endorphins that are critical and create a feeling of well-being.

Cycling increases lung capacity and improves circulation to enhance your overall health. (1)

Riding can be a social sport and can help you to combat feelings of isolation. When children move away, retirement begins, or life circumstances create changes in social networks.

Having a bike makes it easy for you to join a cycling club or to go on a bike tour, where you can connect with like-minded people.

Best of all, most airlines and bus companies now allow you to bring your bike on board. Making it possible for you to see the world on a shoestring budget.

After you make the initial purchase, a well-maintained bike can continue to provide low-cost commuting here and abroad for many years to come.

What kind of bike is easiest to ride?

The easiest bike to ride is lightweight and is equipped with dual brakes to give you maximum control of stopping.

Bikes that have 3 or 7 speeds will be easier for you to handle on hills and rougher terrain.

A suspension system absorbs shock to give you a more comfortable ride. Other features like waffle tread or all-weather tires can improve traction and year-round usability.

As it happens, bikes that tend to fit well into the above description include urban cruisers and hybrids.

While road bikes and mountain bikes also have some of the same features, their large size and heavy weight make long rides uncomfortable for some older adults.

Which bikes for seniors are the most comfortable?

Conditions like arthritis and back pain are not exclusive to senior citizens but may occur more frequently in some older adults.

Comfort bicycles for seniors and bikes for those with bad backs, therefore, have features that are designed to reduce shock and eliminate the potential for you to feel pain as you ride.

Some of the features you probably want to look for include an extra-wide saddle, a padded seat, cushioned handlebar grips, and front suspension.

A comfort bike that lets you maintain an upright riding position will ease pressure on your back. It also provides the most comfortable ride if you have any skeletal pain.

Features like a low step-through and wide pedals can be an asset, letting you easily mount, dismount and move your bike without having to exert undue effort.

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How to buy one of the best bikes for older adults?

Here is a quick overview of the essential features to consider as you prepare to purchase your new bike.

Wheels And Tires

The standard wheel sizes are 26 inches or 700C and have widths that range from about 1.0 to 2.2 inches. Urban commuters tend to have narrower tires. The wider tires we see more often on mountain bikes.

Steel alloy rims are very sturdy but much heavier than aluminum. If your bike has steel rims, you will probably want to make sure they have been treated to make them weather-resistant.

For traveling in light traffic and paved roads, many seniors favor lightweight cruisers and commuter bikes. Because they often feature rear racks where they can stow possessions and purchases.

Many of these bikes have 1 or 3 speeds, keeping them functional yet simple to operate and maintain.

Gears And Shifting

Single-gear bikes are a good choice if you plan to ride primarily on pavement and other flat surfaces.

Having extra gears ,like a mountain bike for example, gives you more options, including cruising at higher speeds and riding on hills.

If you intend to ride on uneven surfaces, you might want to consider purchasing a 7-speed model that can easily tackle inclines.

High-quality shifters and derailleurs make it possible to shift gears while your bike is moving and let you navigate unpredictable surfaces.

Seniors who intend to take on more challenging rides will probably want to choose a bike that has at least 7 speeds.

This gearing option will make it easier to pedal on inclines, especially if the bike has additional features like fork and seat suspension.

Brake System

Rim brakes, or V-brakes, give you very little control of sudden stops and may not be the safest option if you intend to ride in urban settings.

Disc brakes provide the most thorough type of stopping, making it easy for you to come to a sudden full stop in an emergency.

Hydraulic disc brakes require less effort, but mechanical brakes give you fine-tuned control of stopping.

Frame

Lightweight and affordable, bikes that have aluminum frames are often a good choice for seniors.

Steel is durable but much heavier than aluminum and less practical for long-distance riding.

Carbon fiber and titanium are lightweight and durable materials being used in bike frames. Due to the high cost, however, these materials are mainly used in high-end and competitive cycles.

Additional Features

Wheel swapping is an excellent feature to have if you intend to ride throughout the year.

Look for a bike that has a quick-release mechanism for fast and easy tire changes.

Your bike’s suspension system absorbs shock and provides a more comfortable ride over bumps and on hills.
Add a suspension seat, and you are set to tackle the hilliest surfaces with the greatest of ease.

Other comfort features include a dual spring saddle, waffle tread tires, and an extra-wide padded seat

Ideally, bikes for older people contain lights and reflectors that make it safer to ride your bike at night and in low-visibility conditions.

Mirrors increase your viewing range and can help you to anticipate obstacles so that you can deal with them proactively.

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Are there any precautions I need to take before I ride?

Your bike must be maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions if it is to continue to provide a safe ride.

If you cannot afford to have a technician fix potential problems, then you must learn to perform at least necessary repairs yourself.

It is a good idea for cyclists of all ages to use appropriate protective gear.

A cycling helmet, gloves, knee pads, and elbow pads will provide comfort and protect you in the event of a fall or impact.

Some riders find that a cycling cap worn under the helmet improves air circulation and absorbs moisture to maximize comfort.

Cycling offers many health advantages, but it can prove problematic for seniors who have certain medical conditions.

You may want to consult with your health care provider before you begin to cycle, especially if you suffer from a heart condition, asthma, epilepsy, or sleep disorders.

The ability to exercise is probably less related to age than it is to the level of conditioning you currently have.

To ensure an enjoyable and injury-free cycling career, begin slowly and listen to your body’s reactions as you ride and always take something to drink with you!

Preparing for your first ride

You have narrowed your options to a couple of models that you think will work for you. You are preparing to make a purchase.

How Do I Want To Ride?

Consider the primary purpose for which you will use your bike.

A commuter bike may be suitable for general recreation and exercise, and will probably be less expensive than a bike that offers multiple gearing options.

If you intend to ride your bike on a variety of surfaces, you will probably want to consider a bike that has 3 or 7 speeds.

This type of bike may add a little bit to the price tag, but features like multiple gears and front suspension can make or break your ride on hills and over bumps.

The added comfort and safety are probably worth the slight price increment.

Basic Maintenance

You will probably want to consider the level of assembly required concerning your level of skill with bike maintenance and repairs.

Bikes that are not pre-assembled or that have more moving parts often are not a problem for riders who are repair-savvy.

If you don’t have experience in making bike repairs and adjustments, you may want to consider purchasing a bike that is at least 85 percent pre-assembled.

Some bikes come with a set of generic instructions that are not model-specific. These instructions are often complicated for riders to figure out.
You may want to verify the relevance of the included instructions if you think this might be an issue when you attempt to assemble your new bike.

A Word About Sizing

Proper sizing ensures an optimal fit and makes it easy for you to ride your bike without straining.

Correct sizing is also vital for safety, allowing you to dismount in an emergency quickly.

If your bike is sized correctly sized, you should be able to stand astride the bicycle with both feet flat on the ground.

You can verify your sizing choice by consulting the manufacturer’s sizing charts.

If your height spans two different sizes, you can choose the larger size and adjust it for a proper fit. Another approach is to test both sizes to determine which feels like a better fit.

No Pain Is Your Gain

If you do regular physical activity, you may need a little more time.

To condition your body for rides that become increasingly more challenging as you gain riding experience and increase your muscle tone.

Stretching before you exercise warms your muscles, preventing strains and tears.

Here is a great article that describes ten stretches you can do to warm up before you begin your ride. (2)

Stretching after your ride is an excellent way to cool down and to prevent injury as your body returns to its normal state.

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Conclusion: The Roundup Winner

Of all the products I reviewed, I have to say that the Prodigy by Ride1UP electric bicycle emerges as the best bicycle for elderly.

I really love this bike because it is very affordable, lightweight and easy to handle.

Compared to the other bikes, the Ride in the Park combines dual handbrakes, an upright riding position, and enough gears to let me ride comfortably on most terrains.

One of the favorite features of this bike is its wide sizing range, which makes it possible for older people to adjust the height.

Ideal if you occasionally want to lend it to family members who are of different heights.

I hope that you have enjoyed this review of the best bikes for seniors and that you find the information useful.

If you have any questions or suggestions, please let me know!