trek light weight bike

Best light mountain bikes 2024 – lightweight cross-country MTBs under 10kg

The best light mountain bikes combine sensational acceleration and XC speed for ultimate off-road climbing performance

1. Best lightweight XC bike

2. best value lightweight xc bike, 3. best for state-of-the-art cross-country tech, 4. best for race proven tech, 5. best for ultimate lightness and simplicity, 6. best lightweight cross-country hardtail frameset, 7. best lightweight full-suspension frameset, 8. best lightweight mtb for technical riding.

How to choose

How we test

4. Best for race-proven tech

9. Best for riding on and off the race track

Sub 10kg (22lb) has always been a benchmark for the best light mountain bikes. However, with XCO courses becoming more and more technical and riders demanding bigger tires and dropper posts to tackle them, 10kg bikes are rarer than ever. That's not to say it isn't achievable, many bike brands manage to get their hardtails and even some of the best full-suspension mountain bikes sneak under the 10kg mark.

In reality, you’d be hard-pressed to tell any difference in the ride between a 10.2kg bike and a 9.8kg bike but the psychological/bragging rights of going under 10kg is massive. Developments and demands of riders mean it’s harder than ever for cross-country mountain bikes to hit that target though. 29in wheels, tires, and forks will always be heavier than 27.5in or 26in (remember them?) but their smoother speed makes them an XC essential. Some top racers like Nino Schurter are routinely using 2.4in tires now too, while others are wide rim or wide handlebar fans.

Most of the world’s fastest racers are now using dropper posts for extra control on challenging courses despite a 400-500g penalty over fixed posts. Huge cassettes mean simpler 1x transmissions are often heavier than old double chainring setups too. Even fitting a remote control lockout to the best XC forks adds significant weight, but again most racers won’t be without it for smashing smoother climbs.

Best lightweight mountain bikes under 10kg

Why trust BikePerfect Our cycling experts have decades of testing experience. We\'ll always share our unbiased opinions on bikes and gear. Find out more about how we test.

Cervelo ZHT-5

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

Cervelo has plenty of race heritage albeit mostly on the road. Its first foray into mountain biking comes in the form of two cross-country bikes, the full-suspension Cervelo ZFS-5 and the lightweight Cervelo ZHT-5 hardtail.

While the full-suspension bike doesn't quite nip under the 10kg mark, the ZHT-5 more than achieves this target weight. It's not just the numbers that make the ZHT-5 a flattering ride either. The low weight is going to naturally give it an instantaneous kick and shift character that accelerates out of corners and breezes up climbs, but when Guy test rode it he found it offered far more confidence and grip than you would expect from a race-focused hardtail. 

In his first ride review, Guy remarked that "there was always more turn in or lean in grip than I expected. And as long as I looked up rather than thinking about angles, fork leg diameters, and bald tires, the ZHT-5 would track the targeting laser up the trail like a Top Gun hero moment."

To find out more, head over to the full Cervelo ZHT-5 hardtail first look .

Canyon Exceed CFR LTD

Canyon has grown from a small trailer-based spares ‘shop’ at German XC races to a global bike-brand superpower with an ever-increasing number of World Cup and World Championship race wins under its belt. 

This top-line hardtail features a 69-degree headtube angle, 1,154mm wheelbase, and 455mm reach on a size large. It also gets a sweet exclusive paint job, and the full build comes in at 8.9 kg. 

For the build kit, the bike features a SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS drivetrain and a remote-controlled RockShox SID SL fork. SRAM also provides the braes with Level Ultimates bringing the stopping power. Reynolds Blacklabel XC wheels are paired with Maxxis tires to keep you rolling. 

It has a sharp classic XC ride feel, which Guy found out when he tested the bike, "the unfiltered stiffness, super lightweight, and direct drive efficiency of the Exceed CFR will be an unholy trinity that’ll create a religious experience for many hardcore racers. They’ll rejoice in the rapid, climb-friendly steering feel from the relatively steep head angle and 740mm bars too. 

On a budget? There are multiple other Exceed models to choose from with more wallet-friendly build kits. They feature the same frame geometry but will have different components and will be heavier, however even the lower spec Exceed CF is still sub 10kg. 

For more, check out our full  Canyon Exceed CFR LTD .

Scott Scale RC SL

Scott totally redesigned their Scale cross-country hardtail which had remained unchanged for the last six years. With the launch of the new bike, the Scale sees a radical redesign that revolutionizes Scott's hardtail race bike.

Built from Scott's HMX SL carbon, Scott has refined the frame's carbon layup but also the construction and hardware. There are some new features too, including adjustable headset cups as used on the Spark to give + / - 0.6-degree head angle adjustment. The new geometry can be adjusted between 67.9 degrees as supplied, neutral cups (included with the bike) for a 67.2-degree, to a super slack (for XC) 66.7 degrees in a few minutes. The seat angle is 75.3 degrees in the standard 67.9 head angle position and reach is measured at 463.6mm on a medium.

Scott put Guy through his paces at the Scale's launch but the bike's qualities weren't lost on Guy. "Between the hyperventilating, lactic burn, and hallucinogenic lack of oxygen though it was still clear that the new Scale is blisteringly, brutally fast. While it’s not the lightest hardtail option by over a kilo and the DT Swiss-based hub internals have a ten-degree lag before engagement, when they do connect, the power delivery is sledgehammer direct".

Regarding components, Scott has kitted their new top-of-the-range hardtail with an equally best-of-the-best spec list. Highlights include Trickstuff Piccola Carbon brakes, a Quarq power meter, carbon finishing kit from Syncros, and the incredibly light Silverton SL2-30 CL carbon that weighs a claimed 1280g per wheelset and are the same wheels Tom Pidcock chose to ride at the Olympics.

The astronomical asking price of the Scale RC SL is far beyond what most people could possibly comprehend spending on an XC bike. the good news is the Scale RC World Cup retails for less than half and still slips under the 10kg mark.

For more details head over to our full Scott Scale RC SL review .

Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2

A couple of years ago now, Trek created an all-new type of full-suspension bike, using what it calls ‘Isostrut,' a tiny but full feature remote control Fox air shock delivering 60mm of travel. It doesn't sound like much, especially with many XC bikes now coming with 120mm front and rear, but it has more than proven its capabilities with both Olympic and World Championship wins to its name.

It's not going to be as forgiving as a lot of longer travel XC bikes but the suspension is soft enough that it boosts traction and stops the bike from stalling on square edges compared to a hardtail. It's still tight enough that you can really enjoy the performance you get from a sub 10kg mountain bike when you stamp on the pedals and when Guy Kesteven tested the bike he rarely felt the need to twist the shock into lock mode.

For a deeper dive into the details, plus a comparison with the Specialized's Epic World Cup bike, check out Guy's Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2 review .

Orbea Alma M-Ltd

In terms of frame weight, Orbea’s carbon fiber Alma OMR race hardtail isn’t crazy light at over 1kg, but they’ve done something radical to get complete bike weight low enough to kill on the climbs. Most riders will probably opt for a suspension fork but for those brave enough Orbea’s 550g Spirit Rigid fork will save you 800-1,000g over a 100mm suspension unit to bring complete bike weight well under 8kg. 

The kinked, super-flat top tube is designed to help dissipate the extra shock coming through from the front end too, although the long, tapered, carbon legs deliver a smoother ride than you’d expect. The super-slim stays are designed for extra flex but there’s still plenty of meat around the cranks and chainstays for kicking hard and making that low weight count. The fork is also the same length as a 100mm travel unit so swapping around won’t disturb the agile, short wheelbase handling.

The same OMR frame appears on the top four Alma models with another four Alma models using the slightly heavier OMP frames. Whatever your starting point, Orbea’s ‘MyO’ customization program lets you pick and mix from a range of components to tune cost, weight, and character. You can even choose from multiple color options (fully custom on-the-top models) so that you get a truly personalized Alma built for you in Orbea’s Basque factory. The direct-sell model means they’re generally very good value too although you will have to wait longer for delivery than if you pick an off-the-shelf bike from your local shop.

Mondraker Podium Carbon RR SL

Mondraker claims the Podium is the lightest production cross-country frame available and although it was released back in 2021, Mondraker's 'Forward Geometry' means it's still pretty up to date with the modern crop of XC bikes.

Born on DH race tracks thanks to the work of Unno’s Cesar Rojo and others, Forward Geometry was the spark point for the current trend for super-short stems on extended reach frames. Mondraker was the first mainstream brand to be bold enough to use the concept right across its range from gravity bikes to cross-country machines. 

Mondraker claims that the Podium Carbon RR frame weighs just 775g, which is spectacularly light and the perfect base for a super light custom build if you don't fancy Mondrakers complete builds. The Podium was designed a while ago now but the geometry has been refreshed, bringing a 463mm reach, 68.5-degree headtube angle, and a 70mm stem on a size large. 

If you can afford the price tag for this beast of a hardtail, then you'll be smashing the climbs in no time. 

Specialized S-Works Epic 8

Specialized recently updated its S-Works Epic cross-country bike resulting in a super capable and super fast race bike. It's also one of the most technically advanced cross-country bikes loaded with RockShox Flight Attendant , wireless shifting, and a power meter. While this undoubtedly boosts the bike's velocity on track, it adds a little extra weight to the package as well.

The previous generation S-Works Epic build snuck under the 9.7kg mark, the S-Works  Epic 8 package Specialized offers now is 10.49kg – although Spesh claims that the latest frameset is now 260g lighter. That means if you are willing to build the S-Works Epic 8 up yourself, with the right parts and budget it could be pieced together to be sub 10kg.

If low weight is the main goal, you will probably need to forego the computer-controlled suspension. However, you will still be able to reap the rewards of XC-benchmark performance that is on offer from the Specialized S-Works Epic 8 frameset.

Check out the Specialized S-Works Epic 8 review to find out more.

Scott Spark RC SL EVO AXS

Scott recently updated its long-running Spark XC format; a bold new look and a seriously progressive and tech trail-ready ride mean it has been a real hit. It’s more than accurate enough to get really aggro with too. The latest iteration also has the best Spark suspension by far, with proper chunder-calming, and speed-breeding performance in its ‘Open' mode. Push the TwinLoc trigger on the bar though and you can toggle into a tauter, reduced travel ‘Traction’ mode for feisty climbs or fully lock it for sprinting, and that response is matched by the front fork, too. 

Arguably the Spark shouldn't be on this list as the range-topping Spark RC SL EVO AXS model doesn't actually meet the sub 10kg criteria for this buyer's guide. We are willing to forgive that 400g though considering it has an uncompromising spec including a stout Fox 34, a dropper, a power meter, and big tires mean you can really rally this bike to its full 120mm of travel potential.

We reviewed the more affordable Scott Spark Team Issue AXS model and were very impressed with its performance.

Giant Anthem Advanced 29 1

Giant's Anthem is another cross-country bike that just misses the 10kg mark but with its lighter weight frame and a few upgrades the Anthem could meet that weight.

Previously, the Anthem came loaded with Fox's Live Valve system which automatically controlled the suspension as you rode but added a bit of weight with its battery, wiring, motors, and sensors. For 2024, Giant has dropped the Live Valve meaning the current generation of Anthem Advance Pro 29 1 is now the lightest it has ever been. A bit of careful spec tweaking, especially around the drivetrain, should get an Anthem Advanced 29 1 spec bike under the mystical 10kg. Alternatively, Giant offers the Anthem as a frame-only option if you want to build up your own spec with the bonus of a jazzy paint job too

Not only could the Anthem Advanced 29 slip under 10kg, but it also rides incredibly well. We reviewed the latest generation Giant Anthem Advanced Pro 29 1 (with Live Valve) when it first launched, finding that the Anthem felt more like a trail bike than a cross-country bike. On the descents, the Anthem feels very composed even when you feel like you are riding on the edge, and on the climbs, the rear suspension helps stick the rear tire to the ground giving it great traction.

What you need to know about the best lightweight mountain bikes

What are the lightest mountain bike frames.

When it comes to frames the big weight penalty that racers are now routinely paying is opting for a full-suspension bike rather than one of the best hardtail mountain bikes . Unless it’s a super-smooth or strength-sapping high-altitude course most of the men’s World Cup XCO field will be on a double-damped rig, and more and more women are lining up on full sus every race. 

They’re a lot more fun and forgiving outside the tape if you’re not a completely competition-focused rider too. That inevitably means a roughly 250g rear shock plus pivot bearings, other mounting hardware, and extra frame parts piling on the weight. As a result, even the ultra-light 1,870g Scott Spark is still over 1000g heavier than the hardtail Scott Scale and most head-to-head, in-brand comparisons are significantly heavier. Softail bikes like Trek’s Supercaliber race bike split the difference in weight and full suspension function.

Are cross-country race bikes lighter?

Cross-country race bikes that are ridden by pros are very light as they feature specs that are either too expensive or not available to the general public. That said it's not uncommon to find brands selling premium models that are even lighter than the bikes their team riders use. That’s generally due to sponsor demands (for example, RockShox SID Ultimate SL fork s are heavier than Fox 32 Step-Cast, and Shimano XTR is heavier than SRAM XX1). With no contractual obligations for consumer bikes, sometimes brands just fit cost-no-object component mixes to create a super-light show stopper you can buy off the shelf.

What is the lightest MTB in the world?

Some bikes like Orbea’s Alma M-Ltd and Scott's Scale which can be specced with a rigid fork are lightened further than most of us would regard practical. Alternatively, you can get a bike with an eccentric bottom bracket or sliding drop-outs and go single-speed and ditch gears altogether. If you really want to see what’s possible then click on the infamous gram-hating hangout weightweenies.starbike.com. Or check out how anti-gravity artists like Gustav Gullholm (Dangerholm on Instagram) get Scott Spark and Scale bikes down to 7kg with belt sanders, paint stripper, and ultra-light carbon fiber cockpit and seating combinations.

NB: We’ve had to rely on some manufacturers' weights for this run down, so if you want to be sure of weights take your scales with you when you go shopping. Please contact us if any of the numbers are right off so we can update the feature for everyone else.

How we test the best budget full-suspension bikes

We test bikes on a wide range of trails, from singletrack to technical woodsy riding, in a variety of weather conditions, from bone dry to properly sodden. We test bikes over a number of months so we can assess how they fare over time. 

Meet the tester

Guy's been testing and writing about mountain bikes since the '90s. He’s written several million words about several thousand test bikes and a ridiculous amount of riding gear.

Graham is all about riding bikes off-road with almost 20 years of riding experience covering downhill, enduro, and gravel.

Guy has been working on Bike Perfect since launch in 2019. He started writing and testing for bike mags in 1996. Since then he’s written several million words about several thousand test bikes and a ridiculous amount of riding gear. To make sure he rarely sleeps and to fund his custom tandem habit, he’s also penned a handful of bike-related books and talks to a GoPro for YouTube, too.

Current rides: Cervelo ZFS-5, Specialized Chisel, custom Nicolai enduro tandem, Landescape/Swallow custom gravel tandem

Height: 180cm

Weight: 69kg

• Graham Cottingham Senior reviews writer, Bike Perfect

Merida One-Twenty 600 review – budget-friendly, short travel, trail ripper

Santa Cruz Heckler SL review – is this the Californian brand's most fun e-mountain bike ever?

Fox Speedframe Pro Kilf helmet review – duking it out for trail lid supremacy

Most Popular

• 2 Going long on the shortest night – an epic, all-night, solstice MTB ride
• 3 Mountain bike suspension forks explained – we break down every technical term and piece of jargon to help you better understand your MTB fork
• 4 Is RockShox relaunched Flight Attendant the ultimate ‘automatic’ suspension for trail and enduro riders?
• 5 Kali Protectives Cascade review – the greenest trail helmet you can buy?

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then   View saved stories .

• Backchannel
• Newsletters
• WIRED Insider
• WIRED Consulting

Adrienne So

Review: Trek FX+ 2

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more . Please also consider subscribing to WIRED

If you come to me and say, “I’ve never ridden an electric bike before,” I am probably going to take a few factors into consideration. The first is safety. If you’ve never built a bike, I’m probably not going to recommend a mail-order one you have to assemble yourself. You don’t want to discover that you've failed to tighten a screw when you’re going 20 miles per hour down a hill.

You also probably want a bike that’s reasonably priced, comfortable, and convenient to ride. In fact, you might want one that’s as close to your first human-powered bike as possible. Trek’s FX+ 2 hits all the sweet spots. It’s made by a reputable manufacturer with a wide retailer network. The reasonable base price includes all the commuter components, like integrated lights and fenders. Most importantly, it’s light and maneuverable.

It’s not a 65-pound “starter” ebike that will crush you if you stop on a hill or forget to charge the battery. Nor is it a smart bike that makes you spend 20 minutes walking through an app before you can ride it. I've been testing ebikes at home for years, and this is the first one my 60-year-old dad has felt comfortable grabbing and using to chase after my kids. “Sometimes I don’t even turn it on,” he remarked the other day. That’s the whole point.

The FX+ 2 comes in two configurations and three different sizes. The default model has a regular step-over top tube, and the FX+ 2 Stagger has a step-through top tube. Both come in a variety of colors and have small, medium, and large sizes. I’m 5'2" and the small-size Stagger fits me well. However, if you’re smaller than 5 feet, you might want to look at a different bike.

The cables, battery, and motor are inside the frame. The only clue the FX+ 2 Stagger is an ebike at all is a small unit with only three buttons on it: a power button, and plus and minus symbols. When you turn on the bike, its lights turn on, and two light meters show how much battery you have left and what level of pedal assistance you have toggled on.

That’s it. There’s no bright LCD display and no throttle. This might seem like a downside, but I use my electric bike for commuting and running errands. When I lock it up on a rack, it gives me peace of mind to know that no one’s going to spot a lone ebike in the wild and immediately try to steal it (or the battery).

I also appreciate the clarity in the controls. I’ve tried other electric bikes with a one-button toggle, but I could never remember how many times to press the button to toggle the level of assist, or what light indicated how much battery I had left.

The FX+ 2 has a 250-watt Hydrive rear hub motor, which is the European standard. That might seem slightly underpowered to Americans looking to power up huge hills, but the bike is so light and maneuverable that having a smaller motor doesn’t matter much at all. The medium frame size weighs 40 pounds—almost 30 pounds lighter than my own Tern GSD S00.

Not only is it easy to scootch up hills, it’s also easy to maneuver onto crowded bike racks when I’m out, or to lift onto our hanging bike rack in my garage. Also, for the past two weeks, it’s the first bike both my dad and I have grabbed to run errands around the neighborhood. The stated range is 35 miles, but we’ve put at least 10 miles on it by now, and the battery seems largely untouched. The fast 45c road tires didn’t hurt, either.

It does lack a few features we're used to seeing on higher-end ebikes by now, like a low-maintenance carbon belt drive or a continuously variable shifter. Instead, it has a regular bike chain on a nine-speed Shimano shifting system, with a derailleur that, yes, you may have to adjust occasionally.

But honestly, this was more than fine by me. I didn’t have to learn a new shifting system or figure out how to calibrate the gearing with the assist levels. I wasn’t riding a bike that was trying to predict how much assist I’d need and when—I could simply toggle on more or less as I rode. In that way, it felt much easier and more natural. 

It also has a lot of accessories that may be equally important, especially as the weather here in Oregon has grown cold, gray, and wet in the past few weeks. The 120-lumen headlamp is incredibly bright. The bell is incredibly loud. The fenders have kept my jeans relatively dry, and I’ve been able to bungee items onto the rear rack. A kickstand keeps it up in the garage for quick access, and hydraulic disc brakes work even when the rain is pouring down.

The price point may seem high compared to direct-to-consumer bikes from Aventon, Lectric, or Rad Power. But once you start adding up the cost of quality components, labor, and accessories, their prices start inching up. Mail-order companies are able to offer much lower prices on base models because their motors are cheaper. With a nicer motor, a mail-order bike like the Ride1Up Prodigy is priced comparably to the FX+ 2, and you have to assemble and safety-check it yourself.

Over the years, I’ve seen bicycle manufacturers debate and then struggle to add or subtract features that will make electric bikes more attractive to people who haven’t biked before. Extremely low step-throughs! Weird shifting systems! Apps! Huge tires! Maybe the best way to get people on an electric bike is the same way you get people on a regular bike—by making it fun, light, and easy to ride.

Best lightweight bikes 2024: a buyer's guide to climbers' bikes

Looking for the best lightweight, hill-flattening, mountain-conquering machine? We’ve tested the lightest and fastest climbing road bikes on the market.

• Sign up to our newsletter Newsletter

The Quick List

Best overall, best all-rounder, lightest frame, most inclusive sizing, light and responsive, how we test, best lightweight road bikes 2024: jump menu.

The list in brief ↴

1. Best overall 2. Best all-rounder 3. Lightest frame 4. Best value 5. Most inclusive sizing 6. Light and responsive

A lightweight bike will help you sail up the climbs and accelerate out of the bends. The desire to save weight spans the generations, but things have moved on now from drilling holes in your steel frame . Carbon frames , the best road bike wheels , and much else besides have made bikes both light and strong - although certainly not cheap.

You might be wondering what’s the point in a lightweight bike these days—isn’t aero all we should care about? It’s only (steep) uphill efforts where a lightweight bike is faster, but that’s ignoring the time lost descending the other side.

While it’s true that a lightweight bike may not be as fast as an aero bike in the majority of circumstances, that somewhat misses the point. Lightweight bikes, quite simply, are fun. The instant response to the slightest acceleration, the sprightliness as you twist up the hills, makes for an, arguably, more engaging and enjoyable ride.

We've tested a wide range of road bikes from numerous brands, all fitting the 'lightweight' moniker. We've selected a few of our favourites here to help you find the right option for you.

The S5 manages to balance stiffness and compliance in a lightweight package that's a joy to ride.

Read more below

Lighter, more aero and with clearance for 34mm tires, the updated SuperSix is more versatile than ever.

Weighing just 585g, the S-Works Aethos frame is a true featherweight, which translates to into a sublime ride.

A light frameset, a great wheelset and Ultegra Di2 with a power meter combine to create a lovely ride at a pleasing price.

With eight sizes including a 3XS, there's likely an Ultimate for everyone. Fifth Gen is lighter, stiffer and faster.

With a complete build weighing just over 6kg, the 02 VAM is certainly light but it's the overall ride quality that shines.

Best lightweight road bikes 2024: Our picks

1. Cervélo R5

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The updated R5 frame is a claimed 130g lighter than the older model, weighing just 703g in a size 56cm (painted). The proprietary seatpost and stem are also lighter. There's a new carbon layup to help achieve this alongside fresh tube shapes that help give the bike its sublime ride quality

We loved how plush the rear of the bike feels, thanks in part to the flexible D-shaped seatpost, which works with help from a top tube/seat tube junction that has been dropped by 15mm. As for the front end, it delivers a connected ride with all the feedback you'd want from what is a top-tier road bike with pro peleton credentials.

It's light, and when combined with the stiff bottom bracket, surges uphill. Of course, you have to come down, and the R5 descends beautifully. As for the flat sections of a ride, the new aero tube shapes appear to do their job with aplomb.

Read more: Cervélo R5 Disc Force eTap AXS road bike review

2. Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod 2

Now in its fourth generation, the SuperSix has become a little more aero but also a little lighter too; both enhance it's reputation as true lightweight all-rounder. Little wonder it's raced at the top level by the EF Education team among others.

Recent trends for wider tire clearances and threaded bottom brackets feature in the update. Th SuperSix can now fit tires up to 34mm in width, while the BSA 68mm standard has been adopted - a win for any home mechanic. 

As for the ride, we loved how fast the bike it, aided in part by the deep section wheels. When the road pointed up the bike's low weight and smart geometry really came into play, aiding our out-of-saddle efforts. Descending is equally magical.

If you're looking for a more affordable SuperSix than one reviewed here, there are a number of option in the range.

Read more: Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod 2 full review

3. Specialized Aethos

If you're after the lightest climbing bike, your search might well end at the Aethos. In the S-Works guise the frame weighs a claimed 585g, which makes it the lightest of all the bikes featured here. When we reviewed this model our size 52 tipped the scales at under 6kg!

We loved the look of the traditional tube shapes and they helped to deliver a ride quality that is quite sublime. The rear end isn't quite as stiff as an out and out racer, but that's not to say you can't race this bike - in fact it's been used in the professional peloton before. However, that greater compliance really shines through on longer rides. We also found that it's nicely balanced with a 'stiff enough' front end that really delivers a connected feel. And of course it feels right at home when climbing.

The S-Works models are incredibly expensive, whether you opt for Shimano or SRAM electronic shifting. There are 'cheaper' options however, which use a different grade of carbon. They're still incredibly light and we loved how the Comp version of the Aethos rode too when we tested it. 

Read more: Specialized S-Works Aethos full review

4. Giant TCR Advanced Pro 0

The TCR Advanced is designed as an all-rounder rather than and out-and-out climbing machine. However, given it's low weight it comfortably fits it the lightweight category too. While the compact race bike can be found in the pricer Advanced SL guise, it's the Advanced Pro that we love.

Why? It delivers a sublime ride quality with a spec that's really hard to beat. At this price range to get an Ultegra Di2 groupset with a power meter is rare. The SLR 1 42 Disc Carbon tubeless-ready wheels are sub-1,500g  and feature a 42mm rim depth front and rear. In short, they're high end and ride accordingly.

And of course there's the frameset itself. We found it to be a really nuanced ride. The stiffness is noticeable but never to the point where it feels overly rigid. Rather the bike feels lively under foot; it's fast and smooth on the flats, handles with confidence and at a tad over 7kg climbs with great efficiency.

Read more : Giant TCR Advanced Pro 0 full review

5. Canyon Ultimate

Now in it's fifth iteration, the Ultimate is certainly lightweight - Canyon has a claimed weight of just 6.3kg for the top-tier Ultimate CFR Di2, excluding pedals and accessories, in a size M.

As for the sizing, the Ultimate is offered in eight sizes, from 3XS to 3XL. The new version now shares the Canyon Aeroad ’s geometry, which means no women’s specific geometry - the previous WMN models have gone. The two smallest sizes in the SL model come with 650B wheels while just the 3XS gets smaller wheels in the SLX version.

Canyon says the new version is five per cent stiffer and some 10 watts faster. While we can't claimed to have noticed this directly, the adopted Aeroad geometry does translate to a direct front end and a pretty aggressive riding position.  Our CF SLX 8 model felt really planted, even at high speeds.

The bike also felt especially smooth too. There's room for 32mm tires too, which would likely only add to the ride quality. As you'd hope from a bike this light, it climbs very well. We also appreciated just how stable it felt when coming down the other side - it made for a confidence-inspiring ride.

As well as the range of frame sizes, the Ultimate also come's with Canyon's CP18 cockpit, which is adjustable.This allows you to play around with the width to find the optimum position for you. We did find however that the built-in computer mount sits at an angle, rather than lying flat, which wasn't to our liking.

Read more: Canyon Ultimate first ride 

6. Factor 02 VAM

When redesigning its climbing bike, Factor leaned heavily on computational fluid dynamics (CFD), enabling it to test many more iterations of the new frameset in the design phase. It's resulted in a claimed 35% increase in stiffness, and 12-watt aerodynamic improvement over the previous generation model - and the frame weighs just 730 grams.

We found that the low weight and increased stiffness lead to a delightful ride quality. Our review bike tipped the scales at just 6.3kg and as a result it felt incredibly responsive. The improved front end stiffness was tangible; it felt more assertive and handled descents with greater assurance than the previous model.

However, all this stiffness is balanced by plenty of compliance too. On long rides in hilly terrain we didn't feel overly fatigued, with the low seat stays and narrow tube profiles delivering just the right amount of comfort.

Of course no bike is perfect, and the 02 VAM doesn't quite roll along the flats like a true aero bike does. That said, it's still plenty fast. And boy does it look good, too!

Read more: Factor 02 VAM full review

We have a dedicated team of testers here at  Cycling Weekly , whose job is to review a whole range of cycling products and to write objective reviews of their experience of using them day in day out in a whole range of conditions.

With huge experience, they're really well placed to compare products, identify their strengths and weaknesses and bring you an honest, unbiased assessment of how they perform.

When it comes to testing road bikes we log hundreds of miles, looking at a number of factors as we assess their overall performance. Given that these bikes are designed to be lightweight we place importance on their ability to climb without overlooking other important attributes, including speed on the flat, the handling and  comfort over distance. We also look at more general considerations such as build and spec quality, durability and value for money. 

Thank you for reading 20 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

Get The Leadout Newsletter

The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!

After winning the 2019 National Single-Speed Cross-Country Mountain Biking Championships and claiming the plushie unicorn (true story), Stefan swapped the flat-bars for drop-bars and has never looked back. 

Since then, he’s earnt his 2ⁿᵈ cat racing licence in his first season racing as a third , completed the South Downs Double in under 20 hours and Everested in under 12 .

But his favourite rides are multiday bikepacking trips, with all the huge amount of cycling tech and long days spent exploring new roads and trails - as well as histories and cultures. Most recently, he’s spent two weeks riding from Budapest into the mountains of Slovakia . 

Height: 177cm

Weight: 67–69kg

The Astana-Qazaqstan rider, newly knighted, will come good. Just wait.

By Adam Becket Published 25 June 24

Featherweight replacement for the Wilier 0 SLR is unashamedly all about climbing

By Joe Baker Published 25 June 24

Useful links

• Tour de France
• Giro d'Italia
• Vuelta a España

Buyer's Guides

• Best road bikes
• Best gravel bikes
• Best smart turbo trainers
• Best cycling computers
• Editor's Choice
• Bike Reviews
• Component Reviews
• Clothing Reviews
• Contact Future's experts
• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Cookies policy
• Advertise with us

Cycling Weekly is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site . © Future Publishing Limited Quay House, The Ambury, Bath BA1 1UA. All rights reserved. England and Wales company registration number 2008885.

• off.road.cc
• Dealclincher
• Fantasy Cycling

Support road.cc

Like this site? Help us to make it better.

• Sportive and endurance bikes
• Gravel and adventure bikes
• Urban and hybrid bikes
• Touring bikes
• Cyclocross bikes
• Electric bikes
• Folding bikes
• Fixed & singlespeed bikes
• Children's bikes
• Time trial bikes
• Accessories - misc
• Computer mounts
• Bike bags & cases
• Bottle cages
• Child seats
• Lights - front
• Lights - rear
• Lights - sets
• Pumps & CO2 inflators
• Puncture kits
• Reflectives
• Smart watches
• Stands and racks
• Arm & leg warmers
• Base layers
• Gloves - full finger
• Gloves - mitts
• Jerseys - casual
• Jerseys - long sleeve
• Jerseys - short sleeve
• Shorts & 3/4s
• Tights & longs
• Bar tape & grips
• Bottom brackets
• Brake & gear cables
• Brake & STI levers
• Brake pads & spares
• Cassettes & freewheels
• Chainsets & chainrings
• Derailleurs - front
• Derailleurs - rear
• Gear levers & shifters
• Handlebars & extensions
• Inner tubes
• Quick releases & skewers
• Energy & recovery bars
• Energy & recovery drinks
• Energy & recovery gels
• Heart rate monitors
• Hydration products
• Hydration systems
• Indoor trainers
• Power measurement
• Skincare & embrocation
• Training - misc
• Cleaning products
• Lubrication
• Tools - multitools
• Tools - Portable
• Tools - workshop
• Books, Maps & DVDs
• Camping and outdoor equipment
• Gifts & misc

Lightest road bikes 2024 — fantastically featherweight rides that barely tip the road.cc scales of truth

First Published May 9, 2023

This article contains links to retailers. Purchases made after clicking on those links may help support road.cc by earning us a commission but all of our reviews are fully independent. Find out more about road.cc buyer's guides.

A few years back, riders in the professional peloton were sticking weights on their frames to bring the bikes up to the UCI weight limit of 6.8kg (15lbs); and while the adoption of disc brakes and electronic groupsets have reduced the need for that, there are still some very light road bikes available on the market... as long as you have the funds, because shedding weight often doesn't come cheap! 

• Buy now for £8000 from Sigma Sports
• Find out more

• Buy now for £2800 from Decathlon

• Buy now for £8899 from Primera Sports

• Buy now for £12000 from Tredz

• Buy now for £8300 from Sigma Sports

• Buy now for £9999 from Vires Velo

If you are a frequent reader of our bike reviews  you'll know that a bike's weight isn't the be-all and end-all, often being trumped by aerodynamics or comfort in the real world. That doesn't stop us all wanting the lightest machine we can afford though, especially if you live in a hilly area. Plus we all know that at some point someone (even a non-cyclist) is going to do the 'car park pick up test' so that they can gauge just how light a modern road bike is, and you won't want to be embarrassed.

As a general trend, bikes have got a little heavier over recent years with the inclusion of  disc brakes and derailleur motors on bikes with electronic gears, but on the whole road bikes are still very light. In fact, some of the models below aren't even anywhere near top-of-the-range, but still tip the scales at less than 8kg.

As you'll see from our list, carbon fibre is king. When it comes to reducing weight other materials often struggle to compete, especially when trying to balance stiffness and longevity too. 

How we review road bikes 

We take bike reviews seriously here at road.cc (although we have a lot of fun riding them) and make sure reviewers have full access to their test bikes for at least a month, ideally longer, to ensure they can come up with detailed and thorough observations about their experience. 

We'll never publish a full review based off a test ride or two in an exotic location, preferring to allow reviewers to ride test bikes in their usual riding environment. The test report asks reviewers to assess quality, comfort, stiffness, value and numerous other metrics, before asking for a final score. 

In the case of light road bikes, if a bike is marketed as lightweight we'll look to compare it to other light bikes on the market vs how it performs and how it's priced, factoring this information into the overall score. 

Why you can trust us

All our reviewers are experienced cyclists, especially so when it comes to bike reviews. We think it takes a bit more know-how to properly review a bike compared to a pair of socks, so most of our bike reviewing gets done by our most experienced staff members and freelance contributors. We also have a rule that we only dish out review products to reviewers who would actually consider buying the item in question; we'll never give an aero road bike to a reviewer who only ever rides gravel, basically!

Also, we only ever recommend bikes that fared well in reviews in our buyer's guides, so you're not just seeing a list we've plucked from our backsides. We might recommend a different spec to the exact bike we've reviewed, but where this is necessary we'll only do so if we're familiar with alternative parts used on the other model. 

A disclaimer...

It's worth noting that our top picks are not necessarily the lightest bikes full-stop, we're well aware of that before you tell us in the comments! This guide is a selection of fully built light bikes that are available to buy, mostly off-the-peg and, crucially, bikes that we've reviewed ourselves so we can recommend them to you.

If you're an extreme weight weenie and would rather build a bike yourself with the lightest bike frames and components in the world, check out this feature instead . If you want to drop some weight off your current bike, see our article on  how to make your bike lighter . There's also some more info on how to buy or build a super lightweight custom bike in the FAQ section towards the bottom of this page. 

We've selected our top six light road bikes first that you can find in the quick links, and there are plenty more recommendations further down the page. 

The best lightweight road bikes: our top picks

Specialized Aethos Pro

The Aethos Pro Ultegra Di2 is one of the lightest road bikes we have ever reviewed on road.cc at just 6.66g. Specialized's S-Works model goes even lighter, with a 56cm frame weighing just 585g!

If you are not overly bothered about aerodynamics and just want minimal weight then Liam described this Aethos as the gold standard for general road bikes.

He found it to be a climber's dream with the way it floated up any sort of incline, and Specialized have also nailed the handling for when you are coming back down the hill, although the handling could be considered quite twitchy for some.

So, the price is high, but if you want one of the lightest mass-produced bikes on the market then the Aethos pretty much has you covered. As already mentioned, we reviewed the Pro version but you can go even lighter (under 6kg) if you have deeper pockets by getting the S-Works model , yours for £12,000 at the time of writing.  

Van Rysel EDR CF Ultegra

As this is our lightweight bikes guide, it would be rude not to include at least one bike with good old rim brakes! Our option is not only light, but it's pretty affordable too compared to others in this list.

We've gone for the Ultegra model rather than the 105, disc brake-equipped version we reviewed in 2021, because it weighs just 7.28kg overall with lighter wheels and groupset than the bike we reviewed. The frame and fork is largely the same, that we described as stiff and providing plenty of feedback without road vibration or harshness muting the signals. Our reviewer also found the geometry to be easy to live with, allowing you to get in an efficient, aero position when required; and this is largely replicated on the rim brake model. 

The wheels are Fulcrum's high-end alloy Racing Zero, and if you switched to even lighter carbon wheels this bike could get close to troubling the UCI weight limit. At under three grand (before your wheel upgrade if you want to do that) this is a very tempting lightweight ride. 

Scott Foil RC Pro

Aero bikes aren't renowned for their low weight, built even with its oversized tubing, electronic groupset and deep section wheels, this model is less than half a kilo over the UCI weight limit at just 7.35kg.

When Aaron recently reviewed this bike he described it as possibly one of the best all-round aero road bikes that are available right now due to it being ridiculously fast yet super-easy to live with as an everyday bike. The highlights being a very stiff frame which also passes on plenty in terms of feedback to the rider, while the front end geometry gives fun and direct handling in the bends.

It may not be the top-end bike in the Foil line-up, but this Pro model still comes equipped with the latest Dura Ace Di2 groupset, fully integrated carbon fibre handlebar and stem, plus Shimano's C50 deep section wheels.

If aero is your thing but you don't want a weight penalty, then this offering from Scott does tick a lot of the boxes when it comes to performance.

Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL8

Specialized has shed even more weight from its flagship do-it-all road racing frame, coming in 120g lighter than the SL7 at an impressive 680g. It meant our top-of-the-range test bike came in just over the UCI weight limit with mid-depth aero wheels, so there's scope to cut the weight even further. 

Other than the weight reduction, the SL8 has also seen a big change at the front, namely the 'speed sniffer' headtube which is said to improve aerodynamics. Elsewhere, Specialized says the SL8 is faster and more compliant (they would, wouldn't they?) but our reviewer was also very impressed with the stiffness, considering the bottom bracket area has been slimmed down. 

With top-end Roval wheels in depths of 51mm at the front and 60mm at the rear plus SRAM eTap AXS 12-speed shifting, the S-Works SL8 is a no compromise racing machine suitable for elite riders, but with comfort and lightness that will appeal to all. If money is no object, this is one superbike that won't disappoint.  

We found Cervelo's R5 to be an excellent all-rounder with its aero touches providing the benefits on the flat, while its stiffness makes it a flattering companion on the climbs. It's also supremely comfortable too making it ideal for those longer rides when you have the time.

The Sram Force AXS eTap build we reviewed tipped the scales at 7.3kg which is half a kilo over the UCI's weight limit, but it's based around a feather light frame of 703g (claimed) for a size 56cm, that's 103g lighter than the previous version, so there is definitely some scope there for a very light bike indeed.

Anne-Marie found the geometry numbers to be a little different to those used by many other manufacturers for a bike of this type and size. Most notably the slightly slacker seat tube angle, and you get quite a short reach measurement too, but she found that as a complete package everything worked very well which is what gives the R5 those excellent all-rounder qualities.

Factor O2 VAM

"A master of climbing" according to our reviewer, the Factor O2 VAM we had in for reviewed weighed in at 6.99kg with a SRAM Force groupset, so there's scope to drop the weight even lower. 

Fast and light, the O2 VAM has no twitchiness about it and can be chucked into corners or sped up on the flats as aggressively as an aero road bike. 

Everything is fully integrated and you get some top-end finishing kit such as Black Inc cockpit and wheels. The ride quality is excellent, and Factor has done a great job of creating a frame that feels very planted and joyous to ride. 

The best of the rest: more lightweight road bike recommendations

Giant Defy Advanced SL 0

Weighing 7.2kg and offering supreme comfort, the Defy should be high on your wishlist if comfort over long distances is your priority. There are much less expensive build options of course, if your budget doesn't stretch to £11,500!

Our reviewer praised the lovely amount of flex from the D-Fuse technology, and the chunky 32mm tubeless tyres increasing comfort further. It's a very smooth ride, and the tweaked geometry offering a slightly shorter head tube than the previous version makes the Defy a touch racier. With full internal cable routing and semi-aero wheels, there's no need to swerve the Defy if you want to go fast. 

While expensive even for a superbike, the Defy does everything it says it will do and is surprisingly lively for an endurance bike. You'll get most of the benefits of this hero model further down the range, too. 

Wilier Filante SLR

Italian brand Wilier do know how to make a stunning looking machine, and the Filante SLR is testament to that, especially in the stunning red colourway of our review model.

At a few grams over 7kg its weight impressive for a bike with relatively chunky aero tubing and the addition of deep section wheels - and that's in a XL size too. Wilier claim a frame and fork weight of just 870g and 360g respectively.

Wilier have focused heavily on the aerodynamics on the Filante, not just when it comes to tube shapes but also the way they have hidden every cable and hose for a super smooth look.

The biggest highlight was just how comfortable the Wilier was though according to Mat. The Filante uses Zero SLR: HUS-Mod carbon fibre and liquid crystal polymer blend. They are tight-lipped about the actual composition, but they say that the liquid crystal polymer helps improve the absorption of vibration.

However it works, Mat did think that the ride quality was pretty sublime. 

Merida Scultura Team

This Team model uses the fifth generation of the Scultura frameset, which shares the geometry of Merida's aero race bike, the Reacto and shares some of the wind cheating design.

It's ridden at the top level by the Bahrain Victorious ProTour team, which means that there is a huge amount of stiffness throughout for coping with a professional's explosive leg power, while the handling is fast, and very precise indeed.

Although we did find the top half of the frame and the fork to give a very comfortable ride too, which wiped out any road buzz without muting the feedback.

At 7.1kg this build feels impressively quick when accelerating, or maintaining speed on the flat, and for a bike with decent amounts of aero styling it climbs well too. It also looks the business with its smooth lines thanks to full internal cable and hose routing, plus the integrated seatpost clamp.

Canyon Ultimate CF SLX 8 Di2

Canyon was always renowned for its value for money and direct-to-consumer pricing; and while the brand might have lost some of that edge, this Ultimate CF SLX is still a lot of bike for the money coming in at one of the least expensive on this list. In fact the RRP has dropped since we reviewed it. 

You're getting a semi-aero frameset, an Ultegra Di2 groupset including a power meter, and deep section DT Swiss wheels which weighs in at 7.27kg. The same frameset built up with a Dura-Ace Di2 groupset, and even fancier DT Swiss wheels nudges that down to 6.8kg if you are willing to splash the cash.

We were impressed overall with how the Ultimate rides with Liam highlighting the stiffness thanks to a solid platform, while there is enough compliance in the frame and fork to stop you getting battered around on rougher roads.

The geometry is long and low a sit's designed for racing which is worth bearing in mind if you aren't the most flexible. 

Chapter2 Toa frameset

Chapter2's Toa frameset isn't necessarily superlight on paper, but that doesn't stop it from being built up into a lightweight race bike that'll take 32mm tyres with ease.

The model we reviewed was built up with a Dura Ace mechanical groupset, deep section wheels and various carbon fibre pieces of finishing kit which weighed in at 7.4kg.

As for the ride, well it really can't be faulted with sweet handling and geometry that puts you into an aggressive position for riding hard against opponents or just on your own.

Comfort is great too, for such a stiff bike.

Chapter2 offer the Toa as a frameset which includes the seatpost and integrated cockpit, plus the paint colours are made in small runs giving a bit of a custom finish to each batch.   

Ribble Endurance SL R Disc - Pro

It's been a few years since we reviewed Ribble's Endurance SL R Disc road bike, but it is still in their line-up and compared to a lot of models in this list, is on the budget side of things - well kind of.

Despite its name David found the Ribble to be anything but the relaxed riding machine the Endurance name would have you believe. The angles are still steep and it definitely focuses on performance.

The Endurance SL R Disc is available in three builds (or you can use Ribble's own Bikebuilder) starting with the Sport running Shimano's 105 Di2 and Level carbon fibre wheels for £4,499.

The Enthusiast model is £5,299 with Ultegra Di2 and the same wheels, while the Hero model comes with Dura Ace Di2 and Enve Foundation 45 carbon fibre wheels for £7,499 at the time of writing.

All three models come with the same carbon integrated handlebar and stem cockpit set-up. It's a lot of bike for the money. 

Specialized S-Works Crux

Okay, so it's not technically a road bike, but the S-Works Crux is described as "the lightest gravel bike in the world" and it also works very well on the road too.

The geometry allows for a low-slung position for speed work, while a slightly longer wheelbase than most road bikes gives it that extra stability off-road. In his review Liam said that he was very impressed with the handling meaning that the Crux copes well with technical descents and it's a prolific climber too. 

It's definitely not cheap at its current price of £11,700, but you are getting some very top end kit with a Sram RED eTap groupset, Roval Terra CLX wheels, and S-Works finishing kit throughout. There are also less expensive models in the range. 

Basically, if you want to ride as fast off of the road as you do on it, then the S-Works Crux should be on your shopping list.

Reilly Fusion

As you can see from the bikes in the list above, carbon pretty much rules when it comes to keeping the weight down. That's not to say that the various metal alloys can't compete.

Kinesis' aluminium Aithein Disc  frameset could be built into a lightweight bike, as could the rim braked version which could easily smash the UCI weight limit with some lightweight off-the-shelf components fitted - unfortunately both of these models have now been dropped from the line-up.

> Best titanium road bikes - are they worth it?

One of the lightest metal bikes we've recently reviewed is this Reilly Fusion, at 8.27kg including the electronic groupset and deep section wheels, so you could still cut some grams if you wished.

Apart from weight the other reason it is on this list is thanks to the ride quality - a blend of stiffness and comfort which easily matches that of a sorted carbon fibre frame.  

Ridley Falcn RS

While not the lightest bike available at 7.4kg, Ridley's Falcn RS has aero wheels and Shimano's Ultegra Di2 groupset, so could easily go under 7kg with some lighter components and finishing kit. 

The Falcn is very much an all-rounder, with a fast and light frameset that is capable of taking up to 34mm tyres. Our reviewer said the frame offered an involving and responsive ride, and bang in the middle of fast and comfortable. 

The Falcn looks modern with very neat integration, and is well worthy of your consideration if you want a do-it-all road bike. 

How to choose from the best lightweight road bikes

Is a lighter road bike better.

On the whole, the lighter a bike is, the more enjoyable it'll be to ride. Not only will it climb better, but it'll be more responsive to your inputs, so acceleration will feel quicker and pulling away from a standing start will become less of a chore on your legs. 

It also comes down to what kind of riding you do too. If you live somewhere hilly, or you like to head off and spend time scaling mountain passes then every gram you can drop will be a bonus.

For those of us who ride on the flat or rolling terrain, though, having a more aerodynamic bike can be more efficient even if it is carrying a kilo or so extra, especially when you are up to speed.

As you can see from our list though, many of the latest aero or do-it-all bikes are also pretty light too.

What is the lightest bike available?

Often touted as the lightest road bike is a creation by Gunter Mai using custom made parts including the carbon fibre frameset back in 2008, weighing around 3kg. It was then rebuilt by a new owner who managed to get that weight down to an incredible 2.7kg.

AX Lightness famously hit the cycling headlines back in 2015 with their Vial Evo Ultra , a production ready rim-braked road bike that was equipped with many of AX Lightness' own components to tickle the scales at a mere 4.4kg.

The AX Lightness Vial Evo Ultra, just 4.4kg

The UK's hill climb season isn't governed by the UCI, which often makes it a breeding ground for the pros and amateurs to tweak their off-the-shelf-bikes in weight weeny, gravity-defying machines. When we took a look around Andrew Feather's  British National Hill Climb-winning Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod  back in November 2022, the full bike weighed just 5.39kg. It was based around a 2019 rim braked version of the SuperSix Evo and was fitted exotica like Hunt's Hill Climb wheels at under 1,000g and a Schmolke saddle that weighed a svelte 63g.

By 2023 Feather had upgraded to the SuperSix Evo LAB71 frame with disc brakes for a slight weight penalty but - according to experts he'd consulted - a worthwhile aero benefit, much to the horror of many rim brake fans. While this is our guide to the lightest road bikes, we're happy to admit that bike weight isn't everything, and Feather's choice to switch to a 'heavier' bike is a great example; especially since he comfortably defended his title. 

What is the UCI weight limit, and why?

The UCI brought in a weight limit back at the turn of the century of 6.8kg (15lbs) for a couple of reasons, with the main one being safety concerns over the reliability and durability of bike framesets and their components in the never-ending quest for dropping weight. 

Newer materials in bike building were becoming more commonplace too, like aluminium alloy and carbon fibre. Both could see catastrophic failures if not manufactured into frames, forks and components properly. 

Another reason was that it created a kind of level playing field. Riders riding for big budget teams on the lightest, most expensive bikes had a big advantage over smaller budget teams, especially those from outside of Europe or the USA, and the idea was that the weight limit would level this out.

With today's manufacturing techniques and tolerances failures are rare (when crashes aren't involved) so there have been many calls for the UCI to lower or scrap the limit altogether.

It's worth bearing in mind that if you aren't riding in UCI-sanctioned events then the weight limit won't apply to you. 

What's the best way to lighten my bike?

If your budget doesn't stretch to buying a range-topping lightweight model straight away, you can easily and relatively cheaply remove weight from a bike that sits lower down the range, or from your existing bike.

> How to make your bike lighter

Usually the quickest way to drop the grams is to swap out the wheelset, as even mid-range road bikes tend to come with hoops that sit a few rungs down the lightweight ladder than the frame probably deserves.

> Find the best road bike wheels whatever your budget

For six or seven hundred quid you could easily shed 300 to 400g from your wheelset, and an upgrade to some race tyres can also drop another 100g or so from each wheel.

You could drop weight by upgrading your groupset too by another few hundred grams as parts wear out. For instance, the difference between Shimano 105 Di2 and Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 is around 500g, with Ultegra Di2 sitting in the middle; although top-of-the-range groupsets are expensive, so a groupset upgrade is nowhere near the most affordable way to shed weight. 

You can also upgrade aluminium components (think seatpost, handlebar etc.)  for carbon although the gains will be minimal.

Of course, your other option is to lighten yourself... but that's a whole other subject! 

> Cycling and weight loss — Top tips for pedalling away the pounds

Help us to fund our site

We’ve noticed you’re using an ad blocker. If you like road.cc, but you don’t like ads, please consider subscribing to the site to support us directly. As a subscriber you can read road.cc ad-free, from as little as £1.99. 

If you don’t want to subscribe, please turn your ad blocker off. The revenue from adverts helps to fund our site.

Help us to bring you the best cycling content

If you’ve enjoyed this article, then please consider subscribing to road.cc from as little as £1.99. Our mission is to bring you all the news that’s relevant to you as a cyclist, independent reviews, impartial buying advice and more. Your subscription will help us to do more.

As part of the tech team here at F-At Digital, senior product reviewer Stu spends the majority of his time writing in-depth reviews for road.cc, off-road.cc and ebiketips using the knowledge gained from testing over 1,500 pieces of kit (plus 100's of bikes) since starting out as a freelancer back in 2009. After first throwing his leg over a race bike back in 2000, Stu's ridden more than 170,000 miles on road, time-trial, track, and gravel bikes, and while he's put his racing days behind him, he still likes to smash the pedals rather than take things easy. With a background in design and engineering, he has an obsession with how things are developed and manufactured, has a borderline fetish for handbuilt metal frames and finds a rim braked road bike very aesthetically pleasing!

Add new comment

18 comments.

50+ years to lose nearly 1.5 kg!

https://www.retrobike.co.uk/threads/holdsworth-cronometro-ultralight-now...

• Log in or register to post comments

To be fair, they're a lot better in other ways too. Would you really want to go back to 6 gears, downtube shifters, tyres that puncture every week and need to be glued on,, and bendy bars and stem?

Am I the only one who thinks the prices for these bikes is utterly ridiculous? For an item with not that many components compared to a motorbike with infinately more, the value for money is atrocious, cue comments re. manufacturing costs, supply and demand etc but however you look at it, it just doesn't add up.

Anything over £3k should have "expensive' as one of the cons. Just ridiculous prices.

How much would a MotoGP bike cost? Presumably quite a lot too. 

Is it still 2003?  Has no one told you about the fact that reducing bike weight by teeny amounts is nothing but a marketing scam?  Have y'all been a-boo-boos for 20 years? Have a read of this and wake up:

https://www.cyclingabout.com/why-we-should-stop-our-obsession-with-bike-...

Carrying 5kg (11lb) on a 15.37km Circuit with 276m Climbing Run 1: 39:55 Run 2: 39:25 Average: 39:40

Carrying 15kg (33lb) on a 15.37km Circuit with 276m Climbing Run 1: 41:26 Run 2: 41:22 Average: 41:24 (+1:44 with 10kg extra)

Carrying 25kg (55lb) on a 15.37km Circuit with 276m Climbing Run 1: 42:40 Run 2: 42:24 Average: 42:32 (+2:52 with 20kg extra)

The numbers from my test are a little abstract, so let’s extrapolate them out to 100km to see how closely they match Bike Calculator’s prediction of 78 seconds per extra kilogram.

Extrapolated Data: 100km (62mi) with 1796m (5892ft) elevation gain 5kg Load: 4 hours, 18 minutes, 4 seconds 15kg Load: 4 hours, 29 minutes, 17 seconds – 67 seconds per extra kilogram (+11:13) 25kg Load: 4 hours, 36 minutes, 47 seconds – 56 seconds per extra kilogram (+18:43)

The data is quite clear; bike weight is not as important as you think!

My real-world testing, along with the numbers from the mathematical models, suggests that a kilogram extra weight will likely add one or two minutes on a hilly 100km bike ride. And on a flat route, a kilogram is likely worth 10 or 20 seconds over 100km.

This is worth thinking about if you find yourself obsessing over bike and gear weight.

Your times suggest that even a few hundred grammes could make a significant difference in a race. Anyway, a lighter bike feels nicer.

Agree re: feel. Admittedly I don't have two otherwise identical bikes of different weights to make a truly fair test, but my lightest bike (c. 7.5kg, so not a total weight weenie) feels nicest.

The difference is particularly noticeable if you have to carry the bike upstairs after a long ride.

I had done something sort of comparison, when I started carrying my D-Lock on a bike mount and the bike seemed to be obviously slower to change direction. When put in a belt holster, the bike felt again light and sometimes I think I have forgotten it home, despite having the same overall bike and rider weight.

So a lighter bike is indeed more fun when riden, but to be honest for many riders it would be better for their wallet and the environment to try get thinner instead of becoming weight weenies.

The effect is even clearer if you hang a couple of bags of shopping on the ends of your handlebars.

True indeed, have done lots of shopping like that!

I did some completey independent, mathematical modelling on this topic. I also found that the difference on a course involving moderately rolling terrain was about 1 minute for 1 extra kg per 100 km ridden. I would like to take a poll to know what an average cyclists expects the difference to be, becuase I'd guess they would think 5 or 10 times the real value.

Are you sure your model is giving the "real" value?

Naturally we who have been duped into spending hundreds or thousands on a bike part or three to reduce the weight by 491 grams will feel some mental resistance to the data revealed by the experiments mentioned, particularly when the real world experiment is backed up by use of a mathemeatical model giving the same results. No one likes to admit they've been fooled by nothing more than some advert lies.

The mathematical model used in the experiment to add weight ('scuse pun) to the real world results was Bikecalculator.

http://bikecalculator.com/

The article also allows that there are some situations in which a lighter bike has advantages. Some quotes:

1. You do actually race (be honest). The difference between winning and losing is sometimes measured in millimetres. One kilogram less is going to help here, and the benefits of that weight saving only increase the longer and more mountainous your race.

2. To improve bike handling and feel. Heavy bikes don’t feel as snappy or responsive when accelerating or cornering, making them feel a little less inspiring to ride

3. To use a bike that isn’t designed to carry heavy loads. Touring bikes are stiffer, and are built with a slew of overbuilt components (stronger wheels!) specifically to handle high luggage weights.

4. To make lifting your bike and luggage easier. There are many instances where you might need to carry your bike. For example, I’m often carrying my bike on hike-a-bike sections of trail, as well as up and down stairs in apartment blocks, hotels, and train stations.

5. To make flying cheaper. A few extra kilograms can really add up when you get to the airport. Make sure to keep your bike light enough so that you don’t get caught out with crazy fees!

Personally I ride bikes of various weights, determined largely by their functional design parameters. It's now around ten years since I bought any improving component based on its weight, since every worthwhile improvement (in comfort, reliability, fixability, mechanical efficiency and even speed-per-effort) tends to require a slightly heavier component.

Does a lighter bike feel nicer?  Not if the weight reduction has compromised the functional performance by making the thing too flexy, fragile or inclined to generate mechanicals on a regular basis. My best-feeling bike weighs 13.5 kg. Mind, it has an electric motor, which does add greatly to the pleasures of the ride (at the cost of +5kg over the umotored version).

***********

It's astonishing how much misinformation has been generated & swallowed in the efforts of business to make us buy stuff we really don't need or benefit from.

Which "experiments mentioned"? A mathematical model isn't an experiment. It's a model someone has dreamt up.

You might feel you are the victim of some big deception or fraud, but you shouldn't draw conclusions from that about other people. 

Read the article that the link in the first post provides. It contains details of "the experiment" as well as the mention that many mathematical models constructed to estimate various effects and their relationships whilst cycling agree with the results of the experiment.

We're all victims of all sorts of marketing scams.  Just because you want to pretend that you made a fully-informed and free choice to buy something based on misinformation and a dollop of glamour in yer eye doesn't make you any less of a victim in practice. 

Your assumptions about my "beliefs" must also based on the results of your mathematical models. I've never bought bike parts because of what they weigh.

• MAGAZINE OFFERS
• BIKE INSURANCE
• Best Products
• Maintenance
• Accessories
• Long-Term Reviews
• BikeRadar Podcast
• First Look Friday
• Bike of the Week
• Tech Features
• Routes and Rides
• Bike Galleries
• BikeRadar Bargains
• Buyer's Guides
• Fitness & Training
• Sizing & Fit
• Mountain Biking UK
• Cycling Plus
• Bike of the Year 2024

Leaked images reveal new lightweight Trek road bike

Could this be a new Émonda or a lighter Madone?

Weight weenies forum

Simon von Bromley

An unreleased Trek road bike has been leaked on the Weight Weenies online forum.

Looking like a slimmed-down version of the Madone aero bike, could it be an update to Trek’s lightweight climbing platform, the Émonda ?

Alternatively, could Trek be looking to consolidate its range by combining both into a lightweight/aero all-rounder more akin to the all-conquering Specialized Tarmac ?

At the time of writing, official details are scant. However, with the Tour Down Under – the opening race of the WorldTour season – just around the corner, more could be revealed soon.

For now, though, let’s take a look at what we can surmise from the leaked image.

IsoFlow for everyone

As ever at the start of a new season, many WorldTour riders are out at team training camps logging thousands of base miles and familiarising themselves with new kit.

This year, it seems Lidl-Trek’s Giulio Ciccone – the mountains classification winner at the 2023 Tour de France – has had the pleasure of testing a new unbranded road racing bike.

Given it’s a title sponsor of Ciccone’s team, we can assume this is a prototype or unreleased Trek road bike.

The bike also appears to be an amalgamation of two of Trek’s current road models, the Madone SLR Gen 7 and the Émonda SLR .

The most distinctive carry-over from the Madone SLR looks to be the IsoFlow seat tube design.

On the Madone SLR, this essentially sees a kite-shaped hole placed in the junction between the seat tube, the top tube and the seatstays.

According to Trek, the IsoFlow design causes the oncoming airflow to accelerate through the hole, reducing the size of the trailing low-pressure wake behind the bike and thereby improving its aerodynamic efficiency.

IsoFlow is also claimed to help improve comfort to a similar degree to Trek’s previous IsoSpeed ‘decoupler’ system (versions of which appear on the Trek Domane SLR endurance bike and on the previous-generation Madone SLR ), but with less weight and complication.

Although the leaked image only shows the new bike from a side-on view, the Madone SLR’s distinctive overhanging seatpost is clearly there.

A climber’s bike

Aside from the IsoFlow design, the rest of the frameset appears to be made up of slim truncated aerofoil tubes.

As on the current Émonda SLR, these are typically employed to reduce weight while maintaining a high degree of aerodynamic efficiency.

While the image we have doesn’t make it clear, we’d be surprised if Trek strayed too far from this formula with this latest bike.

Given Giulio Ciccone is testing it, Trek likely wants to ensure one of its best specialist climbers is happy with how it rides.

Like the current Emonda, this unbadged bike looks to use slim, round seatstays.

The seatpost design appears to be a slimmed-down version of that seen on the Madone, however.

Hydraulic brake hoses route underneath the stem and through the upper headset bearing into the frame (there are no gear cables because the bike is equipped with SRAM’s wireless Red eTap AXS groupset ), and the bike has a standard two-piece cockpit.

That may simply be due to Ciccone’s own preferences, however, because he typically uses such setups on all of his race bikes.

As with the current Émonda and Madone, it’s possible this new bike will be able to use both integrated and non-integrated cockpits.

After all, while non-integrated cockpits and round tubes may be lightweight and beautiful , they’re not particularly aerodynamic (or, therefore, fast).

So what is it?

Is this a new Émonda or a new Madone (or both), then?

As things stand, it’s not clear.

On the one hand, given the current Trek Émonda is nearly four years old  ( it was officially unveiled in June 2020 ), and the current Madone SLR was only unveiled in June 2022, logic would dictate this is a new Émonda.

One that’s learned a few aero tricks from the Madone while maintaining its impressively low weight, perhaps.

On the other hand, considering the new bike appears to take heavy inspiration from both platforms (and therefore differentiates itself from the Madone far less), and the general industry trend towards brands having just one all-rounder race bike platform, this could also be a consolidation of Trek’s road bike line-up.

The lightweight/aero all-rounder road bike has seen a strong resurgence in recent years, with the release of popular and successful bikes such as the Specialized Tarmac SL7 and SL8, as well as the Pinarello Dogma F , Giant Propel , Ridley Falcn RS and Van Rysel RCR .

With the UCI weight limit looking set to remain unchanged for the foreseeable future, could Trek instead be trying to bring its aero race bike down to the magic 6.8kg mark?

Time will tell, of course, but what would such a bike be called in that case? The Madone, naturally.

The Madone has, after all, been Trek’s primary race bike for more than two decades – dating back to the original Trek Madone 5.9 that He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named didn’t win the 2003 Tour de France aboard.

If Trek were to revert back to having a single, do-it-all race bike, we suspect it would continue with the Madone name rather than come up with another anagram (Émonda and Domane are, as many will have noticed, anagrams of Madone).

Unless it plans to come up with a new naming convention altogether, of course.

As always, we’ll keep our eyes peeled and our ears to the ground for more information and will update this article when any is available.

Share this article

Senior technical writer

You may also like

Bikeradar newsfeed, analysis | the uci has banned angled brake hoods – what does it mean for bike tech, bmc launches teammachine r in collaboration with red bull featuring eye-catching halo fork , new aluminium trek émonda alr gets aero tubing, hidden cables and moves to threaded bottom bracket, simon says: forget the tarmac, bring back the specialized venge.

• Terms & Conditions
• Subscribe to our magazines
• Manage preferences

• ⋙ Start Here

Search suggestions:

Popular searches:.

• Best cycling jeans
• Urban cycling brands
• stylish helmets
• Gifts for cyclists

Electric Bikes

Lightweight Electric Bikes: Top 10 Lightest E-Bikes in 2024

By Charlotte Broughton

Updated Feb 27, 2024

This post may contain affiliate links, which help to keep Discerning Cyclist rolling. Learn more .

When considering a new bike purchase, it’s usual to carefully consider a few important factors. One of these factors is likely the weight of the bike, which can often sway our final decision when choosing between a couple of options.

This therefore is still going to be an important aspect when deciding upon an electric bike. So with that in mind, here’s a list of the lightest electric bikes currently available.

Lightest E-Bikes (Top 17)

8.5kg / 18.7lbs

HPS Domestique

10.3kg / 22.7lbs

Hummingbird Flax Folding E-Bike

10.3kg / 22.7 lbs

Wilier Filante Hybrid

10.3 kg / 22.7 lbs

Hummingbird Folding E-Bike

10.5 kg / 23.1 lbs

Ribble Endurance SL E Hero

10.6 kg / 23.3 lbs

Scott Addict RC eRide

11.3 kg / 24.9 lbs

Cannondale SuperSix EVO Neo

11.5kg / 25.5 lbs

Thoemus Swissrider Urban

11.7 kg / 26 lbs

Lemond Prolog

12.2 kg / 26.8 lbs

Specialized S-Works Turbo Creo SL

Orbea GAIN M20 Flat Bar

12.3kg / 27.1 lbs

Bianchi Aria e-Road

13.3 kg / 29.3 lbs

CARBO Model X Folding E-Bike

14 kg / 30.8 lbs

Quella Electric Varsity Collection

14.4 kg / 31.7 lbs

Ampler Curt

15.0 kg / 33.1lbs

Urtopia Carbon E-Bike

16.35 kg / 35.9 lbs

Trek E-Caliber 9.9

Electric Bike Weight

Electric bike weight may be a contributing factor as to why some people have been put off from purchasing or using one in the past. However, as they’ve become a solid option within the market, new technological advances have meant the weight is far more manageable and less overwhelming than before.

The typical weights of an electric bike, across all styles, roughly ranges from around 11kg to 25kg. The latter is still a reasonable weight for a bike with a motor, but the more expensive the e-bike, usually the lighter it will be.

Therefore, it’s understandable, when comparing electric bikes to normal bikes , that the weight can sometimes seem a little heavy. But doing so has no real value: they’re chalk and cheese, and in all honesty, you can’t compare them.

Why Are E-Bikes So Heavy?

Electric bikes are heavy (at least heavier than their non electric counterparts) due to the batteries and motor that they have fitted. Without these elements the bike would not be an electric bike, therefore removing them to make the bicycle lighter is a non starter.

However, as previously noted, electric bikes of late have been shedding the pounds. Many newer models are lighter, and therefore more manageable to ride.

There’s also the positives of having a pedal assist motor, which for sure outweighs any issues you may face with weight! Especially when you consider the list of lightweight electric bikes we’ve picked out. Many may even be lighter than non electric bikes you’ve previously ridden.

Are Heavier Bikes Harder to Ride?

As a rule of thumb, heavier bikes can sometimes be harder to ride, but it’s not always massively noticeable as long as the bike is a good fit, and you’re comfortable with the controls for the motor.

On the other hand, what you may want to consider when owning a heavier bike is how easy it may be for you to carry, or even mount onto the back of your car if you enjoy going away with your bike.

Therefore, although weight can affect the ride quality, it’s definitely not as big an issue compared to whether the bike may be too heavy for you to carry when walking down stairs, etc. But on the plus side, being heavier, it’s harder for thieves to pick up and walk away with…

Benefits of Lightweight E-Bikes

The benefits of owning and riding a lightweight electric bike are first and foremost, that it will feel a little more manoeuvrable in comparison to a really heavy one. This is of course due to there being less mass to move around underneath you while riding.

Next, a lightweight e-bike will feel faster and more manageable when riding up inclines, which is safe to say the circumstance in which most of us want a little extra help.

And of course following on from the previous point regarding the weight of a bike, a lighter electric bike will be easier to carry, mount onto your car and generally just store – say if you hang your bikes up in your garage, or in a bike store at work if you commute in by bike .

Discerning Cyclist’s expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing cycling products so you don’t have to.

Testing stylish gear since 2012

Hundreds of hands-on product tests

Unfiltered opinions from experienced cyclists

Learn more about Discerning Cyclist here.

Best Lightweight Electric Bikes

As everyones needs differ regarding what sort of terrain and use they have for their electric bike, we have a list ranging from different styles of electric bikes .

Therefore we hope that you find the perfect lightweight electric bike for you amongst our pick!

Lightest E-Bikes in the World

Lightest electric road bike, 1. hps domestique.

Prices are approximate

• Weight: 18.7lbs (8.5kg)
• Range: Not Stated
• Wheel Size: 700c
• Gears:  13 speed

The lightest road bike available

Incredibly light, incredibly pricey

Can be taken on a plane

The lightest production electric bike award (currently) goes to the HPS Domestique.

HPS aren’t a hugely well-known brand but for those riders looking for the highest e-road bike to swing their leg over, they’ll probably have come across the Domestique – the only bike HPS currently produce.

The Domestique is, in its essence, a classic carbon race bike but with the addition of a tiny crank-based motor. The motor takes its power from a battery housed in the bike’s bottle.

• Custom, handmade carbon fibre frame
• Motorsport and aeronautical engineering
• Links with popular GPS devices like Garmin
• Bottle based battery is a design concession

Lightest Electric Folding Bike

2. hummingbird flax.

• Weight: 22.7lbs (10.3kg)
• Range: 50+ km
• Wheel Size:  16”
• Gears:  Single Speed

Folding electric bike

Plant fibre construction

Hummingbird is the only bike brand with two bikes on our list of the lightest electric bikes available today – not bad for a small company that operates out of a non-descriptive warehouse in the English midlands.

That puts Hummingbird down somewhat, especially when you consider that their parent company, Prodrive, has an astonishing legacy in motorsport.

The Flax version of the Hummingbird folding electric bike uses plant fibres to create a bike that’s equally as strong (and light) as its sister bike included further down this list.

• Outstandingly light
• Just enough e-power
• Just one colour
• Single speed

3. Wilier Filante Hybrid

• Weight: 22.7 lbs (10.3kg)
• Gears:  Various

Amazing looking e-road bike

Italian flair

Different builds available

The second electric road bike on our list and this time its from a more well-known brand. Wilier is an Italian bike manufacturer with a long and decorated history in road cycling.

Their attention has turned to electric road bikes in recent years and the brand’s eye for detail is evident in this bike, the Filante Hybrid.

The Filante e-bike features an extremely discrete display system mounted in the bike’s stem and the rear wheel (where the motor is housed) is fitted to the frame with a thru-axle. A thru axle delivers a better ride, but it does throw up issues with connecting the motor. A clever design feature from Wilier means that the thru-axle connects the electronics of the bike automatically when added and disconnects it when its removed.

• Different sizes, colours, builds available
• From a brand with a decorated road cycling history
• Rear thru axle provides an excellent ride
• Discrete motor and display
• Too race orientated for most

4. Hummingbird Folding E-Bike

• Range:  40 km to 50+ km
• Gears:  Single-Speed

Lightweight

Impressive range

This highly practical folding electric bike is the perfect option for anyone on the go, as well as those limited with storage. Not to mention it astonishingly only comes in at 10.3kg, which is a crazily light weight. Of course, there’s not as much to the bike in comparison to road bikes etc, but this is seriously impressive stuff.

As well as being impressively lightweight, this folding electric bike from Hummingbird also offers an impressive range of up to 50km, which is definitely more than enough for most commuters needs.

In addition, this bike comes in four different colours to suit a wide range of tastes. However, if non of these standard colours take your fancy, there is also the option to have a custom paint job.

When purchasing this electric bike, there’s also the useful additional option to add any accessories you may need such as a lock, bag, or even a different saddle to the standard one.

• Commuter-friendly
• Option for custom paint job
• Ability to add accessories
• You have to use a smartphone to access the metrics and controls

5. Ribble Endurance SL E Hero

• Weight: 23.1lbs (10.5kg)
• Range:  up to 95km
• Wheel Size:  27.5”
• Gears:  12-Speed

Lightweight carbon wheels

Elite carbon frame

Top of the line Shimano Dura-Ace 2×12 groupset

Ribble are one of the bicycle manufacturing greats, having been founded in Preston, England, back in the lat 1800′.s

But while Ribble’s heritage is unquestioned, they aren’t set in their ways and are one of the most innovative bike brands around – and the Ribble Endurance SL e Hero is a great example of this.

This stunning electric road bike has managed to pack an impressive feature list (including top of the line Shimano Dura-Ace 2×12 groupset) and LEVEL DB35 EBM carbon wheels into a total package of just 10.5kg (23lb).

The Endurance’s success is largely down to the lightweight carbon wheels and elite carbon frame, which has also managed to discreetly contain the battery for this bike.

Obviously, all this tech is accordingly priced and this is certainly not a budget e-bike.

• Discreetly contained battery
• Impressive feature list
• Innovative bike brand

6. Scott Addict RC eRide

• Weight: 23.3 lbs (10.6kg)

Various builds available

Big brand performance

Very similar to brand’s standard road bikes

Of all the different types of electric bikes, e-road bikes are most alike their non-assisted cousins. The Scott Addict RC eRide is a great example of this – stand the two bikes side-by-side and you’ll be hard-pressed to tell the difference.

Like many electric road bikes featured on this list, the Addict RC eRide uses a motor from MAHLE – the X20 to be precise. In short, this is the lightest and best e-bike motor for road bikes.

• Small motor
• Motor provides maximum 55Nm of power
• Great looks
• Wildly expensive

7. Cannondale SuperSix EVO Neo

• Weight: 24.9 lbs (11.3kg)
• Range:  up to 100 km
• Wheel Size:  700c
• Gears:   11-Speed

Lightweight: 11.3kg weight

Designed for performance: speed, efficiency, handling

Top-end Shimano Di2 Dura Ace groupset: 11 speed electronic

This highly impressive road machine comes in at 11.3kg: a weight that puts a lot of non electric road bikes to shame. It’s been designed with performance in mind. In Cannondale’s own words, this bike’s design centres around ‘speed, efficiency and handling’.

Not only is is built to handle like no other, it’s also kitted out with the super light top end 11 speed electronic Shimano Di2 Dura Ace groupset. Therefore it’s fair to say Cannondale are not messing around with this lightweight offering.

This bike comes in three sizes which includes: SM, MD and LG. Therefore if you are particularly short or tall, it may not be a good fit for you. It’s also available in only one colour, which is graphite.

This bike also benefits from being fitted with the very streamlined and light ebikemotion rear-hub drive system, which is known for it’s neat aesthetics and powerful nature. Therefore, it’s a solid option.

• Three size options: SM, MD, LG
• One color option: graphite
• Streamlined ebikemotion rear-hub drive system: powerful and aesthetically pleasing
• Battery life

8. Thoemus Swissrider Urban

• Weight: 25.5lbs (11.5kg)

Sub 12kg electric hybrid bike

Brilliant looks

Swiss-feel and design

There aren’t many electric hybrid bikes on the market that prioritise weight as their most important attribute.

Thomus is a relatively young bicycle brand (it was founded in 1991) but it has set out to prove that electric bikes can and should be ridden by everyone. The Swissrider Urban is the brand’s electric hybrid bike that would suit anyone looking to fly along city streets to and from work. It weighs below 12kg.

Thomus has a neat bike builder on their website which allows you to configure and custom your bike before purchasing. There’s even the option to view the bike in Augmented Reality in your own environment. How cool is that?

• Tasty looking colour options
• Visually unique
• Can be specced as a gravel bike
• Just three frame sizes

9. Lemond Prolog

• Weight:  26 lbs (11.7kg)
• Range: up to 70 miles

Lightweight: 11.7kg

Designed for commuting

Integrated lights

For the uninitiated, Greg Lemond is a famous road cyclist who won the Tour de France back in the 1980s. Today he’s turned his attention to designing a small but mightily fine trio of electric bikes.

The lightest of Lemond’s electric bikes is the Prolog. The bike’s frame is made from carbon fibre which goes some way to explain the bike’s weight, but also uses the popular Mahle motor to leave keep the bike under 12kg.

With plush 38c tyres and top-end 11-speed gearing, the Prolog would make a fine medium-to-long distance commuter bike.

• Eye-catching frame colours
• For fun, fast riding in town
• Just 3 frame sizes

10. Specialized S-Works Turbo Creo SL

• Weight: 26.8 lbs (12.2kg)
• Range:  128 km to 190 km (with
• range extender)
• Wheel Size:  700c Gears:  12-Speed

Carbon fiber

Although another expensive option, this lightweight electric road bike from Specialized is a very respectable 12.2kg. Therefore, it is a solid option for those of you who love road riding, and care about the weight of your bike while flying up hills.

Aesthetically, the lightweight carbon fiber Turbo Creo SL looks just as streamlined and attractive as your average road bike. This is thanks to the neatly integrated 320Wh battery, which is positioned within the down tube. The colour is also utterly stunning: go fast and look cool, what more matters?

The range of this particular bike is a rather impressive 80 miles, or up to 120 miles with the added help of the range extender. This option is therefore a great lightweight as well as practical one for those who love getting in the miles.

Overall, this lightweight pick is a great choice for anyone with a big budget wanting a road bike for leisure riding, serious training or even for particularly swanky commutes. The possibilities are endless.

• Streamlined
• No kickstand

11. Orbea GAIN M20 Flat Bar

• Weight: 26.8lbs (12.2kg) (approx)
• Range:  N/A
• Gears:  11-Speed

Some may see a road bike with a set of flat bars thrown in, and thus cast this bike off as a hybrid. They may be right, however, coming in at very commendable 12.2kg, it was hard to resist.

As mentioned, this Orbea is basically an electric road bike with flat bars, but given many hybrids side towards relaxed geometry road bikes, one could argue this is just a really stylish and lightweight hybrid. Maybe even the perfect jazzy commuter.

Additionally, this bike also benefits from being 11 speed, so even up tough inclines, paired with the motor it shouldn’t be any bother. It also comes with the option to customise to suit your personal vibe.

Don’t be put off, the addition of flat bars will make a huge difference with regards to riding position and comfort. Therefore it would be a great bike for commuters and leisure riders wanting a lightweight yet comfy ride.

• Electric motor
• Customizable
• The battery is sensitive to heat, humidity and cold.

12. Bianchi Aria e-Road

• Weight:  27.1lbs (12.3kg) (approx)
• Range: Not stated

Racey electric road bike

Italian heritage and history

Carbon frame

The final true electric road bike on our list is the Bianchi Aria e-Road. Bianchi is another of the world’s biggest bicycle manufacturers that has gone headlong into producing lightweight e-road bikes that meet the exacting rigours of riding on the road.

The Aria e-Road is available in 7 frame size and can be purchased in various colours and gearing builds too.

• Neat integration
• Various gearing options
• Fit designed for already enthusatic road riders

13. CARBO Model X Folding E-Bike

• Weight: 29.3lbs (13.3kg)
• Range:  30 to 55 KM
• Wheel Size:  20”
• Gears:  Single-Speed ( 9-Speed also available weighing 15.3kg )

Classy design

Carbon belt drive

Removable battery in seat post

This is a classy, single-speed electric bike with a carbon belt drive for a quiet, smooth ride. Offering exceptional quality for the price, the Carbo Model X is as powerful as e-bikes twice its weight. And at 13.3 kg, the weight of this bike is a huge advantage.

The removable battery is integrated unobtrusively in the seat post. The bike as a whole is lovely to look at, with a classic design that is perhaps one of the most universally appealing. The seat post and stem are adjustable, so you can ride in optimum comfort for your height. The larger wheel size of 20” also makes for a more stable and comfortable ride.

The Carbo Folds in as little as ten seconds and it’s compact enough to store easily away in the home, office or on public transport.

There are plenty of practical features, such as the front and rear lights, and a USB port at the rear. The carbon belt also offers a very low-maintenance alternative to a traditional bike chain. No need to spend hours cleaning.

If you prefer gears, you can opt for the 9-speed  Model S  which gives you a lot of flexibility. This one is heavier at 15.3 kg, but s

• Adjustable seat post and stem
• Foldable in 10 seconds
• Front and rear lights, USB port, low maintenance carbon belt.

14. Quella Electric Varsity Collection

• Weight: 30.8 lbs (14kg)
• Range:  up to 60 km

Next up, a great option for those wanting a lightweight bike to cruise around any city or town with the added benefit of a motor – all without breaking the bank.

Coming in at an impressive 14 kg, this simplistic yet stylish electric fixie would be an ideal companion for students or commuters, wanting a light bike that’s not too complex nor expensive to maintain.

Aesthetically, it’s very vintage and cute, with it’s brown leather detailing and beautiful light blue paint job. It’s also available in four different sizes to ensure everyone finds the perfect fit.

Overall, this is a good budget friendly and straight forward lightweight  electric bike that would be more than suited to anyone who enjoys pedaling  around town.

• Vintage design
• Leather detailing
• Multiple size options
• Small Battery

15. Ampler Curt

• Weight: 31.7 lbs (14.4kg)
• Range:  50 to 100 km
• Gears:  Single-Speed (but with the option of 11-Speed)

Super light

Minimalist design

Includes mudguards and accessories

The Curt by Ampler is a ‘super light city e-bike’ that is without a doubt, a minimalists dream. There’s nothing in your face or over the top about this bike whatsoever.

Interestingly, coming in at a very respectable 14.4kg it’s also impressively light given the added extras that come with the bike, such as mudguards and accessories.

Therefore it’s safe to say that no corners have been cut nor compromises made regarding practicality, in the quest to make this lightweight electric city bike.

This e-bike would be a really great choice for anyone who spends most of their time riding around the city for leisure or commuting.

• Practical for city riding
• Ideal for leisure or commuting
• Impressive weight of 14.4kg
• Slight drag from the hub motor

16. Urtopia Carbon E-Bike

• Weight: 33.1lbs (15kg)
• Range:  Up to 100 km
• Wheel Size:  27.5″

Smart bike with built-in navigation

AI voice controls

Fingerprint unlock and anti-theft GPS

Now this is a cool looking e-bike. It just looks fast and futuristic.

Indeed, this isn’t just an electric bike. This is a smart bike and has incredible useful features such as a built-in navigation, AI voice controls, indicators, fingerprint unlock and anti-theft GPS.

And the list of impressive features doesn’t end there. It uses a belt-drive to keep maintenance to a minimum and has an outstanding range of up to 100km (62 miles).

Urtopia have done an especially god job on the appearance – or lack thereof – of the battery pack as it is discreetly built into the frame, but it is still removable, so you can take it from the bike to charge inside.

And as you might have guessed from the name of the bike: it’s got a carbon frame. Which explains how it’s managed to pack all these awesome features into a total weight of just 15kg (33lb).

The Urtopia bike is available across mainland Europe and north America, but sadly not the UK as it stands.

• Belt-drive for low maintenance
• Discreetly built-in battery pack
• Carbon frame for lightweight design
• Not available in UK
• Anti-theft GPS can drain battery when parked

17. Trek E-Caliber 9.9

• Weight: 35.9 lbs (16.35kg)
• Range:  3 to 5 hours
• Wheel Size:  29”

Full suspension

Now, I know what you may be thinking, why has an electric cross country mountain bike has been thrown into the mix? Well, it’s an astonishingly light one, that has already won numerous awards.

At only 16.35 kg (lighter than some electric road bikes on the market) for an electric full suspension mountain bike I think it’s without a doubt, a pretty incredible feat of engineering brilliance.

Coming in a choice of four fun and vibrant colours, this bike is definitely not one for the minimalists. It’s quirky, and pretty in your face. But still it’s very streamlined, with no ugly bulky electronics.

Overall this bike is best suited to those who love an off road adventure, but want something super lightweight with the added help from a motor. Additionally, this may also suit those who find gravel bikes a little uncomfortable for riding, as the full suspension helps to absorb any shocks.

• Vibrant colors
• Off road adventure
• Front and rear end offer different performance characteristics.

How Do the Performance and Range of These Lightweight E-bikes Compare to Heavier Models?

The performance and range of lightweight electric bikes compared to heavier models can vary significantly, influenced by factors such as battery capacity, motor efficiency, and design. Lightweight e-bikes, often designed with portability and ease of use in mind, may have smaller batteries and motors to save weight. This can affect their range and power output compared to heavier e-bikes, which may accommodate larger batteries and more powerful motors, offering extended range and greater assistance on steep inclines.

However, advancements in battery technology and motor efficiency have narrowed this gap. Lightweight e-bikes are increasingly capable of delivering competitive performance and range, suitable for most urban commuting and leisure cycling needs. For instance, many lightweight models offer ranges that are ample for daily commutes and casual rides, typically between 20 to 50 miles (32 to 80 kilometers) on a single charge, depending on the battery size, rider weight, terrain, and level of assistance used.

In terms of performance, lightweight e-bikes may accelerate more quickly and handle more responsively than their heavier counterparts, thanks to their reduced mass. This can make them particularly appealing for city riding, where agility and the ability to navigate through traffic are advantageous. On the other hand, heavier e-bikes might provide a more stable ride at higher speeds or on rough terrain, thanks to their additional mass and often wider tires.

In summary, while lightweight e-bikes may have once faced significant compromises in performance and range, modern designs offer a compelling balance that meets the needs of many riders. The choice between a lightweight and a heavier e-bike will depend on individual preferences, riding conditions, and priorities, such as the importance of portability versus the need for longer range or greater power.

What Advancements in Technology Have Enabled These Reductions in Weight?

Advancements in technology have played a pivotal role in reducing the weight of electric bikes, making them more accessible and user-friendly. One of the key developments has been in battery technology, where the shift from older battery types to lithium-ion batteries has significantly decreased weight while improving energy density. Lithium-ion batteries offer a superior power-to-weight ratio, meaning they can store more energy in less space and with less weight, a crucial factor for e-bikes where the battery is one of the heaviest components.

Another technological advancement contributing to lighter e-bikes is the use of high-strength, lightweight materials in the construction of frames and components. Materials such as carbon fiber and advanced aluminum alloys have become more prevalent. Carbon fiber, in particular, is renowned for its high stiffness-to-weight ratio, providing strength and durability without the added weight. This material has been instrumental in reducing overall bike weight, making e-bikes easier to handle and transport.

Motor technology has also seen significant improvements. The development of more efficient and compact electric motors has allowed manufacturers to reduce the size and weight of the motor without sacrificing performance. These newer motors can deliver the same or even better power output than older, larger models, contributing to a lighter overall bike.

Furthermore, the integration of components has been optimized in recent years. Designers and engineers have found innovative ways to incorporate the motor and battery into the bike’s frame in a way that minimizes bulk and reduces weight. This integration not only contributes to a sleeker, more aesthetically pleasing design but also improves the bike’s balance and weight distribution, enhancing the riding experience.

These advancements, combined with ongoing research and development in materials science, battery technology, and motor efficiency, continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible, making e-bikes lighter, more efficient, and more appealing to a broader range of cyclists.

Are There Any Trade-Offs in Durability or Ride Comfort with These Lighter Models?

With the reduction in weight of electric bikes through various technological advancements, there are potential trade-offs in terms of durability and ride comfort that riders might experience. Lighter e-bikes often utilize materials like carbon fiber and advanced aluminum alloys for their frames and components to shed weight. While these materials are strong and can offer excellent performance, they may also lead to a different ride feel compared to heavier models made from traditional materials. For instance, carbon fiber is known for its stiffness, which can translate to a more responsive ride but may also result in a harsher feel over rough surfaces, affecting ride comfort.

In terms of durability, the focus on minimizing weight can sometimes result in the use of thinner materials or more minimalist designs, which might not withstand rough handling or heavy loads as well as heavier e-bikes. This doesn’t necessarily mean that lightweight e-bikes are fragile; many are designed with high-quality materials engineered to be both light and durable. However, the balance between weight reduction and durability requires careful design and engineering, and there may be situations where a lighter e-bike could be more susceptible to wear and damage over time, especially when used frequently in challenging conditions.

Additionally, the smaller batteries and motors that contribute to a lighter overall weight may also have implications for the bike’s performance and range. While modern battery technology has made great strides in efficiency, lighter e-bikes with smaller batteries may not offer the same long-range capabilities or power for steep climbs as their heavier counterparts. This could be a trade-off for riders who prioritize extended range or require significant electric assist in hilly terrain.

Ultimately, while lighter electric bikes offer advantages in terms of portability and ease of use, there is a balance to be struck between reducing weight and maintaining durability, ride comfort, and performance. Manufacturers carefully consider these factors to create e-bikes that meet the needs of their intended audience, ensuring that any trade-offs are well justified by the benefits in usability and rider experience.

Discerning Cyclist Store

Visit the Discerning Cyclist's Shop

Ride in style

Join our weeky newsletter to get early access to our latest discoveries.

Related reads

Macfox e-bike tips: how to choose between fat tires and skinny tires.

By Charlie Parnell

8 Things You Can Do to Prevent E-Bike Theft

By Herman Eloff

Should E-Bikes Be Banned? (The Truth)

By Lawrence Goozee

7 Reasons You’ll Probably Own an E-Bike in the Next 10 Years (If You Don’t Already)

No, electric bikes are not “lazy” (5 stats that prove it), if movies were bicycles: 6 blockbusters reimagined.

• Register New User
• First Looks
• Friday Fails
• Community Blogs
• Fantasy League DH
• Places Directory

Trek Teases New Lightweight eMTB

Cool Features

• Help Center
• Chat with a Ride Guide
• 1-866-401-9636
• Retail Store
• Bike Services

Reset Password

We will send you an email to reset your password.

Don't have an account? Create an account

Create Account

Already have an account? Sign In

• Favorite your products & save them to your account
• Save a search & get notified when new products drop
• Be first to know about the latest events & promotions

Bike Finder

Results have arrived, bike weight: is lighter better how much does weight matter.

Does weight really matter? To many cyclists, having the lightest road bike possible is the ultimate goal. Let's take a deep dive to see if it really matters as much as everyone thinks.

Written by: Bruce Lin

Published on: Feb 3, 2022

Posted in: Road

Is your heavy bike making you depressed? You’re not alone. Many cyclists dream of having the lightest bike possible. It’s the primary motivation of "weight weenies," people who count grams obsessively.

When it comes to improving a bike’s performance, weight is tangible. We feel it every time we pick up a bike. We can put a bike on a scale, get a number, and determine that a smaller number is “better.” We can spend money on new components that save more weight. As consumers, we can control and modify road bike weight in ways we can’t with variables like stiffness, aerodynamics, or geometry.

But does bike weight really matter? Weight weenies would say yes. But the real answer is far more nuanced. Weight is only one factor of many that affect bike performance. It may surprise you to learn that it's also rarely the most important factor. Let’s take a deep dive into the subject of bike weight and look at the costs, value, and what real riders think about saving weight on their own bikes.

[button] Shop Road Bikes [/button]

The high cost of lightness

Rocket scientists are the world’s ultimate weight weenies. When sending objects into space, they deal with the “tyranny of the rocket" equation. As the amount of weight they want to move increases, the rocket fuel required to do so increases exponentially. For example, increasing a rocket's payload by only 5% may require a massive 130% more fuel to move it. Because of this problem, minimizing rocket weight is paramount. Aerospace materials are made to be as strong and light as possible to balance the equation, and they’re hugely expensive because of it.

Of course, bikes aren’t rockets, but plenty of riders treat them like that. Trimming off excess weight can become an obsession. Some riders might begin to believe that a matter of a few grams will be the difference between a great bike and a mediocre bike. Or winning and losing. An inconsequential component might go under the microscope and hundreds, maybe thousands of dollars could be spent to save less than a pound.

Take the water bottle cage, for example. A metal bottle cage might weigh only 30 grams more than a carbon one. But the carbon cage will cost significantly more. You might spend $70 for a carbon cage versus $10 for a metal cage. Say you have a fairly light, 17-pound road bike. If you choose the carbon bottle cage, you’re spending seven times more money to shave off a negligible amount (0.4%) of your bike’s total weight. The math is similarly bad for most of the other components that can be upgraded.

It's bad for complete bikes too. For example, a top-of-the-line Specialized S-Works Tarmac retails for over twice as much as a similar Tarmac Expert. This higher price gets you a lighter frame and lighter components. But the S-Works model is not twice as light. The weight difference is only one or two pounds. You’re paying over 130% more, to save about 5% of the total weight.

This could be seen as the "tyranny of the bike equation." As bike weight decreases, the cost of increases exponentially. Being a hardcore weight weenie not only requires a lot of dedication but also a lot of money.

[newsletter]

The value of a light bike

But is spending money to make your bike lighter worth it? It’s hard to say exactly when reducing a bike's weight actually becomes noticeable. You could probably tell if your bike suddenly became 10 pounds lighter, but would you notice if your bike became only one pound lighter?

The water in a small 20oz bottle weighs a little over a pound. Do you ever notice if you’re riding with a full versus an empty bottle? If not, then you probably won’t be able to tell that a pair of carbon handlebars are 100g less a pair alloy ones. It will take a lot of component upgrades throughout a bike and a lot of money for all those saved grams to add up to a meaningful reduction in overall weight.

But even if small reductions can’t be felt, the fact is that a lighter bike requires objectively less power to move. Especially on climbs, the power-to-weight ratio of bike and rider plays a huge part in overall performance. Even if it’s a small difference of only a few watts, it could matter in a race situation. Take two riders with the exact same fitness and body weight. The rider with the lighter bike will hypothetically make it to the top of a climb first, or they’ll have to expend slightly less power to reach the top at the same time.

There are limits to this, however. Rider weight is far more important in the bigger picture because riders far outweigh their bikes. A 180-pound rider on a 20-pound bike results in an overall weight of 200 pounds. The rider is 90 percent of that weight. This is why really good climbers are generally skinnier or smaller than average riders. 

The best lightweight bike upgrade

If you are going to spend money on a single weight-saving upgrade for your bike, start with wheels and tires. They’re generally considered the best place on the bike to shed grams because wheels and tires are rotating weight. Additional weight increases inertia and wheel inertia matters a lot in cycling because the rider has to overcome it to accelerate. Heavier wheels require more energy to overcome this inertia. Many riders, even novices, can feel the difference when riding lighter wheels. They make a bike feel snappier and easier to accelerate.

Carbon wheels are one of the most popular aftermarket upgrade options for both road and mountain bikes. Carbon fiber is exceptionally light, stiff, and strong . Because of carbon’s strength-to-weight advantage, road bike rims can be made deeper, wider, and more aerodynamic, without a massive weight penalty. Independent testing over recent years has shown the aerodynamics of a wheel to be of equal, and sometimes greater importance when riding on the road.

Upgrading to a wheelset that is both lighter and more aerodynamic is the ultimate win-win.

[product-block handle="lightweight-obermeyer-carbon-tubular-700c-wheelset"/]

Do you need a lighter bike?

So who actually “needs” a lighter bike?

Riders who are already exceptionally small, light, and fit will enjoy the most benefits. If you are near peak fitness, then losing additional weight off your body could be detrimental to your power output or even dangerous to your health. The only option for improving power-to-weight is to reduce the weight of the bike. The lighter you are, the more small reductions in bike weight will benefit performance.

If you simply like the idea of having the lightest bike possible, and you can afford an ultra-light, high-end bike or a slew of lightweight upgrades, then go for it. Knowing you have a super-light rig can even be a psychological advantage. 

But for normal riders with average bodies, it’s always much more effective and affordable to reduce body weight and increase fitness. The number-one factor in performance is always the rider. Also, if you primarily ride flat terrain, bike weight may not be nearly as important as aerodynamics. But that is a whole separate article ( which you can read here ).

Durability and reliability are also important considerations, especially for bikes that venture off pavement like gravel or mountain bikes. Lighter weight often coincides with reduced durability.

Take a race like Unbound Gravel, for example. In the hills outside Emporia, Kansas, sharp flint rocks often lead to flat tires, so a rider might opt for a wider tire with bead-to-bead casing protection. Something like a 45mm Maxxis Rambler tire with Silkshield casing weighs 548 grams — about 150 grams more per tire than the same tire in 38mm width with a lighter casing. But the weight penalty is worth it when you consider the time loss and frustration of fixing a flat.

Even if you’re not racing, durability is important, especially for an average rider on a budget. An ultra-light bike is cool, but emergency repairs on the side of the road are lame. This is especially true of tires. Save those lightweight, delicate tires for race day when it really matters.

Make sure your bike fits your budget and is reliable. Invest in your fitness, and if you can spend some money, get nice wheels.

What’s Considered A Light Road, Gravel & Mountain Bike?

For road bikes, lighter is often perceived as better, especially for climbing. A typical weight for a high-end road bike is around 15-17 pounds (6.8-7.7 kg), while mid-range models may weigh up to 18-20 pounds (8.1-10 kg). The UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) sets a minimum weight limit for professional racing bikes at 6.8 kilograms (about 14.99 pounds). However, achieving or undercutting this weight limit often comes with a high cost, which can be prohibitive for many riders.

Gravel Bikes

When it comes to gravel bikes, the story changes slightly. A lighter bike is still beneficial, especially if you're dealing with a lot of elevation changes on your gravel routes. A balance needs to be struck between weight, durability, and comfort. Gravel bikes are designed to cope with a variety of terrains and conditions, which necessitates robust and often heavier components. A high-end gravel bike might weigh around 18-20 pounds (8.1-9 kg), while a more budget-friendly model could easily reach the 22-26 pounds (10-11.8 kg) range. Remember that the weight of gravel bikes often includes elements that improve durability and stability, like wider tires and more substantial frames. Frame material also will play the most significant role. Most commonly, gravel bike frames are made from carbon fiber, aluminum, or steel. 

Mountain Bikes

As for mountain bikes, due to the rugged nature of the terrain they're designed for, they tend to be the heaviest of the three. A typical high-end cross-country mountain bike might weigh around 22-24 pounds (10-11 kg), while heavier-duty trail and downhill bikes could be 30 pounds (13.6 kg) or more. Again, this weight is related to the enhanced durability and the extra components, such as frame linkage and suspension parts, needed to handle the impacts and stresses of off-road riding. Lightness in mountain biking is often sacrificed for durability and control.

Regardless of the type of bike, there's a balance between weight, performance, and durability to consider. While lighter is generally better for speed, especially uphill, it's not the only factor for a bike's performance. Again, riders should also factor in their body weight, personal fitness level, typical terrain, and budget. A bike is more than just its weight. It's how all the components work together to create a machine that's responsive, efficient, and enjoyable to ride.

Remember, the 'perfect' bike weight is subjective and can vary based on individual needs and riding style. Lightness is a virtue in cycling, but it's not the only one. And in some cases, a slightly heavier, more robust bike might serve you better in the long run.  

What riders in the shop think

Everyone at TPC tinkers with their bike set-ups, and they each approach bike weight in different ways. Here’s what they have to say.

Axel V. , Purchasing Associate - “I train on my race bike, and when it’s set up for training it weighs 22 pounds. I prioritize durability, and the heft means it’s sturdy and it’ll keep going no matter the riding conditions. Flat protection is key so I’m running heavier puncture-resistant tires and tubes.”

Asher R. , Bike Technician - “My mountain bike is 33.5 pounds. I think a bike should weigh as much as it needs to be durable. The way I ride, I do notice the weight on climbs, but once I point my bike downhill I can go as hard as I want and it’s all worth it. Durable, light, or cheap — you can only pick two."

Pete K , Bike Technician - “Racing at the pro level, if an XC bike is over 24 pounds it feels pretty ridiculous, like it can’t go uphill fast. It’s like wearing a backpack.”

Richard S. , Merchandising Associate - “I built up a bike that was around 14 pounds already but then I added Lightweight wheels and got it down to about 13 pounds. Once the bike got that light I could definitely feel the benefit uphill, but it lost so much stiffness and responsiveness. Then I had a bad crash and destroyed a lot of parts. It was a super expensive crash." 

Steve G , Shipping Manager - “For me, it’s all about reliability and durability. My mountain bike is 37 pounds. It’s the heaviest bike in the shop, but the geometry actually puts me in a good climbing position and that makes a difference."

What's your take on bike weight? Let us know in the comments, or fire away with your questions about the topic!

[button] Shop All Bikes [/button]

Guides, Road Jun 25, 2024

Our Guide to Netflix's Tour de France: Unchained

Bikes, Features, Latest, Road Jun 24, 2024

The Fat Chance Slim Chance Road Bike Keeps '90s Style Alive

Features, Guides, Latest, Road Jun 18, 2024

Tour de France Explained: How You Win & How It Really Works

Features, Latest, Opinion, Road, Tech Jun 14, 2024

Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 vs. SRAM RED AXS: Our Uncensored Opinions

Bikes, Features, Fun, Latest, Road Jun 14, 2024

Specialized Tarmac SL7 Marbled Lagoon: Beautiful? Or Too Much?

Bikes, Features, Fun, Latest, Road Jun 7, 2024

This Custom Mosaic RT-1 Is a Beautiful Mystery

Features, Latest, Opinion, Road May 28, 2024

Specialized Aethos Long-Term Review: Perfect for Crushing Miles and Tinkering

Features, Latest, Opinion, Road, Tech May 16, 2024

The New SRAM RED AXS Ride Review: One Thing Stands Out

Features, Latest, Road, Tech May 15, 2024

First Look: The New SRAM RED AXS is Lighter and More Refined

Guides, Road May 10, 2024

Specialized Roubaix vs. Trek Domane - Tire Clearance, Tech, & Options

Features, Latest, Road May 9, 2024

The New Quoc M3 Air is a Super Light and Super Cool Race Shoe

Bikes, Features, Latest, Road Apr 26, 2024

I Will Never Stop Loving the 1st Gen Specialized Allez Sprint

New arrivals.

Certified Pre-Owned

Canyon Lux World Cup CF 6 Mountain Bike - 2023, X-Small

Ritte Saytr Gravel Bike - 2022, X-Large

Trek Checkpoint SLR Gravel Bike - 2023, 56cm

Trek Domane SL 7 AXS Gen 4 Road Bike - 2023, 58cm

Diamondback Current Gravel E-Bike - 2023, Large

Moots Routt 45 Gravel Bike - 55cm

Trek Domane 6 Series Road Bike - 2016, 60cm

BMC Roadmachine X TWO Road Bike- 2022, 54cm

Santa Cruz Tallboy S Carbon C Mountain Bike - 2020, X-Large

Trek Émonda SLR 9 - 2019, 47cm

Trek Top Fuel 9.9 XX1 AXS - 2022, Medium

Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Gravel Bike - 2021, 61cm

I tried Trek's CarBack Bike Radar — it's like having eyes in the back of my head

This $200 device could be a lifesaver if you're a city cyclist

I love to ride my bike on city streets. I'm also intimately aware of the risks that come with it, particularly regarding distracted drivers. I've had numerous near misses with folks too sucked into their smart devices to notice others around them. I've also had one harrowing full-blown crash, again, the result of a distracted driver with his nose in his phone.

So, it's no surprise I take bike safety seriously. This includes wearing one of the best bike helmets , particularly one with MIPS technology. At night I opt for the Lumos Ultra which has built-in LEDs for visibility, during the day I wear an Abus GameChanger 2.0 helmet in white to be seen. 

I'm also sure to switch on a set of the best bike lights before taking off on a ride, regardless of the time of day. But, up until this week, I've never used a bike light that doubles as a car-detecting radar device.

The Trek CarBack Radar Rear Bike Light is a $199.99 accessory that mounts to your seat post and pairs with your smartphone, smartwatch or bike GPS computer. Similar to the Garmin Varia , which is also $199.99, these two devices represent a new category of smart safety accessories for cyclists.

I tested the Trek CarBack on one of my favorite urban rides around Seattle, Washington. Here are five reasons why it's already won me over.

1. You get audio and visual alerts

I paired the Trek CarBack with my iPhone 12 Mini — more on the setup process below — which I keep mounted on my handlebars (using Peak Design's Out Front Bike Mount ) while I ride. With my phone positioned for easy viewing, I was fully able to test out the device's visual warning system. I also wore Bluetooth earbuds to try the audio warnings.

When a car first approaches from behind, you'll hear an 8-bit-sounding set of tones that sounds a little like the one-up noise from the Super Mario Bros for NES. These tones play each time a new car is picked up by the radar.

When a car first approaches from behind, you'll hear an 8-bit-sounding set of tones that sounds a little like the one-up noise from the Super Mario Bros for NES.

Cars can be detected as far away as 787 feet. In addition to the Mario sound, detected cars appear on your smartphone or bike's GPS screen and move in real-time. The app displays not only the vehicle's distance from you but whether or not it has clearance to pass. 

If a vehicle is approaching directly behind you from less than 250 feet away, the symbol in the app turns red.

Once the coast is clear and all cars have passed, you'll be met with a friendly doorbell-sounding set of tones. 

2. Setup and installation is simple

I was seriously impressed by how easy the Trek CarBack is to set up and install. The companion app, TrekAcessories, is pretty barebones, but then again, everything works as it should, so that's not necessarily a criticism. 

With the Trek CarBack switched on, the discovery and pairing process takes less than ten seconds. In terms of preferences, you can toggle between feet and meters as your measurement of choice, and whether or not you want the sound on or off. That's it. 

By the way, in addition to smartphones and watches, the Trek CarBack Radar also plays nice with many of the best GPS sports watches available. 

Installing the device on your seatpost is also a breeze. A built-in rubber strap and buckle system accommodate a wide range of seatpost diameters. There's also a second plastic hook and band to ensure it's extra secure. 

3. No false positives

While testing the Trek CarBack I rode along both city streets — mostly unprotected bike lanes — and on designated bike trails. I also rode along several residential streets with cars parked on either side. At no point did the device alert to any false positives in any of these scenarios.

The cyclists, joggers and scooters I encountered along the bike trail didn't register, nor did parked or stationary cars pausing at stop signs. That said, there were several occasions when a steady stream of cars crept up behind me and I can't say for certain whether the CarBack registered them all. 

I occasionally got the sense that the last car in line was going undetected. However, more testing is necessary to confirm this. 

4. Audio alerts auto-silence in traffic

Speaking of heavy traffic. In the situation I described above, the Trek CarBack is programmed to pause audio notifications when more than three cars are detected. This saves you the annoyance of non-stop and unnecessary dinging in your ears.

However, once a caravan has passed, audio signals return in the form of the upbeat all-clear ding-dong. 

5. It's also a high-power tail light

In addition to car detection, the TrekCarBack is also a super-powerful rear tail light with four flashing modes and 7+ hours of battery life, even when using car detection. Trek says it's visible up to 1.2 miles away, even in daylight, which puts it up there with some of the best bike taillights we've tested. 

Though my initial impression of Trek's car radar by cyclists is positive, I'm still curious to see how it performs at night as well as in inclement weather where visibility can be a factor. I'd also like to test the Trek CarBack Radar Rear Bike Light head-to-head against the Garmin Varia . 

Until then, wear your helmet and stay alert!  

More from Tom's Guide

I tried one of the toughest bike locks on the market — and now my U-lock looks downright puny

• watchOS 11 — Apple Watch is finally getting the fitness feature I’ve been waiting for
• I hiked 5 miles along the California coast to test AllTrail’s ‘biggest update yet’ — 5 features that stood out the most

Sign up to get the BEST of Tom’s Guide direct to your inbox.

Upgrade your life with a daily dose of the biggest tech news, lifestyle hacks and our curated analysis. Be the first to know about cutting-edge gadgets and the hottest deals.

Dan Bracaglia covers fitness and consumer technology with an emphasis on wearables for Tom's Guide. Based in the US Pacific Northwest, Dan is an avid outdoor adventurer who dabbles in everything from kayaking to snowboarding, but he most enjoys exploring the cities and mountains with his small pup, Belvedere. Dan is currently training to climb some of Washington State's tallest peaks. He's also a big photography nerd. 

I tried Zwift Ride — is this the best way to cycle indoors?

Tesla’s Dog Mode is reportedly in ruff shape — what you need to know

• BeholdersEye My carback continuously disconnects from my igpsport 630 computer, 5 times a ride...I can't figure it out and very annoying... Reply

BeholdersEye said: Die Verbindung zwischen meinem Carback und meinem igpsport 630-Computer wird ständig getrennt, fünfmal pro Fahrt. Ich komme nicht dahinter, es ist sehr ärgerlich.

• View All 2 Comments

Most Popular

• 2 Beats Pill (2024) tested: 5 things I like, 3 that I don't
• 3 Viruses beware – NordVPN adds another free safety tool everyone can use
• 4 Anker 2.4G Wireless Vertical Ergonomic mouse review
• 5 Ransomware gang claims cyber attack on Federal Reserve
• 2 Viruses beware – NordVPN adds another free safety tool everyone can use
• 3 Anker 2.4G Wireless Vertical Ergonomic mouse review
• 4 Ransomware gang claims cyber attack on Federal Reserve
• 5 Wahoo TRACKR heart rate monitor review: A reliable, rechargeable chest strap

Send us a message

Have a question about something not found in our support links? Mon-Fri 9am-4pm PST

(866) 300-3311

5 Best 750-Watt Electric Bikes in 2024

• June 24, 2024

Looking for an electric bicycle (ebike) that can really pack a punch without much pedaling? Whether you need a bike that can carry extra weight without feeling sluggish or want a ride that gives you plenty of oomph wherever you go, a 750-watt electric bicycle will do the trick.

These bikes feature powerful motors that make riding a breeze, by giving you an extra boost to get around town faster and ride further. With 750-watts of motor power, you’ll reach higher top speeds faster than on other electric bike models.

Plus, 750-watt ebikes are beasts when it comes to tackling hills, so you can handle steep inclines without breaking a sweat. That means you can use a powerful 750-watt electric mountain bike to go hunting in the rugged backcountry or pick a cruiser style that can make a hilly commute more manageable. With so many different styles—from cargo bikes to cruisers and commuters—it’s easy to find the best ebike with a high-powered motor suited to your needs and personality.

In the search for the best 750-watt electric bikes for sale , you’ll find several options on this list, including:

• 1. Best 750-Watt Electric Bike Overall & Best Fat-Tire Electric Bike in 750 Watts
• 2. Best 750-Watt Folding Electric Bike & Most Affordable 750-Watt Ebike
• 3. Best 750-Watt Mid-Drive Ebike
• 4. Best 750-Watt Commuter Electric Bike
• 5. Best 750-Watt Cargo Electric Bike
• 6. Best 750-Watt Ebike Accessories

1. Best 750-Watt Electric Bike Overall & Best Fat-Tire Electric Bike in 750 Watts: Aventure

Highlighted Specs:

• ✓ Price: $1,999 MSRP
• ✓ Max speed: 28 mph
• ✓ Battery range: Up to 60 miles
• ✓ Torque sensor: Yes
• ✓ Payload: 400 lbs
• ✓ Warranty: Two-year warranty
• ✓ Throttle: Throttle on demand

The Aventon Aventure is our pick for the best 750-watt electric bike overall and the best fat-tire electric bike in the 750-watt category. This off-road bike is capable of handling it all thanks to 4-inch wide tires that can trek through snow, mud, and rocky terrain.

Four pedal assist levels paired with the sustained 750-watts of power from the rear hub motor give you control, so you can get maximum boost or just a little push when you need it. A built-in torque sensor detects how hard you’re pedaling and adjusts power output, providing an intuitive and natural-feeling ride. The drivetrain on this fat-tire ebike includes a Shimano 8-speed derailleur that lets you seamlessly switch gears to suit your riding needs.

A front suspension fork offers 80mm of travel to absorb impacts like potholes and rocky drops. Hydraulic disc brakes offer maximum stopping power so you can scrub speed on a fast single track or quickly decelerate to avoid an obstacle. Available in step-over and step-through frames, you can choose the model that best suits your needs. It also comes equipped with a rear rack and fenders to carry all your gear and protect you from the elements on the road.

Looking for more options? Check out these available fat-tire ebikes .

Find 750-watt ebikes near me to test ride | Find 750-watt ebikes for sale

2. Best 750-Watt Folding Electric Bike & Most Affordable 750-Watt Ebike: Sinch

• ✓ Price: $1,699 MSRP
• ✓ Max speed: 20 mph
• ✓ Battery range: Up to 55 miles
• ✓ Payload: 300 lbs

For the best folding electric bike in the 750-watt categroy, the most affordable 750-watt ebike, and the best folding fat-tire electric bike with 750 watts, we’ve picked the Aventon Sinch . This folding ebike offers four pedal assist modes, a top speed of 20 miles per hour, and a removable battery that provides a range of up to 55 miles.

With 500-watts of sustained motor power and 750-watts of peak power, this folding bike offers versatility and functionality. A rear rack and 300-pound payload lets you haul gear around town while 4-inch fat tires can tackle varied terrain, from gravel and dirt to roads with potholes. It also comes equipped with fenders to protect you from the elements on the road, such as rocks, snow, or water.

The step-through frame makes it easy to get on and off of this foldable ebike. When you’re done riding, simply fold the handlebars and frame for easy storage in your garage, apartment, or car. It’s a great bike for people who want portability and an ebike that doesn’t sacrifice when it comes to power.

If you want to browse a larger selection of ebikes in your budget, consider these affordable ebikes .

3. Best 750-Watt Mid-Drive Ebike: Ramblas

• ✓ Price: $2,899 MSRP
• ✓ Max Speed: 20 mph
• ✓ Battery range: Up to 80 miles
• ✓ Torque sensor: Yes (100 Nm)
• ✓ Throttle: No

For the best mid-drive ebike with 750 watts, look no further than the Aventon Ramblas . It’s a powerful ebike that’s designed for rugged trails and paved roads, making it one of the best electric mountain bikes (eMTB) as well. The mid-drive motor provides a better center of gravity, so you can maneuver over rocky terrain and steep inclines with ease. It offers 250 watts of sustained motor power and 750 watts of peak power output giving you the extra boost you need and letting you enjoy a natural-feeling ride when you want.

While not a full-suspension ebike, this hardtail is incredibly comfortable to ride. The RockShox front fork offers 130mm of suspension travel so you can rock over tree roots, sail over rocks, and tackle technical terrain in comfort. Also equipped on this eMTB are Maxxis tires, a 12-speed Sram derailleur, and Sram DB8 mineral 4 piston hydraulic disc brakes for optimal performance on rugged trails or rough roads. An adjustable dropper suspension post lets you quickly fine-tune the seat height up to make climbing easier or drop it down for better maneuverability in downhill sections.

The 708-watt-hour bike battery lets you go further, offering a battery life of up to 80 miles on a single charge. Ramblas is also packed with tech features that make it more enjoyable to ride. Ride Tune lets you customize torque, pedal response, and assistance using the Aventon app. Over-the-air updates optimize performance without having to stop at a bike shop.

4. Best 750-Watt Commuter Electric Bike: Level

• ✓ Price: $1,899 MSRP

Looking for a 750-watt commuter electric bike? Check out the Aventon Level , a nimble commuter that easily sails through rush-hour traffic and can tackle weekend adventure rides. Featuring 500 watts of sustained motor power and 750 watts of peak power, it has plenty of juice to get you wherever you’re heading.

This 750-watt electric bike’s speed tops out at 28 miles per hour and boasts a 672-watt-hour integrated battery for a long range of up to 60 miles on a single charge. A front suspension fork with 65mm of travel provides a smooth ride. Built-in fenders keep you dry during your commute, and a rear rack lets you easily transport gear like your briefcase or groceries.

Plus, this class 3 ebike is packed with features that make your riding experience more enjoyable. It comes in a step-over frame style for a classic look as well as a step-through frame that’s easier to mount and dismount since you don’t have to lift your leg over the top bar. It has built-in turn signals, headlights, and rear lights to keep you safe as you charge uphill in traffic.

In search of more options for your commute? Consider these other commuter ebikes .

5. Best 750-Watt Cargo Electric Bike: Abound

• ✓ Battery range: Up to 50 miles
• ✓ Payload: 440 lbs

If you need a 750-watt cargo electric bike, consider the Aventon Abound . It lets you haul it all, thanks to 750-watts of sustained power from the rear hub motor and a maximum weight capacity of 440 pounds. This class 2 cargo ebike sports an on-demand throttle, giving you an extra boost of power to get up a steep hill or speed up your ride.

Toggle between four levels of pedal assist and easily keep track of your ride stats with the full-color LCD display. A high-quality front suspension fork with 50mm of travel protects you and your cargo from bumps in the road.

Standard accessories include a built-in storage bag that offers easy access to personal items while keeping them securely stored. Integrated footboards allow you to share the joys of riding with your kids while making the adventure more comfortable. Built-in turn signals and font and rear lighting improve visibility so you can really haul it all, anywhere you want to go, day or night.

If you want more cargo-carrying choices, explore these cargo electric bikes for sale .

Best 750-Watt Ebike Accessories

You’ve got the bike, and now you’re ready to outfit it with some cool gear! Check out some of our favorite 750-watt ebike accessories that cyclists are sure to find useful. From bike pumps and racks to seatposts, we’ve got what you need to make your new ride even better.

Aventon Suspension Seatpost

Make your 750-watt electric bike more enjoyable with the Aventon Suspension Seatpost . It instantly smooths out your ride by absorbing bumps on the trail, whether you’re rolling over rocks, tree roots, or train tracks. With a 420-pound weight limit, it’s tough and durable enough for any rider.

View all ebike seatposts for sale

Aventon Fanttik Portable Air Pump

Stay on top of your tire pressure with the Aventon Fanttik Portable Air Pump . This tool fits easily in the palm of your hand to instantly add air or deflate your tires to meet the demands of the terrain. With five inflation modes, you can air up and get back on the trails without having to trek to a bike shop or get help.

View all bike pumps for sale

Aventon Hitch Rack

Take your 750-watt electric bike on new adventures with the Aventon Hitch Rack . Compatible with most two-inch hitch bars, you can install this rack on your sedan, SUV, or truck in seconds. It holds up to two bikes with a maximum total weight capacity of 155 pounds. Plus, it has a quick-tilting system for easy loading and unloading.

View all vehicle racks for sale

Aventon Phone Holder Large

With the Aventon Phone Holder Large , you don’t need to worry about misplacing your phone or not having it within reach. The universal handlebar compatibility, 360-degree rotation, and quick release bracket makes this phone holder the perfect fit for all types of bikes and riders. Plus, with the ability to hold phones between 5.7 and 6.9 inches, it fits most phones, even with a case.

View all bike phone holders and mounts

Aventon Water Bottle Cage

Keep your water close at hand at all times, especially during long rides and in warm weather, with the Aventon Water Bottle Cage . Made of carbon fiber, this lightweight water bottle cage won’t weigh you down and fits most standard cycling water bottles. The best part: It’s available in both left and right orientations, so you can use whichever hand you prefer to stay hydrated while riding.

View all water bottle holders and cages

Related Articles

Best Electric Bikes of 2024

Ebike Classes 1 vs 2 vs 3: What's the Difference?

• Category: The 'Aventure' Crew | Blog
• Comments: 0

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published

Aventon vs Velotric: Which Is the Best Electric Bike Model for You?

7 Best Class 1 Electric Bikes in 2024 for All Riding Styles

Stay up-to-date on all things Aventon when they happen.

• Get Email Updates
• Get SMS Updates
• Affirm Financing
• Cancelation Policy
• Cookie Preferences
• Register My Bike
• Return Policy
• Shipping Info
• Accessibility

Electric Bikes

• All Electric Bikes
• Commuting Ebikes
• Fat Tire Ebikes
• Folding Ebikes
• Road Ebikes
• Step-Through Ebikes
• Accessories
• Compare Ebikes
• Electric Bike Safety
• Beyond The Bike
• Electric Bike Dealers
• Become a Dealer
• Affiliate Program
• Recall Information

© 2024 Aventon Bikes . All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy   |   Terms of Service  

Tern’s new Quick Haul Long electric cargo bike shows it’s not the size that matters

Tern, one of the leading innovators in cargo electric bike design, has just announced its newest model. Get ready to stretch, because here comes the Quick Haul Long.

Tern’s electric cargo bikes have always been known for two things: high-quality heavy-hauling designs and relatively smaller footprints, at least as far as cargo e-bikes go. Years ago, the company basically invented the compact cargo e-bike category.

Tern’s engineers have long been offering just as much — or more — cargo hauling abilities in e-bikes that don’t take up as much space in riders’ garages or living rooms. Look no further than the vertical parking feature built into their rear racks that allows the bikes to take up the same amount of floor space as a coat rack.

Now, with the new Tern Quick Haul Long, the company is finally filling out in the length department with its lower cost model, while still incorporating more of the size and capabilities of its longer GSD model.

The GSD has long been Tern’s flagship longer cargo e-bike, but it also comes with a flagship price, starting at around $4,500 and increasing quickly from there for the even higher-end components. The Quick Haul, on the other hand, is the brand’s smaller and more budget-friendly cargo offering. Now Tern is combining the two, bringing GSD features to the Quick Haul, but leaving the higher price in the dust.

Starting at US $3,799, The Quick Haul Long is still compact by modern cargo e-bike standards, but incorporates more of the GSD’s DNA for even more capability. It’s also now one of the most affordable premium cargo e-bikes on the market available from the higher-tier brands.

“The compact cargo bike category came about when we launched the GSD in 2018,” explained Josh Hon, Tern Team Captain. “Customers loved how such a small little bike could handle so many tasks typically done by car. Since then, we’ve learned a lot about how to make cargo bikes even better, and we applied those insights to the Quick Haul Long. The bike retains the GSD’s core features but it comes at a more accessible price, without compromising safety or reliability.”

The Quick Haul Long sticks with Tern’s typical 20″ wheels, keeping it the same length as a typical larger wheel city bike. However, its long rack and 190 kg (419 lb) weight rating means it can handle significantly more utility tasks. Just that rear rack alone is rated for 90 kg (200 lb), and also has a built-in tow mount for pulling trailers or towing other bikes . Carrying two kids on the rear rack is a breeze, and the bike’s lower center of gravity and stiff frame are optimized for stable, smooth riding.

Even the front cargo mount, which supports an optional front rack or basket, is rated for 20 kg (44 lb). Anyone who has ever loaded up the front of their bike in addition to the rear will know that’s a serious amount of weight, helping to balance out a load and provide more mounting options.

The bike is said to fit riders from 5’1″ to 6’1″, or 155 to 185 cm. The low step-through frame is designed to be easy to mount, as well as easy to hop forward on, especially when you’ve got a couple of wiggling kids on the rear rack and need some extra stability at a red light. For more stability when parked, the bike features one of the strongest dual kickstands I’ve ever seen, and I’ve seen a lot of kickstands. I’ve had a motorcycle or two that I wish Tern had built the kickstand for.

Powering the bike is Bosch’s Cargo Line mid-drive motor, meaning you get the backing of the leading German drive maker as well as all of the warranty and service/support that comes with it.

And while Tern’s heritage comes from the bike experts of Taiwan, you’d almost think they were a German company based on how much emphasis they put into the engineering and safety certifications on their bikes, including testing to the new DIN79010 standard at the bike’s max capacity of 190 kg (419 lb).

As Hon continued, “The cargo bike segment has exploded in popularity in recent years, with just about every brand introducing their version of a ‘cargo bike.’ But unfortunately, testing and safety standards haven’t kept pace. Germany has recently published the first national testing standard for cargo bikes – DIN79010. We believe that any cargo bike claiming a MGVW over 120 kg should be tested to the DIN 79010 standard—but very few have been so far.”

Electrek’s Take

This definitely feels like Tern’s shot across the bow of budget brands with their popular low-cost cargo e-bike models. There’s no way Tern can compete directly with a $1,500 cargo e-bike, but it can offer significantly better quality components for a compelling price, at least compared to all the $6,000 cargo e-bikes out there.

For those who are trying to decide whether to save money on a budget brand or upgrade to a premium model, this is about the best price you’ll find for a premium electric cargo bike.

I still believe that budget cargo e-bikes have their place, and to be fair, I got my sister one for her family. But we can’t kid ourselves and pretend like there isn’t a quality difference. For someone actually replacing a car and relying on their e-bike daily, that quality difference translates into everyday reliability and the peace of mind of knowing that the bike is designed to last for years, not for a year.

Of course, the fact that the bike runs a Bosch motor is always going to be a double-edged sword in the US. Bosch systems are famously pedal-assist only, meaning no throttles. The Bosch name carries a lot of weight in Europe, but Americans seem to opt for throttle-enable electric bikes nine times out of ten, so it’s an uphill pedal to try and sell non-throttle e-bikes in the States. In Europe though, I can see this thing crushing the pricier alternatives from German and British e-bike brands.

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

Micah Toll is a personal electric vehicle enthusiast, battery nerd, and author of the Amazon #1 bestselling books DIY Lithium Batteries , DIY Solar Power,   The Ultimate DIY Ebike Guide  and The Electric Bike Manifesto .

The e-bikes that make up Micah’s current daily drivers are the $999 Lectric XP 2.0 , the $1,095 Ride1Up Roadster V2 , the $1,199 Rad Power Bikes RadMission , and the $3,299 Priority Current . But it’s a pretty evolving list these days.

You can send Micah tips at [email protected], or find him on Twitter , Instagram , or TikTok .

Micah Toll's favorite gear

Lectric XP 3.0 e-bike sale

Best $999 electric bike ever!

Rad Power Bikes sales

Great e-bikes at great prices!

Wilier shaves weight from its climbing bike with the new Verticale SLR

New carbon, new construction and new bar/stem drop weight by 147g from the Zero SLR

Wilier has launched the new Verticale SLR, which it says is its lightest bike ever and which replaces the Zero SLR model. The claimed full frameset weight, including fork, bar/stem, seatpost, thru-axles and other hardware is 1,651g, as against the Zero SLR’s 1,798g, which represents just under 10 percent weight reduction.

The Verticale SLR is the lightweight bike that Wilier’s sponsored Groupama-FDJ and Astana Qazaqstan WorldTour teams will use for mountain stages on the upcoming Tour de France . It’s already been used to good effect by Groupama-FDJ’s Lenny Martinez, who won the 2024 Mercan'Tour Classic riding a prototype version of the Verticale SLR.

Martinez says: “The Verticale is a great bike, especially for me as I am a climber. It’s lighter than the Filante SLR and responds really well when the road starts to climb. As soon as you stand on the pedals it responds really well, as we saw at the Mercan’Tour Classic, which I won with this bike still in its prototype version.”

We have been testing a Verticale SLR for several weeks and you can read our in-depth review here . 

Marginal losses 

The main sources of the new bike’s weight loss, when compared to the Zero SLR, are the frame, the fork and the bar/stem combo. Wilier claims a 648g frame weight and a 296g fork weight, down from 766g and 320g respectively. Our size XL test bike was exactly 6.8kg, some expect UCI illegal weights for smaller sizes.

The new frame uses a mix of three Toray carbon fibre grades, Toray 800, Toray 1100 and M46JB including the top-spec T1100. In the fork, the fibres are twisted to improve the management of stresses and the fork blades are asymmetric to compensate for the different stresses from the disc brakes. 

There’s a new seatpost clamping mechanism that tightens from under the top tube rather than from above it. This results in a triangular-shaped junction between the top tube and seat tube, rather than the Zero SLR’s clamp housing, which we compared to a rogue Lego brick glued to the frame when we tracked the Verticale down at the recent Critérium du Dauphiné .

Get The Leadout Newsletter

The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!

The seatpost has been re-engineered to save weight too. At 152g, it’s 10g lighter than the Zero SLR’s. It also includes two bolts which can be used to attach a race number or Wilier’s specially-designed rear light.

Wilier has changed the front derailleur hanger design. It can now be mounted in two positions. This accommodates the 50/34t and 52/36t cranksets used by mere mortals but allows the pros to fit a crankset with a 56t chainring .

The frame’s geometry is almost unchanged from the Zero SLR, with the same stack, although the reach decreases from the Zero SLR on smaller frames and increases on larger ones.

Lighter one-piece handlebar

Turning to the new carbon monocoque V Bar bar/stem, Wilier claims a weight of 310g for a 100x40mm bar size as against 339g for the Zero SLR. The new bar design includes a flare at the hoods, which places the arms 30mm closer together when riding on them than in the drops. 

It’s an increasingly common aero design feature, seen for example on the Trek Madone . Wilier has also adjusted the bar geometry from the Zero SLR, with revised reach and drop and a different angle to the tops. A revised clamping mechanism is designed to distribute stresses on the steerer and stem more evenly and there’s updated hose routing, making replacement easier. The handlebar is also compatible with other Wilier premium bikes.

Wilier offers the V Bar in six sizes: 90mm or 100mm stem length with 400mm width at the drops and 110mm, 120mm, 130mm and 150mm stem length with 420mm width at the drops.

Specs and prices 

Wilier will sell the Verticale SLR in seven build specs, as well as frameset-only. All the full specs are equipped with wheels from Miche, which Wilier now owns: either the Kleos 36 or Kleos RD 36 . 

There are six frame sizes offered, from XS to XXL, while the Verticale SLR can be bought in four colours: black with copper accents, Velvet Red, Groupama-FDJ team replica and a new Hulk Green, which will be Astana Qazaqstan’s climbing bike at the upcoming Tour de France.

The Wilier Verticale SLR frameset is priced at £5,500 / $6,900 /  €5,800. 

Full bikes start at £9,000 / $12,000 / €9,900) for the Ultegra Di2 spec. The top UK spec comes with SRAM Red AXS with a power meter and is priced at £12,500 ($15,300, €13,000).

There’s a Campagnolo Super Record WRL spec bike which costs $15,700 in the US and €13,400 in Europe, but this model won't be available to buy in the UK. 

Thank you for reading 5 articles in the past 30 days*

Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read any 5 articles for free in each 30-day period, this automatically resets

After your trial you will be billed £4.99 $7.99 €5.99 per month, cancel anytime. Or sign up for one year for just £49 $79 €59

Try your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

Paul has been on two wheels since he was in his teens and he's spent much of the time since writing about bikes and the associated tech. He's a road cyclist at heart but his adventurous curiosity means Paul has been riding gravel since well before it was cool, adapting his cyclo-cross bike to ride all-day off-road epics and putting road kit to the ultimate test along the way. Paul has contributed to Cyclingnews' tech coverage for a few years, helping to maintain the freshness of our buying guides and deals content, as well as writing a number of our voucher code pages. 

Wilier Verticale SLR review: A snappy lightweight bike built for racing uphill

Say goodbye to coin cells with the new rechargeable Wahoo Trackr heart rate monitor

Biniam Girmay to hunt for Tour de France success after first week crash-out in Giro d'Italia

Most Popular

The Best Bike Helmets of 2024

Whether you simply enjoy getting your bike out for a weekend cruise or are a bonafide, road, gravel, or mountain biker with a garage full of bikes, the simple truth is this — you need a bike helmet. They are vital to staying safe and protecting yourself while you’re on the bike, regardless of surface or riding style. Safety is paramount, but the best bike helmets of 2024 are much more than plastic brain buckets. 

Modern helmets provide next-level ventilation to keep air flowing throughout a ride, they’re built lighter and stronger than ever before, and the tech has become so advanced that the lines between road, gravel, and mountain bike helmets are as blurry as ever — which is actually a good thing for consumers.

If you spend most of your time on the road but enjoy the occasional mountain bike ride, your road helmet will do just fine on the trails. The same goes the other way — if you love spending time on the trails but get roped into a Sunday gravel ride with your local club, you can easily sport your mountain bike helmet on a drop-bar bike. 

On the flip side, helmets have never been so specific. Roadies can pick up a low-profile, ultra-light, ultra-breathable helmet that won’t leave them feeling bogged down after a long day of climbs. Enduro mountain bike enthusiasts can choose a lightweight lid with an adjustable visor and expanded coverage.

Commuters can choose between stylish, vintage-inspired options or pick their favorite from the performance bunch. Even gravel riders have their pick of helmets tailor-made for skinny-tire speed off the tarmac.  

To help you decide which one (or two, or three) is best for you, we got our hands on dozens of the best bike helmets across all of the most popular categories, gathering first-person insights, taking notes, and digging into the details that we think move the needle. 

Read on to explore our ten favorite options across the road, mountain, and commuting categories. Also included is buying advice with all the information you need to know when choosing a bike helmet, a comparison chart , and answers to the most popular helmet FAQs .

• Best Overall Mountain Bike Helmet: Giro Manifest Spherical
• Best Budget Mountain Bike Helmet: Specialized Camber MIPS
• Best Overall Road Bike Helmet: Giro Aries Spherical
• Best Budget Road Bike Helmet: Lazer Tonic KinetiCore
• Best Mid-Range Road Bike Helmet: POC Omne Air MIPS
• Best Gravel Bike Helmet: Smith Network MIPS
• Best Commuter Bike Helmet: Thousand Chapter MIPS
• Best Budget Commuter Helmet: Outdoor Master Goat Helmet

Giro Manifest Spherical Helmet

• Intended Use MTB
• Weight 362 g (Medium)
• Rotational Impact Protection System MIPS Spherical
• Adjustable Visor Yes
• Number of Vents 19
• Available Sizes S, M, L
• Virginia Tech Helmet Safety Rating 5-Star

• Comfortable
• Great Ventilation
• Good Coverage
• Eyewear integration

In addition to dominating the world of road bike helmets, Giro makes some of the best mountain bike helmets you can buy, most notably its flagship model, the Manifest Spherical ($260). This well-rounded lid was a favorite among our testing group, edging out every other pick in a very competitive category. 

Thanks to its advanced safety features, including MIPS Spherical, which has dual shells connected with elastomers that function as a slip plane in the event of an impact — the Manifest earned five out of five stars in the Virginia Tech Helmet Safety Test. This helmet has a deep fit with extended coverage at the back of the head and temples, which results in a safe, secure feel when paired with Giro’s Roc Loc Trail harness fit system. 

With 19 vents and huge internal air channels, the Manifest is one of the most well-ventilated mountain bike helmets we’ve ever tested. Well-placed antibacterial Ionic+ padding is comfortable on the head, and the Y-shaped strap splitters ensure an annoyance-free fit around the ears.

The adjustable visor is effective in a wide range of sunlight, and integrated rubber grippers keep just about any pair of sunglasses secure. We also loved the convenience of the magnetic buckle, which was easy to use with just one hand. 

The Giro Manifest Spherical doesn’t come cheap, but we feel it’s worth every penny. This well-rounded helmet provides the perfect blend of low weight, great coverage, excellent ventilation, and features that make it stand out from the crowd. The fact that it looks great and comes in a wide array of colors only sweetens the deal.

Specialized Camber MIPS Helmet

• Weight 400 g (Large)
• Rotational Impact Protection System MIPS
• Adjustable Visor No
• Number of Vents 13
• Available Sizes XS, S, M, L, XL

• Very reasonably priced
• High-end look and feel
• Comes in 5 shell sizes
• Surprisingly comfortable
• 5-star Virginia Tech safety rating
• Non-adjustable visor isn't great at blocking the sun
• Basic strap design
• Moderate ventilation

In spite of being known for its high price points and outlandish, premium S-Works line, it turns out that Specialized can make a darn good budget-friendly piece of gear, too. The Camber MIPS ($75) provides insane value, boasting a fit and features normally reserved for much more expensive helmets. Add in a five-star rating from the Virginia Tech Helmet Safety Test and you’ve got a helmet that punches well above its price. 

Budget helmets are easy on the wallet, sure, but they often fall short when it comes to sizing and tech. The Camber does its best to stick up for the little guy, though. It comes in five sizes ranging from 49 to 63 cm, which allows a huge range of riders to dial in the perfect fit. The Headset SX fit system works well when dialing in the fit, the padding is comfortable, and the Y-shaped strap splitter yoke prevents any pesky contact around the ears. 

While the Camber is an excellent budget pick, it still has a few quirks you’d expect from cheaper options. The rear strap connection feels less refined than more expensive options, and while decently ventilated, the helmet runs a bit hotter than other options. We also don’t love Specialized’s non-adjustable visor, which is positioned higher on the helmet, because it doesn’t block the sun very effectively.

Regardless, the Specialized Camber MIPS is a great pick for those getting into mountain biking for the first time or folks who just want to save a little extra cash. It looks just like the brand’s more expensive models, yet it’s one of the least expensive helmets on the market.

Giro Aries Spherical Cycling Helmet

• Intended Use Road, gravel, XC Mtb
• Weight 271 g (Medium)
• Number of Vents 24
• Virginia Tech Helmet Safety Rating 5-star
• Colors Matte Ano Blue, Matte Ano Harbor Blue Fade, Matte White, Matte Black, Matte Carbon/Red, Matte Metallic Coal/Space Green

• Supremely comfortable
• Great ventilation
• Excellent coverage
• Easy eyewear storage

Giro is one of the leaders in the cycling helmet market, so it’s no surprise that their latest road helmet, the Aries Spherical ($300), takes the top spot. It builds off the success of its predecessors, claiming big performance gains while subtly shifting the style cues of other Giro lids. 

We’ll start with the most important feature of a bike helmet — safety. The Aries Spherical nailed the Virginia Tech Helmet Safety Test by earning 5/5 stars and the highest overall rating of any helmet they’ve ever tested. Much of the helmet’s safety success comes from the MIPS Spherical technology fitted inside the Aries, which uses a ball-and-socket design to redirect the force of impact away from a rider’s head during a crash, reducing the risk of a concussion. 

But as we said before, modern helmets are about much more than safety, even if that is still the most important feature. It was love at first sight for our tester, who was pleasantly surprised by Giro’s willingness to deviate from its typical aesthetic. The prominent Aura II reinforcement arch across the top gives the helmet a minimal, sleek appearance — indeed, it’s one of the most compact, low-profile road helmets we’ve tested. 

Giro has always excelled when it comes to fit, but the Aries takes it up a notch, boasting a more luxurious, secure fit than its previous top-of-the-line offerings. The emphasis on a perfect fit means our tester didn’t have to overtighten the Roc Loc 5 adjustment dial, making the helmet feel even more comfortable. Combine all that comfort with prodigious airflow and Giro’s new DryCore brow pad for sweat management, and you’ve got a helmet that’s well worth its price tag.

And, while the Aries Spherical is geared toward road riding, this lightweight helmet is a solid choice for gravel riders and XC mountain bike racers, too. With a killer fit, excellent ventilation, and protection with MIPS Spherical, the Giro Aries is hard to beat.

Lazer Tonic KinetiCore Helmet

• Intended Use Road
• Weight 240 g (M)
• Rotational Impact Protection System KinetiCore
• Number of Vents 18
• Colors Tour de France, matte white flash orange, matte blue black, black flash yellow, white, matte black, red black, cosmic berry

• Very affordable
• Lightweight
• Comfortable fit
• Comparatively less ventilated
• Bland-ish looks

Road cycling isn’t an inexpensive sport, but it’s refreshing to know that you can still get quality head protection with an affordable model like the Lazer Tonic KinetiCore ($80). Lazer’s entry-level road cycling helmet may not be quite as flashy as some higher-end models, but what it lacks in style, it makes up for with its lightweight and impressive 5-star safety rating from Virginia Tech’s independent test lab.

Lazer developed its own rotational impact protection system, called KinetiCore, which is intended to work in a similar way to the MIPS liners common in many other helmets. KinetiCore saves weight by forgoing a separate liner in favor of small foam blocks in the helmet’s foam that are designed to crumple and shear to absorb both direct and angled impact forces. Lazer has switched to this system throughout its line, and based on the test results, it seems to work as advertised.

At 240 g (size medium), the Tonic is very lightweight. In fact, it weighs less than many helmets that cost double or triple the price. It feels light on the head, and it’s quite comfortable too. A total of 18 vents do an admirable job of letting the air flow, but it doesn’t feel quite as breezy as some of the more expensive competition.

Style is subjective, but the Lazer Tonic has a somewhat more basic design and style than flashier models. This may be a pro or con, depending on your personal aesthetic, of course. That said, it comes in eight color options to suit varying tastes. If you’re looking for a lightweight road helmet that won’t break the bank, the Lazer Tonic KinetiCore begs the question, why spend more?

POC Omne Air MIPS Helmet

• Weight 350 g (Large)
• Number of Vents 10
• Virginia Tech Helmet Safety Rating 4-star
• Colors Lead Blue Matte, Sapphire Purple Matte, Lemon Calcite Matte, Epidote Green Metallic/Matte, Uranium Black Matte, Hydrogen White, Himalayan Salt Matte, Fluorescent Orange AVIP, Cerussite Kashima Metallic/Matte

• Sleek profile
• Reassuringly snug fit
• More affordable than high-end options
• Slightly heavier weight

POC’s most affordable road helmet, and our pick for the best mid-range road helmet, is the Omne Air MIPS ($180). It’s the perfect example of the brand’s ability to trickle its high-end tech into more affordable, albeit slightly heavier, offerings. While you can feel the extra weight when compared to lighter options, we can’t deny the helmet’s comfort, sleek looks, and enhanced visibility of POC’s AVIP (Attention, Visibility, Interaction, and Protection) colorway. 

The fit is secure and provides a solid amount of coverage when compared to other road helmets. The extra coverage is a safety bonus for those who want to wear the helmet on the trails or their commute, but it also dials up the safety from the inside, utilizing the MIPS Integra system to help reduce rotational impact forces in the event of a crash.

Being integrated into the pads, this MIPS system doesn’t squeak or impede airflow. It comes in a number of colors, but we are big fans of the AVIP colorway, which uses a bright orange panel on the back to draw the attention of even the most distracted motorist. 

The ventilation layout is simple, pairing vents at the front and the back to create roomy channels for air to flow through. This isn’t the most breathable helmet we’ve tested, but the creative design works well enough. The ventilation structure also adds to the overall aesthetic of the helmet, which is decidedly POC but a bit more low-pro than some of its other helmets.

Of course, $180 is still a bit of cash to lay out for a new lid, but it’s significantly less than premium models from other brands. The POC Omne Air MIPS should be on your radar if you’re looking for a more moderately priced helmet that doesn’t skimp on comfort, ventilation, or protection.

Smith Network MIPS Helmet

• Intended Use Road, gravel, MTB
• Weight 300 g (M)
• Adjustable Visor No (comes with removable fabric visor)
• Virginia tech Helmet Safety Rating Not tested

• Relatively lightweight
• Removable visor helps shield eyes from the sun
• Moderately priced
• Numerous color options
• Straps could use some refinement

The Smith Network MIPS ($170) falls roughly in the middle of the brand’s range of road and gravel helmets. Not only is this helmet moderately priced, but it also works well for nearly any type of cycling and is one of our favorites for gravel riding. In fact, one of our testers has been riding and racing gravel in the Network for years, in addition to using it for commuting and running errands around town.

Like many other helmets in Smith’s range of road and mountain bike models, the Network is constructed with an in-mold EPS foam shell and strategically placed zones of Koroyd. Koroyd is a cellular structure that looks a lot like a honeycomb, is lightweight, air-permeable, and crumples to absorb impact energy. Additionally, they’ve added a MIPS liner with the goal of reducing rotational impact forces. The Network provides an average level of head coverage, on par with most other road and gravel-oriented models.

A total of 19 vents — 15 of which are wide open without Koroyd underneath — provide ample airflow. In fact, this is one of the best ventilated Smith helmets we’ve ever tested. It has a versatile fit that works with most head shapes, and while the padding is minimal, it is comfortable and easy to adjust with Smith’s Vaporfit harness system. It comes in three sizes — small, medium, and large — which should cover the majority of adult riders. While somewhat basic in their design, the straps work fine and can easily be positioned comfortably to avoid ear contact.

One of our favorite features of the Smith Network is the removable visor. This simple visor looks a lot like one you’d find on a cycling cap, and it attaches under the brim to help shield the eyes from lower sun angles without blocking any ventilation. As usual, Smith’s eyewear integration is on point, and it’s easy to stash glasses when needed. The Network is our top choice for gravel, but it’s a great option for anyone seeking a versatile helmet to cover all your riding needs.

Thousand Chapter MIPS Helmet

• Intended Use Commuting, urban
• Weight 370 g (M)
• Visor Yes, removable
• Number of Vents 8
• Colors Club Navy, Racer Black, Supermoon White, Skyline Grey, Metro White, Deep Burgundy, Desert Sage

• Comes with a rechargeable magnetic light
• Multi use adapter to attach light to bike
• Easy-to-use magnetic fastener
• MIPS protection
• PopLock to secure helmet to lock
• We’d prefer more cushioning inside the helmet
• Pricey for a non-performance helmet

For the committed bike commuter who wants to get a helmet with all the bells and whistles, we recommend the Thousand Chapter MIPS ($145). The brand first made its name as a Kickstarter darling, raising money with the hopes of making a stylish commuter helmet that you’d actually want to wear. It seems they were onto something. They raised over $220,000, blowing their initial goal of $20,000 out of the water. It turns out that there are a lot of people who want stylish bike helmets. 

The Chapter MIPS looks fantastic right out of the box. The sleek, purpose-built visor adds a high-quality feel that the sloping, integrated visor of other Thousand helmets doesn’t offer. It feels like a bike helmet, not a repurposed snowboard or skate helmet. The vents are large enough to promote some really nice airflow across the top of the head, and our tester was obsessed with the magnetic buckle that he could easily clasp and unclasp with one hand. He also loved the unique PopLock technology that allows the rider to slide the helmet onto a lock for safekeeping.

Another huge bonus is the rear light. The included USB-chargeable light is magnetized, allowing you to easily attach it to the helmet when you need it and remove it when you don’t — it’s nice to be able to charge the light without having to make space for the helmet near a power source. Plus, a handy attachment is included that lets you put the light on your bike if you’d rather.

Cool styling and commuter-specific features aside, the Chapter also includes a MIPS liner to help reduce the rotational impact forces that reach the brain in the event of a crash. It also scored a 5-star rating in Virginia Tech’s independent helmet testing. Overall, the Thousand Chapter MIPS is a stylish helmet that won’t make you look like a bike racer when you’re riding around town or in the city, and it has safety features and protection that make it our favorite for commuting.

Outdoor Master Goat Helmet

• Intended Use Commuting, urban, skate
• Weight 518 g (M)
• Rotational Impact Protection System None
• Virginia Tech Helmet Safety Rating Not tested
• Colors Emerald Green, Emerald Pink, Matte Black, Matte Grey, Matte Navy, Matte Orange, Matte Yellow, Meteorite Black

• Great bang for your buck
• Integrated, rechargeable rear light
• Quality airflow
• Stylish for a budget pick
• Numerous colors
• No rotational impact protection system
• Feels more fragile than pricier options

The Outdoor Master Goat Helmet ($50) is an excellent choice for anyone just getting into commuting or who wants to keep an extra helmet around for emergencies. It actually reminds us of the original Thousand helmet from Kickstarter — it’s an affordable, attractive option for those who want nothing to do with the world of lycra and high-performance cycling. 

When looking closely at the Goat, we were impressed with the little details that separated it from the rest of the pack of affordable, budget-friendly commuter helmets. The design is sleek, the fit is exceptional for such an inexpensive helmet, and the integrated rear light makes a huge difference when riding at twilight or other low-light situations. Unlike the Thousand Chapter MIPS, the light on the Goat is not removable, but having a light at all is better than nothing when you’re riding on the road. 

You can tell that the helmet isn’t a premium offering — it’s fairly heavy, and the construction of the helmet is almost too simple. But for $50, this is just fine. The Outdoor Master Goat Helmet meets all of the required safety standards, comes in a bunch of cool colors, looks pretty good, and has the added benefit of the taillight, so if you’re just looking for something that won’t break the bank, we would have no hesitation in recommending it.

Best of the Rest

Poc kortal race mips helmet.

• Weight 401 g (M-L)
• Rotational Impact Protection System MIPS Integra
• Number of Vents 17
• Available Sizes XS-S, M-L, XL-XXL

• Generous coverage
• Lots of safety features
• Meets Dutch NTA 8776 e-bike standard
• Comes in multiple colors
• Extended coverage at temples can conflict with some sunglass arms

No surprise here — POC has another of our absolute favorite mountain bike helmets on its hands with the Kortal Race MIPS ($270). Made to protect the most aggressive trail and enduro riders, the Kortal provides extended coverage of the occipital and temporal lobes and a deep, secure fit. The Race MIPS model is also outfitted with MIPS Integra to help reduce the rotational forces to the brain in a crash. 

The Kortal’s fit is similar to other POC helmets that we’ve tried. It works very well for those with oval-shaped heads but may feel a tad narrow for those with rounder heads. POC’s sizing is also a tad different, so be sure to double-check when ordering. Thanks to a 360-degree adjustment system and plush MIPS Integra pads, it’s a comfortable lid when sized properly. Its 17 vents allow for ample airflow across the scalp, and the strap splitter yoke keeps straps flat against the face and off the ears. 

Riders who prefer to wear goggles will love the large adjustable visor, which easily accommodates large eyewear, and the rear vents designed to fit a goggle strap without blocking air. The lowest visor level isn’t very low, so we didn’t actually adjust it that much, but we appreciated the visor’s breakaway feature, which is intended to help prevent neck injuries in a crash. It’s worth mentioning that the Kortal was designed to integrate perfectly with POC’s Devour sunglasses, but the extended temple coverage can conflict with some other sunglass arms.

While the POC Kortal Race MIPS hasn’t been tested at Virginia Tech’s independent lab, it meets all required safety standards and the Dutch NTA 8776 e-bike standard for safety. Though it’s expensive, we think its one of the best and most protective half-shell mountain bike helmets you can buy. It also comes in a large range of color options and can often be found on sale for less than its relatively high retail price.

Trek Velocis MIPS Helmet

• Weight 240 g (Medium)
• Rotational Impact Protection System MIPS Air
• Number of Vents 16
• Colors Viper Red/Cobra Blood, Dark Aquatic, Black, White, Red, White/Nautical Navy

• Well-ventilated
• Super compact profile
• Liberal use of carbon fiber for impressively low weight
• Unconditional comfort guarantee
• Eyewear storage
• Not a great application of BOA

A delightfully minimal, lightweight, and well-ventilated helmet, the Trek Velocis MIPS ($300) made a strong impression on our road bike tester right out of the box. Outfitted with the brand’s OCLV carbon fiber, the helmet is race-ready, super sleek, and well-ventilated. 

The Velocis is outfitted with MIPS Air, the lightest and best-vented version of MIPS. This version is actually integrated into the padding inside the shell, saving weight while still scoring five stars in the Virginia Tech Helmet Safety Test. Given the helmet’s minimal appearance and barely there feel, a five-star score is all the more impressive.

Our tester said that the helmet’s interior had no apparent pressure points and felt firm and secure, resulting in an exceptionally comfortable fit, even if he felt that the innovative 360° BOA fit system left something to be desired. 

Once he figured out the fit, the Trek Velocis MIPS was great to wear. Thanks to thoughtfully placed channels, it easily secured sunglasses and was noticeably quieter than other helmets we tested. Despite its high price, we still think the Velocis is a top pick for any road cyclist who likes to go fast and look good doing it.

Bike Helmet Comparison Chart

How we tested bike helmets.

Our team is composed of cyclists and outdoor-oriented athletes looking for the best products on the market. Our staff includes professional gear reviewers, former and current racers, recreational cyclists, folks who bike commute 60 miles a week, and everyone in between — people who care about fit, finish, and function but, at the end of the day, want a product they can trust.

Our team spends its time carefully evaluating new products so that you don’t have to, which translates to more time in the saddle for you. We strive to create thorough, comprehensive, helpful reviews to help you find the best gear for your individual needs.

Our bike helmet buyer’s guide is more general in its scope and combines our favorite models from our more specific best mountain bike helmet and best road bike helmet guides with a few additions for commuting and gravel riding. Our mountain bike helmet tester, Jeremy Benson, has been professionally testing and reviewing bikes and related accessories for the past 8 years.

Benson is an avid mountain and gravel rider and racer who spends an inordinate amount of time in the saddle training, riding for fun, and testing all manner of new gear for reviews. He isn’t immune to crashing (spectacularly), and he takes his safety seriously, so he’s always searching for the most comfortable and protective helmets he can find to protect his brain. He has tested over 30 mountain bike helmets, including all of the models in our guide to the best mountain bike helmets .

Our road bike helmet buyer’s guide author, Bennett Shane, has been cycling seriously for over two decades. While his racing days are behind him, he’s shifted his focus to achieving other goals on the bike, riding for fitness, and testing countless road-related products for reviews. He also spent years working for various prominent brands in the cycling industry and has an uncanny depth of cycling products, technology, and material knowledge.

As a father of a young child, Bennett is extra-conscious of his own safety while riding, and he takes head protection very seriously. In the past year, he’s tested over 15 different helmets, including those in our guide to the best road bike helmets .

Another tester and contributor to this story, Will Porter, loves to ride his XC bike in the foothills outside of Boise, Idaho, spend hours in the saddle of his gravel bike, and restore old mountain bikes to their former glory — right now, he’s in the middle of making a ’90s Hard Rock his go-to daily rider.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Bike Helmet

Riding style: mountain, road, gravel, or commute.

The terrain you ride will ultimately dictate the helmet you buy. Before you open your wallet, give some thought to where and how you plan to spend the majority of your time in the saddle. It will point you in the right direction. Below are some considerations to check out before you throw down on a new lid.

Mountain Bike Helmets

Mountain-oriented helmets have more materials that wrap the side and back of the head, creating extended coverage to protect the occipital lobe (the bony knob on the back of your head) and temples. Steep trails increase the risk of falling backward and onto the back of your head. This makes good occipital coverage like that offered by our favorite mountain bike helmet, the Giro Manifest , that much more important.

Mountain bike helmets typically also come with a visor similar to the one found on the POC Kortal Race MIPS , which provides shade as riders move in and out of the direct sun. A visor also brings a little extra protection from brushy limbs that tend to stretch out over unmaintained roads.

Our favorite visors are also adjustable, so you can optimize their position to keep the sun out of your eyes. To learn more about helmets for tackling your favorite trails, check out our guide to the best mountain bike helmets.

Road Bike Helmets

In general, helmets designed for road cycling tend to be a bit more streamlined and provide a bit less coverage than their chunkier mountain bike counterparts. With more of a focus on aerodynamics and ventilation, road bike helmets are often much lighter and racier looking, too. Still, the goal is protection, and modern road helmets feature innovative designs and technologies to keep riders safe out on the road.

Helmets like the Giro Aries Spherical do an excellent job of combining good coverage, excellent ventilation, and the newest safety technologies to provide a great helmet for road cyclists looking to maximize safety, style, and comfort. Other road helmets may prioritize aerodynamics more, and there is a growing number of aero options available for those seeking marginal gains. If you’re in the market for a road bike helmet, we cover lots of options in our guide to the best road bike helmets.

Gravel Bike Helmets

Gravel riding is essentially road biking on gravel roads. As such, the protection demands are similar, but with the addition of sometimes less predictable loose or rocky surfaces. Realistically, most road and mountain bike helmets can easily pull double duty for gravel riding. While there certainly are many gravel-specific helmets on the market these days, most serious gravel riders are typically seen wearing high-end road helmets that are lightweight, well-ventilated, and protective.

Ultimately, gravel riders should consider the terrain they ride most often, and factor their favorite backroads, routes, and trails into choosing a helmet that will best suit their needs. Check out our FAQ for more on gravel-specific helmets.

Commuter Bike Helmets

Commuter helmets occupy a bit of a middle ground in the helmet world. Even if your commute is short and mellow, a good helmet is an excellent and necessary investment. While weight may not be the top priority, coverage, visibility, and comfort certainly are. You might not be shredding the gnar on your way to work (or maybe you are), but cars and pedestrians are omnipresent hazards that warrant a good helmet regardless of your riding style.

While you can wear any helmet you like while commuting by bike , many riders prefer not to look like they’re heading out on a serious road or mountain bike ride when they’re pedaling to the office or running errands around town. For this reason, many commuter helmets have more casual styling that fits in better with casual or work clothes. Additionally, many commuter helmets also have features for enhanced visibility, such as the lights on the Thousand Chapter MIPS and the Outdoor Master Goat Helmet .

The best helmet is one you don’t notice. Because you’ll be wearing it every mile in the saddle, look for a helmet that fits your head. Compromising on fit can be dangerous, increasing your exposure to injury in an accident or fall.

A helmet should fit snugly, but not too tightly, and never cause pressure points or hot spots. A good-fitting helmet should be snug around the head even before clipping the straps.

Look for a helmet that sits level on your head without tilting forward or backward and that cradles the shape of your skull all around without any gaps. The straps should feel snug but not strained while you ride. It shouldn’t move more than an inch in any direction. If you can pull, twist, or slip it off, try a different size or another helmet.

Most helmets have a range of measurements — small, medium, large — that have some wiggle room for folks who are between sizes. Not all brands fit the same.

Once you decide on the style, it’s time to try a few on. And this is where your local bike shop is a huge asset. You’ll want to actually try on several helmets to get a feel for what works and what doesn’t.

If you do decide to buy a helmet online, start by measuring your head. Take a tailor’s tape measure and wrap it around the dome of your head — the widest circumference of the skull, just above the brow.

Microadjustment features, like a dial-fit system and chinstraps, tighten behind the head and under the chin to fine-tune the fit, minimizing movement. In recent years, this feature has become almost ubiquitous, and all of our top picks feature this technology, usually in a proprietary design.

Ventilation

Because cycling is a highly aerobic sport, good ventilation is a necessary component of any helmet to help manage heat. Helmets with ventilation holes allow fresh air to pour over the head, cooling you as you exert more energy. How important ventilation is to you will likely depend on your environment, the intensity at which you ride, and your tolerance for heat and humidity.

Well-designed ventilation, like that of the Giro Aries Spherical or the Trek Velocis MIPS , is a godsend in hot and humid environments. That said, riders should be mindful of eschewing good coverage for good ventilation if they are riding aggressively. Fortunately, you don’t really need to these days, as most modern helmets successfully provide good ventilation and a high level of protection.

Rotational Impact Protection

Innovations in crash protection, like MIPS (multidirectional impact protection system), have been shown to reduce rotational forces on the brain in a crash. Helmets with this kind of protection may cost a little more, but it’s our brains we’re talking about here, so we feel it is worth the extra cost.

In a crash, a bicyclist can experience an angled impact, which causes rotational motion. When you hit the ground, the brain will continue to travel through space until it hits the skull. In addition to the impact force, the shear force can pull brain tissue, causing trauma. While CPSC certification guidelines account for vertical free fall, they don’t address angular collision.

MIPS is a Swedish-based company that specializes in helmet safety and brain protection. It specializes in a polycarbonate plastic layer that creates a slip-plane to allow the head to shift 10-15 mm relative to the helmet, with the goal of reducing the rotational forces on the brain.

MIPS now comes in many different forms, but they are all intended to work similarly to the classic liner system. The evidence certainly shows MIPS reduces brain trauma when you hit the ground at an angle. Good marketing has awarded MIPS gold in the headspace. Check out more about MIPS here .

While MIPS was first on the scene, over the past decade or so, other brands have poked at the problem with their own solutions. Bontrager uses WaveCel, Kali developed its Low-Density Layer, Lazer uses KinetiCore , and other brands have developed similar systems. All of them work to achieve the same goal of reducing rotational impact forces transferred to the brain.

To be clear, all bicycle helmets are built with a layer of stiff foam materials that crushes, expands, or collapses to absorb energy in a crash. To measure their impact protection, helmets sold in the U.S. must meet the federal Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) bicycle helmet standard. Your best bet is to look for the CPSC sticker label inside the liner, certifying that the helmet meets safety standards.

Is MIPS the best? As Vibram is to outsoles, MIPS is to helmets. As a consumer, expect to pay a little extra for the yellow sticker.

The helmets in this guide range from $50 to $300. Recreational bike helmets with basic impact protection are adequate for casual, mellow rides and will sit on the lower end of the price scale.

Expect to pay more for helmets that provide above-and-beyond accessories like chin guards, proprietary clips, and rotational motion impact reduction. For $75 or $80, respectively, you can’t go wrong with the Specialized Camber MIPS or Lazer Tonic KinetiCore , but keep in mind that at that price point, you might be skipping out on some extra comfort and ventilation features.

The further you ride, the more you might want to consider extra protective features. A helmet is like buying an insurance plan. Yes, they are expensive, but we can guarantee they are cheaper than a hospital bill.

Gravel is at the crossroads of road and mountain biking. While a handful of helmets are specifically geared towards gravel riding, you can probably use the cycling helmet you already have, depending on the terrain you ride.

Road bike helmets are generally more aerodynamic and lighter. Stylistically, they look different. Most mountain bike helmets have extended coverage on the back of the head, which is important if you fall backward. They usually have an integrated visor that shields the eyes from the sun and brush.

For the most part, gravel riders tend to gravitate towards road-style helmets. In fact, most road helmets are versatile enough for gravel and cross-country mountain biking.

If you primarily mountain bike and are dabbling with gravel, you can save a few bucks by using your mountain bike helmet. Be sure to check out the Giro Manifest if you’re looking for a rock-solid dirt and gravel-oriented lid. If you’re coming to gravel from the road and want to tackle more remote roads and maybe dabble with singletrack, we’d err toward safety and recommend buying up for more protection.

Regardless, all bicycle helmets in the U.S. are CPSC-certified, whether they’re designed for road or trail rides. You can safely wear a road or mountain-oriented helmet.

Helmets are sport-specific, designed to mitigate specific risks. Mountain bike helmets are not verified to protect a climber or mountaineer in an accident and vice versa.

Keep track of your helmet’s age. Over time, exposure to environmental factors like sunlight or extreme cold, moisture, and sweat will diminish the lifespan of the helmet. So will repeated small impacts, such as dropping the helmet at the trailhead or tumbling around the back of the rig on the commute home.

The CPSC recommends replacing your helmet every 5-10 years, depending on the frequency of use, storage conditions, and overall care. However, each manufacturer’s guideline is different. If you need to retire a helmet, it’s one gear item you shouldn’t donate at the local thrift shop. You can check with the manufacturer to see if they will properly dispose of it for you.

Some brands have a crash replacement policy and may sell you a replacement at a discounted price. You’ll need to register your helmet, and they may want to see the damage. If they approve your claim, they’ll often award a discount toward your next helmet purchase.

It is always recommended that you replace your helmet after a crash in which you hit your head, even if you can’t see any damage. Sometimes, even minor impacts can result in a crack in the foam. That’s not because a helmet is cheap or defective — it’s because it’s doing its job. Helmets absorb impact forces by compressing and cracking, and once they do, their ability to do so again has been compromised.

Related Content

The Best Mountain Bike Helmets of 2024

Our experts put the best mountain bike helmets of 2024 to the test. Whether you need a budget pick or overall winner, we’ve got you covered.

The Best Road Bike Helmets of 2024

While we all do our best to avoid them, accidents can and do happen, so a quality road bike helmet is the most important piece…

Will is a freelance writer for GearJunkie . He has been writing about running, cycling, style, and various other outdoor pursuits for over 5 years, with bylines in GQ, Men’s Health, MyGolfSpy, and others. Before going freelance full-time, he was an editor at Gear Patrol , covering everything from single-village mezcal to marathon shoes to making the most of annual Black Friday sales. Based in Boise, Will is spending his time training for an ultramarathon, frequenting the local breweries, and trying to get tickets to every good concert that comes through town. 

Jeremy Benson is a Managing Editor at GearJunkie. He has been professionally testing and reviewing mountain bikes, gravel bikes, and all of the accessories that go along with them for 8+ years. Prior to GearJunkie, he worked for other outlets like Bikerumor and OutdoorGearLab, as a freelance writer, and was sponsored ski athlete for 15 years. Benson is also the author of two guidebooks, Backcountry Ski and Snowboard Routes: California , and Mountain Bike Tahoe , both published by Mountaineers Books. Based in Truckee, CA, he can usually be found in the woods riding mountain or gravel bikes or climbing mountains with skis when there’s snow on the ground.

Hailing from Portland, Ore., Bennett enjoys exploring the mountain passes and backroads of the Pacific Northwest on skinny tires. Having worked in various roles in the cycling industry since 2008 has helped Bennett develop an impressive knowledge base and thorough understanding of cycling gear and tech.

Although he wouldn’t call himself a retrogrouch, he does have an irrational love of rim brakes and a fondness for boutique steel frames. After racing on paved and gravel roads for a decade, Bennett turned his focus to achieving personal goals including three Everests and climbing over 1 million vertical feet in 2020. Although he rides (and sleeps) less since starting a family, he still enjoys pushing the pace on climbs and ripping fast descents as much as ever.

Follow Us On

Subscribe Now

Get adventure news and gear reviews in your inbox!

Join Our GearJunkie Newsletter

Gear Top Stories Deals

• Visit Our Blog about Russia to know more about Russian sights, history
• Check out our Russian cities and regions guides
• Follow us on Twitter and Facebook to better understand Russia
• Info about getting Russian visa , the main airports , how to rent an apartment
• Our Expert answers your questions about Russia, some tips about sending flowers

Russian regions

• Bashkortostan republic
• Chuvashia republic
• Kirov oblast
• Mari El republic
• Mordovia republic
• Nizhegorodskaya oblast
• Orenburg oblast
• Penza oblast
• Samara oblast
• Saratov oblast
• Tatarstan republic
• Udmurt republic
• Ulyanovsk oblast
• Map of Russia
• All cities and regions
• Blog about Russia
• News from Russia
• How to get a visa
• Flights to Russia
• Russian hotels
• Renting apartments
• Russian currency
• FIFA World Cup 2018
• Submit an article
• Flowers to Russia
• Ask our Expert

Nizhny Novgorod city, Russia

The capital city of Nizhegorodskaya oblast .

Nizhny Novgorod - Overview

Nizhny Novgorod (colloquially often just “Nizhny”; from 1932 to 1990 - Gorky) is a large city located in the center of European Russia, the administrative center of the Volga Federal District and Nizhny Novgorod Oblast.

It is an important economic, industrial, scientific, educational, and cultural center of Russia, the largest transport hub of the Volga Federal District. Nizhny Novgorod is one of the main centers of river tourism in Russia. The historic part of the city is rich in sights and is a popular tourist destination.

The population of Nizhny Novgorod is about 1,234,000 (2022), the area - 411 sq. km.

The phone code - +7 831, the postal codes - 603000-603257.

Nizhny Novgorod city flag

Nizhny novgorod city coat of arms.

Nizhny Novgorod city map, Russia

Nizhny novgorod city latest news and posts from our blog:.

7 January, 2022 / Nikolai Bugrov's Summer Dacha in Volodarsk .

4 December, 2017 / Stadiums and Matches of the World Cup 2018 in Russia .

2 June, 2017 / The Most Beautiful House in Nizhny Novgorod .

13 March, 2016 / Official Look of Host Cities of World Cup 2018 in Russia .

29 September, 2015 / Nizhny Novgorod - the view from above .

More posts..

History of Nizhny Novgorod

Foundation of nizhny novgorod.

During the military campaigns of the Russian princes against the Volga Bulgaria, the place where the Oka River flows into the Volga was used as a gathering point for the Murom and Suzdal troops. In 1220, Grand Duke Yuri Vsevolodovich (the grandson of Prince Yuri Dolgoruky, the founder of Moscow) conducted a successful campaign against the Bulgars. After it, he “decided to strengthen this important place for Rus” and founded a town at the mouth of the Oka.

It was named Novgorod, which literally means “new town”. Later, the adjective “nizhny” (“lower”) was added to the name of the town in the Russian annals. This was probably done in order to distinguish it from the town of Novgorod (present Veliky Novgorod) and other Novgorods that existed at that time.

The founding of Nizhny Novgorod was the beginning of an active expansion of Russian influence in the Mordovian lands. Two white-stone churches were built in the fortress, including the Cathedral of the Archangel (1227) - evidence of the special role that the town had in the system of lands of Vladimir-Suzdal Rus. However, the Mongol invasion stopped further development.

Information about Nizhny Novgorod of the 13th century is extremely scarce. But it is known that after the invasion it revived relatively quickly. Nizhny Novgorod is constantly mentioned in Russian chronicles as a major political and economic center of North-Eastern Rus and a spiritual center of Orthodoxy in the Volga region. The town was often the object of conflicts between Moscow and Tver.

In 1392, the Moscow prince Vasily I received a jarlig for the Nizhny Novgorod Principality and captured Nizhny Novgorod. The final annexation of Nizhny Novgorod to the possessions of Moscow took place in the late 1440s.

More Historical Facts…

Nizhny Novgorod in the 16th-18th centuries

Under Ivan III and Vasily III, the town played the role of a border post and was a gathering place for military campaigns against the Kazan Khanate. In 1508-1515, the stone kremlin was built. After the capture of Kazan by Ivan the Terrible, the border role of Nizhny Novgorod became insignificant. At the same time, Nizhny Novgorod became the center of trade between Russia and the East and a large shipbuilding center.

In September 1611, during the Time of Troubles, the Second People’s Militia was organized in Nizhny Novgorod to fight the Poles who were able to establish control over Moscow. The militia consisted of detachments of townspeople, peasants of the central and northern regions of the Tsardom of Russia. The leaders were the Nizhny Novgorod merchant Kuzma Minin and Prince Dmitry Pozharsky (the monument to them is installed on Red Square in Moscow). In October 1612, the militia was able to completely liberate Moscow.

In the 17th century, a schism occurred in the Orthodox Church under Patriarch Nikon. It led to the formation of numerous settlements of Old Believers in the vicinity of Nizhny Novgorod. In 1695, during his Azov campaign, Peter I arrived in Nizhny Novgorod. In 1719, as a result of his administrative-territorial reforms, the town became the center of a separate Nizhny Novgorod Governorate. In 1722, setting off on the Persian campaign, Nizhny Novgorod was again visited by Peter I. Here he celebrated his 50th birthday.

In 1767, Nizhny Novgorod was visited by Empress Catherine II. During her stay in the town, she met the famous local mechanic and inventor Ivan Kulibin. After her visit, a new regular town plan was approved. The first town theater was built in 1798. Later, it became known as Nikolaevsky, in honor of Emperor Nicholas I.

Nizhny Novgorod in the 19th century

At the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries, Nizhny Novgorod became a major scientific and cultural center of the Russian Empire. In 1811, the population of Nizhny Novgorod was about 14,400 people. In 1817, the Makaryev Fair, the largest fair of the Russian Empire, was moved to the village of Kunavino (one of the districts of today’s Nizhny Novgorod). Before that, it was organized every year near the Makaryevsky Monastery, which burned down a year earlier. From that time on, it began to be called the Nizhny Novgorod Fair. Thanks to it, the rapid economic development of the town and adjacent villages began.

After Emperor Nicholas I visited the town in 1834, the large-scale reconstruction of Nizhny Novgorod began. In 1847, a water supply system appeared in the town and the first fountain was built. Private buildings in the Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin were demolished and new administrative buildings appeared in their place. A lot of new buildings, streets, boulevards, and gardens were built.

In 1849, a large industrial enterprise was founded in the village of Sormovo (another district of today’s Nizhny Novgorod). Later, it became known as the Sormovo plant. It was producing river steamers, various railway cars, steam locomotives, and trams. Thanks to the plant, Sormovo soon turned into a large village of workers. In 1862, the construction of the Moscow-Nizhny Novgorod railway was completed. In 1863, the population of the city was 41,500 people.

In 1896, the city hosted the All-Russian Trade and Industrial Exhibition. The radio receiver of the engineer A.S. Popov, the hyperboloid tower of the engineer V.G. Shukhov were demonstrated at the exhibition, as well as the first Russian car of the Frese and Yakovlev factories.

Nizhny Novgorod in the first half of the 20th century

In 1914, about 111,000 people lived in Nizhny Novgorod. In 1917, during the First World War, the Warsaw Polytechnic Institute was evacuated to this city, on the basis of which the Nizhny Novgorod Polytechnic Institute was created.

On October 7, 1932, Nizhny Novgorod was renamed Gorky due to the 40th anniversary of the literary and social activities of the writer Maxim Gorky. In 1933, the first permanent bridge across the Oka River was built. The railway bridge across the Volga was constructed too. Thanks to this, it became possible to go by rail through Gorky to the Urals and Siberia.

The 1930s were a period of rapid industrialization. In 1932, the largest industrial enterprise in the city was opened - the Gorky Automobile Plant (GAZ), an important object of the Soviet defense industry. In the 1930s-1940s, the city was even referred to as “Russian Detroit”. By 1939, the population of Nizhny Novgorod increased to about 644,000 people.

Every fourth resident of the Gorky region (about 822 thousand people) fought on the fronts of the Second World War. Of these, more than 350 thousand people did not return from the battlefields - they were killed, went missing or died from wounds in hospitals.

In June 1943, three large raids of German bombers were carried out on Gorky. The main target of air strikes was the Gorky Automobile Plant, which as a result was almost completely destroyed. It was rebuilt only in the middle of 1944. Over 500,000 wounded were treated in dozens of hospitals during the war years.

The city was an important center for the production of weapons. During the Second World War, every second Soviet car, every third tank and every fourth artillery piece were produced at Gorky’s plants. In total, about 38 thousand tanks, self-propelled guns, armored vehicles, 43 thousand mortars, 16 thousand aircraft, 22 submarines, 109 thousand cars, more than 85 thousand radio stations, as well as 101 thousand artillery pieces and 1,165 Katyusha multiple rocket launchers were produced in Gorky.

Nizhny Novgorod after the Second World War

In 1946, the first GAZ-M-20 “Pobeda” passenger car and the GAZ-51 truck left the assembly line of the Gorky Automobile Plant. In 1949, the construction of the monumental Chkalov Stairs connecting the Upper Volga and Lower Volga embankments was completed in the historic center of Nizhny Novgorod. On August 4, 1959, the resolution of the Council of Ministers of the USSR “On the closure of the city of Gorky for visiting by foreigners” was issued. In 1962, the population of Gorky exceeded 1 million people.

On January 18, 1970, a radiation accident occurred at the Krasnoe Sormovo plant. During the construction of a nuclear submarine, an unauthorized launch of the reactor took place. After working at prohibitive power for about 10-15 seconds, it partially collapsed. Hundreds of workers were exposed to the radioactive release. In total, over one thousand people took part in the liquidation of the consequences of the accident and were exposed to radiation.

In 1985, a subway was opened in Gorky. In 1980-1986, Andrei Sakharov, a world famous nuclear physicist, Nobel laureate, and activist, was in exile in Gorky to prevent his contacts with foreigners. In the early 1990s, the “closed city” status was lifted and the city became accessible to foreigners. On October 22, 1990, Gorky was renamed back to Nizhny Novgorod. In 1991, the population of the city reached its maximum - 1,445,000 people.

At the end of the 20th century, the information technology sphere began to actively develop in the city. In the 2000s, a transport problem arose because of the insufficient carrying capacity of the Nizhny Novgorod bridges connecting the lower part of the city and the upper one.

In February 2012, the Nizhny Novgorod Volga Aerial Tramway was opened. This 3661-meter-long gondola lift cable car connected Nizhny Novgorod with the town of Bor. Its daily passenger traffic is about 5,000 people. In 2013, the city electric train was launched - an alternative to the subway line from Sormovo to Moskovsky railway station.

Nizhny Novgorod hosted 6 matches of the FIFA World Cup 2018 . A new stadium was built, the old river port was demolished, a new park and embankments were created. Large-scale restoration of old streets and buildings took place, new museums were opened, hotels were built, and parks were reconstructed.

Streets of Nizhny Novgorod

One sunny summer day in Nizhniy Novgorod

Author: Denis Plekhanov

Apartment buildings in Nizhny Novgorod

Author: Eugene Ivanov

On the street in Nizhny Novgorod

Author: Sergey S. Kazenyuk

Nizhny Novgorod - Features

Nizhny Novgorod is located about 425 km east of Moscow, at the confluence of the two largest waterways of the European part of Russia - the Volga and Oka rivers. The city is divided by the Oka into two parts. The length of Nizhny Novgorod along the Oka is 20 km, along the Volga - about 30 km.

The climate in Nizhny Novgorod is moderately continental, with cold, long winters and warm, relatively short summers. The average temperature in January is minus 8.9 degrees Celsius, in July - plus 19.4 degrees Celsius.

A red deer is depicted on the coat of arms and flag of Nizhny Novgorod, which is a symbol of nobility, purity, life, wisdom, and justice. The City Day is celebrated on the 3rd Saturday in August.

In January 2019, Nizhny Novgorod was recognized as the best city in Russia in terms of quality of life. It took first place among Russian cities and 109th in the world in terms of quality of life. The rating was compiled by the site numbeo.com, which specializes in statistics on the cost of living and consumer prices in different countries of the world.

When compiling the rating, the purchasing power of the population, safety, health care, the cost of living, the ratio of real estate prices to the population’s income, traffic congestion, the level of environmental pollution, and climate were taken into account.

The main branches of the local industry are the production of cars and weapons, shipbuilding. Nizhny Novgorod is also one of the IT centers of Russia.

Nizhny Novgorod is a major transport hub. The city has a railway station, a river station, a cargo port, several berths for transshipment of goods. Strigino International Airport named after V.P. Chkalov offers regular flights to such cities as Yekaterinburg, Kazan, Kaliningrad, Moscow, Novosibirsk, Samara, St. Petersburg, Sochi, and a number of others.

Public transport in Nizhny Novgorod plays a very important role in ensuring the life of the city. At the same time, its work is hampered by the distribution of its population on the city’s territory, large daily migrations, a very high concentration of passenger traffic on the bridges across the Oka River, and the lack of an all-encompassing system of high-speed transport. There are municipal buses, fixed-route minibuses, trams, trolleybuses, the city train, and subway.

The tourist potential of Nizhny Novgorod is quite high. According to UNESCO, it is one of the most valuable historical cities in the world. In total, there are more than 600 unique historical, architectural and cultural monuments in Nizhny Novgorod, a variety of museums. The best time to visit Nizhny Novgorod is summer.

One of the alternative ways to visit Nizhny Novgorod is to take a river cruise along the Volga River. Travelers will find exciting excursions and meals in traditional Russian taverns. It will also be interesting to come during one of the many fairs or ethnographic festivals that are held in the city.

Main Attractions of Nizhny Novgorod

Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin (1508-1515) - a fortress in the historic center of Nizhny Novgorod and its oldest part, the main architectural complex of the city located on the right high bank, at the confluence of the Volga and Oka rivers. To date, all 13 towers of the Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin have been preserved or have been restored. The thickness of the wall at the base reaches 5 meters. There are exhibitions in the towers of the fortress; a section of the wall is open for tourists to visit.

In the past, there were several churches on the territory of the Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin. Today, only the Archangel Michael Cathedral has survived, built no later than the middle of the 16th century and rebuilt in 1628-1631 - the oldest surviving building in the kremlin. There is the grave of Kuzma Minin inside it.

An excellent view of the Volga River and Strelka (the confluence of the Oka and Volga) opens from the walls of the Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin. Here you can also see a collection of military equipment from the Second World War.

Nizhny Novgorod State Art Museum - one of the oldest museums in Russia, the largest museum of fine arts in the Nizhny Novgorod region. The Governor’s Palace on the territory of the Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin houses a permanent exhibition of Russian art and a collection of artistic silver.

In the House of the Merchant and Benefactor D.V. Sirotkin (Verkhnevolzhskaya Embankment, 3), an exposition of Western European art is presented and, separately, the painting by K.E. Makovsky “The appeal of Kuzma Minin to the citizens of Nizhny Novgorod” - one of the largest paintings on a historical theme in Russia (698x594 cm).

Chkalov Stairs (1943-1949) - a monumental staircase in the form of a figure eight in the historic center of Nizhny Novgorod. Connecting the Upper Volga (Verkhnevolzhskaya) and Lower Volga (Nizhnevolzhskaya) embankments, it is one of the longest stairs in Russia. It starts from the observation deck at the monument to Valery Chkalov (the famous Soviet pilot who made the first non-stop flight from the USSR to the USA via the North Pole), next to the St. George Tower of the Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin.

Bolshaya Pokrovskaya Street - the main street of Nizhny Novgorod built up with noble mansions of the past centuries. A large part of Bolshaya Pokrovskaya is reserved for the pedestrian zone and is analogous to the pedestrian Arbat Street in Moscow. There are a lot of historic houses, cafes, souvenir shops, boutiques, monuments, and sculptures here. The length of the street is over 2 km.

The building of the State Bank (Bolshaya Pokrovskaya Street, 26), resembling a medieval palace, is an outstanding architectural monument built in the Russian Revival style in 1911-1913. In the Museum of Old Equipment and Tools (Bolshaya Pokrovskaya Street, 43), you can see unique exhibits, hear their history, and even touch them.

Fedorovsky Embankment - one of the most beautiful embankments in Nizhny Novgorod and the best observation deck in the city. Everything is perfectly visible from this embankment: the old part of the city, the river station with a park, the Kanavinsky bridge - one of the oldest in the city, and, of course, the opposite bank of the Oka River with the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the confluence of the Oka and Volga. People also come here to watch the sunset.

Nizhny Novgorod Volga Aerial Tramway . This cable car, 3661 meters long, connects the high right bank of the Volga River, where the historic part of Nizhny Novgorod is located, with the town of Bor. It has the largest unsupported span over the water surface in Europe - 861 meters.

A one way trip during which you can admire the picturesque views of Nizhny Novgorod and the Volga River takes 15 minutes. It is better to use it in good sunny weather, because in windy weather, the movement of the cabins can be stopped. Sennaya Square on Kazanskaya Embankment.

Nizhny Novgorod State Museum of History and Architecture (1875-1877). Also known as the Mansion of S.M. Rukavishnikov, it is an architectural ensemble built in the eclectic style in the historic center of Nizhny Novgorod, one of the most important and famous architectural monuments of this city. Guided tours are held in the premises, allowing you to learn about the life of the former owners of the mansion, as well as look at the historical expositions of different years. Verkhnevolzhskaya Embankment, 7.

Main Palace of Nizhny Novgorod Fair - a luxurious building constructed in the forms of Old Russian architecture of the 17th century. Today, exhibitions of various formats are held here, as well as the multimedia exposition “Russia - my history” dedicated mainly to the history of Nizhny Novgorod starting from the Finno-Ugric peoples. Sovnarkomovskaya Street, 13.

Museum of the History of the Gorky Automobile Plant . The museum houses expositions telling about the history and development of the Gorky Automobile Plant. In total, there are over 40,000 exhibits. Here you can see a collection of Soviet vintage cars, which includes “Chaika”, “Volga”, the truck “GAZ-51”, and a lot of others. Lenina Avenue, 95.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral (1868-1881) - the most noticeable sight of the lower part of Nizhny Novgorod, which can be seen from all observation decks of the upper city. The church, 87 meters high, was built on the site of the Nizhny Novgorod Fair at the expense of merchants, who wanted to perpetuate the visit of Emperor Alexander II. Strelka Street, 3a.

Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (1696-1719) - one of the best examples of the Stroganov Baroque, an architectural monument of federal significance. From a distance, this colorful building looks like a sugar gingerbread with “candy” domes and decorated with stone flowers, pears and apples. Rozhdestvenskaya Street, 34.

Pechersky Ascension Monastery - one of the most interesting places in Nizhny Novgorod, where you can feel the spirit of the city. Most of the monastery buildings date back to the first half of the 17th century. A lot of beautiful photographs can be taken here. Privolzhskaya Sloboda Street, 108.

Limpopo Zoo - the first private zoo in Russia. More than 270 species of animals live here, 25 of which are listed in the Red Book of the Russian Federation. It is located on the territory of the Sormovsky Park on an area of 7.1 hectares. Yaroshenko Street, 7b.

Architectural and Ethnographic Museum-Reserve “Shcholokovskiy Khutor” . The exposition of this museum is represented by 16 objects of rural architecture: residential houses, barns, mills and churches of the 17th-19th centuries brought from the northern districts of the Nizhny Novgorod region. The facades of the houses are decorated with traditional relief carvings. In the premises of the houses, interiors with authentic items of peasant life have been restored. Gorbatovskaya Street, 41.

Nizhny Novgorod city of Russia photos

Pictures of nizhny novgorod.

Chkalov Stairs and the Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin

Author: Sergey Bulanov

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Nizhny Novgorod

Author: Evgeniy Balashov

Shopping and office center Smart in Nizhny Novgorod

Author: Diman Lazarev

Sights of Nizhny Novgorod

Annunciation Monastery - the oldest monastery in Nizhny Novgorod

Nizhny Novgorod Cathedral Mosque

Church in honor of the icon of the Mother of God Joy of All Who Sorrow in Nizhny Novgorod

The comments of our visitors

• Currently 3.14/5

Rating: 3.1 /5 (250 votes cast)

Sponsored Links:

CarBack bike radar

Know what's coming

• filter controls Items 24 24 48 72 filter controls Sort by Featured Featured A-Z Z-A Price Low-High Price High-Low

The Top 12 Things to Do in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia

Take a first-rate trip to Russia's fifth city

Ershov_Maks/Getty Images

Although it's Russia's fifth-largest city, you could be forgiven for never having heard of Nizhny Novgorod. Notwithstanding that another Russian city is simply called " Novgorod ," the current name of the city just doesn't have a memorable ring to it. (By contrast, its name during the Soviet years — Gorky, like the famous author — was much more iconic.) At any rate, this city of just over a million around six hours east of Moscow is more than worth a visit. These are just 12 reasons why!

Tour the Kremlin's 13 Towers

Like most every other city in Russia, Nizhny Novgorod is home to a Kremlin. (The word "kremlin" means "citadel" in Russian, and has nothing to do with the modern Russian government) One thing that elevated the Kremlin of Nizhny Novgorod above others in Russia (with the possible exception of the Moscow Kremlin and one or two others), however, is the fact that its wall has 13 towers. During the summer months, at least one free walking tour per day operates from the main entrance of Nizhny Novgorod's Kremlin.

Climb Russia's Longest Staircase

Named for one of the most famous Russian pilots of the early aviation age (Valery Chkalov), the Chkalov Stairs connect two of Nizhny Novgorod's public squares, which sit on the upper and lower embankments of the Volga River, respectively. Built in 1943 (during the period when Nizhny Novgorod was known as Gorky), the Chkalov Stairs currently have the distinction of being the longest staircase in Russia.

Go Wild at Limpopo Zoo

One thing that surprises many travelers to Nizhny Novgorod is how amazing its zoo, colloquially known as Limpopo is. In addition to being home to a tropical botanical garden (which, not surprisingly, is indoors), the zoo hosts a variety of reptiles, mammals and birds. There's also a small sculpture park on the grounds of Nizhny Novgorod's zoo, including both original and replica pieces.

Shop (or Just Stroll) Along a Storied High Street

Bolshaya Pokrovskaya Street has been the de-facto "Main Street" of Nizhny Novgorod for more than 200 years. Well, minus the Soviet Union period, during which the cafes that once (and now) lined it became somewhat worthless, since intellectual conversations were basically forbidden. These days, you can come here for a cup of Russian tea then shop at the dozens of boutiques you'll find on either side of the street.

Sun Yourself at the Spit

Nizhny Novgorod sits at the confluence of the Oka and Volga Rivers, with the triangle of land at the point they meet being known as the Nizhny Novgorod Spit. Ignoring the unfortunate double-meaning of its name for a moment, this is actually a wonderful place to get a tan, if it's summer in the city and the sun happens to be shining. Even if not, photographers will enjoy a trip here for a view of the Kremlin and city center across the Volga.

Marvel at the Open-Air Museum of Rozhdestvenskaya Street

Like Bolshaya Pokrovskaya Street, Rozhdestvenskaya Street has long been one of the most important streets in Nizhny Novgorod. However, while the former has become a primarily commercial artery in recent decades, the charm of the latter is in its well-maintained buildings, which hearken back to the mid-18th century. In fact, some locals go so far as to consider Rozhdestvenskaya Street an "open-air museum."

Ride Russia's Newest Cable Car

Russian investment in infrastructure isn't quite as dramatic as that of, say, China, but the Federation has nonetheless built a selection of interesting and modern transportation systems since the fall of the USSR. Among them is the just-opened cable car, which travels from the center of Nizhny Novgorod over the Volga River to suburban Bor. At any rate, a ride over the river and back is definitely worth inclusion on your list of things to do in Nizhny Novgorod.

Taste Traditional Shchi Soup

Shchi is one of Nizhy Novgorod's most delicious local specialties, available in most every local restaurant that serves Russian food. From above, a bowl of shchi seems incredibly complicated, with a colorful palette that suggests the inclusion of dozens of diverse ingredients. In fact, the magic of shchi is in its simplicity. Building on the traditional pan-Russian recipe of cabbage, pork fat and salt (yes, just three ingredients), locals in Nizhny Novgorod sometimes add minced meat or egg whites as bonus items, then top the tangy soup with a dollop of sour cream.

Survey Amazing Russian Orthodox Architecture

Think the only amazing Russian Orthodox churches are in Moscow and St. Petersburg? Think again. Nizhny Novgorod boasts several amazing examples of Russian Orthodox architecture. From the brilliant golde domes John the Baptist Cathedral near the Volga River, to the expansive grounds of 14th-century Pechersky Ascension Monastery, Nizhny Novgorod is an architecture buff's dream!

Take a Look Back in Time

Nizhny Novgorod's historical center is relatively large and well-preserved, but a stroll (or 10) through it isn't the only way to get a feel for the city's centuries-long past. Head to the Russian Museum of Photography, which not only showcases a variety of images of Nizhny Novgorod that date back a century or even longer, but also spotlights the equipment Russian photographers have used throughout the years, and notable figures in Russia's photography history as well.

Visit the Convent from the Movie "Salt"

You'd be forgiven if you've entirely forgotten the 2010 film "Salt." However, if you remember any destination from this spy thriller, it's likely the facade of Makaryev Convent, which is located within day-trip distance of Nizhny Novgorod. Having served as a monastery from its consecration in the early 15th century up until the beginning of the Russian Revolution, Makaryev became a convent after the fall of the Soviet Union , and is now home to 22 nuns.

Take an Excursion to a 12th-Century Tea Town

Another worthwhile day trip from Nizhny Novgorod is to the town of Gorodets, which sits about an hour to its northwest. With a history dating back to the 12th century, Gorodets boasts an interesting array of architecture and museums, including one dedicated to samovars. 

Moscow - Russian Rivers and Waterways Port of Call

25 Best Things to Do in Moscow

The Top 12 Things to Do in Novgorod, Russia

9 Things to See in Moscow's Red Square

Top 12 Things to Do in Kazan, Russia

The Top 10 Things to Do in Tver, Russia

The Top 15 Places to Visit in Russia

The Top 12 Things to Do in Ethiopia

10 Must-Visit Palaces and Castles in Russia

10 Best Things to Do in Barcelona

St. Petersburg, Russia

15 Top Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal

The Top 12 Things to Do in Astrakhan

Moscow Attractions for Children

The Top 11 Things to Do in Belgorod, Russia

Top 12 Things to Do in Irkutsk

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. How we test gear.

The Best Bags for All Types of Cyclists

Our expert tested dozens of cycling bags to determine the best for your bikepacking trips, commutes, and everyday rides.

Bike bags come in every conceivable shape and size. From tiny roll-ups that hold your flat-fix essentials to huge panniers for carrying days of groceries home for your family to bar bags to bring extra gear for a century and virtually anything else you can imagine.

Whether it's a bar bag or backpack, figuring out how to merge your equipment-carrying needs and lifestyle is a crucial part of the puzzle. And even knowing which brands create bags specifically for cyclists is part of the equation.

Cycling Bags Explained

What size do i need, materials, construction, and finish, how we tested.

Cycling bags are more than just a passing interest for me. Before working for Bicycling , I spent over a decade as a professional product designer, sewer, and manufacturer of shoes, bags, and apparel for several companies. With my experience in materials, sewing, and fabrication, I earned a Master of Science in textile design.

Bags and riding are two of my biggest passions. I love learning about different materials, constructions, finishes, and more. Use this explainer and my test results to learn how to pick the best type, size, materials, and construction for your next cycling bag. And share this story with friends in the market for a new bag to help them make an educated selection. I tested and evaluated each bag in this story. I used them for bikepacking trips where I knew I would encounter certain weather conditions and on my local day-to-day jaunts around town getting work done. The tested bags were subjected to multiple days of high wear and use (such as bike commutes, flights, and cycling events). When not on the bike, many of the bags spent time in the back of my pickup truck or on the floor getting knocked around. Some even got completely saturated in the rain.

Many companies make great bags in different shapes, sizes, and colors. Some are square, some cylindrical, and one is even a half-donut shape. There is no shortage of great bar bags whether for your solo century, the local group ride, or a big gravel event.

The mark of a great bar bag starts with the materials used and ends with the ease of user experience. Although many exist, the bar bag adds more to your rides than takes away (ok, they will rob a few watts). Bar bags are a convenient and easy-to-access way to add more storage and keep the extra weight off your back. Whether switching from your local group rides or races and then the quick overnighter, getting a bar bag on and off a bike (or switching between different sizes) is a breeze.

Best Bar Bag

Outershell drawcord handlebar bag.

The Drawcord is my favorite bar bag for several reasons. In addition to the bag‘s tons of pockets (internal and external) to stash your gear, it leads the pack in flair. Outershell selects the best patterns for adding style and accessorizing your bike. I love the brand’s use of cow and camo prints across its product lineup. Next is the size—whether you have narrow or wide bars, this bar bag fits perfectly on every drop bar I tried it on (though I don’t recommend putting this on your aero bike with one-piece handlebars, as it might not be the easiest to access). The feature that makes this bar bag next to perfect is the easy one-hand opening and closure. Another big plus for the Drawcord, Outershell uses fully internal and external weather-resistant fabric on this bag. It provides the rider with dry and secure accessories or snacks.

Bar Bag Runner-Up

Orucase smuggler hc handlebar bag.

Orucase uses a new vinyl-lined grided material introduced across the range of on-bike accessories called Glacious that resembles the material used for billboard signage. I like how Orucase secures this bag to the bar. Many brands use nylon webbing or rubber straps to attach their bags, so the provided mini-Voile straps are a great addition. The exterior pockets could be rotated approximately 45 degrees upwards to prevent snacks or tools from falling out. The extra mollie strap across the front was an awesome addition for carrying extra knick-knacks or tools. The Smuggler HC is perfect for 30- to 60-mile rides where you are out with the homies smashing miles and having smiles.

These bags sit directly in the middle of your bicycle (the bike’s main triangle). Frame bags are great because they offer additional storage possibilities and capacity. Many frame bag users customize their bags to match their needs and personalities, whether they’re doing day rides or ultra-distance events.

With so many different makers in the market, knowing all of the materials brands use, the storage capacity, and their design is tough. An unfortunate downside of some frame bags—depending on whether you go for a half or full-frame bag—is interference with the space for your water bottles, especially if you’re on the smaller size rider like me. If you are a shorter-height rider, getting creative about your water storage or frame options may require you to go down the custom route. Thankfully many bag makers already incorporate this as a service in their business.

Best Frame Bag

Nittany mountain works fastpack 1/2 frame bag.

Created by Evan Gross, Nitanny Mountain Works makes these bags using solar-powered energy in its Pennsylvania factory. Nittany uses a mix of materials in its designs, each serving a functional purpose to ensure whatever you're carrying stays with you and dry. Arriving with five mini-Voile straps, and multiple attachment points, fitting the Fastpack 1/2 to a bike is a breeze. The only hang-up is for riders of smaller-size bikes (like me) who may need the Fastpack Lite frame bag to get around frame designs. The bag is pretty standard and uses the standard two-zipper approach, but the mini-frame pump holder inside the main compartment is a welcome and thoughtful addition.

Frame Bag Runner-Up

Apidura expedition full frame pack.

Like the Expedition Frame Bag (which is half of the Full Frame Bag), this bag is trusted by thousands of riders who explore remote landscapes. With four size options, this bag has the same seven attachment points as the Expedition plus one more to keep a hydration bladder in place. Apidura created a custom 3L hydration bladder that in the bag sits near your bottom bracket and crank. The Full Frame Bag differs from the Expedition in construction technique and material choice. Having recently updated the material to a custom three-layer laminated fabric, Apidura moved away from the original X-Pac laminated material. Another new update to the bag is the use of fabric welding. This mechanically bonds pieces via ultrasonic frequencies.

Seat and Saddle Bags

The line between a seat bag and a saddle bag sometimes overlaps depending on the bag’s use and the riding scenario. Although some brands or riders use the terms interchangeably, I consider a seat bag just the essentials required for a daily ride (tools, CO2, tubes, etc.) while a saddle bag can store much more (a sleeping pad or a change of clothes, for example). A bag with more than 1 liter of capacity is a saddle bag; anything less is just a big seat bag. (However, the top-performing seat bag models in my testing are both called saddle bags by their manufacturer. 🤷)

Best Seat Bag

Orucase saddle bag hc.

Orucase created the Saddle Bag HC in two sizes—0.5L and 0.8L—both cost $35. Using a rubber strap to attach the bag to the rear of the saddle the bag’s interior remains weather-resistant to the elements thanks to the weatherproof zipper. The bag opens completely (like a hotdog bun) to access all your essential tools. It’s perfect for road, gravel, and mountain biking and accommodates different sizes of tools, tubes, and extras.

Seat Bag Runner-Up

Mission workshop mission saddle bag.

This Mission Workshop bag is a no-nonsense seat bag with enough storage for one traditional butyl tube, two tire levers, two CO2 cartridges, a pump head, and a multi-tool. (You can fit more than one additional tube with a Tubolito.) Mission Workshop uses standard X-Pac material on all of its color options. The bag features a weather-resistant zipper and a Velcro-style attachment. Over a few months of use, the Seat Bag saw some degradation from normal wear and tear but the sizing is just right.

Best Saddle Bag

Apidura expedition saddle pack.

The original and updated Expedition received a material, construction, and subtle graphics update. While I tested the original, I can speak to the old and new material (having tested other products built with the updates). It's weatherproof and survived multiple trips in significant downstorms. The bungee allows for a quick stash of a jacket or a stack of bananas. Plus, the two light attachment points are surrounded by reflective graphics. This bag comes in three volume options that allow the rider to hone the kit they bring to fit the needs of the trip or the event.

Saddle Bag Runner-Up

Silca grinta roll top bag.

Designed for when seconds count in an ultra-distance race, the bag is also great for a quick overnighter or extremely minimal camping setup. Silca bags come with BOA closures and a recycled PET material that is laminated lined. Three folds of the Roll Top closure inherently prevent moisture, dirt, or contamination from making it to your cargo. The BOA closure helps secure the bag to the seat post and saddle rails and also helps take up any volume not used by compressing the bag.

Top Tube Bags

Top tube bags are handy for carrying quick-access items. Located typically on the top tube fixed to the stem or via top tube bolts, these bags come in many shapes and sizes. They’re perfect for gels, small snacks, or even a camera. Some people use these bags to carry a spare battery bank and charge their devices such as GPS computers or lights on longer rides.

Depending on the brand, some top tube bags use hook and loop-style attachments while others use top tube bolt mounts (if your bike has them). One important feature that should be present in any top tube bag is the option (when sealed) to run cables to charge lights and house sensitive electronics if necessary, this ensures anything and everything is protected from the elements.

Best Top Tube Bag

Apidura racing top tube pack.

Apidura Racing Top Tube Bag is the lightest we tested in the segment and uses a magnetic closure to seal the interior away from foul weather. Using a proprietary fabric developed by Apidura, the bag features an ultralight laminate (different from the brand’s typical 3-layer fabric). A benefit of this bag is its ability to open completely for access to the interior. This top tube bag proved its worth by keeping my important batteries and chargers dry from the elements while camping above the tree line at Mount Shasta, California.

Top Tube Bag Runner-Up

Orucase top tube bag hc.

Featuring a magnetic closure, 3-point attachment, and the option to run it mounted to top tube bolts it is a very well-designed bag using premium finishing details like a bungee cord with line loc. The easy one-handed access to the interior compartment is due to the magnetic closure that does well at maintaining moisture out of the bag. Yet the interior became saturated when the top reached its saturation point. This was the heaviest bag we tested in this category and features an opening to run cables around your stem.

For some, the word “pannier” might conjure up thoughts of cycle touring from decades past with big bulky wax canvas bags attached to rickety racks. But a lot has changed in bag tech in the past several years. Panniers are a great way to carry large amounts of stuff on a bike ride. Many brands make excellent panniers for touring and bags for carrying groceries, commuting, or bikepacking.

A front or rear rack is needed to use panniers but if your bike’s fork has 2- or 3-bolt mounts, it opens another level of other new bag options and accessories. Many gravel and adventure bikes feature fork-carrying capacities. These enable riders to attach extra bottle cages or dry bags directly to the fork. A big thing to remember is the increased likelihood of toe and heel strikes with any fork or rear rack setup. If this happens on your bike, you may want to adjust the setup to lessen the occurrence.

Best Pannier

Outershell pico panniers.

The Pico Panniers, are a winner based on the extensive range of colors, patterns, and overall flare. These bags are a fun way to show personal style while keeping your belongings dry. Using 1000D Cordura for the exterior and an Ecopax EPLX weatherproof liner, this pannier kept everything we carried dry and secure.

One of the bag’s unique features is the ultra-tough polycarbonate plates that can be mounted with the provided hardware to two or three-point bottle bosses on your fork. Outershell even developed a nifty solution for suspension forks (though you may want to cover the fork legs with thin padding). With an expanding rolltop design, the bags grow to accommodate a range of gear, including some small pots and pans. The exterior pocket is secured via a clip buckle that doubles as a compression strap. It also has two additional compression straps running across the bag to secure and compress any other items.

Pannier Runner-Up

Rei co-op link pannier.

At 18L, this pannier was the largest volume we tested. It weighs 560 grams and comes with two additional small dry stuff stacks to store any sensitive equipment or items you may bring along. The Link has four hooks and loops with Velcro closures and a single plastic attachment point.

In our testing, the bag could not attach to some racks due to the positioning of the two bottom straps. Otherwise, the bag felt secure and in place, thanks to the plastic honeycomb plate stitched inside. With one exterior pocket (able to accommodate a water bottle, the roll-top closure and volume are managed by nylon webbing and plastic hardware. If you need to attach anything extra bits like blinky lights you can thanks to the additional reflective trim that serves as an attachment point.

Other Types of Cycling Bags

Fanny packs, hip bags, slings, backpacks, totes, and duffels are other popular bag options for carrying stuff when riding or traveling. But let’s primarily focus on bike commuter needs: getting to work, grocery shopping, and traveling around town. Many brands manufacture these bags with high abrasion resistance materials and fabric and weatherproofing features since they are subjected to the everyday grind and often see daily use by riders. Selecting a bag that fits your needs (and bike) is personal because no two riders’ needs are identical. Select a bag based on your essential everyday carrying items (EDCs) like a laptop, iPad, headphones, water bottle, or keys. Knowing the bag’s features before you purchase it is important. My EDCs depend on the projects I am working on that day. For example, looking in my commuting bag right now, these items include a laptop, an iPad, three cameras, a change of clothes, a towel, shoes, a notebook, and a hard drive. Plus I have some pencils, pens, markers, a water bottle, and a bag of coffee. But other days it might be as simple as my laptop, a small camera, and a pencil and notebook.

Figuring out what your essentials are will help narrow down the choices of bags. If possible, check out the bag in person at a dealer or from a friend before buying.

Best Cycling Backpack

Chrome urban ex backpack 20l.

Having tested this bag’s original version for over a decade (and repaired it to keep it alive), I know firsthand how the Urban Ex stands up to use. The updated design improves on the original. With a minimal approach to design and construction, this bag features a 500D polyurethane coating on the surface and TPU backing. Its 150 recycled polyester liners keep your belongings bone dry. Tested in the 20L version, its open catch-all design accommodates clothing and smaller bags. It also has a dedicated laptop sleeve, pen holder, and other pockets for small items. The loops on the exterior make a great place to throw your U-lock. Overall, this is a great bag for commutes to the office or school, with stops at the grocery store or bodega on the way home.

R6 Arkiv Field Pack 20L

Mission workshop r6 arkiv field pack 20l.

One of Mission Workshop’s flagship bags, the R6 Akriv Field Pack comes in a standard 20L size (with options to grow the system with Mission’s Arkiv-compatible bags). Using a high-quality HT500 D nylon exterior, it is offered in various colors to customize your bag to your personality. With one exterior weatherproof zipper and a dedicated internal laptop sleeve, the bag is very straightforward. With no other options for storage, this bag shines in tandem with its other modular accessories.

Best Fanny Pack/Sling Bag

Mission workshop axis waistpack.

The Axis modular fanny pack from Mission Workshop punches above its weight. It’s both a fanny pack and an exterior bag attachment for the brand’s Arkiv systems of bags. Using an adjustable and hideable nylon woven waist strap, the Axis can be used independently or as an additional accessory. A Polyant X-Pac fabric lines the interior.

The bag features storage organization and a key leash for keeping everything in its place. I used the Axis to carry two cameras, my keys, small headphones, a wallet, and a few SD cards. It surprised me with its comfort, whether worn on my hip or across my body.

Fanny Pack/Sling Bag Runner-Up

Chrome industries kadet sling.

The Kadet series of bags distills the knowledge Chrome gained over the years developing bags for couriers into three distinct sizes—and several durable fabrics—to suit a wide range of riders’ needs. Starting with Chrome’s signature seatbelt buckle closure (also customizable), it is accompanied by an under-the-arm to chest plastic buckle that helps stabilize what you're carrying. The bag uses two standard weatherproof zippers to access your gear.

The five-liter Mini is perfect for carrying a lock and essentials (phone, wallet, sunglasses, and maybe a camera). The standard Kadet is 9L and can handle an iPad, one or two cameras, a beanie, and all your other essential EDC (everyday carry) pieces. The 15L Kadet Max can fit your EDCs, a small laptop, a water bottle, and a light jacket.

Best Mussette

Outershell magic musette.

Packable, pocket-able, and made of gridded proprietary Dynema and post-consumer recycled nylon yarn, this bag is strong, light, and extremely abrasion-resistant (thanks to the yarn Outershell uses). When packed away, the bag can be attached via a looped nylon strap, thrown to the back of your jersey, or hung on the back of your saddle. When taken out and fully expanded, the cross-body musette allows room for ample gas station-sourced snacks and drinks (I easily fit a full bundle of bananas in this bag). What makes this mussette worth recognition aside from the material resilience and functional user experience is the second attachment point securing the bag on your back from swinging around.

Outershell Everyday Tote

With its choice of materials and finishing details, Outershell thoughtfully designed and executed this Bag. The Everyday Tote fits perfectly in most 15-inch wide baskets or milk crates. Internally, the tote has a weather-resistant internal liner with four pockets (one is zippered). The exterior has two quick-access pockets and one zipper on the opposite side, finished with a weatherproof coating. The Everyday Tote is perfect for everyday use, to and from work, or out on a quick grocery run, and holds up well to normal wear and tear. The 10L option could be slightly larger (maybe by 1 or 2 liters), but I’m nitpicking.

Tote Runner-Up

Rei packaway tote.

This perfect catch-all tote from REI was handy for just about anything—shoes, camping equipment, helmets, knee pads, snacks, and more. The pack-away tote features an open drawstring main compartment design that closes up to prevent all your belongings from spilling out. Doubling as a protective shield from the elements, this bag has a weather-resistant coating. However, it can eventually wet out and become saturated (along with your cargo). With two more exterior pockets and tons of molly loops storing your phone or attaching a carabiner with extras is no problem.

Best Duffle

Orucase janus duffel.

The Janus duffle bag from Orucase is much more than “another cycling bag” thanks to the material choice and carrying capacity options. It is an extremely versatile bag with four exterior grab handle options, a shoulder strap (that can be used in a two- or one-strap configuration), and two volume choices (40L or 55L),

I loved this bag for going to the gym, the bike park, and weekend trips. And the Janus keeps my equipment, clothes, and extras stored neatly inside. The bag comes with two additional stuff sacks for the interior main compartment (I primarily used them as shoe bags but they can store socks or toiletries). At the bag’s top and bottom are two additional ventilated compartments big enough for a helmet or wet riding kit to dry out. I like this bag so much that I want a larger version—like 80 liters big.

Best Volume for Price

Rei co-op big haul 60 recycled duffel.

With several size options and a carrying case for off-the-bike storage, this bag is your go-to for full-week trips or even month-long escapes. Using mixed materials, the bag is primarily constructed from recycled 400 D ripstop nylon with a 1680 recycled ballistic nylon bottom (nice to see some sustainability practices in use). The stowable carrying features (including backpack straps and duffel handles) mean your bag won't get caught on the conveyor belt when checked for a flight. The exterior features a daisy chain on either side of the bag to attach any last-minute extras and is finished with an oversized zipper hidden from the elements. The biggest drawback is the duffle’s lack of shoulder straps—otherwise, everyone should own a bag like this for big trips.

Perhaps the most asked question about bags from Bicycling members and riding friends is, “How big of a bag should I buy?” The answer to this depends on several factors.

Figuring out the volume of equipment you have is crucial to understanding what bags will accommodate your gear. First, assess the equipment needed for the rides you do the most (or rides you plan to take). You need to determine if it is as simple as flat-fix supplies and snacks, a laptop and clothes for work, or a sleeping pad, bag, headlamp, cooking equipment, and tools for a multi-day trek.

Then, determine how or where you want to carry your stuff—on your body (like a backpack or fanny pack) or on the bike. There are many bags and manufacturers, each with different approaches and design philosophies for on and off-the-bike bag use. Sifting through what will work for you might be confusing.

Sometimes it’s tough to figure out what you need for day-to-day use. My best advice for determining the best size is to find a store with the bag to check it out in person. You don’t want to research and buy a bag only to get it and find out it won't accommodate your size laptop, sleeping bag, or the hydration bladder you specifically purchased for that bag. Working with a shop knowledgeable in bags is extremely helpful.

The naming of materials can be confusing. Plus, it is sometimes clouded by marketing terms and jargon from brands.

The basic material is a standard weave (a plain weave or twill in some scenarios) backed with either a laminating layer or a material with a durable weather-repellant finish to help with moisture management. Some of the best materials use synthetic yarns. Good bags have much higher resilience to abrasion as they are made with strong 6/6 nylon. Unlike most twisted yarns, this material is extruded in a monofilament rather than a set of individual fibers plied and twisted together to add strength and resilience.

There are a ton of different fabrics out there that bag makers claim have excellent water resistance, premium abrasion resistance, and other seemingly magical properties. However, many manufacturers purchase the same white-label branded fabric (like Cordura or X-Pac). Few companies invest in milling technologies to create proprietary fabric required for the real-world conditions in which their products are used. With that said the fabric makers often build a synthetic heavy denier yarn, that is woven and laminated, into the product. This is different than a Gore-Tex membrane, but based on the same principle: To create a barrier that prevents moisture from saturating the material, contents, or user.

Construction

When bag makers or brands construct a product, their designers balance form versus function while implementing new and existing technologies. Sometimes this is done to improve performance but often it helps mitigate costs. Construction is also the designer's way to flex some of their creative skills. Whether it's a traditional method of sewing panels together or using origami-style folding methods, there are many ways to construct shapes. Designers often use a mix of materials (internal and external fabrics) which add layers. Sometimes they use glues and added seams.

As a bag designer, my biggest tip is to turn the bag inside to inspect its construction. Check if the bags have liners, finished and taped edges, or other details that improve protection, durability, and overall function.

How a bag is finished can make or break how it is used. Checking how the bag attaches with Velcro, hook-and-loop, or plastic closures is important. Knowing if the seams are taped, exposed, or bound with finishing bias helps determine the bag’s longevity and resilience to the weather and use. Also, check if the bag is treated with a finishing agent such as a durable water repellant (DWR) or an antimicrobial finish. Certain finishes (chemical and physical) add extra function to some performance features, ease of access, colorfastness, or even resistance to specific liquids.

Best Bags Gallery

.css-1t6om3g:before{width:1.75rem;height:1.75rem;margin:0 0.625rem -0.125rem 0;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-background-size:1.25rem;background-size:1.25rem;background-color:#F8D811;color:#000;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-position:center;background-position:center;}.loaded .css-1t6om3g:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/bicycling/static/images/chevron-design-element.c42d609.svg);} Member Exclusive

Reviewed: BMC's Fourstroke LT

Stretches You Can Do Before and After a Workout

She’s Riding to Honor Her Late Daughter

What is Cardiovascular Age?

New Specialized Chisel Full Suspension Reviewed

How to Ride Safe in Hot Weather

This Standing Ab Workout Will Improve Your Ride

Little Bike, Big Attitude: Scor’s 2030

9 Cycling Myths—Debunked

Mountain Biking vs Road Cycling: How They Compare

15 Popular Cycling Groups in the U.S.