All of the Different Types of Bicycles—Explained

Looking for a new bike? There’s probably never been a better time to buy one. In the past decade, bikes have gotten more functional, more reliable, and more fun to ride. That’s partly because the variety has bloomed from a few basic styles (e.g. road, mountain, city) to now include all manner of niches and categories-within-categories, as bike makers diversify their offerings to appeal to the many ways that people enjoy riding.

But that profusion of options presents you, the eager buyer, with a challenge: How do you know which kind of bike is right for you and the riding you’ll do? Well, that’s what this guide is for. Use the handy quick-reference section up top to narrow down between broad categories, then jump down to learn about different options within those.

A Quick Guide to the Types of Bikes:

Road Bikes – Lightweight, efficient bikes with drop handlebars and narrow tires, for recreational riding, mostly (but not exclusively) on pavement. Styles include aero, ultralight, endurance, touring, and all-road.

Mountain Bikes – Rugged machines with flat handlebars and wide, knobby tires for riding narrow dirt trails. Styles include hardtail, full-suspension cross country, full-suspension trail, and full-suspension enduro.

Gravel/Adventure Bikes – Drop-bar bikes with clearance for multiple tire sizes for a range of riding experiences on- and off-road. Styles include gravel, bikepacking, and cyclocross.

Utility Bikes – Bikes designed for practical cycling while commuting or running errands, including tasks that involve carrying family members or cargo. Styles include commuter, fixie, folding, and cargo.

Comfort/Fitness Bikes – Everything from beach cruisers to flat-bar bikes for weekend spins on multi-use paths. Styles include hybrid, fitness, comfort, and cruiser.

E-Bikes – Electronic bicycles can be bikes from almost any of the other categories here, designed with a small, lightweight electric motor to assist the rider. Styles include commuter, cargo, mountain, and road.