What is an Adult Bike?

An adult bike is simply a bicycle designed to suit adult and/or elderly riders in terms of size, weight capacity, performance, and comfort. Adult bikes can be two-wheeled or three-wheeled, and they can also be electric or traditional pedal bikes.

 Unlike kids' or youth bikes, adult bikes typically feature:

• Larger frames and wheels (usually 26"–29")
• Stronger materials (steel or aluminum) to support adult weight
• An ergonomic geometry optimized for adult riding styles (typically commuting, fitness, recreation, adventure, etc.)

Types of Adult Bikes

The primary types of adult bikes include road bikes, mountain bikes, hybrid bikes, cruiser bikes, fat-tire bikes, and adult tricycle bikes. Each of these types of adult bikes has different features and is best for different purposes.

Adult Bikes Chart

How to Choose the Best Adult Bike

The best adult bike for you is the one that best fits your riding preferences, needs, and the type of terrain you intend to ride on. To decide, consider the following:

• Where will you be riding the most? 
• How far and often do you intend to ride the bike? 
• Do you need pedal assist? 
• Do you prefer speed over comfort, or vice versa?

1. Where will you ride most?

• If you are riding on pavement, go for a Road bike, cruiser bike, or commuter bike
• If you are going to be riding on trails and hilly terrain, go for a mountain bike 
• If you are riding on mixed terrain, go for a hybrid or gravel bike

For adults interested in mountain biking or riding in areas with rough terrain, an electric mountain bike is much preferable. A quality electric mountain bike removes barriers like physical strain, limited endurance, and steep climbs, while still offering the thrill and freedom of trail riding.

Consider this Panther Electric Mountain Bike , which features a 350W brushless rear hub motor powered by a 48V lithium battery. It is capable of handling 34.2 miles (55 km) of electric riding (varying with load, incline, and temperature) or providing a more extended range for hybrid use on a single charge.

It is designed for maximum performance on city trails, in rugged terrain, and even on dirt paths.

2. How far and how often will you ride?

• For daily long commutes, go for an Electric bike or an electric tricycle
• For recreation, consider a Cruiser or hybrid bike
• For rough terrain and adventure, choose an  MTB or an electric fat tire tricycle.

3. Do you need comfort or speed?

Generally, older adults tend to prefer comfort over speed when selecting adult bikes. If you are 60+, you are likely to choose a comfortable bike over a speedy one.

• If you prefer speed over comfort, choose a road bike. 
• If you prefer comfort over speed, consider an adult tricycle, preferably an electric one.

The Viribus TG1 Electric Tricycle is a solid and affordable option. It features an ergonomic step-through design, a powerful 250W motor, and adjustable features for a comfortable and suitable riding experience. You can ride at speeds of up to 12.5 mph and cover a total distance of over 44 miles with pedal assist before needing to recharge.

4. Do you need extra help with pedaling?

Most adult riders prefer a pedal assist function to help them pedal the bike, optimize their enjoyment, and minimize fatigue.

• If you prefer pedal assist, consider an e-bike or electric tricycle.
• If not, you might want to try a regular bicycle or a traditional adult tricycle.

The BZ1 Step-Thru Electric Bike features a 500W motor, a 48V 13Ah battery, and five levels of Pedal Assist. The powerful pedal-assist system on this bike not only relieves the physical stress required for pedaling but also powers the bike to tackle more challenging terrains.

5. Storage limitations

Storage space is often a major concern when it comes to buying a bike for an adult. Unlike younger riders who mainly ride for adventure and fun, older riders tend to depend on their bikes for their livelihood. Usually, this means carrying groceries, tools, and other personal items in the back.

• If storage space is a primary priority in an adult bike, go for an adult tricycle, specifically an adult tricycle with baskets. 

Some adult tricycles are specifically designed to carry cargo, often featuring two baskets. The  VB1 City Adult Tricycle has two baskets: one at the front, the other at the back, providing a total payload capacity of 450 lbs. 

At only $300, this should be the top model to consider if transporting items is your priority in buying an adult bike.

General Adult Bike Recommendations for Different Adults

Key Features of an Adult Bike

One of the easiest ways to distinguish between an adult bike and a regular bike is by its key features, such as the frame size, frame material, wheel size, brakes, and even the gears. Here are the key features of an adult bike:

Frame Size & Material

Adult bike frames are made of materials that are heavier, usually aluminum, steel, or carbon fiber. 

• Aluminum frames are the lightest of the three, but also the most affordable
• Steel frames are durable and ensure a smooth ride
• Carbon fiber or titanium is lighter than steel, but also very high-performance (premium)

Wheel Size

The wheels of an adult bike are usually larger than the wheels of a children’s bike. Whereas children's bike wheel sizes generally range from 12 inches to 26 inches, standard sizes of adult bike wheels are  26", 27.5", and 29"
Larger wheels roll faster, handle superior weight better, and can overcome obstacles easily. The Viribus 700C Cruiser bike is a favorite adult bike for women because of its huge, and its aesthetically pleasing design and comfortable seats

Gearing

• Single-speed adult bikes are common enough, but most adult bikes are multi-speed.
• Single-speed adult bikes are great for low maintenance in flat areas
• Multi-speed adult bikes provide more versatility for hills and varied terrain

A 7-speed gearing system is common amongst adult bikes, because it provides sufficient variety and versatility for the practical uses that adults use their bikes for.

Brakes

While kids' bikes mostly use coaster brakes, adult tricycles use either rim brakes or disc brakes. 

• Rim brakes are simple and light, and they provide decent stopping power.
• Disc brakes (mechanical or hydraulic) provide better stopping power, especially in wet or off-road conditions.

Since safety is a primary issue of concern for adult riders, the best adult bikes usually have disc brakes.

Double mechanical disc brakes are especially common, as they offer 

Suspension

Young, active riders may not mind the absence of a suspension system on their bikes, but for adult riders (especially the elderly, infirm, or disabled), a suspension system is a must-have.

Most adult bikes have a front suspension system or a full suspension system.

• A Front suspension (hardtail) is great for absorbing bumps on trails
• A full suspension system is best for rough terrain and mountain biking

How Adult Bikes Differ from Regular (Kids'/Youth) Bikes

Final Tips

Test ride whenever possible; fit and comfort matter more than specs on paper.

• Frame size matters: Too big or too small = uncomfortable and unsafe.
• Maintenance needs vary: More gears and suspension = more upkeep.
• Accessories help: Consider getting a helmet, lights, a lock, and a repair kit.

Here's a comprehensive guide to adult bikes, including their definition, various types, key features, and how to select the right one for your needs.

Consider Viribus for all your adult bike needs, including the most practical and affordable bike accessories, and important tips like how to pump your bike tires.