Cycling is trending big-time—hit the road with these stellar bikes starting at $290

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You don't need to spend thousands to get the perfect bike. (Photo: Getty Images)
You don't need to spend thousands to get the perfect bike. (Photo: Getty Images)

As social distancing measures continue, those who depend on public transport are looking for new ways to get them where they need to go, and pedaling around is one of the best ways to do it.

As Google searches for bikes spike by 63 percent from the beginning of the pandemic to now, Americans report increased interest in biking as a means of transportation and stress management. Recent reports find that 85 percent of Americans perceive cycling as a safer mode of transportation compared to public transportation while social distancing—and 63 percent feel bike riding helps relieve stress and anxiety during the pandemic, according to an April study by Trek in partnership with research firm Engine Insights.

Whether you’re looking for a commuter bike, an easy rider to take you around the block or something that can handle rougher terrain, we’ve got you covered. Scroll down for five bikes under $600 to help you get around without busting your budget.

700c Royce Union RMX 3-Speed Commuter Bike

(Photo: Amazon)
(Photo: Amazon)

If you’d like something tried and true, meet Amazon’s No. 1 bestselling road bike. It features three speeds and all the ergonomics you need for ultimate comfort on the road. It’s available in gray with a 17” frame that’ best suited to people between 5’5” and 5’8”. One reviewer with plenty of biking experience says it’s the ‘best bike ever’ and ended up buying two. It’s in stock on July 23.

“High quality parts and materials, comfy seat, smooth shifts and brakes, lightweight and super stylish! Lots of compliments. I bike everywhere. I've done a lot of biking on many different bikes in my day and with plenty of miles on this I can confidently say it's the best I've ever owned,” says the cycler. “Not cheap, but high quality and worth it. You won't regret it!”

Shop it: 700c Royce Union RMX 3-Speed Commuter Bike, $380, amazon.com

Huffy Nel Lusso Cruiser Bike

Huffy Nel Lusso Cruiser Bike (Photo: Amazon)
Huffy Nel Lusso Cruiser Bike (Photo: Amazon)

Great news: The bike you dreamt about as a kid is available in adult sizes. This adorable single speed bike will look great for a leisurely ride on flat roads. It’s best suited for those between 5’ and 5’4”.

“Great classic looks and comfortable,” writes one happy reviewer. “Bought it for my wife last year and she loves it. Comfortable seat, basket is handy as is the cup holder. We are seniors and she get complements on it almost every time she rode it.”

Shop it: Huffy Nel Lusso Cruiser Bike, $290 (was $328), amazon.com

GT Aggressor Pro Mountain Bike

GT (Photo: Dick's Sporting Goods)
GT (Photo: Dick's Sporting Goods)

Need a bike that can handle all terrain? This mountain bike features eight speeds and is available in four sizes (15, 17, 19 and 21 inches) to suit people of all heights. Reviewers love its durability and easy ride:

“For the price, it’s hard to beat the quality and features on this bike. The lightweight aluminum frame, mechanical disc brakes and Shimano gears make this bike feel and perform like a bike at least twice the price!,” writes a five-star shopper. “Rides very nicely on both paved roadways/bike paths but also performs well on the trail handling rocks and roots with ease. Great buy if you want a good multipurpose bike that you can use for most moderate/intermediate trails as well as just riding around.”

Shop it: GT Aggressor Pro Mountain Bike, $480 (was $670), dickssportinggoods.com

Cannondale Quick 6 Fitness Bike '20

Cannondale Men's Quick 6 Fitness Bike '20 (Photo: Sun and Ski)
Cannondale Men's Quick 6 Fitness Bike '20 (Photo: Sun and Ski)

Available in all black or bold lime green, this hybrid bike is fast and light but offers a smooth, stable ride. It features seven speeds, reflective graphics for safety and quick shifting. It’s available in sizes suited to most heights and comes with a lifetime of free tune-ups. Score.

Shop it: Cannondale Quick 6 Fitness Bike '20, $480, sunandski.com

Haro Men's Bridgeport Dual Sport Bike '20

Haro Men's Bridgeport Dual Sport Bike '20 (Photo: Sun and Ski)
Haro Men's Bridgeport Dual Sport Bike '20 (Photo: Sun and Ski)

A versatile road bike that can handle everything from smooth pavement to fiery road trails, this comfortable model features eight speeds. It’s available in sizes best suited to riders 5’10” and up—and you can’t beat a lifetime of free tune-ups.

Shop it: Haro Men's Bridgeport Dual Sport Bike '20, $600, sunandski.com

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

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