Bike Buying Guide

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How to buy a bike you won't regret

The six questions we ask every rider before recommending a bike. Written from fitting thousands of riders since 2011, in plain English.

In your inbox in a few minutes. 1,400+ five-star reviews from riders. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

What's inside

Choose wrong and you are out $600 to $1,200, with a bike that lives in the hallway. Most bike advice starts with components. We start with how you actually ride, then work back to the bike.

How you'll use it

Don't buy more bike than the job actually needs.

Terrain and conditions

Gearing range matters more than gear count.

Frame style

No wrong answer, only a wrong fit for your life.

Size and fit

Height and true inseam, not your pant size.

Accessories

Check the frame takes a rack before you buy one.

Local shop support

The difference between a bike that lasts a season and one that lasts a decade.

It also answers the one most buyers get wrong, what it means when brands say their bikes come 95% assembled, and closes with a 50-term glossary that turns bike jargon into English.

1,400+

five-star reviews from riders

Best City Hybrid

the Roebling, in Bicycling's 12 Best Hybrid Bikes of 2026

450+

partner shops assembling and supporting our bikes

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the right Brooklyn Bicycle Co. bike?

Start with how you ride. For distance and hills, choose the 9-speed Roebling or Lorimer. For easy mounting, choose a step-through Franklin or Willow, or the mixte-frame Lorimer. For the simplest, lightest option, choose the single-speed Wythe. The Bike Finder gives a guided recommendation.

How do I find the right bike size?

Brooklyn bikes fit riders from 4'10" to 6'4" depending on the model. The Lorimer 14"/S is our smallest frame and fits riders 4'10" to 5'0". The Roebling covers 4'11" to 6'4" across its five sizes. Use the Bike Finder or each model's sizing guide to match your height.

Do Brooklyn Bicycle Co. bikes come assembled?

Yes. Free professional assembly at one of 450+ local partner shops is included with every bike.

What is the price range for Brooklyn Bicycle Co. bikes?

Brooklyn Bicycle Co. bikes range from $599.99 to $1,199.99.

What should I look for in a good commuter bike?

Look for puncture-resistant tires, reliable gearing for your terrain, fenders and a chainguard for daily riding, and a frame style that is easy to mount. Every Brooklyn bike includes puncture-resistant tires and free professional assembly.

Related guide: read our complete buyer's guide to the best commuter bikes guide for 2026.

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A true “city bike” par excellence!

I am delighted to report that I am delighted with my Franklin 8 Speed! A few weeks ago I rode it almost the entire length of Manhattan on a “Summer Streets” day, from Foley Square up to Dyckman Street in Inwood, and it was an absolute pleasure. I love the comfy upright riding position, the ease of the step-through design, and the smooth, solid gear mechanism. I’d recommend this bike to anyone looking for a practical “getting around town” ride.

Thanks for sharing Steve. I'm glad to hear you're enjoying your Franklin 8 Speed. It sounds like it's been perfect for city rides. Thanks for sharing your experience and for recommending it. See you out there. -Ryan Zagata

I love my city!

I don't know how to start my review without providing how I got here first, so bear with me lol. So I was previously riding a Cannondale Bad Boy for almost two decades. Fantastic ride for what I needed it for. To get some cardio when the weather permits me to. Eventually, the front suspension gave out and that's when I started learning just how proprietary bicycles can be. Getting the bike back to its "normal state" would actually cost me more than the bicycle itself.

I did some research and eventually found Brooklyn Bicycle (if I remember correctly, with a little help from AI). What sold me really were three things; the bikes are built and tested to survive these NYC streets, I can eventually fully customize the bike when the time comes (without the worries of proprietary parts) and less components (no front derailleur, suspension, etc.) which means less of a headache when it comes to maintenance.

It's been a little over a month now since I been riding my new Roebling and I must say, I'm happy I made this purchase. The ride is smooth. The 9-speed is not a bad range, compared to what I've been used to. Love the look and it's quite comfortable. Granted, I did change the seat to what I was previously using, so I don't have input on the stock seat.

Something I MUST ADD. I'm 5'10'' with an inseam of about 33''. I was battling so much on what to choose between medium or large. I know on paper medium is probably the one for me, but luckily that size was sold out when it came time for me to purchase and decided to run with the large. I AM NOT MAD WHATSOEVER. Love it!!!! Shoutout to Brooklyn! Much love from Washington Heights.

- Sincerely G

Thanks Gabriel. So thrilled to hear you're enjoying your Roebling and that it fits your needs perfectly. Your story about choosing the right size and customizing your bike are what continue to inspire to keep pushing ahead. Much love back from Brooklyn, and happy riding through Washington Heights. -Ryan Zagata

Roebling is a winner!

The Roebling bike is perfect. Enjoying it on urban and rail trails (crushed stone). Very comfortable and great fit.

Hi Crystal, we're thrilled to hear you're loving the Roebling and love seeing photos of the bike out in nature. Sounds like she's right at home on those rail trails. Enjoy your varied rides. We appreciate you sharing your experience. -Ryan Zagata

No more shin bruises !

Spouse got a Franklin 8-speed and these are stock pedals. I was converting my MTB into a hybrid aka street tires, fenders, cruiser seat and replace bear-trap pedals for street. These fit the bill and great price!

Thanks Joel. We're thrilled to hear these pedals are working out so well for you and you're enjoying your upgraded ride. Thanks for sharing your experience with us.-Ryan Zagata

Thank you for the positive rating Eva. We're glad you love the bike bell. -Ryan Zagata

Perfect for a first time cyclist!

I got this as a belated birthday present, because I moved to a place next to a park and really wanted something to make the most of that with.

After about a month of use I can say it's the most comfortable bike I've ever had! The shop it was sent to set me up with everything I needed to ride it home, and made sure it was a perfect fit for me before I left.

I should add that I don't see myself using it in extreme terrain or rough weather, and the Franklin definitely seems to be made with that in mind. I can see it being a bit difficult to handle in rain or cold weather, but for a silly little trip to the farmer's market now and again, it's a perfect match!

Highly recommend for casual cyclists who want a stylish, affordable, and road-ready bike without skimping out on quality.

Thanks for sharing Ronan. We are thrilled to hear you're enjoying your Franklin 8 Speed. It sounds like a perfect fit for your adventures around the park. Thanks for recommending us. -Ryan Zagata

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Bike Buying Guide

How to buy a bike you won't regret

What's inside

Frequently Asked Questions

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