Finding the best bike for a short female can be difficult. There are so many bikes out there, but finding the right one to accommodate for short legs without sacrificing the utility or comfort is even more challenging.
That’s why we put together a list with different options so that you can find the right bike for you based on the activities you plan on using it for and for your unique body so you know your bike can get you there and back again safely and comfortably.
IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | rating | price |
---|---|---|---|---|
overal best | Trek Verve 3 Disc Lowstep |
|
10 |
|
Best Mountain Bike for Short Women | Trek 820 WSD |
|
9.5 |
|
Budget Pick | Sixthreezero Around the Block Cruiser Bicycle |
|
9.5 |
|
EVRY Journey Steel Women’s Hybrid Bike |
|
9 |
||
Diamondback Bicycles Cobra Youth Mountain Bike |
|
8 |
||
Hiland 24 Inch Mountain Bike for Children with 6 Speed Suspension Fork V Brake Bicycle |
|
8 |
||
Dynacraft 24 Inch B 18S Gauntlet Bicycle |
|
8 |
Best Bike for Short Female
Trek Verve 3 Disc Lowstep – Best Hybrid Bike for Short Women
If you’re new to cycling or a hardened Veteran, this hybrid bike is a great option to consider and is definitely one of the best bikes available for short women. The Trek Verve 3 Disc Lowstep’s pedals are close to the ground, providing an easy way to hop on and off your new bike.
Everything about this bike has been designed for comfort and utility, whether you’re only going to go a couple of miles down the road or plan on taking a more extended adventure along some paved trails. The bike has handlebars and grips that help to absorb the shock of any bumps on the road, offering a rider and their arms a more comfortable ride. Even the seat allows for just enough give to provide comfort where it matters most.
Spec Features
For comfort, the Verve 3 Disc Lowstep has a Seatpost suspension and padded handlebars to help with the discomfort of riding for extended periods of time. Additionally, with this model, Trek offers its lowest bike pedal height so it’s easy to get on and off.
This bike is completely customizable for your needs! If you’re looking for something to get you off and going, with anything you might be carrying with you, then this is the bike for you. It comes ready to attach racks and fenders, so your bike is perfectly customized to the things you love to do. The Verve 3 Disc Lowstep is also DuoTrap S compatible, so you can attach the tech straight to your bike to start tracking your routes and your fitness goals.
Last but not least, to keep you safe while riding, the breaks are hydraulic, so you can stop safely and quickly no matter what conditions you are riding in. Combined with puncture-proof tires, this bike can get you to where you are headed!
Pros
- Built without the top bar so you can step through rather than step over to get on and off
- Hydraulic brakes keep you safe in any condition
- Completely customizable so that it can suit your needs
- They are built to be comfortable throughout your entire trip
Cons
- The bike itself is slightly heavy and not built for racing
- Big wheels make the bike taller
Trek 820 WSD – Best Mountain Bike for Short Women
If you’re looking for a bike to start discovering what mountain biking is all about, look no further! The 820 WSD is made to be a hybrid as you move from riding through the city to off-road exploring.
This bike also features a step-through rather than a step-over build, making it easy to mount and dismount. It’s designed to keep you safe and to get you out there on new adventures. Not only is it customizable, durable, and capable, it has a great price point so you don’t have to spend a lot to try mountain biking in a safe, reliable way.
Spec Features
The 820 WSD frame is made from steel so it can be reliable and smoother for its rider. The seat and the WSD Rider Right suspension the bike comes with is specially designed for women, providing a more comfortable seat while you’re cycling through the woods or streets.
If you’re looking to branch out and get a bike that’s a step up from something you only use during a commute, then this might be the bike for you. The bike comes with 21 different speeds, semi-slick tires that can get you over pavement or gravel, and a suspension fork that helps to keep you comfortable from whatever bumps may lay in your way.
Pros
- Great bike to test the mountain-biking waters
- Rides well on paved trails or gravel roads
- Excellent transition bike from something smaller to something bigger
- Sturdy and built to last
- The blue color is beautiful
Cons
- The bike is heavy and isn’t designed for speed
- The seat can be uncomfortable for some
Sixthreexero Around the Block Women’s Single-Speed Beach Cruiser Bicycle – Budget Pick
Around the Block Women's Single-Speed Beach Cruiser BicycleIf you’re looking for a bike to go cruising on, this bike is the one for you! The mint green color catches your eye and is perfect for a ride along the beach. The bike’s detailing is black, including the back rack that it comes with, making the color pop even more.
This bike isn’t made to go along dirt roads or for commuting long distances, but if you’re trying to find something that allows you to have a leisurely, romantic ride that won’t be an added expense, look no further!
Spec Features
The Around the Block Women’s Single-Speed Beach Cruiser Bicycle has wide handlebars that curve back so you can keep your back and shoulders relaxed and comfortable while meandering through your neighborhood or a paved trail. It is a single-speed bike and has backward pedaling breaks, so it is designed for a cruise rather than a sprint.
With that in mind, the bike is designed to keep you comfortable while you are on your ride. Besides the handlebars, this cruiser also comes with dense grips to keep your hands comfortable and a dual-spring seat that will allow for a comfortable ride under 20 miles.
It comes in two sizes, the smallest accommodating anyone from 4’1” to 4’11” and the larger option being suitably for anyone up to 6’4”. The bike’s middle bar isn’t very high, which allows for easy mount or dismount, although it is higher than the first two bikes on our best bike for short females shortlist.
Pros
- Beautiful colors and curvy designs create a romantic atmosphere for your cruise
- They are designed to keep you comfortable for short rides
- A budget-friendly option for those looking for a leisurely ride
Cons
- Some have reported that the seat moves around a lot
- The heavier bike makes it difficult to put in a car
- The bike only has pedal brakes rather than hand brakes
EVRY Journey Steel Women’s Hybrid Bike
EVRY Journey Steel Women’s Hybrid BikeIf the style of the beach cruiser caught your eye, but the capabilities of the 820 WSD captured the adventure in your heart, then the EVRY Journey is for you! This bike perfectly compiles style and utility to bring you a bike that will make you sit tall, feel fashionable, and get you to where you want to go!
On our list of best bikes for short females, this is one of our favorites for the weekend or hobby bicyclist. The steel on this bike is painted a dazzling light blue that is highly accentuated by the leather details on its seat and handlebars.
If you’re looking to ride down the street or dirt trails with some Eat, Pray, Love vibes, look no further!
Spec Features
The EVRY Journey Steel Women’s Hybrid Bike is a hybrid that carefully combines the comfort and style of a cruiser and a commuter’s mobility and utility. It has a step-through design that makes mount and dismount easy for those on the shorter side. The bike handlebars and structure allow the rider to have their bike, knees, and shoulders in a comfortable position while enjoying some fresh air.
The handlebars and seat are a beautiful brown leather that compliments the bike and fenders’ teal color. The leather details are designed for comfort as the seat is wide to make riding more comfortable, and the handles softer for when you’re on the go.
The bike’s frame is made from steel but is still light enough to easily take to wherever you are looking to go for your next ride. The seven speeds make it easy to go from a paved road to a dirt trail and back again, while the brakes will make sure that you can stop wherever you are.
Pros
- Features an easy step-through design so getting on the bike is a breeze
- Available in beautiful colors and details so you can ride in style
- The EVRY Journey has seven speeds and handlebar brakes for front and back tires for easy braking
- This bike is comfortable, so you can ride in style without the pain
Cons
- It can be challenging to put together and may require a trip to a bicycle shop
Diamondback Bicycles Cobra 24 Youth Mountain Bike
Diamondback Bicycles Cobra Youth Mountain BikeIf you are looking for a smaller bike to start getting out there on the gravel trails, the Diamondback Bicycle Cobra 24 Mountain bike might be in your future. This bike is made to be an introduction to the great outdoors.
Since it’s a youth bike, this is one of the best bikes for short females looking for a sturdier ride. This bike support features going down gravel roads, exploring hiking trails, and then getting you safely back to your car or home in comfort and style.
Spec Features
This sturdy bike has a 3×7 speed drivetrain, so you’re equipped with 21 speeds to go from the pavement to the dirt trails. The HL Zoom 44mm trail fork helps to absorb the kick from rocks, roots, and dirt while you’re out creating adventures. The linear brakes have an adjustable height, so you can set them up according to what works best for you.
Pros
- Twenty-one speeds to go from pavement to mountain bike trails; it’s ready to go!
- The bike comes equipped with wide tires for better traction and balance
Cons
- The front tire can hit the pedals when steering
- It’s a heavy bike for the size it is
- The bike comes from twist shifters instead of trigger speed shifters
Hiland 24 Inch Mountain Bike for Children with 6 Speed Suspension Fork V Brake Bicycle
Hiland 24 Inch Mountain Bike for Children with 6 Speed Suspension Fork V Brake BicycleThis bike is made for teenagers in mind. It has a lightweight aluminum body that is easy to handle and can allow you to take to the forest and gravel roads. If you are looking for a smaller bike to start your new mountain biking hobby, this may be the one for you.
Spec Features
The 40 mm of travel suspension fork on this bike makes it more comfortable to travel over dirt and rocks, making this a go-to if you plan on taking it out into the great unknown. Wide tires and six gear speed complement it, so you can begin to fall in love with mountain biking.
This bike’s quality is also a good selection if you plan on riding it on roads closer to home.
Pros
- Great starter mountain bike if you’re new to the sport
- The bike comes equipped with linear-pull brakes so you can stop reliably
Cons
- The paint can chip easily
- After arriving, it can be challenging to put together and may require someone from a bike shop
- The bike is heavy, which can be a pain if you plan on putting it in your car to take to the trails
Dynacraft 24 Inch B 18S Gauntlet Bicycle
Dynacraft 24 Inch B 18S Gauntlet BicycleThe Dynacraft 24 Inch B 18S Gauntlet Bicycle comes in a flashy red that matches the bike’s overall attitude. This mountain bike is made to explore with features that provide for a comfortable, powerful ride.
Spec Features
The dual suspension steel frame means that this bike will get you to where you need to go comfortably. It also comes with Shamino gear shifters and a rear derailleur.
More: The Best Tandem Bikes For Family To Enjoy Time Together
Pros
- Dual suspension steal provides for a comfortable and durable ride
- Includes 18 speeds so you can get to where you are going without the sweat and tears
Cons
- The bike is heavy compared to most youth bikes
Buying Guide
Picking the best bike for you can be a challenge. Knowing all the available options and what the different terms mean, like frame material or gear capabilities, empowers you to pick the best choice for you and your needs.
If you are considering one of the best bikes for short females, these are the key features to keep in mind when selecting what is right for you.
Frame Material
The frame material of a bike is what the bicycle is made out of. There are two primary choices from the list above; aluminum and steel.
Aluminum is typical of lighter bikes as it is a lighter material. Look for an aluminum bike for competitions, longer distances, and enjoying the great outdoors without tiring quickly. These bikes may be more lightweight, but they are built to last. If you plan on traveling with your bike, it’s easier to pick up and pack into the car or attach to a bike rack.
The second option is steel. Steel bikes are heavier and are usually found in bicycles that aren’t made for competition. They tend to ride smoother on the pavement while also lasting longer, so you can enjoy the bike for years to come if treated properly.
More: The Best Road Bikes Under $200 On The Market [Review And Buying Guide]
Gear
The gears on a bike are typically called their speed drivetrain. A single-speed bike only has one gear and one speed. When there are other speeds like 3×7, there are three gears with seven different speeds, so 21-speed options total.
Why does a bike need different speeds? Excellent question. If you plan on taking leisurely rides, then your bike only needs one speed. That single speed will support cycling along paved roads and streets. Choosing a bike like this doesn’t mean that you are sacrificing comfort, however. It just means that you plan on cycling on flat paved roads.
If you plan to take your bike out on dirt trails, gravel roads, or try your hand at mountain biking, it’s better to have more speeds as those changes will make it easier to pedal across these terrains. If you live in a place with many hills, it’s also better to select a bike with more gears as it will make pedaling up faster and easier.
If you want a bike that can do it all, pick a hybrid that has at least a couple of gears so you can learn what works best for you and the way you ride.
More: The Best Bike for Teenager On The Market [ Review and Buying Guide]
Bike Size
Selecting a bike size can be challenging, but it’s essential to find a correctly sized bike for you. Not only does this determine how comfortable the bike will be for you, but it can also prevent injuries both while riding and dismounting.
If you pick a too-small bike for you, it can lead to muscle injuries as your body is too cramped to move efficiently. Alternatively, if you select a bicycle that is too big, it will be harder to pedal.
If you’re looking at our list of best bikes for short females, you probably have experienced what happens when you ride a too-big bicycle for you. Dismounting can be hazardous and can lead to falls. While riding, you can feel off balance and less confident about stopping in time.
When picking a bike size, please pay close attention to each bike’s size section on their website. These sections usually include specifications that you can use as a guideline in selecting the right option for your body.
You Know You Have the Right Size Bike When:
- There is a two-inch clearance when you’re standing over the top tube.
- When pedaling, on the downstroke, your knees should have a slight bend in them.
- While sitting atop the bike, you can comfortably reach the handlebars and the brake levers without having to overextend yourself.
More: Best Road Bikes Under $1500 On The Market [Review and Buying Guide]
Men vs. Women vs. Youth Bikes
Aren’t all bicycles made equal? There are three main kinds of bikes; men’s, women’s, and youth.
Men’s Vs. Women’s Bikes
In the past, women’s bikes used to be more attractive than bikes made for men. They didn’t have as many features and weren’t designed for the body difference men and women have. Fortunately, that has changed.
When manufacturers make bikes for women, they take into account that women are often shorter than men. The height from the lowest bar to the seat is smaller; this is also known as the stack height. They also have a shorter reach to the handlebars. So if you are a shorter woman and are looking for a bike, try to find one made with women in mind as they will probably be more likely to accommodate shorter arms and legs.
A classic feature of a ‘women’s bike’ is the step-through feature that we’ve mentioned on a couple of top contenders for short females’ best bikes. The bar that is typically close to the handlebars and the seat is set lower, so it’s easier for a shorter person to swing their leg through to get on the bike.
Ultimately, any bike can be a woman’s bike as long as you pick the right size for you and your body.
Women’s Vs. Youth Bike
Youth bikes are typically made with children in mind, so they tend to be smaller. That doesn’t mean that utility or comfort is sacrificed, though, when they are made. Often, if an adult is too small or short for something, they move to the kid’s section to find a better option for them.
This is the same when it comes to youth bikes. If you are looking for a smaller bike to support your shorter frame, follow the same sizing tips as for any bike. What’s important is finding one that accommodates how you wish to use it and is the right size to prevent injuries or mishaps.
More: Best Bicycle For 3-5 Years Old [ Review and Buying Guide]
Conclusion
Our best bike for short females is the Trek Verve 3 Disc Lowstep. This bike is a hybrid, so you can get to where you want to go. It doesn’t matter if you’re going to commute to work, visit the grocery store, or hit the dirt trails hard; this bike will get you where you want to go. It has a perfect step-through design for shorter legs, so mounting and dismounting are as comfortable as pedaling through the backwoods.
The runner up on our best bikes for short females list is the Trek 820 WSD. This bike is specifically made for mountain biking, allowing you to conquer the hills and dirt trails. It offers unique features like a seat designed for women and a suspension fork to keep you comfortable while you’re out on the trails.
Both of these bikes are made to last, and they come in different sizes so you can pick the best option available for you. If you are considering which is the best bike for short females, don’t get caught up in the details of size and instead look at one of our top contenders. They have step-through builds, making it easier to get on and off and get you from the paved roads to the dirt roads so you can follow adventure wherever it calls you.