The weather is brighter, the mornings and evenings are lighter – what better time to start riding to work! You’ll ease pressure on your wallet, sail past traffic, boost your fitness and burn some serious calories.

You don’t need to break the bank to get a great commuter hybrid bike for commuting on, and hybrids are ideal for the job.

They’re called hybrids because the take elements of both road and mountain bikes to make something that’s perfect for zipping around town, on towpaths or gentle greenways.

From the MTB side you get an upright position on the bike and flat handlebars, which gives you a good view through traffic and stability. From road cycling you get a lighter, speedier frame and gearing suitable for getting up hills or speeding along on the flat. Some commuter hybrid bikes veer more towards one or the other, but most sit bang in the middle. They’ll all usually come with the right bolts and holes to attach mud guards and pannier racks too.

Best Commuter Hybrid Bikes

With commuter hybrid bikes under £500 you can generally expect an aluminium frame, v-brakes, steel forks and commuter specific puncture resistant tyres. Some bikes will come with the more powerful disc brakes, and you can also find bikes all set up for the commute with mud guards and a pannier rack already attached.

If your employer is signed up to Cyclescheme or similar ride to work initiative, you’ll also be able to spread the cost by getting a voucher that covers your initial purchase, which you pay back in installments. In fact, you can use this to get kitted up top to toe, bike and all!