Heybike Ranger S folding e-bike
A step-through folding fat-tire e-bike with a 692 Wh battery, for commutes, cottages and campers.
Outdoors & Adventure
Bicycles
3 kinds worth knowing, 11 picks, and what to check before you buy.
Bikes usually go to adults who already ride, or who say they would if getting around were easier. The ones that get used match the roads nearby, the length of the ride and how much effort the rider wants to put in. An electric bicycle suits someone who faces hills, headwinds or a longer commute. A beach cruiser suits slow rides along a waterfront or around the neighbourhood. As a gift, a bike is personal. Frame size, riding position and where it will be stored all matter. If you can't check those quietly, think about giving it with an offer to swap the size, or pick a style with an easy fit, like a cruiser or a folding frame.
Kind 1 of 3
Electric bikes for longer, easier rides
An electric bicycle has a motor and a battery that help the rider along, so hills, headwinds and longer trips take less effort. It suits commuters, riders who want to leave the car at home for errands, and people getting back into cycling. Before buying, check the weight, since some are heavy to lift onto a rack or carry up stairs. Look at where the battery comes off to charge and whether the rider has somewhere to store the bike indoors. Check local rules on e-bike classes too. A folding frame helps with apartments, car trunks and transit.
Compact folding commuter bicycle
Ideal for urban dwellers and travelers who need a portable bicycle that can be easily stored in small spaces or transported on public transit.
Kind 2 of 3
Pedal assist: help only while pedalling
A pedal assist electric bicycle adds motor power only while the rider pedals, so it still feels like cycling, just lighter work. It suits someone who wants exercise without arriving worn out, or a couple where one rider wants to keep pace with a stronger partner. Before buying, look at how many assist levels it has and how smoothly the power comes on. Check whether it also has a throttle, since some riders want one and others don't. Ask how far it goes on a charge compared with the rides the person actually does.
Pedal assist electric bicycle
An excellent choice for riders who desire extra power for hills, longer commutes, or simply extending their cycling adventures with less effort.
Kind 3 of 3
Beach cruisers for easy, upright riding
A beach cruiser has wide tires, swept-back handlebars and a wide saddle, so the rider sits upright and rides relaxed. It suits casual riders, cottage and waterfront trips, and short errands on flat ground. It's a poor fit for steep hills or long, fast commutes. Before buying, check the frame height and whether a step-through frame would be easier to get on and off. See whether it has one gear or several; one is simpler, and a few help on gentle slopes. Rack and basket mounts make it more useful.
sixthreezero Around the Block cruiser
An upright 26-inch beach cruiser with a rear rack, in single-speed to 21-speed versions.
Relaxed beach cruiser bicycle
Suited for casual rides along boardwalks, through parks, or around town, offering a comfortable and stylish cycling experience.
How to choose bicycles as a gift
- Find out the rider's height, or borrow measurements from a bike they already ride, before picking a frame size.
- Match the bike to real routes: paved paths, gravel trails, city streets or steep hills each call for different tires and gearing.
- Think about storage and carrying, especially for apartments, since electric bikes can be heavy to lift.
- For a young child learning to ride, a balance bike without pedals is often an easier first step than a pedal bike.
Usually safe to skip
- Fast road bikes for casual riders usually miss, because the low, stretched-out position feels uncomfortable on short, relaxed rides.
- Full mountain bikes for someone who rides only on pavement add weight and knobby tires that make city riding slower.
- A bike bought without knowing the rider's size often gathers dust if it's too big or too small to feel comfortable.
Questions people ask about bicycles
- What is the difference between an electric bicycle and a pedal assist bike?
- Pedal assist is a type of electric bicycle. Its motor helps only while the rider pedals. Some electric bikes also have a throttle that moves the bike without pedalling. Check which kind the rider wants and what local rules allow.
- How do I choose a bike size for a gift?
- Start with the rider's height and inseam, then compare them with the size chart for that frame. If you can't get the numbers without spoiling the surprise, a step-through cruiser or a folding frame is more forgiving. Include a note offering to swap the size.
- Is a beach cruiser good for commuting?
- For short, flat commutes, yes. The upright position is comfortable, and a basket or rack makes carrying things easy. For long distances or hilly routes, a hybrid or an electric bicycle usually makes the trip much easier.
Looking for one person in particular? Shop by person.
Everything else
All bicycles picks
Showing 1–11 of 11
All-road gravel bicycle
Perfect for adventurous riders who want to explore diverse terrains, from paved roads to unpaved paths and light trails, with comfort and speed.
All-terrain mountain bicycle
This rugged bicycle is ideal for adventurers who enjoy tackling challenging trails and exploring off-road paths.
Children's learning bicycle
Designed to introduce young riders to the joy of cycling, providing a safe and fun way to develop balance and coordination.
Lightweight performance road bicycle
Perfect for fitness enthusiasts and commuters seeking speed and efficiency on paved roads and long distances.
Versatile hybrid commuter bicycle
This adaptable bicycle is suitable for casual riders and daily commuters who navigate both paved streets and light gravel paths.
Strider 12 Sport balance bike
The 6.7-pound no-pedal bike that teaches toddlers to balance, from about 18 months to 5 years.
