Recommendations for an Entry-Level Bike under $500- $600 Fitness (New, Not Used)

ashbtw on 20/08/2025 - 20:31
Last edited 21/08/2025 - 08:51 by 1 other user

I’m looking for a budget-friendly hybrid/commuter bike to ride mostly in parks and on shared paths, I want something comfortable, upright, flat bar and easy to ride, not too heavy, and with reliable brakes. Planning to ride 5-10 km everyday, purely for cardio and fitness, not for travel.

My budget is $500-$600 (Including lights, mudguard and other accessories). Since I’m a beginner, I’d prefer to buy a brand-new bike rather than second-hand, as I don’t yet know what to look for in a used one. I have looked into the below, any other recommendations.

Riverside 500 (Decathlon)
Transit Disc MY25 (Reid)

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  John Barosa on 20/08/2025 - 21:12

  My dad bought a Reid Tract 1 for I think 500. It has hydralic brakes(good), but it's as heavy as ur mom. Great starter bike imo, and pretty reliable. I'm not that fit, but I can cycle 7kms on it, with hilly terrain, and minimal sweat in 25 degree weather.

  It's technically a mountain bike, but most people can cycle 10kms easy, so for non competitive recreation it would be fine.

  Reid has a good reputation, amongst budget bikes.

  https://www.reidcycles.com.au/products/tract-1

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  brotherfranciz on 21/08/2025 - 02:35

  My budget is 500-600AUD ( Including lights, mudguard and other accessories).

  You say you're going to ride in parks and on shared paths - I don't think you'll need lights and mudguards for that, presuming you'll be riding in good weather during the day time. On the other hand, you'll definitely need a helmet as it's a legal requirement, a tyre pump, chain lube, and a puncture repair kit (you'll need to learn how to clean/maintain the chain and fix a puncture - it might seem like a hassle but they're good life skills). You might also want to consider a multi tool and a portable hand pump. So all up, that's $150-250 on accessories depending if you just want the bare minimum and hike home if you get a puncture, or want to be able to fix things on the go.

  That doesn't leave you much to spend on the actual bike - about $350-450 based on $600 budget…

  Since I’m a beginner, I’d prefer to buy a brand-new bike rather than second-hand, as I don’t yet know what to look for in a used one.

  Second hand is your best bet - it's not rocket science, as bicycles are quite easy to inspect (unlike motor vehicles). The ABC check - Air, Brakes, Chain: check the tyres aren't punctured or bald, check the brakes are working and that the brake pads aren't worn down, and check the chain isn't rusty and that the gear shifting works. These are super easy visual checks and a quick test ride to check the brakes and gear shifting works. If there are any rattling noises, loose parts, or cracks or dents in the bicycle frame, then those are pretty obvious issues that any layperson can easily identify as a concern. There's nothing to it and you don't need to be an expert!

  Anyway, good luck with the hunt!

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    Euphemistic on 21/08/2025 - 14:11

    Agree that second hand is great for bicycles. Quite often you can get barely used hybrid/commuter style bikes for around $200. As above if you check tyres, brakes and gears work itll likely ride fine for a decade.

    Most important thing is size. Have a look online to bike sizing guides to determine what to look for as a starting point. The test fit it before you buy.

    Pick a bike shop brand (trek, giant, specialised, merida, avanti and more) and your local shop will happily service it for you and youll still be under budget.

    Best thing about used, is that you can get the same money for it if you choose to upgrade later.

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  xrayed giraffe on 21/08/2025 - 09:17

  -1

  that's a pretty limited budget for new bike. yes second hand might get you a bargain, but having the convenience of a free early service and some help at the bike store might be good reasons to buy new. it would be annoying to buy a second hand one, then for the gears or shocks to soon need a service which would cost >$100.
  yes you'll need a helmet, but the other things like pump/lube/repair kit can be bought as you need them

  of the 2 you posted, i would go the one without shocks. it's just another thing to go wrong over the years, and i dont think that shocks are needed unless you are doing jumps and downhill type stuff.
  for riding on gravel and paths and roads, just go with a non-shock bike. less to go wrong

  it's always best to ride a bike before buying it. shops will generally let you have a ride before buying- just go and ask. i have not bought bikes because of the way they steer/feel.

  you should consider if you want a flat handlebar or if you are open to a racer-style one. if you were open to a racer style one, but your age and physique might impact this- so go try one. gravel bikes might be a good choice. there's an older one on sale here but it is only in medium
  https://bikesonline.com.au/products/reid-original-gravel-bik…

  for my shape and riding i would choose my link (well i would if they had large/xl), but it is all dependant on you and you feel/shape/size/intentions

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    Euphemistic on 21/08/2025 - 14:12

    -1

    I wouldn't recommend drop (race) bars or gravel bikes to newbies. Better off with a mlre upright flat bar setup.