What exactly is a low step-through bike?
There’s no doubt bikes have evolved over the last 200 years - you don’t see anyone riding a Penny Farthing anymore, do you? They come in all shapes and sizes, just like people. Whether it’s a mountain, racing, cargo, or hybrid bike (the list is endless), finding the perfect match for you and your needs is important. An increasingly popular category for city dwellers is the step-thru bike – cycling at its most accessible and comfortable!
Sometimes referred to as “step-thru”, “ST”, or “low-step”, what truly makes this bike category different is either a very low or no top tube – the part of the bike frame that connects the head tube at the front of the bike to the seat tube. We call this a step-through bike frame - making it easy for anyone to literally ‘step through’ the frame when getting on or off the bike. Curious about how a step-thru bike looks? Check out the Momentum Vida low-step bike.
Here are 10 reasons you need to try a step-through bike!
1. Step-through bikes are made for all ages and experience levels
Given the low-step design, these bikes are suitable for almost any age. You don’t have to be able to swing your leg above hip height, or launch yourself off one foot to clamber on, so young and old alike can easily enjoy a step-through bike.
2. Step-through bikes make the best bikes and E-bikes for shorter riders
Vertically challenged? (No judgement here, this writer is pocket-rocket sized!) If you’re not as tall as your friends, then step-through bikes and E-bikes are great for you as you don’t need to get your leg over a tall top tube to mount and dismount. They automatically have a much lower stand-over height than other styles of frames, making them a great option for petite or younger riders looking for a great commuter bike too.
3. Step-through bikes are gender-neutral
Though traditionally the step-through bike was more popular with women due to their historically restrictive clothing, times have (thankfully!) changed. Astep-through bike offers freedom, practicality and comfort regardless of gender.
4. Step-through bikes are safe and comfortable
A step-through bike frame is designed to offer a more upright riding position, than say some other hybrid or performance bikes. This makes it a great option for commuting – where you can easily keep an eye on traffic without having to stretch out your neck. This riding position also makes it great for more relaxed rides with friends and family.
5. Step-through bikes are friendly for people with limited mobility
The step-through bike caters to diverse users in every sense, including people that may be limited by past injuries, disabilities, advanced age, or other factors. The step-thru bike enables people with limited mobility to stay active regardless of their situation. Of course, we always recommend approaching any form of exercise with the right safety measures in place.
6. Step-through bikes are super easy to get on and off
Step-through bikes are frequently used by couriers and other professionals that need to make several stops during their journey. Not having the top tube in the bike frame makes it incredibly easy for them to hop on and off the bike. Our Vida bikes are great for extra stops as well as exploring, or just getting some fresh air. The bikes also come with powerful brakes and a wide gear range for steeper hills.
7. Step-through bikes are perfect for riding in style
Step-through bike frames come in a wide range of colors, from loud brights to chilled neutrals. So whether you want a pared-down look for your commuting bike or fancy a loud and proud bright for weekend rides, there’s a colour for everyone.
8. Step-through bikes are durable and sturdier
Because the top tube is absent in a step-through bike frame, these bikes are often made with more durable material such as premium lightweight alloys that make them slightly heavier than conventional bikes. In turn, they can withstand larger riders and heavier loads. Of course, the weight will vary depending on several factors: geometry size, finish, hardware, accessories and more. If the total weight is of concern, we recommend contacting your local dealer to weigh your bike with all your desired specifications before purchasing.
9. Step-through bikes can carry heavy loads
With the right bike accessories, a step-through bike is a great option for carrying heavy loads. In the case where the rider is carrying a backpack on their back, the upright riding position also makes the journey more comfortable.
10. Electric step-through bikes are just as fast as conventional bikes
Whether you’re in a rush or exploring a city with hillier roads than usual, an electric step-through bike will get you from A to B quickly - and without breaking a sweat. You can read more about electric bikes here.