Road bikes can be pretty expensive! They range from $1000 to $10,000 easily. But why would you need a $10,000 road bike? I mean, it’s not like you are going to go mountain climbing or do any kind of extreme riding on it. Think about it. All you are going to do with a road bike is run-of-the-mill cycling. Tell me if I am wrong but from my experience, that’s what road bicycles are best suited for.
Now, I am not saying you give up on road bikes at all because they cover a limited terrain. Hear me out! Instead of spending $10,000, what if you can get a road bike and all you have to spend is $500? Sounds exciting!
But the best part is that I have researched and listed 10 road bikes that are all under $500. You don’t have to visit shops, roaming here and there to find what you have been looking for. I have got it listed right here.
9 Best Road Bikes Reviewed
| Best Feature | Bike | Price ($) |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Schwinn Volare 1400 Road Bike | 277.61 |
| Best Reliability | Merax Finiss 700C Road Racing Bike | 250.00 |
| Best All Terrain Performance | Giordano Libero Acciao Road Bike | 300 |
| Best built | HASA R4 Road Bike Shimano 2400 | 300 |
| Best adjustability | Giordano Libero Women’s 1.6 | 350 |
| Best flexibility | Vilano R2 Commuter Road Bike | 329.00 |
| Best Handling | Gravity Ave A Road Bike | 299.95 |
| Best Braking | Challenge Dynamic CLR 0.2 | 480 |
| Best All-Rounder | Vilano Shadow 3.0 Road Bike | 430 |
Note: All prices mentioned are subject to change.
Let’s get started!
1. Schwinn Volare 1400 Road Bike
Price: MSRP $277.61
| Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Frame Material | Strong aluminum frame |
| Suspension | Steel suspension for safety and absorption of collisions and vibrations |
| Shifter | Shimano 14-speed shifter for versatile speed changes on the go |
| Seat | Adjustable and comfortable seat, promoting an upright riding position |
| Rims | Double-walled rims for added strength |
| Tires | Oversized road tires for excellent speed and handling |
| Drivetrain | Shimano 14-speed drivetrain for smooth and efficient gear changes |
| Handlebars | Ergonomically placed handlebars for an upright riding position |
| Brakes | Shifters provide amazing stopping power |
| Performance | Responsive suspension that absorbs bumps on uneven terrains |
| Use Case | Suitable for cross-country road trips and versatile road riding |
| Overall Impression | Combines performance and safety, offering a strong and responsive road biking experience at an affordable price |
I would say that this bike has a satisfactory combination of performance and safety. Last summer, I went out on a cross-country road trip with my Schwinn Volare. I particularly liked the level of strength this bike has and how it absorbs vibrations.
The oversized road tires support amazing speed along with the perfect handling. While riding the Volare you would always have an upright position because of the ergonomically placed handlebars and seat.
Throughout my trip, the bike maintained its performance. This is why it is my top suggestion for anyone looking for an affordable road bike.
Advantages
- The bike offers 14-speed
- It has quick-release tires which makes it easier to replace or fix punctures
- The shifter is user-friendly
Disadvantages
- The brakes do require tunning
2. Merax Finiss 700C Road Racing Bike
Price: MSRP $250.00
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Frame Material | Lightweight aluminum frame for excellent handling and performance |
| Terrain Versatility | Capable of handling various terrains, including harsh terrain, while maintaining stability |
| Adjustable Seat | Allows on-the-fly adjustment of the seat for personalized comfort |
| Shimano Shifters and Derailleurs | High-quality Shimano components for a smooth transition of speed and gears |
| Speed Adjustment | Ability to easily adjust speed levels for those focusing on speed and performance |
| Brakes | Alloy-caliper brakes provide absolute stopping power for safety during races or intense exercise sessions |
| Price-to-Quality Ratio | Despite its affordable price tag, the Merax Finiss 700C is noted for its great quality and exceptional performance |
| Lightweight Design | The bike is extremely lightweight, contributing to its overall maneuverability and ease of handling |
| Professional Racing | Specifically designed for participation in professional races, making it an ideal choice for racing enthusiasts |
| Overall Performance | Excels in every platform, offering a combination of speed, handling, and quality performance |
If you are looking to participate in professional races or just have a great exercise session then the Merax Finiss 700C is a good option. It is lightweight and handles like a charm. Did I mention that you can also adjust your seat on the fly?
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Advantages
- It is available in different sizes
Disadvantages
- The high gear is unaligned
3. Giordano Libero Acciao Road Bike
Price: MSRP $443.78
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Variety of Sizes and Colors | Available in a variety of sizes and colors to cater to different riders’ preferences and sizes |
| Frame Material | Steel frame known for resilience, making it suitable for riders of all sizes |
| Versatile Riding | Designed for both small-sized and large-sized riders |
| Vibrant Design | Vibrant colors add an aesthetic appeal to the bike, boosting confidence for riders |
| Effortless Navigation | Navigates effortlessly, providing a smooth and enjoyable riding experience |
| Shimano Claris Shifters | Equipped with Shimano Claris shifters for smooth and efficient gear-changing |
| Durable Frame and Fork | The frame and fork contribute to long-lasting durability, reducing the need for frequent replacements |
| Performance and Safety | Balances performance and safety, offering confidence in handling collisions and vibrations |
| Adaptability to Terrain | Suitable for various terrains, allowing riders to maintain any level of speed |
| Road Clincher Tires | Equipped with Road Clincher Tires for consistent and excellent performance on gravel or smooth roads |
| Shimano 14-Speed Drivetrain | Features a Shimano 14-speed Drivetrain for easy and efficient speed and gear changes |
| Impression | Offers a bike that riders won’t need to replace soon, thanks to its durable frame and fork |
You find a really good bike but it doesn’t fit you, it’s a bummer right? That is why I have the Giordano Libero Acciao for you. It comes in a variety of sizes and colors so that everyone gets to enjoy this bike
Its vibrant colors caught my eye and after intense research on it and asking my fellow riders who have tried this bike, I can say that you will feel that instant surge of confidence on this bike.
Advantages
- The high-tensile steel frame is durable
Disadvantages
- It is heavy
- Some users reported missing components upon shipping
4. HASA R4 Road Bike Shimano 2400
Price: MSRP $300
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Affordability | Available at an affordable price, making it one of the best entry-level road bikes under $500 |
| Low Maintenance | Requires little to no maintenance, suitable for both workouts and casual use |
| Shimano 24-Speed Shifters | Equipped with Shimano 24-speed shifters for easy hill climbing and riding on various terrains |
| Resistance Mode | Can be put in resistance mode for effective workouts on the go |
| Shimano Brakes | Ensures control over the bike and provides absolute stopping power for safety |
| Beginner-Friendly | An amazing beginner road bike suitable for starting the cycling journey |
| Lightweight Construction | Constructed with a lightweight frame for increased speed and easy usability |
| Durable | Despite its lightweight frame, the bike is strong and can withstand abuse and collisions |
This road bike under $500 may be entry-level but it is still packed with amazing features and requires little to no maintenance.
When I first came across the HASA R4, I was a little skeptical of its status. However, it’s a good beginner road bike that you can start your cycling journey with.
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Advantages
- The bicycle is lightweight
Disadvantages
- It offers a poor riding posture
5. Giordano Libero Women’s 1.6
Price: MSRP $350
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Affordability | Unmatched value for an affordable price, making it a top choice for women’s road bikes under $500 |
| Dedicated Women’s Design | Fitted with features and vibrant colors specifically designed for women |
| Lightweight Frame | The frame size is light and fully adjusted for women, allowing for comfortable and fatigue-free long rides |
| Impressive Geometry | Slacker tube and top short tube contribute to an upright riding position, enhancing comfort during rides |
| Beginner-Friendly | Suitable for both beginners and veterans, exceeding expectations for the best road bike under $500 |
| Exceptional Braking System | Mechanical disc brakes provide top stopping power, ensuring performance on slippery roads or descending terrains |
The Giordano Libero Women’s 1.6 might be cheap but the value that it gives is unmatched. There are not many dedicated women’s bikes, may it be mountain bikes or road bikes, but with the Libero, things get better.
The bike isn’t just fitted with amazing features but also vibrant colors. The Braking system of the bike performs. May it be slippery roads or descending terrain.
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Advantages
- It is specially designed for women
- The frame is lightweight
Disadvantages
- The saddle is a little uncomfortable
6. Vilano R2 Commuter Road Bike
Price: MSRP $329.00
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Best Value | Provides the best possible value for the cost, ensuring a worthwhile investment |
| Versatile Use | Perfect choice for commuting to work, school/college, or leisure rides |
| Simple yet Amazing Design | Black with a traditional design, loaded with amazing features |
| Adjustable Frame Sizes | Available in different frame sizes to accommodate people of various sizes, suitable for both men and women |
| Lightweight | Extremely lightweight for flexibility and easy handling |
| Customization Options | Offers many customization options for a personalized riding experience |
| Efficient Gear Selection | Amazing gear selection for easy climbing on various terrains, including hills |
The Vilano R2 is the go-to option if you want a bike for work, school/college, or just leisure. It looks simple and has a traditional design. The frame size is available in different sizes so that it accommodates people of different sizes both men and women.
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Advantages
- It is a unisex bike
- The Shimano 21-speed groupset offers value
- The aluminum frame is strong
Disadvantages
- The seat is uncomfortable
- The gear shifters are also of cheap quality
7. Gravity Ave A Road Bike
Price: MSRP $299.95
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Budget-Friendly Performance | Delivers amazing performance even on a tight budget |
| Lightweight Aluminum Frame | Built around a lightweight aluminum frame for maximized handling |
| Aerodynamic Design | Features a very aerodynamic design for enhanced performance |
| Semi-Compact Frame Geometry | Rider maintains an upright position due to the semi-compact frame geometry |
| Inclusive Design | Overall design ensures riders of all shapes and sizes can enjoy the bike |
| Wide-Gearing | Enables wide-gearing with the Shimano 14-Speed drivetrain for conquering various terrains |
| Unique Gear Placement | Gears are uniquely placed and stem-mounted for added comfort |
| All-Weather Brakes | Powerful all-weather brakes provide reliable stopping power in various conditions |
The AVE A features a very aerodynamic design and because of the semi-compact frame geometry, the rider is always going to have an upright position. The overall design of the bike is made to ensure that riders of all shapes and sizes are able to enjoy the best out of their bikes.
The gears of the bike are uniquely placed and stem-mounted so you will also be able to enjoy amazing comfort.
Advantages
- The bike has a strong lightweight aluminum frame
- The all-weather disc brakes deliver a satisfying performance
Disadvantages
- It requires assembly
8. Challenge Dynamic CLR 0.2
Price: MSRP $480
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Budget-Friendly Performance | Delivers amazing performance even on a tight budget |
| Lightweight Aluminum Frame | Built around a lightweight aluminum frame for maximized handling |
| Aerodynamic Design | Features a very aerodynamic design for enhanced performance |
| Semi-Compact Frame Geometry | Rider maintains an upright position due to the semi-compact frame geometry |
| Inclusive Design | Overall design ensures riders of all shapes and sizes can enjoy the bike |
| Wide-Gearing | Enables wide-gearing with the Shimano 14-Speed drivetrain for conquering various terrains |
| Unique Gear Placement | Gears are uniquely placed and stem-mounted for added comfort |
| All-Weather Brakes | Powerful all-weather brakes provide reliable stopping power in various conditions |
You might have heard of Argos if you came looking for the best road bike under $500, they have upped their game more than ever and have introduced the Challenge Dynamic CLR 0.2. Argos consulted some of the best journalists and technicians and have launched their new line, based on the feedback let me tell you this- It is definitely an upgrade.
The Shimano Claris Groupset also works wonders with the bike, you can easily mount any kind of hill without problems.
Durability is the main priority here and that is a good thing. With budget bikes, all you want from them is to perform well and for a very long time.
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Advantages
- The bike has a strong carbon fork
Disadvantages
- Many users did not like the rigid suspension
9. Vilano Shadow 3.0 Road Bike
Price: MSRP $429.00
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Premium Quality | Quality on par with premium bikes despite the budget-friendly price tag |
| All-Rounder Bike | The Vilano Shadow 3.0 excels as an all-rounder bike, delivering impressive performance and features |
| Aluminum Frame | Durable aluminum frame protects against collisions and vibrations, ensuring a smooth ride on bumpy roads |
| Shimano 14-Speed Gear Set | Offers good performance and can be upgraded for even more versatility |
| Easy Assembly | Comes 90% assembled, reducing the stress of bike setup; includes free pedals in the package |
Another great bike in the list of best road bikes under $500 is The Vilano Shadow 3.0.
The Shadow 3.0 might be one of the best all-rounder bikes out there. The Aluminum frame of the bike protects the bike against collisions and vibrations.
The Shimano 14-speed gear set offers good performance as it is but it can be upgraded even more if you want that. The bike comes 90% assembled the plus point is that you get free pedals in the package.
Advantages
- The aluminum frame has a strong built
- Option to choose from different colors
Disadvantages
- The wheels are not of good quality
How To Choose A Budget Road Bike- Buying Guide!
Here are the things that you need to consider when buying a budget road bike:
1. Consider The Frame Geometry
One road bike is very different from the other one. They have a different frame geometry.
Sports Geometry
Most of the road bikes have sports geometry. They are best suited for those bikes that will be used 3-4 times a week, stretching up to almost 150 miles/week. I recommend going for this if you are a casual rider.
Race Geometry
These are for professional/competitive riders. They enhance their skills while asking the riders to be more flexible with themselves. These professional bikes are lighter. They have a strong frame, premium components, and an expensive price tag.
2. Keep An Eye On The Materials
Bike frames usually come in two different materials:
- Carbon-Fiber
- Aluminum
Carbon Fiber Frames
These frames are adept at providing comfortable and vibration-free rides. Comparatively, they are expensive because a lot of labor-intensive work is needed to construct them. They are the preferred choice of professional riders.
Aluminum frames
Aluminum frames also provide a good and comfortable experience but are less expensive. They can be customized even more so to enhance the experience.
If you want the bike for casual and fun purposes then an aluminum frame would be more than good enough!
3. Groupsets and Drivetrains
Groupsets is a set of matching components provided by different component manufacturers for bikes. If a bike comes packed with a groupset, then they are going to have a stylish, and consistent look/design as compared to the bikes that don’t come with these types of groupsets.
This shows the utmost quality of a bike and the top-renowned suppliers of Drivetrains/Groupsets are SRAM and Shimano.
4. Consider The Wheel Size
Wheels are one of the most important components to consider because they directly affect the performance of the bike, they are the ones between the road and their quality will certainly go a long way. Wheels affect the following:
- The overall weight of the bike
- Acceleration and how well it handles
- Resistance against the wind
The thing with wheels is that they are pre-built with the bike and you don’t get to choose them except that your bike is custom-built. Although you can always customize your bike when you have already gotten it, upgrading goes a very long way.
5. The Quality Of Cranksets
The component that makes the pedal rotate the rear wheel is called a crankset. Many road bikes come with different types of cranksets.
Double/Compact Cranksets have two chainrings and 20 gears in total. They also come with a 10-speed cassette, and having few gears gives them various benefits.
Triple Cranksets have 3 chainrings and 27 gears in total. They also come with a 9-speed cassette, providing this many gears to the rider comes with its own set of benefits.
You can always upgrade or customize whichever crankset you get with your bike. If you are a beginner a triple or compact crankset would be the best one for you.
6. Also Consider The Pedal Quality!
The basic bikes come with normal pedals that have toe cages. There are also the higher-end/premium models that come without pedals. This is because the company thinks that for a better and more personalized experience, you should choose the pedals yourself!
It’s better to choose pedals that go with your cycling shoes. This will help in improving your cycling performance.
7. The Type Of Brakes and Shifters
With the newer models, these two components have become integrated. Different bikes and different brands offer unique experiences. It’s better to try them out before finalizing a choice. Both SRAM and Shimano offer quality shifters and brake set! The important thing that you need to consider is that you have a good grip on the bike.
8. Choose The Right Size!
You should choose a bike size or frame that suits you. There are typically 6 sizes to choose from. These go from extra small to extra large but some brands also offer customization. I would advise you to choose a bike in accordance with your body’s geometry. Don’t go for sizes that are too small or too large for you as that will only come between handling.
Discover your perfect fit! Check out our comprehensive bike size chart.
How I Choose These Road Bikes– My Methodology
As an enthusiast of road cycling, I understand the challenge of finding a high-quality bike that fits within a budget. That’s why I’ve dedicated countless hours to researching and analyzing the best entry-level road bikes for adults on the market. I’ve scoured the web for honest reviews and feedback from verified customers and even tested some of the top contenders myself, including the editor’s choice.
Using my knowledge of bike components and their strengths and weaknesses, I’ve narrowed down the top options that offer the best value for your money. So if you’re ready to enjoy the ride of your life, these are some of the road bikes that you can consider.
FAQs
What is the best road bike for under 500?
The best road bike for under $500 is the Schwinn Volare 1400 Road Bike according to our experts. It is an amazing bike that provides the best kind of adventure and is perfect for the ultimate road warrior. With its exceptional construction and features, there is nothing like it in this price range. It is a great budget bike that is available for everyone and offers the perfect combination of affordability and quality.
How long will a road bike under $500 last?
A road bike under $500 can last for several years with proper maintenance, but the lifespan can vary depending on the quality of components and the amount of use it receives.
Are expensive road bikes better?
No, not necessarily. Expensive road bikes may have higher quality components and better performance, but a more affordable road bike can still be a great choice for casual riders or those on a budget.
What are the best road bike brands?
Some of the top road bike brands, according to icebike.org, include:
- Trek
- Specialized
- Giant
- Cannondale
- Pinarello
- Colnago
- Bianchi
- Scott
- Felt
- De Rosa
These brands are known for their high-quality road bikes and innovative designs. They offer a wide range of options for riders of all skill levels, from entry-level bikes to professional-grade models. Whether you’re a casual rider or a serious competitor, these brands have a road bike to meet your needs. Here are best 50 road bike brands.
How much is a cheap road bike?
A cheap road bike can cost anywhere from $200 to $500, depending on the brand, quality of components, and features included.
Read also:
- Why You Need to Worry About Road Bike Sizing and Fitting
- The 12 Best Road Bike Wheels
- The Complete Guide To Buying Road Bike Wheels
- How Much Faster Are Carbon Road Bike Wheels Really?
- How To Find The Best Entry Level Road Bike On A Budget
Recap
Road bikes are amazing and getting one at an affordable price is even more awesome! Since bicycle prices have skyrocketed in the past couple of years, many companies are now focusing on making budget bikes that are accessible to everyone.
They may be cheap road bikes but they fall short of nothing when it comes to performance. Are you ready to invest in your next road biking adventure? Which bicycle did you like the most? Let me know in the comment section below. Happy Biking!
