Budget-friendly road bikes are packed with technology borrowed from their higher-end counterparts, making them an incredible entry point into the world of cycling. While top-tier road bikes can be quite expensive, manufacturers are now offering affordable options that retain many of the modern features found on premium models. These beginner-friendly bikes deliver a fantastic riding experience and reliable components without breaking the bank.
Although they might feature slightly heavier frames, often made from aluminum alloy instead of carbon fiber, the geometry and handling are surprisingly similar to more expensive bikes. You’ll find lower-spec road bike groupsets and perhaps fewer gears, but gear changes will still be smooth and dependable.
Similarly, the wheels won’t be as high-end as the best road bike wheels, but they will be durable and functional, usually paired with quality tires. Remember, upgrading your wheels later can significantly enhance your bike’s performance.
Choosing your first road bike can feel overwhelming with all the technical details. To help you navigate this, we’ve put together a straightforward guide at the end of this article, covering everything you need to know about selecting the Best Beginner Road Bike before you make your purchase.
But first, let’s explore our top picks for the best beginner road bikes available right now.
Quick List
Giant Contend 2 with a white backgroundBest Beginner Road Bike for All-Around Performance
Giant Contend
The Giant Contend stands out as a truly versatile beginner road bike. It’s a well-rounded package featuring a quality aluminum frame, a comfortable carbon fork, and the reliable Shimano Claris groupset. This bike is dependable and offers great potential for future upgrades as your skills progress.
Liv Avail with a white backgroundBest Beginner Road Bike Designed for Women
Liv Avail AR 4
The Liv Avail AR 4 is specifically designed for women riders, incorporating women’s-specific geometry and contact points. This attractive bike is equipped with mechanical disc brakes and a smooth-shifting Shimano drivetrain, ensuring confident and comfortable rides for female beginners.
Specialized allez with a white backgroundBest Beginner Road Bike for Aspiring Racers
Specialized Allez
The Allez is a highly regarded aluminum-framed bike known for its exceptional ride quality, making it a favorite among beginner racers. Its stiffness and responsiveness are ideal for those looking to experience the thrill of racing without a hefty price tag.
Triban RC 520 Disc Brake studio imageBest Beginner Road Bike with High-Value ComponentsTriban RC 520
The Triban RC520 offers an outstanding component package for a beginner road bike. It boasts a high-quality Shimano 105 R7000 groupset, paired with reliable TRP disc brakes and practical mounting points for mudguards and racks, making it a versatile and well-equipped choice for new riders.
Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4 with a white backgroundBest Beginner Road Bike for Long, Comfortable Rides
Trek Domane AL3
Trek’s Domane is designed with comfort in mind, making it an excellent choice for beginner cyclists planning longer rides. It features a carbon fiber fork, tubeless-ready wheels, and plush 32mm tires, all contributing to a smooth and enjoyable experience on the road.
Cube Attain Pro with a white backgroundBest Looking Beginner Road Bike
Cube Attain Pro
The Cube Attain Pro is not only well-equipped for its price but also visually appealing, making it a stylish option for beginners. Its sleek fork and eye-catching paintwork, combined with a semi-aero frame design, ensures you’ll ride in style without sacrificing performance.
Written by
Written by Will Jones
Having tested countless high-end bikes, I believe the under £1,000 price range is crucial in the cycling market, especially for beginners. My own Specialized Allez, a bike that would fit perfectly in this guide, is the only one I regret selling. Beginner road bikes are the gateway to this incredible sport, and it’s vital that they are good enough to inspire new riders, not discourage them.
Recent Updates
November 12th, 2024 With disc brake bikes becoming increasingly common, many of the rim brake models initially featured in this guide are no longer available. Where a disc brake successor exists, we’ve updated the recommendation to ensure this guide remains current as of November 2024.
Best Beginner Road Bikes
The Best for All-Round Riding
Giant Contend 2 2024
(Image credit: Giant)
1. Giant Contend 2
The Best Beginner Road Bike for Versatile Performance
Specifications
Weight: 9.5kg
Groupset: Shimano Claris
Wheels: Giant S-R3
Frame Sizes: S-XL
Reasons to Buy
- Full Carbon Fork: Enhances front-end comfort and reduces road vibrations, ideal for beginner cyclists.
- D-Fuse Technology: Giant’s seatpost technology increases compliance for a smoother ride, boosting comfort for new riders.
- Impressive Sub-10kg Weight: Lightweight for easier handling and climbing, making rides more enjoyable for beginners.
Reasons to Avoid
- Rim Brakes: While functional, rim brakes are less powerful than disc brakes, especially in wet conditions. Consider if you prioritize all-weather stopping power.
- Understated Aesthetics: The design is practical but may lack the visual flair some riders prefer.
BUY IT IF
✅ You’re seeking a high-quality, affordable beginner road bike: Giant’s scale allows them to offer exceptional value, providing a superior frame and components for the price.
✅ You need a wide range of gears for varied terrain: The gear ratios, going down to 1:1, will make hills more manageable, though the jumps between gears are wider due to the 8-speed setup.
DON’T BUY IT IF
❌ You prefer modern disc brakes for enhanced stopping power: Mechanical disc brakes offer better performance than rim brakes, particularly in wet or challenging conditions.
❌ You desire a more visually striking bike: Other options in this guide might offer more eye-catching designs.
The Giant Contend 2 is equipped predominantly with Giant-brand components, excluding the groupset and brakes. This isn’t a drawback, as Giant’s components are known for their quality. You get reliable Giant wheels and 28mm tires, along with a D-Fuse alloy seatpost designed to enhance comfort by allowing flex in specific directions while maintaining overall stiffness.
The frame is constructed from ALUXX-Grade aluminum, featuring Giant’s signature compact design and a full carbon OverDrive fork. The groupset is Shimano’s 8-speed Claris, forming a nearly complete Shimano package, with FSA crankset and Tektro TK-B177 rim brakes as capable substitutes.
It also includes mounts for mudguards and a rack, increasing its versatility for year-round riding, commuting, or even light touring. Some might find its appearance somewhat conservative compared to other bikes in this category.
The Best Beginner Road Bike for Women
Liv Avail AR 2022
(Image credit: Liv Avail AR 2022)
2. Liv Avail AR 4
The Best Beginner Road Bike Tailored for Women
Specifications
Weight: 10.77kg
Groupset: Shimano Claris
Wheels: Giant S-R2 Disc
Frame sizes: XXS-L
Reasons to Buy
- Women’s-Specific Design: Engineered using women’s body dimension data for optimized fit and comfort, enhancing the riding experience for female beginners.
- Tubeless-Ready Wheels: Offers the option to upgrade to tubeless tires for improved puncture resistance and ride quality, a beneficial feature as skills develop.
- Extensive Size Range: Provides more smaller sizes compared to many brands, ensuring a better fit for a wider range of women riders.
Reasons to Avoid
- Entry-Level Groupset: While functional, the Shimano Claris groupset is basic and might feel limiting as riding progresses; consider future upgrade potential.
BUY IT IF
✅ You need a smaller frame size typically designed for women: Liv specializes in women’s bikes, providing a better fit in smaller sizes compared to unisex models.
✅ You want a beginner road bike with all-road versatility: The 32mm tires and comfortable geometry allow the Avail AR to handle varied surfaces, including light gravel paths, broadening riding options for beginners.
DON’T BUY IT IF
❌ You plan to tackle serious gravel riding: While capable on light gravel, for more demanding off-road terrain, a dedicated gravel bike with wider tires would be more suitable.
❌ You prefer tighter gear ratios for performance riding: The 8-speed cassette has larger gaps between gears, which might be less ideal for riders focused on speed and cadence control.
While the question of whether women can ride men’s bikes persists, Liv Cycling focuses on creating high-performance bikes specifically for women. Designed, engineered, and tested by women, using exclusive women’s body data, the Liv Avail AR 4 offers a remarkably comfortable and confidence-inspiring ride, especially for women new to road cycling.
Liv’s ALUXX-Grade aluminum frame is surprisingly compliant and comfortable, while the Advanced-Grade carbon composite fork reduces weight and enhances the bike’s responsiveness.
Component-wise, the Avail AR 4 is similarly equipped to other bikes in this beginner category, featuring Shimano Claris gearing, Tektro mechanical disc brakes, and tubeless-ready wheels, providing a solid and reliable package for starting road cycling.
The Best Beginner Road Bike for Aspiring Racers
A white specialized allez stands on a rocky surface
(Image credit: Josh Croxton)
3. Specialized Allez
The Best Entry-Level Road Bike for Racing Aspirations
Our expert review:
Specifications
Weight: 10kg
Groupset: Shimano Claris
Wheels: Specialized Axis Sport Disc
Frame Sizes: 44-61cm
Reasons to Buy
- High-Quality Frame Finish: Well-finished frame available in multiple colors, offering a premium look and feel for a beginner bike.
- Quality Components: Equipped with reliable components that provide good performance and durability for new riders.
- Generous Tire Clearance: Accommodates up to 35mm tires, increasing comfort and versatility for different road conditions.
- Mounting Points: Includes mounts for mudguards and racks, adding practicality for commuting and all-weather riding.
Reasons to Avoid
- Tektro Brakes: Tektro brakes are functional but not as refined as Shimano brakes in terms of modulation and stopping power.
- More Upright Geometry: Geometry is now more comfort-oriented and less aggressive than previous models, which might not suit riders seeking a race-focused position.
BUY IT IF
✅ You need a versatile beginner road bike for various uses: The Allez is designed to be adaptable for commuting, club rides, and even light touring, making it a great all-rounder.
✅ You value extra tire clearance for comfort and varied terrain: The stock 30mm tires offer a good balance, and the option to go up to 35mm provides enhanced comfort on rougher roads.
DON’T BUY IT IF
❌ You want a race-oriented riding position: The Allez’s more upright geometry prioritizes comfort over aggressive aerodynamics, which might not be ideal for racing.
❌ You want a bike that’s perfectly spec’d out of the box: Upgrading the wheels would significantly improve the bike’s overall performance and responsiveness, suggesting some components are entry-level.
The Allez is Specialized’s longest-standing road bike model, one of their original three bikes, and the latest iteration is completely updated. It now features disc brakes for improved control, making it an even better “first proper road bike” for beginners.
The geometry has been refined to be slightly more upright for increased comfort, as detailed in our Specialized Allez Sport 2024 review. It also offers greater tire clearance (up to 35mm) and mounts for mudguards and a pannier rack. The aim is to transform the Allez from a purely race-focused bike into a more versatile all-rounder, suitable for everything from weekend group rides to commuting, winter training, and light touring.
The range of Specialized road bikes can be extensive, but our guide helps clarify their lineup.
Best Beginner Road Bike with High-Value Components
Triban RC 520 Disc Brake studio image
(Image credit: Triban / Decathlon)
4. Triban RC 520 Disc Brake
The Best Beginner Road Bike with Shimano 105 Groupset
Specifications
Weight: 10.4kg
Groupset: Shimano 105 R7000
Wheels: Triban Tubeless Ready Light
Frame Sizes: XS-XL
Reasons to Buy
- Shimano 105 R7000 Groupset: Rare at this price point, Shimano 105 offers 11-speed shifting and higher performance, usually found on more expensive bikes.
- Tubeless-Ready Wheels & Wide Tire Clearance: Supports tubeless setups and up to 36mm tires, offering enhanced comfort and versatility for various road conditions.
- Cable-Operated Hydraulic Disc Brakes: TRP HY/RD brakes provide improved braking power and modulation compared to mechanical disc brakes, especially beneficial in wet conditions.
Reasons to Avoid
- Workhorse Aesthetics: Design is functional and less visually exciting, prioritizing performance over stylish looks.
- External Cable Routing: Requires more maintenance to ensure smooth shifting compared to fully internal cable routing, as cables are more exposed to elements.
- Non-Tubeless Tires: While wheels are tubeless-ready, the stock tires are not, requiring an additional purchase to realize tubeless benefits.
BUY IT IF
✅ You want top-tier components for the price: Shimano 105 groupset offers 11-speed shifting, a significant upgrade over the 8 or 9 speeds typically found at this price range, offering better performance and smoother gear changes.
✅ You need reliable braking in wet conditions: TRP Spyre hybrid brakes are a step up from mechanical disc or rim brakes, providing superior stopping power and control, especially in rain or on descents.
DON’T BUY IT IF
❌ You are aiming for a tubeless setup right away: You’ll need to invest in tubeless tires as the stock tires are not tubeless-compatible to take full advantage of the tubeless-ready wheels.
❌ You prefer low-maintenance, fully sealed cable systems: External cables require more frequent cleaning and maintenance to ensure consistent shifting performance compared to internally routed systems.
It’s unusual to find a Shimano 105 R7000 groupset on a beginner road bike, but the Triban RC 520 Disc delivers exactly that. And it doesn’t compromise elsewhere: it features a modern frame design with dropped seat stays for added comfort and ample tire clearance (up to 36mm slick tires).
It also includes mounts for racks and mudguards, tubeless-ready wheels, and Decathlon provides a lifetime warranty on the frame, stem, and handlebars.
Another standout feature is the TRP HY/RD mechanical-hydraulic disc brakes. While most bikes at this price use rim or mechanical disc brakes, the HY/RD offers a notable improvement in braking power and control. Although they require slightly more upkeep and add a bit of weight, the performance benefit is worth it, especially for frequent riding in less-than-ideal weather.
The main drawbacks are its utilitarian appearance—functional but not particularly inspiring—and the external cable routing. External cables require more attention to keep them clean and well-maintained for optimal performance, although they do simplify maintenance when needed.
The Best Beginner Road Bike for Mile-Munching
Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4
(Image credit: Future)
5. Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4
The Best Beginner Road Bike for Comfortable Long-Distance Rides
Specifications
Weight: 10.55kg
Groupset: Shimano Claris
Wheels: Bontrager Paradigm SL rims on Formula Hubs
Frame Sizes: 44-61cm
Reasons to Buy
- Attractive Frame with Multiple Color Options: Good-looking frame available in various colors and an extensive size range, appealing to a broad range of beginner riders.
- 32mm Tires and Tubeless-Ready Wheels: Provides enhanced comfort and grip with wider tires and the option to upgrade to tubeless for better ride quality and puncture resistance.
- Numerous Mounting Points: Includes rack and mudguard mounts, plus top tube bag bolts, significantly increasing versatility for commuting, touring, and carrying gear.
Reasons to Avoid
- Higher Low Gear Ratio: Gearing doesn’t go as low as a 1:1 ratio, potentially making very steep climbs more challenging for some beginners.
BUY IT IF
✅ You need plenty of mounting points for accessories and gear: Rack and mudguard mounts, along with top tube bag bolts, make the Domane exceptionally versatile for commuting, touring, and carrying essentials.
✅ You require a wide range of frame sizes for optimal fit: With seven sizes from 44 to 61cm, the Domane ensures almost every rider can find a comfortable and efficient fit.
DON’T BUY IT IF
❌ You need very low gearing for steep climbs: The Domane’s lowest gear is slightly higher than a 1:1 ratio, which might be less forgiving on extremely steep inclines.
❌ You prioritize speed and agility over long-distance comfort: The Domane is designed more for endurance and comfort than outright speed, making it less ideal for aggressive, fast-paced riding.
Trek is often perceived as a higher-end brand, so a Trek bike at this price point might be surprising. However, the Trek Domane AL 2 offers excellent value, featuring a well-crafted 100 Series Alpha Aluminum frame and a carbon fork.
It’s equipped with a Shimano Claris groupset and Tektro C550 dual-piston mechanical flat mount disc brakes. Impressively, it includes comfortable 32mm tires and tubeless-ready Bontrager wheels at this price. With eight different size options, finding the perfect fit is easier than ever.
Trek offers a range of road bikes if you decide to increase your budget; explore our guide to Trek road bikes for more information.
Best Beginner Road Bike for All-Road Adventures
Marin Gestalt 2 studio image
(Image credit: Marin)
6. Marin Gestalt 2
The Best Beginner Road Bike for Light Off-Road Exploration
Specifications
Weight: Not specified
Groupset: Shimano GRX
Wheels: Marin alloy
Frame sizes: 50-60cm
Reasons to Buy
- Wide Tire Clearance: Accommodates wider tires, enhancing comfort and capability for riding on varied surfaces beyond smooth pavement.
- Carbon Fork: Reduces weight and improves vibration damping, enhancing ride quality on rougher roads and trails.
- 10-Speed Shifting: Shimano GRX offers 10-speed shifting, providing a broader gear range and smoother transitions compared to 8 or 9-speed systems often found at this price.
- Rack and Mudguard Mounts: Adds versatility for commuting, touring, and all-weather riding, making it practical for everyday use and adventures.
Reasons to Avoid
- Gestalt 2 Spec Slightly Over Budget: The higher-spec components of the Gestalt 2 may push it slightly above a strict budget for some beginner road bike shoppers.
- Low Gearing for Road Use: The GRX groupset’s lower gearing, optimized for gravel, might feel less efficient for high-speed road riding compared to road-specific gearing.
BUY IT IF
✅ You plan to venture off-road occasionally: The Shimano GRX groupset provides ample low-speed torque ideal for tackling gravel paths and trails, expanding riding possibilities beyond paved roads.
✅ You want hydraulic disc brakes for superior braking performance: Hydraulic disc brakes offer enhanced modulation and stopping power compared to mechanical or rim brakes, particularly beneficial on varied terrain and in mixed conditions.
DON’T BUY IT IF
❌ You need high gears for fast road riding: The 46x11t top gear might limit top-end speed on paved roads compared to bikes with higher gearing ratios more suited for road cycling.
❌ You are on a very strict budget: The Gestalt 2’s enhanced component spec means it’s priced slightly higher than other beginner road bikes in this guide, potentially exceeding a tight budget.
Marin Bikes are known for their adaptable and budget-friendly bikes, and the Gestalt 2 is no exception. Equipped with 35mm tires, it offers the flexibility to explore light gravel roads. While the stock tires may not be suitable for very challenging off-road conditions, they allow you to experience gravel riding and expand your cycling horizons.
It features a 10-speed Shimano GRX gravel groupset, with low gears perfect for steep climbs and trails. Shimano hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable stopping power. Mudguard and rack mounts further enhance its versatility as an all-season, all-surface bike. If the Gestalt 2 exceeds your budget, the Gestalt 1 or the base model Gestalt offer less expensive alternatives with slightly lower specs.
Best Beginner Road Bike for Off-Road Exploration
Diamondback Haanjo 2 studio image
(Image credit: Diamondback)
7. Diamondback Haanjo 2
The Best Beginner Road Bike for Gravel and Mixed-Terrain Riding
Specifications
Weight: 11.34kg (claimed)
Groupset: Shimano Claris
Wheels: Diamondback Equation rims on unbranded hubs
Frame sizes: XS/47 – XL/59
Reasons to Buy
- Exceptional Versatility: Designed as a true do-it-all bike, capable of handling road, gravel, touring, and commuting, ideal for beginners wanting one bike for everything.
- Gravel-Ready: Equipped to tackle gravel paths and trails, expanding riding possibilities beyond paved roads for adventurous beginners.
- Abundant Mounting Options: Features numerous mounting points, including on the fork, for racks, mudguards, and accessories, enhancing its utility for various types of riding and gear carrying.
Reasons to Avoid
- Heavier Build: Weighs more than some other beginner road bikes, potentially affecting climbing and acceleration performance.
- Steel Fork: Features a steel fork instead of carbon, which is generally less compliant and heavier than carbon forks found on some competitors.
BUY IT IF
✅ You prioritize versatility in a single bike: The Haanjo is designed to excel in various roles, from road riding to gravel exploration and commuting, making it a practical choice for riders needing one bike for all purposes.
✅ You prefer a comfortable, plush ride: The 40mm tires can be run at lower pressures, providing significant comfort and enhanced grip on rough surfaces, ideal for mixed-terrain riding.
DON’T BUY IT IF
❌ You are focused on low weight and high performance: The Haanjo is heavier, which might not suit riders prioritizing speed and efficiency on paved roads.
❌ You desire a carbon fork for enhanced vibration damping: The steel fork, while durable, is less effective at absorbing road vibrations compared to a carbon fork, potentially affecting comfort on longer, rougher rides.
The Diamondback Haanjo 2 is arguably also a great contender in the best budget gravel bikes category, as it’s built with significant gravel capabilities. However, it’s primarily designed as a versatile bike capable of handling multiple roles, eliminating the need for multiple bikes. If you have limited storage and need an affordable bike for road riding, commuting, touring, and occasional off-road excursions, the Haanjo is an excellent choice.
The aluminum frame is paired with a steel fork, which does contribute to its heavier weight. However, with extensive mounting options, including fork mounts, it can be customized for various setups, adapting to different riding needs.
Driven by a Shimano Claris 2×8-speed drivetrain and Tektro Lyra mechanical disc brakes, the Haanjo 2 comes standard with comfortable 40mm Vee Rubber Speedster tires. These provide a plush ride and reduced rolling resistance when fully inflated, balancing comfort and efficiency.
Best Beginner Road Bike for Upgrades
Cannondale Synapse 3 studio image
(Image credit: cannondale)
8. Cannondale Synapse 3
The Best Beginner Road Bike Designed for Future Enhancements
Specifications
Weight: Not specified
Groupset: Shimano Sora
Wheels: RD rims on Formula Hubs
Frame Sizes: 48-61cm
Reasons to Buy
- High-Quality Frame and Full Carbon Fork: Features a well-regarded Cannondale SmartForm C2 alloy frame and full carbon fork, providing a solid base for future upgrades and enhanced performance.
- Front and Rear Thru-Axles: Offers increased stiffness and better wheel alignment compared to quick-release axles, enhancing handling and control, particularly beneficial as riding skills improve.
Reasons to Avoid
- Higher Price Point: Compared to other beginner road bikes with similar components, the Synapse 3 is slightly more expensive, reflecting the brand and frame quality.
BUY IT IF
✅ You plan to upgrade components over time: Cannondale’s high-quality alloy frame is worth investing in and upgrading as your skills and budget grow, making it a future-proof choice.
✅ You value frame comfort for long rides: The SAVE technology in the frame and fork enhances compliance, making the Synapse 3 particularly comfortable for endurance riding and long distances.
DON’T BUY IT IF
❌ You are strictly budget-conscious: The Synapse 3 is priced higher than some comparable beginner road bikes, which may be a concern for riders on a tight budget.
❌ You are seeking significant off-road capability: The Synapse is optimized for road endurance and doesn’t offer the tire clearance needed for wider gravel tires, limiting its off-road versatility.
At first glance, the Cannondale Synapse 3 might seem a bit pricey in this category, but Cannondale offers a high-quality platform designed to evolve with you as a rider. The bike is built around a refined SmartForm C2 alloy frame and full carbon fork, both incorporating Cannondale’s SAVE (Synapse Active Vibration Elimination) technology for increased comfort and modern thru-axles.
The disc brakes are cable-actuated, and the frame features internal cable routing through both the frame and fork. The Shimano Sora groupset borrows technology from Shimano’s higher-end drivetrains, resulting in a reliable and efficient performance. The Vittoria Zaffiro tires, while not top-of-the-line, are from a reputable brand and come in a comfortable 28mm size for added grip and cushioning.
Explore our guide to Cannondale road bikes to see where the Synapse fits within their range.
Best Looking Beginner Road Bike
cube attain pro 2024 against a white background
(Image credit: Future)
9. Cube Attain Pro
The Best Beginner Road Bike for Style-Conscious Riders
Specifications
Weight: 10.3kg
Groupset: Shimano Claris
Wheels: Cube RA 2.3 Aero Disc
Frame Sizes: 47-62cm
Reasons to Buy
- Full Carbon Fork: Enhances the bike’s aesthetics and improves front-end compliance, contributing to a more comfortable and stylish ride.
- Color-Matched Finishing Kit: Features components that match the frame color, enhancing the bike’s overall visual appeal and premium look.
- Front and Rear Thru-Axles: Provides enhanced frame stiffness and wheel security, improving handling and responsiveness for a more confident ride.
Reasons to Avoid
- No Mudguard Mounts: Lacks mounting points for full mudguards, reducing its practicality for all-weather riding and commuting.
- Limited Tire Clearance: Frame clearance is limited to 32mm tires, restricting options for wider, more comfortable tires or gravel use.
BUY IT IF
✅ You appreciate aerodynamic features in your beginner road bike: Cube describes the frame as semi-aero, featuring a profiled downtube designed to offer aerodynamic advantages, appealing to riders interested in speed and efficiency.
✅ You prefer a complete Shimano drivetrain: Even at the 8-speed Claris level, Cube includes a full Shimano groupset, including the crankset, often substituted on budget road bikes, ensuring consistent performance and reliability.
DON’T BUY IT IF
❌ You need wider tires for rough roads or gravel: The frame’s 32mm tire limit restricts its capability on rougher surfaces compared to bikes with greater tire clearance.
❌ You require mudguards for wet weather riding: The Attain Pro does not include mounting points for traditional bolt-on mudguards, making it less practical for commuting or riding in wet conditions.
German brand Cube may not be as widely known as some road bike manufacturers, but they are recognized for their modern designs, often standing out from more conventional styles. Weighing just over 10kg, it’s impressively light for a disc brake-equipped beginner bike. The Cube Attain Pro features a full carbon fork, internal cable routing, and color-coordinated components, giving it a more premium appearance than its price suggests.
The full Shimano Claris groupset delivers excellent value at this price, offering smooth and reliable shifting performance. While Cube offers a more affordable Attain model, this Pro version provides significant upgrades that justify the extra investment, particularly in aesthetics and component quality.
How to Choose the Best Beginner Road Bike for You
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If you’re in the market for a more affordable road bike, you don’t have to compromise on quality. Most reputable brands aim to offer entry-level road bikes with quality features, perfect for those new to road cycling or seeking a budget-friendly option for commuting, perhaps alongside a higher-end bike.
Here’s what to consider when choosing the best beginner road bike:
Are Road Bikes Suitable for Beginners?
While drop handlebars, skinny tires, and clip-in pedals might seem intimidating, anyone who can ride a bike can certainly ride a road bike. Adapting to these features is usually quick, and if you’re concerned about clip-in pedals, start with flat pedals until you feel ready to switch.
Road bike tires have become wider in recent years, with many models now featuring 28mm or wider tires. This increased width provides more grip and a more comfortable ride, as wider tires allow for lower tire pressure.
How Much Should I Spend on a Beginner Road Bike?
You can find a bike at almost any price point, from very budget-friendly to extremely expensive. However, the £1,000/$1,000 mark is often considered the sweet spot where you start to find high-quality bikes that are both reliable and offer a noticeable performance advantage.
Bike prices have increased in recent years, so if your budget allows, considering bikes slightly above this price point can be worthwhile. The good news is that even beginner road bikes are now often equipped with features like disc brakes, internal cable routing, and quality finishing components.
Which Frame Material is Best for a Beginner?
Carbon fiber is the top choice for performance at the high end, while aluminum frames are more common at the entry-level. Aluminum is a perfectly good material, so don’t be discouraged. We even have a guide to the best aluminum road bikes that demonstrates their capabilities.
Aluminum bikes are generally heavier than carbon but lighter than steel. They are an excellent choice for beginners because they are more durable than carbon, won’t rust like steel, and provide a good balance of performance and practicality, even if you need to lock it up outdoors occasionally.
We advise against very cheap carbon bikes from unknown manufacturers; quality aluminum is preferable to low-grade carbon.
How Many Gears Do I Need on a Beginner Road Bike?
The number of gears depends on the groupset your bike comes with. Beginner road bikes typically feature Shimano components, which are known for reliability, durability, and ease of use and maintenance.
Higher-end bikes might have 11 or 12 speeds, while more affordable models may have 8, 9, or 10 speeds. More gears mean smaller gaps between each gear, offering finer control over your cadence.
However, more gears aren’t necessarily better for everyone. As long as the bike has a sufficient range for your local terrain, fewer gears can be more user-friendly. They are also more forgiving if you’re not meticulous about bike maintenance and simpler to learn basic maintenance on.
Are Disc Brakes Necessary for a Beginner Road Bike?
While disc brakes are becoming standard across most price ranges, they haven’t completely taken over entry-level road bikes. Disc brakes are generally superior, especially in wet conditions, but rim brakes have been used effectively for decades and are still perfectly adequate.
A useful tip is to invest in quality brake pads for rim brakes, which can significantly improve their performance.
What Components Should I Prioritize on a Beginner Road Bike?
When buying a bike within a budget, there will always be trade-offs. A higher-quality frame might come with lower-spec components, which can be upgraded later. Conversely, a less expensive frame might be paired with slightly better components.
If component quality is a priority, consider direct-to-consumer brands like Ribble or Canyon. They often offer better value by cutting out the traditional retail middleman. Just ensure you are confident about your bike sizing before purchasing.
What Else Should Beginners Look For in a Road Bike?
If this is your first road bike, and you plan to ride year-round, mudguard mounts are very practical. If you intend to commute, the ability to add a pannier rack is also beneficial. This versatility also allows for light touring if you wish.
Don’t forget to budget for essential accessories like a helmet, lights, and a pump. Quality cycling shorts can also significantly improve comfort, especially on longer rides.
How Much Maintenance Does a Beginner Road Bike Need?
For your first bike, the most crucial tip is: keep it clean! A clean bike is a happy bike—it will save you money, perform better, and keep you cleaner. We have guides on how to clean your bike and how to choose the best bike chain lube to keep your chain running smoothly after cleaning.
Once your bike is running smoothly, consider bike insurance and a good bike lock for added security and peace of mind.
What Are the Key Differences Between Budget and High-End Bicycles?
There are numerous differences between budget and high-end bikes, but remember that no matter the price, you still need to pedal and put in effort.
Cheaper bikes typically have heavier frames made from aluminum or steel. You might still get a carbon fiber fork, similar to higher-end models. Components will be heavier and may not offer the same level of durability or performance. You’ll generally see less advanced technology and fewer features like integrated suspension, storage solutions, or electronic components.
The main advice is to avoid the very cheapest road bikes, as they often represent false economy in terms of lifespan and serviceability. They also typically don’t provide a very enjoyable riding experience.
