Buying a new road bike can feel overwhelming. The market is saturated with options across every budget. This abundance, while seemingly positive, can quickly lead to confusion. But don’t worry, we’re here to simplify the process.
At usabikers.net, we’ve rigorously tested countless road bikes, from entry-level models perfect for beginners to high-performance superbikes used in professional races, often with prices reaching five figures. This extensive testing allows us to deeply understand the subtle details that define a road bike’s quality. More importantly, we can guide you through the crucial aspects, from frame materials to tube shapes and components, that contribute to a bike’s overall performance and ride experience.
If you’re on a tight budget, you might want to explore our guide to the best budget road bikes. For those seeking ultimate performance, our Race Bike of the Year 2024 awards highlight top contenders. And if you prefer venturing beyond paved roads, our best gravel bikes guide is a valuable resource. Otherwise, continue reading for our expert selections of the Top Ranked Road Bikes available in 2024.
Quick Picks: Top Ranked Road Bikes
Specialized Allez 2023 road bikeSpecialized Allez: Top Ranked Entry-Level Road Bike1. Specialized Allez
Top Ranked Entry-Level Road Bike Overall
The Specialized Allez, a classic for decades, is now updated with modern disc brakes and generous tire clearance. Its balanced geometry ensures a comfortable ride.
Cannondale CAAD13 Disc road bikeCannondale CAAD13 Disc: Top Ranked Entry-Level Road Bike for Racing2. Cannondale CAAD13 Disc
Top Ranked Entry-Level Road Bike for Racing
The Cannondale CAAD13 Disc proves alloy bikes can excel in racing, offering a lightweight, stiff, yet comfortable ride comparable to many carbon models at this price point.
Giant Contend SL 1 road bikeGiant Contend SL1: Top Ranked Entry-Level Road Bike for Value3. Giant Contend SL1
Top Ranked Entry-Level Road Bike for Value
Prioritizing comfort for long rides, the Giant Contend SL1 offers excellent rear-end compliance and a well-rounded specification, making it a top value choice.
Cervelo S5 race bikeCervelo S5: Top Ranked Superbike Overall4. Cervelo S5
Top Ranked Superbike Overall
A Tour de France proven machine, the Cervelo S5 is a true racing thoroughbred. Its aerodynamic design, precise handling, and surprising comfort over long distances, enhanced by wider tire clearance, make it a top superbike.
Giant Propel Advanced Pro 1 road bikeGiant Propel Advanced SL: Top Ranked Value Superbike5. Giant Propel Advanced SL
Top Ranked Value Superbike
Giant consistently delivers exceptional value, and the latest Propel, especially in its more affordable models, is no exception in the superbike category.
Explore the Propel Advanced SL
Trek Madone SLR 7 aero road bikeTrek Madone: Top Ranked Aero Superbike6. Trek Madone
Top Ranked Aero Superbike
Featuring a revolutionary frameset with IsoFlow technology and an aerodynamically optimized cockpit, the new Trek Madone is not only visually striking but incredibly fast, earning its place as a top aero superbike.
Top Ranked Road Bikes We Recommend
Entry-Level Top Ranked Road Bikes
Top Ranked Entry-Level Road Bike Overall
Specialized Allez Disc on a yellow background
The Specialized Allez now features disc brakes and increased tire clearance, enhancing its versatility.
(Image credit: Future)
1. Specialized Allez
Top Ranked Entry-Level Road Bike Overall
Our Expert Review:
Key Specifications
- Frame: Specialized E5 Premium alloy
- Groupset: Shimano Claris
- Wheels: Axis Sport alloy
- Weight: 10.0kg / 22lbs (claimed)
Reasons to Buy
- Excellent ride quality for its class
- Simple and straightforward setup
- Versatile for various riding styles
- Adaptable ride characteristics
Reasons to Avoid
- Price point may be higher than some competitors
- Mechanical disc brakes lack the power of hydraulic systems
Specialized’s updated Allez for 2023 replaces rim brakes with disc brakes, allowing for significantly increased tire clearance up to 35mm (or 32mm with fenders). This upgrade dramatically improves ride comfort and broadens the Allez’s capabilities to include light gravel riding, expanding its usability beyond smooth pavement.
During our testing, we appreciated this newfound versatility. The Allez even includes rack mounts, making it suitable for light touring or commuting. Crucially, it retains a sporty character; with a lowered stem, we found it to be a quick and responsive bike.
The base model features Shimano Claris 8-speed shifting and mechanical disc brakes. While Claris offers reliable performance, the gear jumps on the 11-32t cassette are noticeable, and the mechanical disc brakes, as expected, don’t match the stopping power of hydraulic systems.
The current Allez lineup includes two main models (plus the Allez Sprint). The higher-spec Allez Sport offers 10-speed shifting and hydraulic disc brakes, but comes with a considerable price increase for what is otherwise a similar build to the base model.
Upgrading the wheelset would significantly enhance performance, but overall, the Specialized Allez is a solid package for the price, making it a strong contender among the best entry-level road bikes we’ve tested.
Read more: Specialized Allez first ride review
Top Ranked Entry-Level Road Bike for Racing
Caad 13 Disc
Cannondale’s expertise in alloy frame construction is evident in the CAAD13 Disc.
(Image credit: Future)
2. Cannondale CAAD13 Disc 105
Top Ranked Entry-Level Road Bike for Racing
Our Expert Review:
Key Specifications
- Frame: SmartForm C1 Premium Alloy
- Groupset: Shimano 105
- Wheels: RD 2.0 alloy
- Weight: 9.0kg / 19.9lb
Reasons to Buy
- Versatile performance capabilities
- High-quality frame ride feel
- Excellent component specification
Reasons to Avoid
- None noted in testing
Cannondale has a long-standing reputation for producing high-performance alloy frames, and the CAAD13 Disc continues this legacy. Its geometry, relatively long and low, is inspired by the professional-grade carbon SuperSix EVO, sharing identical stack and reach figures. A size 54cm, for instance, has a stack height of 55.5cm and a reach of 38.4cm.
Aerodynamic tube profiles are also borrowed from Cannondale’s WorldTour bikes. Our testing revealed that this combination results in exceptional handling and a smooth ride quality that closely resembles that of a carbon frameset. While our test model was a higher-spec version with upgraded wheels and tires, enhancing the experience, the underlying frame quality shines through.
Even at lower price points, the CAAD13 Disc remains an accessible entry into performance road cycling, featuring a frame that riders are unlikely to outgrow. We believe it’s a worthy platform for future upgrades, whether wheels or groupset.
Even more ‘affordable’ CAAD13 models come equipped with a Shimano 105 hydraulic groupset and an RS510 crankset, paired with DT Swiss R470 rims and Formula hubs – all dependable components. A Tiagra-equipped version is also available below this spec, and for those who prefer rim brakes, the CAAD13 is offered with caliper brakes as well.
The CAAD13’s extensive size range, from 44cm to 62cm with six sizes in between, is a significant advantage. This broad range, combined with various build options, makes the CAAD13 accessible to a wide range of riders and budgets.
The only minor drawback we noted was the somewhat tall front-end stack height. While easily adjustable, lowering it requires cutting down the head tube to avoid an unsightly stack of spacers above the stem.
Read more: Cannondale CAAD13 Disc full review
Top Ranked Entry-Level Road Bike for Value
Giant Contend SL1
The Giant Contend SL1 stands out as a high-quality, value-oriented entry-level road bike.
(Image credit: Cycling Weekly)
3. Giant Contend SL1
Top Ranked Entry-Level Road Bike for Value
Our Expert Review:
Key Specifications
- Frame: ALUXX SL-Grade alloy
- Groupset: Shimano 105
- Wheels: Giant P-R2 alloy
- Weight: 9.0kg / 19.9lbs
Reasons to Buy
- Competitive price point
- Comfortable and compliant ride quality
- Confident and predictable handling
Reasons to Avoid
- Not the lightest in its category
The Giant Contend SL1 incorporates features from Giant’s higher-end models, featuring a compact alloy frame with a sloping top tube. The D-Fuse seatpost and carbon fork are specifically designed to enhance compliance in the rear and front, respectively. Combined with endurance-focused frame geometry, this results in excellent comfort and handling, encouraging longer rides with increased confidence.
We were particularly impressed by the Contend SL1’s ability to absorb road vibrations, a quality not always present in aluminum frames. This, paired with its sensible geometry—a longer wheelbase for stability and a taller stack height—and generous tire clearance (up to 34mm), firmly positions it in the endurance category, ready for comfortable mile accumulation. For an entry-level road bike, this approach is ideal, catering to a broader range of riders compared to more aggressive, race-oriented positions.
While the Contend SL hasn’t seen recent updates, both rim and disc brake versions remain available. Both versions are equipped with Shimano’s reliable 105 groupset and a Shimano RS510 chainset, with Tektro calipers on the rim brake model and 105 hydraulic brakes on the disc version.
Reflecting both its entry-level and endurance design, the Contend SL1 offers ample low gearing, reaching a 1:1 ratio for tackling climbs, while Shimano 105 ensures consistent shifting performance. While not the lightest bike in its class, which slightly impacts its agility, it delivers exceptional value for its price and is a genuine top contender in the entry-level road bike segment.
Read more: Giant Contend full review
Top Ranked Road Bike for Versatility
Vitus Venon Evo 105 Di2 road bike on a pink background
The Vitus Venon Evo is designed for versatility, available in both road and gravel configurations.
(Image credit: Future)
4. Vitus Venon Evo-RS
Top Ranked Road Bike for Versatility
Our Expert Review:
Key Specifications
- Frame: Venon Evo Carbon
- Groupset: Shimano 105 Di2
- Wheels: Prime Attaquer alloy
- Weight: 7.8kg / 17.2lbs
Reasons to Buy
- Endurance-oriented geometry ideal for long rides
- Versatile frame accommodates fenders
- Wide tire clearance for 28-45mm tires
- Gravel-capable handling (in GR spec)
Reasons to Avoid
- 28mm tires may appear narrow given frame clearance
While versatility has long been appreciated in road bikes, the category’s evolution has led to increasing specialization. Many bikes are now designed for specific purposes, such as aerodynamic race machines or ultra-lightweight climbers.
Vitus takes a different approach with the Venon Evo, creating a bike designed for multiple roles. Its standout feature is its 45mm tire clearance, allowing it to venture beyond paved roads. The same frame is also available in gravel-specific builds (GR suffix), including the Vitus Venon Evo-GR we’ve also reviewed.
The carbon frame weighs under 1kg and incorporates significant compliance. Road-oriented models are equipped with Michelin Power Cup 28mm tubeless tires on Prime Attaquer alloy wheels. We tested the 105 Di2 version of the Venon Evo, but the range includes various electronic and mechanical groupset options from Shimano and SRAM.
In our road testing, the Venon Evo delivered a balanced ride, feeling firm yet comfortable. Adding to its versatility, hidden fender mounts make it a practical choice for year-round riding.
Read more: Vitus Venon Evo-RS full review
Top Ranked Superbikes
Top Ranked Superbike Overall
Cervélo S5 on a yellow background
The Cervélo S5 expertly balances aerodynamic speed with comfortable ride quality and responsive handling.
(Image credit: Future)
1. Cervélo S5
Top Ranked Superbike Overall
Our Expert Review:
Key Specifications
- Frame: S5 Carbon
- Groupset: SRAM Force AXS
- Wheels: Reserve 52/63
- Weight: 8.2kg / 18.0lbs
Reasons to Buy
- Exceptional straight-line speed
- Precise and responsive handling
- Surprising comfort for an aero bike
- Improved handlebar ergonomics
Reasons to Avoid
- Heavier than some other aero bikes
We rated the Cervélo S5 highly for its incredible straight-line speed, coupled with impressive cornering and overall ride quality. Its handling is a standout feature among aero bikes: quick to react to steering inputs yet never feeling unstable or twitchy.
We were also impressed with the Reserve wheels, featuring a 52mm depth at the front and 63mm at the rear. Their 24.4mm internal width significantly enhanced tire comfort (our 28mm Vittoria Corsa tires inflated to over 31mm), improved cornering stability, and increased grip.
The S5’s main drawback is its weight; at over 8kg, it’s not the lightest bike, approximately 1kg heavier than the Scott Foil, for example. However, the exceptional ride quality of the S5 effectively compensates for the added weight, even on moderately steep climbs.
Superbikes are primarily engineered for professional racers, and the Cervélo S5’s racing pedigree is undeniable. Its victories include the 2022 and 2023 Tour de France yellow jerseys, the 2022 TdF green jersey, and numerous one-day race wins. These victories, while highlighting the talents of riders like Jonas Vingegaard and Wout van Aert, also underscore the S5’s versatility across diverse race stages and conditions. For us, this reinforces our experience riding the bike – it’s an exceptionally well-rounded race machine.
Read more: Cervélo S5 full review
Top Ranked Value Superbike
Giant Propel on a orange background.
The Giant Propel offers significant performance and features for its price point.
(Image credit: Future)
2. Giant Propel
Top Ranked Value Superbike
Our Expert Review:
Key Specifications
- Frame: Giant Propel Advanced Pro
- Groupset: SRAM Rival AXS
- Wheels: Giant SLR 1
- Weight: 8.5kg / 18.6lbs
Reasons to Buy
- Aerodynamically efficient design
- Smooth and comfortable ride
- Integrated power meter included
- Excellent value for money
Reasons to Avoid
- Slightly heavier compared to some superbikes
The latest Giant Propel has been redesigned with a slimmer frameset compared to previous versions, reducing weight and improving comfort while reportedly enhancing aerodynamics by 6.2 watts at 40kph.
Adjustability has also been improved with a new two-piece bar and stem setup, without compromising aerodynamic performance. Cables are routed neatly through the handlebars and under the channeled stem before entering the frame, creating a clean and aerodynamic aesthetic.
Giant has adjusted the Propel’s geometry to more closely resemble its TCR climbing bike, resulting in a more responsive ride. Maximum tire clearance is 32mm. We found the overall result to be a fast yet stable bike, with the thinner tubes performing better in crosswinds than aero bikes with deeper profiles. Comfort levels impressed us as well, with wider tires and a well-designed front end effectively minimizing road vibrations.
While we tested the Rival AXS build, the best value is arguably found in the entry-level Propel models, which outperform other bikes in our Race Bike of the Year awards in terms of value.
Read more: Giant Propel Advanced Pro 1 full review
Top Ranked Aero Superbike
Trek Madone SL7 Gen 7 on a pink background
The Trek Madone SL7 Gen 7 is engineered for exceptional aerodynamic performance.
(Image credit: Future)
3. Trek Madone SL7 Gen 7
Top Ranked Aero Superbike
Our Expert Review:
Key Specifications
- Frame: Madone Gen 7
- Groupset: Shimano Ultegra
- Wheels: Bontrager Aeolus Pro 51
- Weight: 7.5kg / 16.5lbs
Reasons to Buy
- Exceptionally smooth ride quality
- Lightweight for an aero-focused bike
- Striking and modern aesthetics
Reasons to Avoid
- High price point
- Limited adjustability in cockpit
- No power meter included
The Trek Madone Gen 7 has achieved weight reduction, shedding 300g. This is largely due to replacing the IsoSpeed system with new IsoFlow technology. This design results in a visually distinctive frame, featuring a unique cutout under the saddle, supported by a seatpost cantilevered over the rear of the frame.
This innovation contributes to half of the 20-watt aerodynamic improvement over the previous Madone model. The other half comes from the redesigned handlebars, which position the hands 30mm closer together on the tops for a more aerodynamic riding posture. For example, a 42cm bar measures 39cm at the hoods and 42cm at the drops. Trek offers 14 different cockpit configurations to fine-tune rider position.
In testing, the Madone Gen 7 proved to be incredibly stable and confident, offering excellent handling and a comfortable ride, in addition to its impressive straight-line speed. It’s also light for an aero bike, with our test model weighing in at 7.5kg. Like many superbikes, the primary drawback for most riders is the high cost; the Madone sits firmly in the expensive category, reaching five figures even with a second-tier Ultegra groupset.
Read more: Trek Madone SL7 Gen 7 full review
Top Ranked Climbing Superbike
Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod 2 on a pink background
The Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod excels as a top ranked bike for climbing and all-around racing.
(Image credit: Future)
4. Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod 2
Top Ranked Climbing Superbike
Our Expert Review:
Key Specifications
- Frame: SuperSix Hi Mod
- Groupset: Shimano Ultegra
- Wheels: HollowGram R-SL
- Weight: 7.3kg / 16.1lbs
Reasons to Buy
- Extremely stiff and responsive frame
- Stable and predictable handling, yet quick and agile
- Aerodynamically efficient for a climbing bike
Reasons to Avoid
- Slightly reduced compliance for longer rides
This fourth-generation Cannondale SuperSix Evo features subtle yet significant updates from its predecessor, enhancing both aerodynamics and reducing weight. Notable changes include a more aggressively sloping top tube and lowered seat stays.
Tire clearance has been increased to accommodate up to 34mm tires. Additionally, the press-fit bottom bracket has been replaced with a BSA 68mm threaded bottom bracket – a feature many mechanics and home-maintainers appreciate for its ease of maintenance. These changes contribute to a claimed frame weight of just 770g, making it the lightest in our Race Bike of the Year awards last year.
We found the latest SuperSix Evo to be better than ever. It’s incredibly fast and maintains speed effectively thanks to its 50mm deep aero wheelset. Equally, it excels as a climber, with its low weight and optimized geometry for out-of-saddle efforts. Descending performance is equally impressive.
We did observe a slight reduction in comfort over very long distances compared to bikes like the Cervélo S5 – a common characteristic of stiff, lightweight race bikes.
Cannondale typically offers a well-considered range of models and price points for its bikes, and the SuperSix Evo is no exception, offering various builds to suit different budgets and performance needs.
Read more: Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod 2 full review
Swipe to scroll horizontally
| Bike | Frame Material | Groupset | Tire Clearance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Specialized Allez | Aluminum | Shimano Claris | 35mm |
| Cannondale CAAD13 Disc 105 | Aluminum | Shimano 105 | 30mm |
| Giant Contend SL1 | Aluminum | Shimano 105 | 28mm |
| Vitus Venon Evo-RS | Carbon | Shimano 105 Di2 | 40mm |
| Cervélo S5 | Carbon | SRAM Force AXS | 35mm |
| Giant Propel | Carbon | SRAM Rival AXS | 30mm |
| Trek Madone Gen 7 SL 7 | Carbon | Shimano Ultegra | 28mm |
| Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod 2 | Carbon | Shimano Ultegra | 34mm |
How to Choose the Top Ranked Road Bike for You
Race vs. Endurance Geometry: Understanding the Difference
A crucial decision when selecting a top ranked road bike is determining your primary riding style and goals. Are you focused on speed and racing, or do you prioritize comfort for leisurely rides and long distances?
Geometry is the defining factor. A dedicated race bike will position you in a more aggressive, bent-over posture, lowering your upper body over the handlebars. This position is aerodynamically advantageous, reducing wind resistance for speed, but can be less comfortable, especially for beginners or longer rides.
Conversely, endurance or sportive bikes are designed for a more upright riding position, with handlebars positioned higher and closer to the saddle. This enhances comfort for extended rides but may slightly reduce aerodynamic efficiency.
If you frequently ride on hilly terrain or plan to tackle mountainous regions like the Alps, a lightweight bike will be highly beneficial. However, if your riding is primarily on flatter roads at higher speeds, aerodynamics become a more critical factor. And for racing, the sharper, more responsive handling of a race bike is generally preferred over the more stable handling of an endurance model.
Increasingly, bikes are designed to handle varied terrain, including light off-road use. A gravel bike offers wider tires and lower gearing for off-pavement adventures. However, many modern endurance or all-road bikes now feature ample tire clearance and wide-range gearing, allowing them to tackle a broader spectrum of routes.
Budget Considerations for Top Ranked Road Bikes
Your budget is a significant factor in choosing a road bike. Consider not only the initial purchase price but also long-term costs like replacing worn parts, routine servicing, and potential upgrades. The price difference between entry-level mechanical components and top-tier electronic groupsets is substantial.
Component specifications vary significantly between manufacturers. Direct-to-consumer brands (e.g., Canyon, Ribble) and in-house brands (Vitus at Wiggle, Boardman at Halfords) often offer more competitive pricing. Here’s a general guide to expect at different price points:
£750 – £999 / $1000 – $1500
- Aluminum frame with carbon fork
- Aluminum seatpost and handlebar/stem
- Shimano Sora or Claris level shifting
- Aluminum wheels
- Rim brakes
£1000 – £2000 / $1500 – $2500
- Aluminum frame with carbon fork and Shimano 105 level components OR
- Carbon frame and fork with Shimano Tiagra level shifting
- Aluminum wheels, seatpost, and handlebar/stem
- Disc or rim brakes
£2000 – £3500 / $2500 – $4000
- Carbon frame and fork
- Shimano 105 (lower end) or Ultegra (higher end) groupset
- Aluminum or carbon rims
- Carbon seatpost
- Aluminum handlebars and stem
- Hydraulic disc brakes
£3500 – £5000/ $4000 – $6000
- Carbon or titanium frame and fork
- Shimano Ultegra or SRAM AXS eTap groupset
- Carbon seatpost
- Aluminum bar/stem
- Carbon rims
£5000 – £10,000 / $6,000 – $12,000
- Carbon frame and fork
- Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 or SRAM Red AXS eTap
- 50mm+ deep carbon wheels
- Carbon bars and stem
£10,000+ / $12,000+
- Top-tier carbon frame and fork (stiffer, lighter)
- 50mm+ deep carbon wheels
- One-piece carbon bar/stem
- Shimano Dura-Ace, SRAM Red AXS, or Campagnolo Super Record Wireless
- Power meter standard
Frame Materials for Top Ranked Road Bikes
Frame material significantly differentiates bikes across price ranges. Bikes under $/£1000 typically use aluminum alloy, welded tube construction. Aluminum is also used in higher-end bikes, offering a strong and lightweight option.
More expensive bikes commonly use carbon fiber. Carbon fibers provide strength and are bonded with resin. The type of fiber and layup determine ride quality. Higher-end bikes use high-modulus carbon fiber, reducing weight without compromising strength.
Titanium is another premium material, lightweight, strong, and resistant to rust and fatigue. Steel tubing, the traditional frame material, is still used, offering robustness and a distinct ride feel, although heavier than other options.
Consider the fork material as well. Many bikes feature all-carbon forks or carbon blades with an alloy steerer, which effectively absorb road vibrations for a more comfortable ride. Some budget bikes may have alloy or steel forks.
Choosing the Right Size Top Ranked Road Bike
Proper bike size is essential for comfort and performance. Bikes come in various sizes, and manufacturers provide rider height ranges for each size.
You should feel comfortable on the bike and be able to stand over the frame with both feet flat on the ground, without the top tube pressing against you.
Frame geometry charts provide detailed dimensions, including reach and stack. Stack height indicates vertical height from the bottom bracket to the top of the head tube; higher stack means a more upright position. Reach measures horizontal distance from the bottom bracket to the head tube; shorter reach also results in a more upright position. Race bikes generally have lower stack heights than endurance models.
A professional bike fit is highly recommended to ensure optimal setup and prevent injury. While it involves an additional cost, some bike shops offer discounts or free fits with bike purchases. A bike fit optimizes saddle and handlebar position for efficient and comfortable riding. Consider it a worthwhile investment.
Cyclist getting bike fit for best road bike
A professional bike fit is crucial for maximizing comfort and performance on your top ranked road bike.
(Image credit: Picasa)
Aero Road Bikes: Do You Need One?
Bike manufacturers emphasize aerodynamic performance, particularly on higher-end models, citing wind tunnel testing and time savings. Historically, aero frames were heavier than traditional round-tube frames, but the best aero bikes are now often as light as non-aero counterparts.
However, approximately 80% of wind resistance comes from the rider, not the bike. Advertised time savings are typically measured at around 45kph/28mph. Wind resistance increases exponentially with speed; at half that speed, drag is reduced to one-eighth, diminishing the impact of aero features for slower riders.
Gearing Options for Top Ranked Road Bikes
Gears are second only to the frame in importance. High-end road bikes often feature 12-speed cassettes, providing 24 potential gears with a double chainring. Remember that some gear ratios are duplicated across different chainring/cassette combinations.
More affordable road bikes typically have fewer gears, ranging from 8-speed to 10-speed cassettes, usually paired with double chainrings.
Shimano is the most common groupset brand, with SRAM and Campagnolo as other major options. Shimano’s top groupsets—Dura-Ace, Ultegra, and 105—feature 12-speed cassettes, while more budget-friendly options include 10-speed Tiagra, 9-speed Sora, or 8-speed Claris.
SRAM and Campagnolo also offer 12-speed options in their top-tier road bike groupsets. All three brands offer electronic shifting in addition to mechanical systems.
Cassette and Derailleur showing gears of best road bike
Wider range cassettes are essential for tackling hilly routes on top ranked road bikes.
(Image credit: PHILIPP FORSTNER)
Best Gear Ratios for Road Bikes
When choosing a new road bike, consider the gearing in relation to your typical riding terrain. If you’ve already selected a bike category suited to your riding style, the gear selection is likely appropriate.
Race bikes may have a traditional gearing setup, such as a 53/39 tooth chainset with an 11-30 tooth cassette.
Endurance or sportive bikes often feature a compact chainset (e.g., 50/34) and a wider-range cassette (30, 32, 34, or even 36 teeth as the largest cog). Lower gears facilitate climbing steep hills and encourage higher cadence. However, this can result in larger gaps between gear ratios.
SRAM offers eTap AXS groupsets with 48/35, 46/33, and 43/30t chainsets. Paired with 10-tooth start cassettes, they provide similar high-end gear ratios to traditional 11-tooth systems but offer a wider low-end range for easier climbing and reduced need for front derailleur shifts on undulating roads.
Electronic Shifting components on a top ranked road bike
Electronic shifting is becoming increasingly common on higher-specification top ranked road bikes.
Electronic vs. Mechanical Shifting: Is Electronic Worth It?
While mechanical groupsets are still available from Shimano, SRAM, and Campagnolo, electronic shifting has become increasingly prevalent in recent years. Electronic systems use motors to shift derailleurs instead of traditional cables.
Major electronic systems include Shimano Di2, Campagnolo Wireless, and SRAM eTap AXS, all offering 12-speed options.
Mechanical and electronic systems have trade-offs. Mechanical components are generally less expensive and lighter than electronic counterparts and are often easier to repair.
Electronic shifting offers consistently reliable gear changes, unaffected by cable tension. The push-button ease of shifting can be particularly beneficial for riders with hand injuries.
Electronic systems can be customized via apps, allowing features like multi-gear shifting. However, they are more expensive, increasing the overall bike cost, and require battery charging.
Rim vs. Disc Brakes on Top Ranked Road Bikes
Disc brakes have largely become standard on road bikes, with only the most budget-oriented models still commonly using rim brakes. However, rim brake bikes are still available, primarily at the extreme ends of the price spectrum.
Disc brakes generally offer more consistent braking performance in all weather conditions, improved modulation, and greater stopping power. They are heavier than rim brakes, but frame weight reductions have largely offset this difference.
Most disc brake bikes use hydraulic calipers, although mechanical disc brakes are found on some lower-priced models. Disc brakes have become increasingly affordable, making them accessible even on mid-range bikes.
Disc brakes on a road bike wheel
Disc brakes are a standard feature on most modern top ranked road bikes, offering superior stopping power and consistency.
Carbon vs. Alloy Wheels for Road Bikes
Road bike wheels are typically 700c, though smaller 650b sizes are used on some smaller frames. Both carbon and alloy options are available.
Carbon fiber rims are used in most high-quality road bike wheelsets. Carbon rims are lighter and can be made deeper for aerodynamic benefits. Carbon’s versatility allows manufacturers to create rims optimized for various riding styles.
Alloy rims are generally more affordable and commonly found on complete road bikes. They are usually heavier than carbon rims, though lightweight alloy options exist.
Wheels are often a component where manufacturers economize, even on higher-end bikes. Consider whether wheel upgrades will be necessary to maximize your new bike’s performance. You can always retain the original wheelset for winter or training use.
Tire Width for Top Ranked Road Bikes
Road bike tire options were once limited by frame clearance, with 23mm tires being common and 25mm considered wide.
Today, road bikes increasingly feature wider tires, largely due to the prevalence of disc brakes. Even race bikes often have clearance for 28mm to 32mm tires, and endurance bikes may accommodate even wider sizes. Even if your new bike comes with 25mm or 28mm tires, it likely has clearance for wider options.
Wider tires allow for lower tire pressures, improving comfort and grip. Wider tires can be as fast as or faster than narrower tires.
Wheels and tires are increasingly tubeless-ready. Tubeless setups, using sealant and eliminating inner tubes, reduce puncture risk and enhance grip and ride comfort. Tubeless tires are generally faster as well.
Wider road bike tires for comfort
Wider tires on top ranked road bikes allow for lower pressures, enhancing comfort and grip on various road surfaces.
Meet the Testers
Simon Smythe
Simon is a highly experienced cycling tech journalist, contributing to Cycling Weekly since 2003 and previously serving as Senior Tech Writer. His cycling background is primarily in time trialing, with national-level achievements. As a reviewer, Simon has ridden and evaluated a vast array of road bikes, from elite aero models to budget-friendly options.
Stefan Abram
Stefan is a former National Single-Speed Cross-Country Mountain Biking Champion who transitioned to road cycling. He quickly progressed in road racing, earning his 2nd cat license in his first season and completing challenging endurance rides like the South Downs Double and Everesting.
How We Test Top Ranked Road Bikes
Our Testing Methodology
At usabikers.net, our dedicated team of testers rigorously reviews a wide range of cycling products, providing objective assessments based on extensive real-world use across diverse conditions.
Our testers possess significant experience, enabling them to effectively compare products, identify strengths and weaknesses, and deliver unbiased performance evaluations.
When testing road bikes, we accumulate hundreds of miles, evaluating numerous factors to assess overall performance. We consider the bike’s intended purpose—aero race, lightweight climber, or endurance model—along with broader aspects like build quality, component specifications, durability, and value for money.
