Buying a new road bike can feel like navigating a maze. The market is brimming with options, catering to every budget and riding style. With so many choices, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, if not a little lost. But don’t worry, we’re here to simplify the process and guide you towards the ideal bike for your needs.
We’ve rigorously tested a vast array of road bikes, from beginner-friendly models perfect for those new to road cycling to high-performance superbikes ridden by professional racers, often carrying a hefty price tag. This extensive testing experience gives us a deep understanding of the nuances within the road bike category. More importantly, we can clearly explain the factors that contribute to a bike’s ride quality, from the frame material and tube shapes to the components.
If you’re on a tight budget or looking for the most affordable options, be sure to check out our guide to the best cheap road bikes. For those seeking top-tier racing machines, our Race Bike of the Year (RBOTY) 2024 awards highlight the very best. And if your adventures lean towards mixed terrain, our guide to the best gravel bikes is worth exploring. Otherwise, continue reading for our curated selection of the best road bikes available in 2024, helping you find the perfect good road bike.
Top Road Bike Picks at a Glance
Specialized Allez 2023 road bikeSpecialized Allez road bike for entry-level cyclists
1. Specialized Allez – Best Entry-Level Road Bike Overall
The Allez, a classic name in road cycling, continues to impress in its latest iteration. Now featuring disc brakes and ample tire clearance, it offers a comfortable and versatile ride for newcomers.
Cannondale CAAD13 Disc road bikeCannondale CAAD13 Disc, a top entry-level racing road bike
2. Cannondale CAAD13 Disc – Best Entry-Level Road Bike for Racing
Don’t underestimate alloy! The CAAD13 Disc is light, stiff, and surprisingly smooth, rivalling many carbon bikes in its price range, making it a great choice for aspiring racers.
Discover the Racing Prowess of the CAAD13
Giant Contend SL 1 road bikeGiant Contend SL1 road bike, offering excellent value for beginners
3. Giant Contend SL1 – Best Entry-Level Road Bike for Value
Prioritizing comfort for longer rides? The Contend SL1 delivers a compliant rear end and impressive components, making it an exceptional value proposition for endurance-focused cyclists.
Learn More About the Value-Packed Contend SL1
Cervelo S5 race bikeCervelo S5, the overall winner of Race Bike of the Year awards
4. Cervelo S5 – RBOTY 2023: Overall Winner / Best Superbike Overall
A Tour de France caliber machine, the S5 is a purebred race bike. Aerodynamic, agile, and surprisingly comfortable for long distances thanks to its wider tire clearance.
Uncover the Winning Formula of the Cervelo S5
Giant Propel Advanced Pro 1 road bikeGiant Propel Advanced SL, recognized for best value among superbikes5. Giant Propel Advanced SL – RBOTY 2023: Best Value / Best Value Superbike
Giant consistently offers exceptional value, and the latest Propel is no exception, particularly in its more affordable models, delivering superbike performance without the superbike price tag.
Explore the Value and Performance of the Giant Propel
Trek Madone SLR 7 aero road bikeTrek Madone, the ultimate aero road bike for speed enthusiasts
6. Trek Madone – RBOTY 2023: Best Aero Bike / Best Aero Superbike
Featuring a revolutionary frameset with IsoFlow technology and an aerodynamically optimized cockpit, the new Madone is visually striking and incredibly fast, setting a new standard for aero road bikes.
Discover the Aerodynamic Innovation of the Trek Madone
Cycling Weekly’s Top Road Bike Reviews
Entry-Level Road Bikes: Great Starting Points
Best Entry-Level Road Bike: Overall Pick
Specialized Allez Disc on a yellow background
The Specialized Allez Disc, now equipped with disc brakes and enhanced tire clearance, ideal for versatile road riding.
(Image credit: Future)
1. Specialized Allez
Best entry-level road bike overall
Read our expert review
Key Specifications
- Frame: Specialized E5 Premium alloy
- Groupset: Shimano Claris
- Wheels: Axis Sport alloy
- Weight: 10.0kg / 22lbs (claimed)
Reasons to Choose the Allez
- Exceptional ride quality for its category
- Simple and straightforward setup
- Versatile for various riding styles
- Adjustable ride characteristics
Potential Downsides
- Price point may be slightly higher than some competitors
- Mechanical disc brakes may lack the power of hydraulic systems
Specialized’s updated Allez for 2023 makes a significant leap forward by incorporating disc brakes, replacing the rim brakes of previous models. This upgrade allows for substantially increased tire clearance, now accommodating up to 35mm tires, or 32mm with mudguards. This enhancement dramatically improves ride comfort and expands the Allez’s capabilities to include light gravel paths, no longer limiting it to perfectly smooth roads.
During our testing, we greatly appreciated this newfound versatility. The Allez even includes rack mounts, making it suitable for light touring or commuting. Crucially, the Allez retains its sporty character. With a slammed stem, we found it to be a quick and enjoyable bike to ride.
The base model features Shimano Claris 8-speed shifting and mechanical disc brakes. While Claris provides reliable performance, the gear ratios on the 11-32t cassette have noticeable jumps. Also, as anticipated, the mechanical disc brakes don’t quite match the stopping power of hydraulic systems.
The Allez range currently includes two main models (along with the Allez Sprint). The higher-spec Allez Sport upgrades to 10-speed shifting and hydraulic disc brakes, but this comes with a significant price increase for what is otherwise a similar overall package to the base model.
Upgrading the wheelset would noticeably improve performance, but overall, the Allez is a well-rounded package for the price. It stands as a strong contender against other top cheap road bikes we’ve evaluated.
Learn more: Specialized Allez first ride review
Best Entry-Level Road Bike for Racing Performance
Caad 13 Disc
Cannondale’s expertise in crafting high-performance alloy bike frames is clearly demonstrated in the CAAD13 Disc.
(Image credit: Future)
2. Cannondale CAAD13 Disc 105
Best entry-level road bike for racing
Read 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 Choose the CAAD13 Disc
- Highly versatile performance
- Exceptional frame ride quality
- Well-chosen component specification
Potential Downsides
- Difficult to find any significant drawbacks
Cannondale has long been celebrated for its mastery of high-performance aluminum frames, and the CAAD13 Disc continues this legacy. Its geometry, relatively long and low, is inspired by the professional-grade carbon SuperSix EVO. In fact, it mirrors the SuperSix EVO in stack height and reach, with a size 54 frame sharing the same 55.5cm stack and 38.4cm reach.
Aerodynamic tube profiles, also borrowed from Cannondale’s WorldTour bikes, contribute to the CAAD13’s superb handling and remarkably smooth ride. We found the ride quality to be strikingly similar to that of a carbon frameset. It’s worth noting that our test model was a higher-spec version equipped with quality wheels and tires, which undoubtedly enhanced the overall experience compared to what entry-level components might offer.
However, even at more accessible price points, the CAAD13 remains an excellent choice for a first road bike, featuring a frame that riders are unlikely to outgrow. We believe the frame is worthy of future upgrades, whether it’s swapping out wheels or the groupset.
Even selecting a more budget-friendly CAAD13 model still provides a Shimano 105 hydraulic groupset with an RS510 crankset, paired with DT Swiss R470 rims and Formula hubs – all dependable, quality components. Below this, a Tiagra-equipped version is available, and for those who prefer rim brakes, the CAAD13 can also be found with caliper brakes.
Cannondale’s size range is extensive, starting at 44 and going up to 62, with six sizes in between. This broad range is another significant advantage of the CAAD13, making it accessible to a wide range of riders across different budgets and body types.
Our only minor critique was the somewhat tall front end stack height. While easily adjusted, it may require cutting down the head tube to avoid an unsightly stack of spacers above the stem for riders seeking a very aggressive position.
Learn more: Cannondale CAAD13 Disc full review
Best Entry-Level Road Bike for Value and Comfort
Giant Contend SL1
The Giant Contend SL1 stands out as a high-quality, value-driven entry-level road bike option.
(Image credit: Cycling Weekly)
3. Giant Contend SL1
Best entry-level road bike for value
Read 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 Choose the Giant Contend SL1
- Attractive price point
- Comfortable and compliant ride quality
- Confident and predictable handling
Potential Downsides
- Not the lightest bike in its class
The Giant Contend SL1 incorporates features from Giant’s higher-end bikes, boasting a compact alloy frame with a sloping top tube. Giant’s D-Fuse seatpost and a carbon fork are designed to enhance compliance at the rear and front, respectively. Combined with endurance-focused frame geometry, this results in excellent comfort and handling, encouraging longer rides and inspiring rider confidence.
We were particularly impressed by the Contend SL1’s ability to absorb road vibrations, which is not always a given with aluminum frames. This, along with its sensible geometry (a longer wheelbase for stability and a taller stack height), and generous tire clearance (room for up to 34mm tires), positions it firmly in the endurance category, ready to comfortably cover long distances. For an entry-level road bike, we believe this is the ideal approach, catering to a broader range of cyclists than a more aggressive, race-oriented riding position.
The Contend SL hasn’t seen a recent update, but both rim and disc brake versions are still available. Both variants are equipped with Shimano’s excellent 105 groupset and a Shimano RS510 chainset. The rim brake model uses Tektro calipers, while the disc brake version features 105 hydraulic brakes.
Consistent with its entry-level and endurance focus, the Contend SL1 offers ample low gearing, down to a 1:1 ratio, making uphill climbs more manageable. Shimano 105 components provide their signature quality shifting performance. Being an entry-level bike, it’s not the lightest, which we noticed affected its sprightliness. However, considering the price, it’s a very strong value proposition and a genuine contender for the title of best entry-level road bike.
Learn more: Giant Contend full review
Best Road Bike for Versatility Across Terrains
Vitus Venon Evo 105 Di2 road bike on a pink background
The Vitus Venon Evo, available in both road and gravel configurations, offers exceptional versatility for diverse riding conditions.
(Image credit: Future)
4. Vitus Venon Evo-RS
Best road bike for versatility
Read our expert review
Key Specifications
- Frame: Venon Evo Carbon
- Groupset: Shimano 105 Di2
- Wheels: Prime Attaquer alloy
- Weight: 7.8kg / 17.2lbs
Reasons to Choose the Vitus Venon Evo-RS
- Endurance-oriented riding position ideal for long rides
- Versatile frameset compatible with fenders
- Accommodates tires from 28mm to 45mm wide
- Capable on light gravel trails in GR specification
Potential Downsides
- 28mm tires might appear visually narrow given the frame’s generous clearance
While versatility has always been a desirable trait in a road bike, the evolution of the category has led to more specialized designs. We now see bikes engineered for very specific purposes, from aerodynamic race machines to incredibly lightweight climbers.
Vitus, however, has taken a different approach with the Venon Evo, creating a bike designed for multiple uses. Its standout feature is its generous 45mm tire clearance, freeing it from being confined to paved roads. The same frame is also available in gravel-specific models (GR suffix), offering a dedicated gravel setup; we’ve also reviewed the Vitus Venon Evo-GR gravel version.
The carbon frame weighs under 1kg and provides a noticeable degree of compliance. Road-oriented Venon Evo models come with Michelin Power Cup 28mm tubeless tires mounted on Prime Attaquer alloy wheels. We tested the 105 Di2 equipped Vitus Venon Evo, but the range includes various electronic and mechanical groupset options from both Shimano and SRAM.
Our road testing revealed a well-balanced ride that felt firm yet remained comfortable. Adding to its versatility, the frame includes hidden mounts for mudguards, making the Venon Evo a practical choice for year-round riding in varied conditions.
Learn more: Vitus Venon Evo-RS full review
Superbikes: Top-Tier Performance Road Machines
Superbikes: Overall Best Performer
Cervélo S5 on a yellow background
The Cervélo S5 excels by blending aerodynamic efficiency with comfortable ride quality and precise handling.
(Image credit: Future)
1. Cervélo S5
Best superbike overall
Read our expert review
Key Specifications
- Frame: S5 Carbon
- Groupset: SRAM Force AXS
- Wheels: Reserve 52/63
- Weight: 8.2kg / 18.0lbs
Reasons to Choose the Cervélo S5
- Exceptional straight-line speed
- Precise and responsive handling
- Surprisingly comfortable for an aero bike
- More ergonomic and user-friendly handlebars
Potential Downsides
- Slightly heavier than some other aero-focused superbikes
We awarded the Cervélo S5 top marks for its incredible straight-line speed, combined with exceptional cornering and a remarkably refined ride quality. It’s the handling that truly differentiates the S5 from other aero bikes: it reacts instantly to changes in direction but always feels stable and predictable, never twitchy.
We were equally impressed with the Reserve wheels, featuring a 52mm depth at the front and 63mm at the rear. Their wide 24.4mm internal width significantly enhances tire comfort (inflating our 28mm Vittoria Corsa tires to over 31mm), improves cornering grip, and adds to the overall progressive feel.
The S5’s primary drawback is its weight; at over 8kg, it’s not the lightest superbike, approximately 1kg heavier than the Scott Foil, for example. However, the exceptional ride quality of the S5 effectively negates any weight penalty, even on moderately steep climbs.
Superbikes are inherently designed for professional racers, and the S5’s racing pedigree is undeniable. Consider its victories: the 2022 and 2023 Tour de France yellow jerseys, the 2022 TdF green jersey, and numerous one-day race wins. While these victories are a testament to the talent of riders like Jonas Vingegaard and Wout van Aert, they also highlight the S5’s ability to excel across diverse race stages and conditions. For us, this reinforces our own experience riding the bike – it’s an incredibly well-rounded race machine.
Learn more: Cervélo S5 full review
Superbikes: Best Value Option
Giant Propel on a orange background.
The Giant Propel delivers a high level of performance and features for its price, making it a best value superbike.
(Image credit: Future)
2. Giant Propel
Best value superbike
Read 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 Choose the Giant Propel
- Aerodynamically efficient design
- Smooth and comfortable ride quality
- Includes a power meter for performance tracking
- Exceptional value for money
Potential Downsides
- Slightly heavier compared to some competitors
The latest Giant Propel has undergone a slimming process compared to its bulkier predecessor, aiming to reduce weight and improve comfort while, according to Giant, enhancing aerodynamic performance by 6.2 watts at 40kph.
Adjustability has also been improved with a newly designed two-piece bar and stem setup, without compromising aerodynamics. Cables are neatly routed through the handlebars and under the channeled stem before entering the frame, creating a clean and sleek aesthetic.
Giant has also refined the Propel’s geometry, bringing it closer to their TCR climbing bike, resulting in a more responsive ride. Maximum tire clearance is now 32mm. We found that these changes contribute to a ride that is both fast and stable. The thinner tube profiles also perform better in crosswinds compared to aero bikes with deeper sections. Comfort levels impressed us as well, with wider tires and a well-designed front end effectively mitigating road vibrations.
While our test bike was equipped with SRAM Rival AXS, the best value within the Propel range is found in the entry-level model, which outperforms other bikes in our Race Bike of the Year awards in terms of value.
Learn more: Giant Propel Advanced Pro 1 full review
Superbikes: Top Aero Performance
Trek Madone SL7 Gen 7 on a pink background
The Trek Madone SL7 Gen 7 is engineered for exceptional aerodynamic performance, making it a top aero road bike.
(Image credit: Future)
3. Trek Madone SL7 Gen 7
Best aero superbike
Read our expert review
Key Specifications
- Frame: Madone Gen 7
- Groupset: Shimano Ultegra
- Wheels: Bontrager Aeolus Pro 51
- Weight: 7.5kg / 16.5lbs
Reasons to Choose the Trek Madone SL7 Gen 7
- Incredibly smooth and comfortable ride
- Lightweight for an aero-focused bike
- Visually striking and aesthetically appealing
Potential Downsides
- High price point
- Limited adjustability in cockpit setup
- No power meter included as standard
The Madone Gen 7 has achieved significant weight reduction, shedding 300g compared to its predecessor. This weight saving is largely due to the replacement of the IsoSpeed system with new IsoFlow technology. This results in a visually distinctive frame, characterized by an opening beneath the saddle, which sits on a seatpost cantilevered over the rear of the frame.
However, weight reduction is only half of the story behind the Madone’s performance gains. The other half of the claimed 20-watt saving comes from the redesigned handlebars, which position the hands 30mm closer together when on the tops, promoting a more aerodynamic riding position. For example, a 42cm bar actually measures 39cm at the hoods and 42cm at the drops. Trek offers 14 different cockpit configurations to fine-tune rider fit.
Our testing revealed the Madone to be an exceptionally stable and confidence-inspiring bike, offering superb handling, comfortable ride quality, and impressive straight-line speed. It’s also remarkably light for an aero bike, with our review model weighing in at 7.5kg. Like many superbikes, the primary barrier for most riders will likely be the price. The Madone firmly sits in the expensive category, reaching five figures even with a second-tier Ultegra groupset.
Learn more: Trek Madone SL7 Gen 7 full review
Superbikes: Best for Climbing Performance
Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod 2 on a pink background
The Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod 2 is specifically designed to excel in climbing, making it a top choice for mountainous terrain.
(Image credit: Future)
4. Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod 2
Best climbing superbike
Read our expert review
Key Specifications
- Frame: SuperSix Hi Mod
- Groupset: Shimano Ultegra
- Wheels: HollowGram R-SL
- Weight: 7.3kg / 16.1lbs
Reasons to Choose the Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod 2
- Extremely stiff and responsive frame
- Stable and planted handling that is also quick and agile
- Frameset with aerodynamic advantages compared to many other climbing bikes
Potential Downsides
- Ride compliance may be slightly compromised on very long rides
This fourth generation of the Cannondale SuperSix Evo features subtle refinements over its predecessor, enhancing both aerodynamics and reducing weight. Key visual updates include a more pronounced sloping top tube and lowered seat stays.
Tire clearance has also been increased, now accommodating tires up to 34mm wide. Importantly, Cannondale has switched from a press-fit bottom bracket to a more user-friendly BSA 68mm threaded bottom bracket – a change we greatly appreciate for its ease of maintenance. These updates contribute to a claimed frame weight of just 770g, making it the lightest frame 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’s a fantastic climber, with low weight and geometry optimized for out-of-the-saddle climbing efforts. Descending performance is equally impressive.
We did observe that comfort is slightly reduced on longer rides – it’s not as plush as the Cervélo S5, for example – but this is typical for stiff, lightweight race bikes.
Cannondale typically excels at offering a sensible range of models and price points, and the SuperSix Evo range is no exception.
Learn more: Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod 2 full review
Swipe to scroll horizontally
| Bike | Frame material | Groupset | Tire clearance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Specialized Allez | Aluminium | Shimano Claris | 35mm |
| Cannondale CAAD13 Disc 105 | Aluminium | Shimano 105 | 30mm |
| Giant Contend SL1 | Aluminium | 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 |
Choosing the Best Road Bike for Your Needs
Race Geometry vs. Endurance Geometry: Understanding the Difference
A crucial factor when selecting the best road bike is understanding your riding goals. Are you focused on speed and racing, or do you prioritize comfort for leisurely rides and long days on the road?
Geometry plays a pivotal role here. A dedicated race bike positions you in a more aggressive, forward-leaning stance, lowering your head and shoulders over the handlebars. This posture minimizes wind resistance, crucial for speed, but can become uncomfortable, especially for beginners.
Conversely, bikes marketed as ‘endurance’ or ‘sportive’ are designed for a more upright riding position, with higher handlebars positioned closer to the saddle. This promotes greater comfort over extended rides, though it might slightly compromise aerodynamic efficiency.
If you frequently ride on hilly terrain or plan cycling trips in mountainous regions like the Alps, a lightweight bike will be highly beneficial. However, if your riding primarily involves fast, flat roads, aerodynamics become a more critical factor. And if you’re considering racing, the sharper, more responsive handling of a race bike will be more advantageous than the more stable handling of an endurance-focused bike.
Increasingly, bikes are designed to handle both paved roads and light off-road terrain. A gravel bike offers wider tires and lower gear ratios for enhanced off-road capability. However, many modern endurance or ‘all-road’ bikes now also provide ample tire clearance and wide-range gearing, allowing you to explore a broader variety of routes.
Budget Considerations for Road Bikes
Your budget is another key consideration. Think not only about the initial purchase price but also ongoing costs like replacing worn parts, bike servicing, and potential upgrades. There’s a significant price difference between entry-level mechanical components and top-tier electronic groupsets.
Component specifications can vary widely between brands. Generally, direct-to-consumer brands (like Canyon and Ribble) and in-house brands (Vitus at Wiggle, Boardman at Halfords) often offer lower prices. However, to give you a general idea, here’s a breakdown of typical specifications at different price points. Note that these are broad ranges, and variations will exist within each category.
£750 – £999 / $1000 – $1500
- Aluminum frame and carbon fork
- Aluminum seatpost and handlebar/stem
- Shimano Sora or Claris level shifting
- Aluminum wheels
- Rim brakes
£1000 – £2000 / $1500 – $2500
- Aluminum frame and carbon fork with 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 (from this price point onwards)
- Titanium frames become an option
£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 groupset
- Carbon wheels (50mm+ depth)
- Carbon bars and stem
£10,000+ / $12,000+
- Top-of-the-line carbon frame and fork (stiffer carbon, fewer layers for lower weight)
- Carbon wheels (50mm+ depth)
- One-piece carbon bar/stem
- Shimano Dura-Ace, SRAM Red AXS, or Campagnolo Super Record Wireless groupset
- Power meter as standard
Road Bike Frame Materials: Aluminum, Carbon, and More
Frame material is a major differentiator between road bikes. Bikes under $/£1000 typically use aluminum alloy frames, constructed with welded tubes. Aluminum is also used in higher-end bikes and can create strong, lightweight frames.
More expensive bikes often use carbon fiber. Carbon fibers provide strength and are bonded with synthetic resin. The type of carbon fiber and how it’s layered (layup) influence the bike’s ride feel. Higher-end bikes use high-modulus carbon fiber, reducing weight without sacrificing strength.
Titanium is another premium frame material. It’s light, strong, and resistant to rust and fatigue. Steel tubing, the traditional frame material, is still used. While not as light as other options, steel is durable and offers a unique ride feel.
Consider the fork material as well. Many bikes have full-carbon forks or carbon blades with an alloy steerer. Carbon forks effectively absorb road vibrations for a more comfortable ride. Some budget bikes may have alloy or steel forks.
Road Bike Sizing: Finding Your Perfect Fit
Choosing the right size bike is essential for comfort and performance. Most bikes come in various sizes, and manufacturers provide rider height ranges for each size.
When straddling the bike, you should feel comfortable and be able to place both feet flat on the ground with clearance between yourself and the top tube.
Frame dimensions like reach and stack provide more detailed fit information. Stack height indicates the vertical distance from the bottom bracket to the top of the head tube; a higher stack results in a more upright position. Reach is the horizontal distance from the bottom bracket to the head tube; shorter reach leads to a more upright position. Race bikes typically have lower stack heights than endurance models.
For optimal bike setup and to prevent injury, a professional bike fit is highly recommended. While it costs extra, some bike shops offer discounted or free fits with bike purchases. A bike fit ensures proper saddle and handlebar positioning for efficient and comfortable riding – consider it a worthwhile investment.
Best road bikes
A professional bike fit is recommended to ensure optimal comfort and efficiency on your road bike.
(Image credit: Picasa)
Aero Road Bikes: Do You Need Aerodynamics?
Bike manufacturers heavily promote aerodynamic features, especially on higher-end models, citing wind tunnel testing and time savings. Historically, aero frames were heavier than traditional round-tube frames, but modern aero bikes can now be as light as non-aero bikes.
However, approximately 80% of wind resistance comes from the rider, not the bike. Claimed 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. Therefore, aero features have less impact at lower speeds.
Road Bike Gearing: How Many Gears Do You Need?
After the frame, gears are the next most important consideration. Top-end road bikes often feature 12-speed cassettes, providing 24 potential gear combinations with a double chainring. Note that some gear ratios may overlap.
More affordable road bikes typically have fewer gears, with cassette options ranging from 8-speed to 10-speed, usually paired with a double chainset.
Shimano is the most common groupset brand, with SRAM and Campagnolo as major alternatives. Shimano’s top groupsets—Dura-Ace, Ultegra, and 105—are 12-speed, while more affordable options include 10-speed Tiagra, 9-speed Sora, and 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 cable shifting found on lower-priced groupsets.
Best road bikes
Wider range cassettes are beneficial for tackling hilly terrain on a road bike.
(Image credit: PHILIPP FORSTNER)
Gear Ratios for Road Bikes: Choosing the Right Setup
When selecting a road bike, consider the gearing setup. Matching your bike’s gears to your typical riding style is important. Gear choice will significantly impact your riding experience.
Race bikes often come with traditional gearing, such as a 53/39 tooth chainset paired with an 11-30 tooth cassette.
Endurance or sportive bikes typically have a compact chainset, often 50/34, and a wider-range cassette with a largest cog of 30, 32, 34, or even 36 teeth. Lower gears make climbing easier and allow for higher cadence pedaling. However, this can result in larger jumps between gear ratios.
SRAM offers eTap AXS groupsets with 48/35, 46/33, and 43/30t chainsets. Paired with cassettes starting at 10 teeth, these provide similar high gear ratios to traditional 11-tooth cassettes but offer a wider low-end range for easier climbing and reduced front derailleur shifting on rolling terrain.
Best road bikes
Electronic shifting is now a common feature on higher-end road bikes, offering precise and consistent gear changes.
Electronic vs. Mechanical Shifting: Is Electronic Worth It?
While mechanical groupsets are still available from Shimano, SRAM, and Campagnolo, electronic shifting has become increasingly popular in recent years. Electronic systems use motors to shift derailleurs instead of traditional cables.
Major electronic groupsets include Shimano Di2, Campagnolo Wireless, and SRAM eTap AXS, all offering 12-speed options.
Both mechanical and electronic shifting have pros and cons. Mechanical components are generally cheaper, lighter, and often easier to repair.
Electronic gears offer consistent and reliable shifting, eliminating cable tension issues. For riders with hand injuries, the ease of button-activated shifting can be appealing. Electronic systems can be customized via apps, allowing features like seamless multi-gear shifting. However, electronic groupsets are more expensive, and require battery charging.
Rim Brakes vs. Disc Brakes: Which is Best for Road Bikes?
Disc brakes have largely become standard on road bikes. Most new road bikes, except for budget models, are now disc-brake only. Rim brake bikes are still available, mainly at the high and low ends of the price spectrum.
Disc brakes generally offer more consistent braking in all weather, better modulation, and greater stopping power. They are heavier than rim brakes, but frame weight reductions have largely offset this.
Most disc brake bikes use hydraulic calipers, though mechanical disc brakes are found on some cheaper bikes. Disc brakes are becoming increasingly affordable, making them accessible even on lower-budget bikes.
Best road bikes
Disc brakes are now standard on most new road bikes, offering enhanced braking performance in various conditions.
Carbon vs. Alloy Wheels: Rim Material Choices
Road bike wheels are typically 700c, though smaller 650b sizes are used on some smaller frames. Both carbon and alloy rims are available.
Carbon fiber rims are common on high-performance road bike wheelsets. They reduce weight and can be made deeper for aerodynamic benefits. Carbon’s versatility allows manufacturers to create rims optimized for different riding styles.
Alloy rims are more affordable and common on complete road bikes. They are generally heavier than carbon rims, though lightweight alloy options exist.
Wheels are often a component where manufacturers economize, even on expensive bikes. Consider whether you might need to upgrade the wheels to maximize your new bike’s performance. Original wheelsets can be kept as winter training wheels.
Best road bikes
Wider tires, increasingly common on modern road bikes, allow for lower tire pressures, improving comfort and grip.
Tire Width for Road Bikes: Go Wider for Comfort and Speed
Road bike tire options were once limited by frame clearances, with 23mm tires being standard and 25mm considered wide.
Today, road bikes accommodate increasingly wider tires, largely due to the adoption of disc brakes. Even race bikes often clear 28mm to 32mm tires, while endurance bikes allow for even wider options. Many new bikes, even if specced with 25mm or 28mm tires, have clearance for wider sizes.
Wider tires allow for lower tire pressures, increasing comfort and grip. Wider tires can also be as fast as or faster than narrower tires.
Wheels and tires are increasingly tubeless-ready. Tubeless setups eliminate inner tubes, reducing puncture risks and further improving grip and comfort. Tubeless tires are generally faster as well.
Meet the Cycling Weekly Road Bike Testers
Simon Smythe
Simon is a highly experienced cycling tech writer with Cycling Weekly since 2003. Formerly Senior Tech Writer, Simon’s cycling background is primarily in time trialling, with national medals and numerous wins. As a reviewer, he has ridden countless road bikes across all price ranges, from budget-friendly to ultra-expensive aero race machines.
Stefan Abram
Stefan, winner of the 2019 National Single-Speed Cross-Country Mountain Biking Championships, transitioned from mountain biking to road cycling. He quickly earned his 2nd cat racing license and has completed challenging endurance rides like the South Downs Double and an Everesting.
Cycling Weekly’s Road Bike Testing Methodology
How We Test Road Bikes
The Cycling Weekly testing team rigorously reviews a wide range of cycling products, providing objective assessments based on extensive real-world use in diverse conditions.
Our experienced testers are well-equipped to compare products, identify strengths and weaknesses, and offer honest, unbiased performance evaluations.
Road bike testing involves logging hundreds of miles, evaluating numerous factors. We consider the bike’s intended purpose (aero race, lightweight climber, endurance model) and broader aspects like build quality, component spec, durability, and value for money.
