Investing in a top-tier road bike can be a significant expense, often reaching thousands of dollars. Fortunately, the market now offers a wide selection of affordable road bikes that incorporate many of the same technologies and features found in their high-end counterparts.
Thanks to trickle-down technology and direct-to-consumer brands, advanced features and designs are now accessible on mid-range bikes without the premium price tag. These bikes deliver excellent performance, feel, and are equipped with reliable components built to last for years.
However, the expanding range of budget-friendly road bikes can be overwhelming, particularly for cyclists who are just starting out. Cycling Weekly’s experienced test team has rigorously evaluated numerous bikes across all price ranges, from entry-level models to those costing as much as a small car. This extensive testing provides us with the expertise to identify truly exceptional, yet inexpensive, bikes.
Whether you’re new to cycling or simply seeking a cost-effective commuter bike, this guide is designed to help you find the perfect match. Here are our top picks for the Best Affordable Road Bikes in 2024:
1. Specialized Allez Sport – Best Affordable Road Bike for Performance Feel
Specialized Allez Sport which is one of the best cheap road bikes
The Specialized Allez Sport, a top affordable road bike, now features disc brakes and enhanced tire clearance, blending modern performance with value.
(Image credit: Future)
Specifications
Frame: Aluminium
Fork: Carbon
Groupset: Shimano Sora shifting, Axis 1.0 rim brake
Weight: 9.3kg
Reasons to buy
- Superb quality frame
- Confident and stable handling
- Full carbon fork
Reasons to avoid
- Somewhat clunky shifting
- Budget rim brakes lack strong stopping power
- Ride can be a bit harsh
The Specialized Allez range is a consistent best-seller in the cycling world, and the Allez Sport model has consistently earned high praise, including a near-perfect 4.5-star rating in our previous review. Positioned in the middle of the Allez lineup, the Sport offers an excellent balance of features and affordability.
Designed with ‘balanced’ geometry, the Allez Sport provides a comfortable riding position suitable for a range of cyclists, while still allowing for a more aggressive posture by slamming the stem. This versatility makes it well-suited for fast group rides, commuting, and enduring winter training sessions, although the ride can feel somewhat firm.
The aluminum frame incorporates Specialized’s ‘SmoothWeld’ technology for clean, seamless joints. The design includes dropped seatstays and internal cable routing, giving it a modern, race-oriented aesthetic. However, the stack height and chainstay length are configured more for comfort and stability, making it an ideal choice for an entry-level road bike. During our tests, the Allez Sport instilled confidence thanks to its predictable and assured handling.
The carbon FACT fork contributes to a smoother ride and helps to reduce the bike’s overall weight, keeping it just over 9kg. The fork also includes mudguard eyelets, further enhancing its practicality for commuting and year-round use.
The Allez Sport is equipped with Shimano’s reliable 9-speed Sora groupset and a threaded bottom bracket. The compact chainset paired with an 11-32t cassette offers a broad gear range, making steep climbs and fast flats equally manageable.
At this price point, compromises are inevitable, and on the Allez Sport, these are primarily found in the own-brand Axis 1.0 rim brakes. Our review noted their performance as underwhelming, requiring caution on descents. However, upgrading the brake pads or even the calipers is a straightforward and worthwhile improvement given the excellent Allez frameset.
Read more: Specialized Allez Sport full review
2. Triban 520 Road Bike – Best Affordable Road Bike with a Shimano 105 Groupset
Triban 520 road bike which is among the best cheap road bikes
The Triban 520, a top affordable road bike, provides exceptional value with Shimano 105 components and disc brakes, ideal for versatile road cycling.
Specifications
Frame: Aluminium
Fork: Carbon
Groupset: Shimano 105 shifting, TRP disc brakes
Weight: 10.4kg
Reasons to buy
- Impressive component specification for the price
- Award-winning design, recognized twice
Reasons to avoid
- Semi-hydraulic brakes require more frequent maintenance
The Triban 520 has been rebranded and redesigned, featuring a new aluminum frame and a carbon bladed fork. It now incorporates disc brakes in the form of TRP’s respected HY/RD mechanical system. Incredibly, for a bike in this price range, it also boasts a Shimano 105 groupset.
The frame geometry positions the Triban 520 firmly in the endurance, commuter, and light touring category. It features a generous stack height and a shorter top tube, prioritizing comfort and stability over an aggressive, low-profile riding posture. If you seek a ‘long and low’ racing position, this might not be the ideal bike. However, if comfort and stability are paramount, and you need a bike capable of commuting, touring, and general road riding, the 520 is definitely worth considering.
Its all-rounder credentials are enhanced by ample tire clearance and mounts for racks and mudguards. The bike comes standard with 28mm tires but can accommodate up to 36mm, suitable for bridleways, light gravel paths, or audax rides where comfort is key. Adding fenders and a pannier rack easily transforms the 520 into a capable daily commuter or multi-day touring machine. Versatility is indeed a key feature.
As previously mentioned, the Shimano 105 groupset is a standout feature. However, it’s important to note that it’s not a complete 105 setup. To reduce costs, Decathlon has included a Shimano RS510 chainset and a Microshift cassette. While these components may add a slight weight increase, they should not significantly impact performance. The gearing includes a compact 50/34t chainset paired with an 11-32t cassette, providing a sufficiently low gear for tackling steep inclines, which is beneficial given the bike’s overall weight.
3. Brand X Road Bike – Best Affordable Road Bike for Those on a Really Tight Budget
The black Brand X Road bike in full leaning against a mostly white wall
The Brand X road bike, a highly affordable option, impressed testers with its value and performance, proving budget-friendly can still mean quality.
(Image credit: Hannah Bussey)
Specifications
Frame: Alloy
Fork: Steel
Groupset: Shimano Tourney, rim
Weight: 11.4kg
Reasons to buy
- High specification for its budget price
- Combined shifter/brake levers for ease of use
- Includes mounts for mudguards and racks
Reasons to avoid
- Limited gear range
- Rim brakes are only adequate
- Narrow 23mm tires
Offered as an in-house brand by Wiggle/Chain Reaction, the Brand X road bike delivers remarkable value for its price.
It features a 2×7-speed Shimano Tourney groupset with a 50/34t Prowheel chainset and a 14-28t freewheel. While this setup offers a somewhat limited range and larger gaps between gears compared to modern cassettes, the inclusion of a Shimano groupset and combined brake/shifter levers is exceptional at this price point.
As expected in this price bracket, the Brand X road bike is equipped with rim brakes rather than disc brakes. Cable routing is external, which, while potentially increasing exposure to contamination, is common for bikes at this price. The nominally 25mm Kenda tires measure closer to 23mm. At 11.4kg, the Brand X maintains a reasonable weight.
Practicality is enhanced with the inclusion of mudguard and rack mounts, making the Brand X suitable for commuting or all-weather riding.
Read more: Brand X road bike full review
4. Diamondback Haanjo 2 – Best Affordable Road Bike for Comfort
Diamondback Haanjo 2 which is one of the best
The Diamondback Haanjo 2, a comfortable and affordable road bike, features 38mm tires for versatile riding on and off paved roads.
(Image credit: Diamondback)
Specifications
Frame: Aluminium
Fork: Steel
Groupset: Shimano Claris shifting, Tektro disc brakes
Weight: 26lbs/11.kg
Reasons to buy
- Steel fork offers a springy and comfortable ride
- Generous tire clearance for wider, more comfortable tires
Reasons to avoid
- Heavier overall build compared to pure road bikes
Recommended by our US-based testers, the Diamondback Haanjo 2 presents a slightly different approach compared to the pure road bikes in this guide.
Categorized as a gravel/adventure bike, the Haanjo performs well on paved roads but also features 38c tires that effectively cushion bumps for off-road gravel excursions.
Versatility is a defining characteristic of the Haanjo. The frame, constructed from fully butted 6061 aluminum, includes front and rear rack mounts along with mudguard (fender) eyelets. This makes it highly adaptable for light touring, commuting, and winter training. This versatility is further reflected in its geometry, which includes a generous stack height, a relaxed headtube angle, and long chainstays, all contributing to a stable and comfortable ride.
The wider tires and robust frame, along with a steel fork, do contribute to a slightly higher weight. However, the Haanjo is equipped with a sub-compact 46/34t chainset and an 8-speed 11-32t cassette to aid in tackling steeper climbs. Shifting is handled by Shimano Claris components, while braking is provided by Tektro flat-mount mechanical disc brakes. The use of the flat mount standard ensures future brake upgrades are straightforward.
5. Ribble R872 Tiagra – Best Affordable Road Bike for Value
RIBBLE R872 TIAGRA road bike
The Ribble R872 Tiagra, an affordable road bike, boasts a carbon fiber frame, offering exceptional value and upgrade potential for serious cyclists.
(Image credit: Future)
Specifications
Frame: Carbon
Fork: Carbon
Groupset: Shimano Tiagra, rim brake
Weight: 8.64kg at last review (with upgraded wheels)
Reasons to buy
- Comfortable ride quality
- Good handling characteristics
- Lightweight frame
- Frame is worthy of future component upgrades
- Excellent value for money
Reasons to avoid
- Standard braking performance is poor; brake pad and shoe upgrade recommended for immediate improvement
The Ribble R872 received a 9/10 rating and was recognized in our Editor’s Choice awards in 2020, indicating its highly recommended status.
While many of the best affordable road bikes feature aluminum frames, the R872 offers a carbon fiber frameset at a competitive price, marking it as an excellent entry point into carbon cycling.
To maintain affordability, Ribble utilizes Toray 700 carbon, which is also well-suited to the R872’s design as a comfortable endurance bike. This carbon layup prioritizes compliance over stiffness, making it more forgiving on long rides, such as gran fondos or sportives, where comfort is crucial. Importantly, it still results in a lightweight frameset; our size small test bike weighed just over 8.6kg in a previous review.
This lightweight carbon frameset is ripe for future upgrades. A significant advantage of purchasing from Ribble is their ‘bike builder’ tool, which allows customization of components at purchase. You can select handlebars and saddles that fit your preferences, potentially saving on future upgrade costs. Even if initial budget constraints limit component upgrades, the frame itself is a solid foundation for enhancements as funds become available.
Read more: Ribble R872 Tiagra full review
6. Trek Domane AL 3 Disc – Best Affordable Road Bike for a Range of Terrains
Trek Domane AL 3 Disc which is among the best cheap road bikes
The Trek Domane AL 3 Disc, a versatile and affordable road bike, shares its frame geometry with higher-end carbon Domane models, ensuring quality at a budget.
(Image credit: Trek)
Specifications
Frame: Aluminium
Fork: Carbon
Groupset: Shimano Sora shifting, Tektro disc brakes
Weight: 10.45kg
Reasons to buy
- Shares the same frame design as the highly-rated Domane SL6 (4.5/5 stars)
- Beautifully smooth frame welds enhance aesthetics and durability
- Ample tire clearance for up to 35c tires, increasing comfort and versatility
- Includes rack and mudguard mounts for practical utility
Reasons to avoid
- Lighter options are available in the market
The Domane has long been Trek’s endurance-focused model, with the SL6 version earning a 4.5/5 rating in our previous review.
The Domane AL 3 Disc is a more affordable variant, constructed from Trek’s 100 Series Alpha Aluminum instead of carbon fiber. It retains key modern features like a carbon fork, thru-axles, and flat mount disc brakes.
While the aluminum frame reduces the price compared to carbon models like the SL6, the geometry remains consistent. This geometry promotes a comfortable and stable ride, making the AL 3 well-suited for long rides and less-than-perfect road surfaces.
The Domane truly excels in ride comfort and terrain adaptability. With clearance for up to 35mm tires, it effectively absorbs road imperfections and reduces vibration. This capability is highlighted by Lizzie Deignan’s victory at the inaugural Paris-Roubaix Femmes in 2021 on a Domane.
Shifting and braking are handled by Shimano and Tektro components. The 9-speed Sora groupset benefits from trickle-down technology from Shimano’s higher-end groupsets, providing reliable shifting and comfortable brake hood ergonomics. The gearing is practically configured with a compact chainset and an 11-32t cassette, offering a wide range for varied conditions. The Sora rear derailleur can even accommodate a 34t cassette for those seeking even lower gears.
The Domane AL 3 Disc also includes mudguard (fender) and rear rack mounts, enhancing its functionality as a commuter or light touring bike. For those seeking a versatile first road bike, or needing a single bike to serve multiple purposes, these mounts significantly increase its utility. Winter riders will appreciate the option to install mudguards, as will the longevity of your bike’s drivetrain.
For further insights, refer to the Trek Domane SL6 review.
7. Boardman SLR 8.9 Carbon – Best Affordable Road Bike for Weekend Rides to Sportives and Races
BOARDMAN SLR 8.9 CARBON road bike
The Boardman SLR 8.9 Carbon, a performance-oriented affordable road bike, combines a carbon frame and Shimano 105 components for excellent value.
(Image credit: Future)
Specifications
Frame: Carbon
Fork: Carbon
Groupset: Shimano 105, rim
Weight: 8.9kg
Reasons to buy
- Responsive and engaging ride quality
- Equipped with an 11-speed Shimano 105 groupset
- Generous clearance for rim brakes allows for wider tires
- Hidden mudguard mounts for added versatility
Reasons to avoid
- Rim brakes may not be preferred by all riders
The Boardman SLR 8.9 Carbon offers exceptional value, featuring Shimano 105 shifting paired with a lower-level FSA chainset and Tektro brakes.
Across various iterations, the SLR frame has consistently impressed in our reviews. It shares many characteristics with the more expensive SLR 9.6, such as aerodynamic tube profiles, dropped seat stays, and an integrated seat clamp.
Crucially, it also mirrors the 9.6’s geometry, resulting in a versatile bike that is both responsive and comfortable. The comfort is enhanced by Boardman’s carbon layup design, which is engineered to provide compliance for long days in the saddle. Hidden mudguard (fender) mounts further increase its practicality for winter riding or commuting.
The 11-speed Shimano 105 components are a major selling point at this price. Arguably, 105 provides all the shifting performance and durability most cyclists will ever need. Upgrading to a full 105 chainset and brakes is also a relatively easy and worthwhile enhancement.
For those who prefer disc brakes, the Boardman SLR 8.9 is also available with Shimano 105 hydraulic disc brakes, though this option comes at a higher price.
Read more: Boardman SLR 8.9 Carbon full review
8. Boardman SLR 8.6 Road Bike – Best Affordable Road Bike with Quality Finishing Kit for the Price
Boardman SLR 8.6 road bike on a red background
The Boardman SLR 8.6, a budget-friendly road bike, offers quality components and a race-inspired geometry, making it a top affordable choice.
(Image credit: Future)
Specifications
Frame: Alloy
Fork: Carbon
Groupset: Shimano Claris, Tektro rim brakes
Weight: 10kg (claimed)
Reasons to buy
- Attractive frameset with smooth welds, resembling carbon frames
- Fairly aggressive, race-oriented riding position
- Quality finishing kit, including tubeless-ready wheels
Reasons to avoid
- Rim brakes lack strong initial bite
- Ride can be somewhat harsh on uneven road surfaces
The Boardman SLR 8.6 is Boardman’s entry-level road bike, but its alloy frame features smoothed welds on the main tubes, giving it a premium look similar to carbon frames. It also includes a genuine carbon fork.
Similar to the Pinnacle model, it features a Shimano Claris groupset with identical gear ratios and Tektro rim brakes. While these components have limitations compared to higher-end options—noticeable gear ratio jumps and moderate braking performance—they are appropriate for the price point.
We were particularly impressed by the frame’s efficiency and somewhat aggressive geometry, though the ride can be a bit buzzy on rough roads. Boardman’s own-brand components are functional and comfortable. The wheels are tubeless-ready, offering an upgrade path for tires.
Read more: Boardman SLR 8.6 full review
9. Ribble Endurance 725 Base Model Road Bike – Best Affordable Road Bike with a Durable Steel Frame
Ribble
The Ribble Endurance 725, an affordable steel road bike, offers a durable Reynolds 725 frame, combining classic aesthetics with modern components.
(Image credit: Future)
Specifications
Frame: Reynolds 725 steel
Fork: Carbon
Groupset: Shimano Tiagra/FSA Omega chainset
Weight: Not specified
Reasons to buy
- Durable and compliant steel frame
- Decent Mavic Aksium wheelset
- Good range of gears for varied terrain
- Classic, old-school aesthetic appeal
Reasons to avoid
- Equipped with rim brakes only
- Maximum tire size limited to 28mm
- Relatively heavy compared to aluminum or carbon options
The Ribble Endurance 725 is constructed from Reynolds steel tubing and features rim brakes rather than discs. This limits tire clearance to a maximum of 28mm, or 25mm with mudguards/fenders.
The Shimano Tiagra groupset provides a good range of gears, and the Mavic Aksium wheels are expected to be durable, although the wire bead Continental tires would benefit from an upgrade. We found the ride quality to be stable rather than racy, and the robust steel frame effectively handled rough road surfaces during our testing.
Read more: Ribble 725 Endurance full review
10. Triban RC500 Microshift Disc Road Bike – Best Affordable Road Bike with Disc Brakes
Triban RC500 road bike
The Triban RC500 Microshift Disc, a versatile and affordable road bike, offers disc brakes and generous tire clearance, suitable for both road and light gravel use.
(Image credit: Adam Jones)
Specifications
Frame: T6 aluminium
Fork: Carbon with alloy steerer
Groupset: Microshift 9-speed
Weight: 10.6kg (claimed)
Reasons to buy
- High-quality alloy frame and carbon bladed fork
- Reliable shifting from Microshift gearing
- Mechanical disc brakes for all-weather stopping power
- Includes mounts for fenders/mudguards and racks, enhancing versatility
Reasons to avoid
- Requires some self-assembly upon purchase
- Only available in a black color option
Despite its budget-friendly price, the Triban RC500 is positioned by Decathlon as a bike for going the distance, and we rated it highly as a versatile all-rounder. Rack and mudguard mounts enhance its practicality. With clearance for up to 40mm tires, it can easily transition to light gravel use with a simple tire swap.
The semi-compact aluminum frame is paired with a carbon blade fork, and the geometry is relaxed, complemented by a comfortable handlebar shape. Ride comfort is further enhanced by 28mm own-brand tires and tubeless-ready wheels.
In the US market, this model is equipped with a 9-speed Shimano Sora groupset instead of Microshift components.
Read more: Triban RC500 Disc road bike full review
Choosing the Best Affordable Road Bike: Key Considerations
What Frame Materials Are Common in Affordable Road Bikes?
Affordable road bikes are almost always constructed from aluminum alloy. Steel frames are occasionally found, while carbon fiber typically appears as prices increase.
However, don’t assume aluminum is inferior. A well-engineered aluminum frame can offer a better ride quality than a budget carbon frame and may even be lighter.
At the most budget-friendly prices, the bike’s fork might be steel or aluminum alloy. Upgrading to a carbon fork offers benefits, as it is generally more compliant and enhances ride comfort.
What Groupset Specifications Should You Expect?
The groupset encompasses the gears and shifters of your bike. Most road bikes use a double chainset, including both front and rear derailleurs.
Shimano dominates the groupset market. On lower-priced bikes, expect to find 8-speed Shimano Claris (providing 16 speeds with a double chainring). More expensive affordable bikes may feature 9-speed Sora or 10-speed Tiagra.
The most budget-conscious bikes might use 7-speed Shimano Tourney or derailleurs from Microshift. Some may even simplify by omitting the front derailleur.
Often, a complete Shimano groupset is not provided; the chainset might be replaced with one from FSA or another brand. This isn’t necessarily detrimental but is worth noting.
What Gear Ratios Are Most Suitable?
Most affordable road bikes are equipped with a “compact” 50/34 tooth chainset. Rear cassettes typically start with an 11-tooth sprocket, providing a useful high gear.
Increasingly, cassettes on affordable bikes include a largest sprocket with 30 or more teeth. Paired with the 34-tooth smaller chainring, this provides a very low bottom gear, suitable for tackling most climbs. Some bikes offer a 34-tooth lowest gear, resulting in a 1:1 lowest ratio, ideal for steep inclines.
Some affordable road bikes may have cassettes that stop at 28 or even 25 teeth for the largest sprocket. Fitter riders or those in flat regions might find this sufficient, but it can make climbing challenging for beginners.
Conversely, closer ratio cassettes with smaller jumps between gears can be more comfortable for maintaining consistent cadence. Wider ratio cassettes may have larger jumps, and lower-spec groupsets might result in less smooth shifting between these larger gaps.
It’s beneficial to check compatibility, as most modern rear derailleurs can accommodate wide-range cassettes. Even if your bike comes with an 11-28t cassette, upgrading to an 11-32t cassette is often possible for increased gear range.
What Types of Brakes Are Fitted on Affordable Road Bikes?
Disc brakes are increasingly common on road bikes, offering more consistent braking in wet conditions compared to rim brakes. They are generally more effective and reduce wear on wheel rims.
Higher-priced bikes feature hydraulic disc brakes, but affordable road bikes typically come with mechanical disc brakes. These offer less braking power than hydraulics but retain the all-weather benefits of disc brakes and are easier to maintain.
Lower-priced bikes may still be equipped with rim brakes. These offer less stopping power than disc brakes and are less effective in wet conditions. However, often the brake pads are the limiting factor. Upgrading to better quality brake pads is an inexpensive way to significantly improve rim brake performance.
What Tire Width Should You Expect?
Rim brakes limit the tire width that can fit within the brake caliper. Consequently, rim brake bikes are often fitted with 25mm wide tires, though 28mm tires are also seen.
The shift to disc brakes has significantly increased tire clearance. Many disc brake bikes can accommodate 32mm tires or even wider. This allows for lower tire pressures, resulting in a more comfortable ride and potentially even faster rolling on rough surfaces. Affordable disc brake bikes typically come with 28mm tires.
How We Test Affordable Road Bikes
At Cycling Weekly, we have a dedicated team of experienced testers who rigorously review a wide range of cycling products. Their mission is to provide objective reviews based on extensive day-to-day use in varied conditions.
With their deep expertise, our testers are ideally positioned to compare products, identify strengths and weaknesses, and deliver honest, unbiased assessments of performance.
To test road bikes, we conduct rides of varying lengths and in diverse conditions. These typically include flat, rolling, and hilly terrains, along with a mix of road surfaces, from smooth tarmac to broken and potholed roads. Our testers evaluate each bike across several factors, including comfort, handling, and suitability for long-distance riding or shorter races. Component durability and overall value for money are also critically assessed, especially when focusing on affordable options.
Conclusion
Affordable road bikes have come a long way, offering impressive technology and performance without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a beginner cyclist, a commuter, or just seeking a budget-friendly option for training and weekend rides, there’s a quality affordable road bike for you. These bikes prove that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy the joys of road cycling. By considering factors like frame material, groupset, brakes, and tire width, and using our guide, you can confidently choose the best affordable road bike to meet your cycling needs and budget.
