Investing in a top-tier road bike can be a significant expense, often reaching thousands of dollars. Fortunately, the market now offers a wide array of Low Cost Road Bikes that incorporate many of the advanced features found in their high-end counterparts.
Thanks to advancements in trickle-down technology and the rise of direct-sales manufacturers, high-performance features are now accessible on mid-range bikes without the premium price tag. These budget-friendly options deliver an excellent riding experience, reliable performance, and durable components that will last for years.
However, navigating the ever-expanding selection of low cost road bikes can be overwhelming, especially for cyclists who are just starting out. The expert test team at Cycling Weekly has extensive experience evaluating hundreds of bikes across all price points, from entry-level models to luxury machines. This expertise allows us to identify truly exceptional, affordable bikes when we encounter them.
Whether you are new to road cycling or simply seeking an economical commuter bike, this guide is designed to help you find the perfect match. Here are our top recommendations for the best low cost road bikes in 2024:
Top Low Cost Road Bikes: Our Picks
Decathlon Triban 520 road bike showcasing its Shimano 105 groupset and semi-hydraulic disc brakes, highlighting its value for money.
Decathlon Triban 520
While many bikes in this price range typically feature 8-speed Shimano Claris components, the Decathlon Triban 520 stands out with its 11-speed Shimano 105 groupset and semi-hydraulic disc brakes, delivering exceptional value for the price.
Brand X road bike emphasizing its affordability with a focus on its double chainset, 7-speed gear range, and integrated shifters/brake levers.
Brand X Road Bike
The Brand X Road Bike provides incredible affordability, featuring a double chainset, a functional 7-speed gear range, and integrated shifters and brake levers, all at a price point lower than many bike computers.
Boardman SLR 8.9 Carbon road bike displaying its carbon fibre frameset and Shimano 105 shifting, while noting its rim brakes as a trade-off for cost savings.
Boardman SLR 8.9 Carbon
The Boardman SLR 8.9 Carbon offers a significant upgrade with a carbon fibre frameset combined with Shimano 105 shifting. Although equipped with rim brakes instead of disc brakes, it remains an impressively affordable carbon road bike.
The Best Low Cost Road Bikes in Detail
Specialized Allez Sport road bike, recognized as a top low cost road bike for its performance and now featuring disc brakes and improved tire clearance.
The Specialized Allez series, including the Allez Sport model, is known for its quality and value in the low cost road bike category.
(Image credit: Future)
1. Specialized Allez Sport
Best low cost road bike for performance feel
Our expert review:
Specifications
Frame: Aluminum
Fork: Carbon
Groupset: Shimano Sora shifting, Axis 1.0 rim brake
Weight: 9.3kg
Reasons to buy
- High-quality frame construction
- Stable and confidence-inspiring handling
- Full carbon fork enhances ride quality
Reasons to avoid
- Shifting can feel somewhat clunky
- Budget rim brakes offer limited stopping power
- Ride quality can be a bit harsh
The Specialized Allez range is a popular choice 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 version offers a balanced approach to performance and affordability.
Featuring a ‘balanced’ geometry, the Allez Sport provides a comfortable riding posture suitable for various types of riding, while still allowing for a more aggressive position by adjusting the stem. This versatility makes it well-suited for fast group rides, daily commutes, and long winter training miles. Although we noted a slightly firm ride, its overall performance is commendable.
The aluminum frame utilizes Specialized’s ‘SmoothWeld’ technology for clean and robust joints. Its modern aesthetic is enhanced by dropped seat stays and internal cable routing, giving it a race-oriented appearance. However, the stack height and chainstay length are designed more for comfort and stability, which is ideal for an entry-level road bike. During our tests, the Allez Sport’s handling instilled confidence, especially for newer riders.
The inclusion of a carbon FACT fork contributes to smoothing out road vibrations and reducing the bike’s overall weight, which is just over 9kg. The fork also includes mudguard eyelets, further enhancing its practicality for commuting and all-weather riding.
Equipped with Shimano’s reliable 9-speed Sora groupset and a threaded bottom bracket, the Allez Sport ensures dependable performance. The compact chainset paired with an 11-32t cassette offers a wide gear range suitable for tackling both steep inclines and flat terrains.
As is typical at this price point, some compromises are made, notably in the form of own-brand Axis 1.0 rim brakes. Our review indicated that their performance was underwhelming, requiring cautious descending. However, the brake pads or even the entire calipers are easily upgradable, a worthwhile improvement given the excellent Allez frameset.
Read more: Specialized Allez Sport full review
Triban 520 road bike emphasizing its Shimano 105 groupset and TRP disc brakes as key features making it a standout low cost option.
The Triban 520 road bike is celebrated for its exceptional value, particularly its Shimano 105 groupset and disc brakes, in the category of low cost road bikes.
2. Triban 520 road bike
Best low cost road bike with a Shimano 105 groupset
Specifications
Frame: Aluminum
Fork: Carbon
Groupset: Shimano 105 shifting, TRP disc brakes
Weight: 10.4kg
Reasons to buy
- Impressive component specification for the price
- Award-winning model, recognized multiple times
Reasons to avoid
- Semi-hydraulic brakes require more frequent maintenance
The Triban 520 road bike has been rebranded and redesigned, now featuring an aluminum frame paired with a carbon bladed fork. A significant upgrade is the switch to disc brakes, utilizing TRP’s respected HY/RD mechanical system. Astonishingly, at this price, it also includes a Shimano 105 groupset, a feature rarely found on low cost road bikes.
The frame geometry of the Triban 520 positions it firmly in the endurance, commuter, and light touring category. It features a higher stack height and a shorter top tube, prioritizing comfort and stability over an aggressive, aerodynamic posture. If a ‘long and low’ riding position is your preference, this might not be the ideal bike. However, for those valuing comfort and stability, and needing a versatile bike for commuting, touring, and general riding, the Triban 520 is an excellent choice.
Its all-rounder credentials are further enhanced by generous tire clearance and mounts for racks and mudguards. It comes standard with 28mm tires, but can accommodate up to 36mm, making it suitable for bridleways, light gravel paths, or audax rides where comfort is paramount. Adding fenders and a pannier rack transforms the Triban 520 into a capable daily commuter or even a multi-day touring bike.
The standout feature is undoubtedly the Shimano 105 groupset. However, it’s important to note that it’s not a full 105 setup. To manage costs, Decathlon has chosen 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 range to compensate for the bike’s weight on steep climbs.
Brand X Road bike displayed against a white wall, emphasizing its accessible design and value proposition as a low cost road bike option.
The Brand X road bike is highlighted as one of the most affordable options available, yet it still delivers impressive performance and features for a low cost road bike.
(Image credit: Hannah Bussey)
3. Brand X road bike
Best low cost road bike for those on a really tight budget
Our expert review:
Specifications
Frame: Alloy
Fork: Steel
Groupset: Shimano Tourney, rim
Weight: 11.4kg
Reasons to buy
- High specification relative to its budget price
- Integrated shifter/brake levers enhance usability
- Includes mounts for mudguards and racks
Reasons to avoid
- Limited gear range
- Rim brakes are only adequate
- Narrow 23mm tires
The Brand X road bike, an in-house brand from Wiggle/Chain Reaction, is designed to offer exceptional value in the low cost road bike category.
It features a 2×7-speed Shimano Tourney groupset with a 50/34t Prowheel chainset and a 14-28t freewheel. While this setup provides a somewhat limited high and low gear range and larger gaps between gears, the inclusion of a Shimano groupset and combined brake/shifter levers at this price point is remarkable.
As expected for a bike at this price, the Brand X road bike is equipped with rim brakes and external cable routing. The tires, nominally 25mm Kenda tires, actually measure closer to 23mm. Despite these cost-saving measures, the bike’s weight is a reasonable 11.4kg.
Practicality is further enhanced by the inclusion of mudguard and rack mounts, making the Brand X road bike suitable for commuting and all-weather riding, adding to its appeal as a versatile low cost road bike.
Read more: Brand X road bike full review
Diamondback Haanjo 2 road bike showcasing its wide 38mm tires, emphasizing its comfort and versatility for on and off-road use as a low cost option.
The Diamondback Haanjo 2 is presented as a comfortable and versatile low cost road bike, suitable for both paved roads and light gravel terrains.
(Image credit: Diamondback)
4. Diamondback Haanjo 2
Best low cost road bike for comfort
Specifications
Frame: Aluminum
Fork: Steel
Groupset: Shimano Claris shifting, Tektro disc brakes
Weight: 26lbs/11.kg
Reasons to buy
- Steel fork provides a springy and comfortable ride
- Generous tire clearance for wider tires enhances comfort and versatility
Reasons to avoid
- Overall build is on the heavier side
Recommended by our US testers, the Diamondback Haanjo 2 distinguishes itself from pure road bikes by offering features tailored for comfort and versatility, making it an excellent low cost road bike for diverse riding conditions.
As a gravel/adventure bike, the Haanjo performs well on paved roads but truly excels with its 38c tires, which effectively absorb bumps and vibrations on gravel and rougher surfaces.
Versatility is a key theme of the Haanjo. The frame, constructed from butted 6061 aluminum, includes front and rear rack mounts, as well as mudguard eyelets, making it ideal for light touring, commuting, and winter training. The geometry, characterized by a generous stack height, a relaxed headtube angle, and long chainstays, promotes a stable and comfortable ride.
While the wider tires and robust frame, including a steel fork, contribute to a heavier overall weight, the Haanjo is equipped with a sub-compact 46/34t chainset and an 8-speed 11-32t cassette to aid in tackling steeper climbs. Shimano Claris provides the shifting, and Tektro flat-mount mechanical disc brakes handle the stopping duties. The use of the flat mount standard allows for easy brake upgrades if desired.
Ribble R872 Tiagra road bike highlighting its carbon fiber frame and overall value, making it an attractive low cost road bike with high-end features.
The Ribble R872 Tiagra road bike is showcased for its carbon frame, offering a premium material in the low cost road bike category.
(Image credit: Future)
5. Ribble R872 Tiagra
Best low cost road bike for value
Our expert review:
Specifications
Frame: Carbon
Fork: Carbon
Groupset: Shimano Tiagra, rim brake
Weight: 8.64kg at last review (with upgraded wheels)
Reasons to buy
- Comfortable and compliant ride quality
- Agile and predictable handling
- Lightweight construction enhances performance
- Frame is worthy of future component upgrades
- Excellent value for money
Reasons to avoid
- Braking performance is adequate but could be improved with pad and shoe upgrades
The Ribble R872 Tiagra received a 9/10 score and was recognized as an Editor’s Choice award winner in 2020, making it a highly recommended option in the low cost road bike market.
While many of the best low cost road bikes are built with aluminum frames, the R872 offers an entry point into carbon fiber framesets.
To maintain affordability, Ribble utilizes Toray 700 carbon, which is well-suited to the R872’s design as a comfortable endurance bike. This carbon layup provides more forgiveness over long distances, crucial for events like Gran Fondos or Sportives, without sacrificing frame weight. In our review, a size small R872 weighed just over 8.6kg, highlighting its lightweight nature.
This lightweight carbon frameset is ideal for future upgrades. Ribble’s unique ‘bike builder’ tool allows customers to customize components at purchase, selecting handlebars, saddles, and other parts to suit personal preferences, potentially saving on future upgrade costs. Even if budget constraints limit customization initially, the R872’s frame is a solid foundation for performance enhancements down the line.
Read more: Ribble R872 Tiagra full review
Trek Domane AL 3 Disc road bike emphasizing its versatility across terrains and its shared frame geometry with higher-end Domane models, all at a low cost.
The Trek Domane AL 3 Disc road bike is noted for its ability to handle varied terrains, making it a versatile choice in the low cost road bike category.
(Image credit: Trek)
6. Trek Domane AL 3 Disc
Best low cost road bike for a range of terrains
Specifications
Frame: Aluminum
Fork: Carbon
Groupset: Shimano Sora shifting, Tektro disc brakes
Weight: 10.45kg
Reasons to buy
- Frame design is shared with the high-scoring Domane SL6 model
- Beautifully finished smooth welds on the aluminum frame
- Clearance for up to 35c tires enhances comfort and off-road capability
- Includes rack and mudguard mounts for added versatility
Reasons to avoid
- Lighter alternatives are available in the market
The Domane series has long been Trek’s endurance-focused line, with the SL6 model earning a 4.5/5 rating in our previous review. The Domane AL 3 Disc offers similar endurance capabilities at a more accessible price point, making it a great low cost road bike.
The AL 3 Disc utilizes Trek’s 100 Series Alpha Aluminum frame, paired with a carbon fork. It features modern standards such as thru-axles and flat mount disc brakes.
While the aluminum frame material helps reduce cost compared to carbon models like the SL6, the geometry remains consistent, ensuring a comfortable and stable ride. This geometry makes the AL 3 well-suited for long days in the saddle and less-than-perfect road surfaces.
The Domane AL 3 Disc excels in ride comfort, accommodating up to 35mm tires, effectively smoothing out road imperfections. This capability is highlighted by Lizzie Deignan’s victory at the Paris-Roubaix Femmes in 2021 on a Domane.
Shifting and braking are handled by Shimano Sora and Tektro components. The 9-speed Sora groupset benefits from trickle-down technology from Shimano’s higher-end offerings, providing reliable shifting and comfortable brake hood ergonomics. The sensible gear combination of a compact chainset and an 11-32t cassette offers ample range for diverse riding conditions. The Sora rear derailleur can even handle a 34t cassette for those seeking even lower gears.
The inclusion of mudguard and rear rack mounts significantly enhances the Domane AL 3 Disc’s versatility, making it suitable for commuting and light touring. These practical features make it an excellent choice for first-time road bike buyers or those needing a single bike for multiple purposes, especially as a low cost road bike option.
Check out the Trek Domane SL6 review for more insights into the Domane frame design.
Boardman SLR 8.9 Carbon road bike in a studio setting, highlighting its carbon frame and Shimano 105 components as high-value features for a low cost road bike.
The Boardman SLR 8.9 Carbon road bike is presented as offering a carbon frame and Shimano 105 components at a budget-friendly price, making it a competitive low cost road bike.
(Image credit: Future)
7. Boardman SLR 8.9 Carbon
Best low cost road bike for weekend rides to sportives and races
Our expert review:
Specifications
Frame: Carbon
Fork: Carbon
Groupset: Shimano 105, rim
Weight: 8.9kg
Reasons to buy
- Responsive and engaging ride quality
- 11-speed Shimano 105 groupset offers precise shifting
- Generous clearance for rim brakes accommodates wider tires
- Hidden mudguard mounts maintain clean aesthetics
Reasons to avoid
- Rim brakes may not be preferred by all riders
The Boardman SLR 8.9 Carbon is celebrated for providing exceptional value, featuring Shimano 105 shifting, albeit paired with a more economical FSA chainset and Tektro brakes. It stands out as a high-performing low cost road bike.
This frame has consistently impressed in reviews, sharing many features with the more expensive SLR 9.6, such as aero tube profiles, dropped seat stays, and an integrated seat clamp.
Crucially, it mirrors the geometry of the 9.6, resulting in a versatile bike that is both responsive and comfortable. Boardman’s carbon layup is specifically designed to enhance compliance for long rides. Hidden mudguard mounts further increase its practicality for winter riding or commuting.
The 11-speed Shimano 105 groupset is a significant selling point at this price. Offering efficient and durable performance, Shimano 105 is often considered all the groupset most cyclists will ever need. Upgrading to a matching 105 chainset and brakes is also a straightforward and worthwhile enhancement.
For those preferring disc brakes, the Boardman SLR 8.9 is also available with Shimano 105 hydraulic disc brakes, though at a higher price point.
Read more: Boardman SLR 8.9 Carbon full review
Boardman SLR 8.6 road bike against a red backdrop, highlighting its alloy frame and quality finishing kit as key features of a well-rounded low cost road bike.
The Boardman SLR 8.6 road bike is presented as a low cost option that doesn’t compromise on quality, featuring a nice frameset and good components for its price range.
(Image credit: Future)
8. Boardman SLR 8.6 road bike
Best low cost road bike with quality-finishing kit for the price
Our expert review:
Specifications
Frame: Alloy
Fork: Carbon
Groupset: Shimano Claris, Tektro rim brakes
Weight: 10kg (claimed)
Reasons to buy
- Attractive frameset with smoothed welds for a premium look
- Reasonably racy ride position promotes aerodynamic efficiency
- Quality finishing kit, including tubeless-ready wheels, adds value
Reasons to avoid
- Rim brakes lack optimal stopping power
- Ride can be somewhat harsh on uneven road surfaces
The Boardman SLR 8.6 is Boardman’s entry-level road bike, yet its alloy frame features smoothed welds, giving it a look comparable to carbon frames. It also includes a carbon fork, enhancing ride quality.
Similar to the Pinnacle, it’s equipped with a Shimano Claris groupset with identical gear ratios and Tektro rim brakes. While these components have limitations compared to higher-end options—notably the larger jumps between gears and the moderate braking performance—they are functional and reliable for a low cost road bike.
We were particularly impressed by the frame’s efficiency and the somewhat racy geometry, although the ride can be a bit firm on rough roads. Boardman’s own-brand components are well-performing and comfortable. The wheels are tubeless-ready, offering an easy upgrade path for tires.
Read more: Boardman SLR 8.6 full review
Ribble Endurance 725 road bike highlighting its Reynolds steel frame, rim brakes, and classic aesthetics, appealing to riders seeking a durable and stylish low cost road bike.
The Ribble Endurance 725 is featured as a Reynolds steel option, emphasizing its durability and classic appeal in the low cost road bike category.
(Image credit: Future)
9. Ribble Endurance 725 base model road bike
Best low cost road bike with a durable steel frame
Our expert review:
Specifications
Frame: Reynolds 725 steel
Fork: Carbon
Groupset: Shimano Tiagra/FSA Omega chainset
Weight: Not specified
Reasons to buy
- Durable and compliant steel frame construction
- Decent Mavic Aksium wheelset enhances reliability
- Good range of gears suitable for varied terrains
- Classic, timeless aesthetic appeal
Reasons to avoid
- Equipped with rim brakes only
- Limited to 28mm maximum tire size, or 25mm with fenders
- Heavier compared to aluminum or carbon options
The Ribble Endurance 725 is constructed from Reynolds steel tubing and features rim brakes, which limits tire clearance to a maximum of 28mm, or 25mm if mudguards are installed. It offers a different material choice in the low cost road bike segment.
The Shimano Tiagra groupset provides a good range of gears, and the Mavic Aksium wheels are known for their durability. While the Continental wire bead tires are functional, they could be upgraded for improved performance. Our testing revealed a ride quality that is stable rather than quick and racy, but the robust steel frame effectively handles rough road surfaces.
Read more: Ribble 725 Endurance full review
Triban RC500 road bike showcasing its tire clearance for up to 40mm tires, highlighting its potential for light gravel use and versatility as a low cost road bike.
The Triban RC500 road bike is highlighted for its tire clearance, suggesting its adaptability for light gravel riding in addition to road use, making it a versatile low cost option.
(Image credit: Adam Jones)
10. Triban RC500 Microshift Disc road bike
Best low cost road bike with disc brakes
Our expert review:
Specifications
Frame: T6 aluminum
Fork: Carbon with alloy steerer
Groupset: Microshift 9-speed
Weight: 10.6kg (claimed)
Reasons to buy
- High-quality alloy frame and carbon bladed fork enhance ride quality
- Reliable shifting performance from Microshift gearing
- Mechanical disc brakes offer consistent stopping power
- Fender/mudguard and rack mounts increase versatility
Reasons to avoid
- Requires some self-assembly upon purchase
- Only available in a black color option
Despite its position in the budget category, the Triban RC500 offers exceptional value and is praised by Decathlon as a bike for going further. We rated it highly as a versatile all-rounder, with rack and guard mounts adding to its practicality. With clearance for 40mm tires, it can easily transition to light gravel riding with a simple tire swap, expanding its usability as a low cost road bike.
The semi-compact aluminum frame is paired with a carbon blade fork, and the geometry is designed for comfort, complemented by a comfortable handlebar shape. The 28mm own-brand tires and tubeless-ready wheels further enhance ride comfort.
In the US market, this model is equipped with a 9-speed Shimano Sora groupset instead of Microshift components, offering a different component specification depending on region.
Read more: Triban RC500 Disc road bike full review
Key Considerations When Choosing a Low Cost Road Bike
Frame Materials in Low Cost Road Bikes
Aluminum alloy is the most common frame material for affordable road bikes. While steel frames are occasionally found, carbon fiber frames are generally reserved for higher price points.
However, it’s important to recognize that a well-constructed aluminum frame can offer a superior ride compared to a budget carbon frame and may even be lighter.
At the most economical price points, forks may be made of steel or aluminum alloy. Upgrading to a carbon fork is beneficial as it typically offers greater compliance and improved ride comfort.
Groupset Expectations for Low Cost Road Bikes
The groupset, encompassing gears and shifters, is crucial for bike performance. Most road bikes feature a double chainset with both front and rear derailleurs.
Shimano dominates the groupset market. On lower-priced bikes, you can typically expect 8-speed Shimano Claris, providing 16 speeds with a double chainring. More expensive models might feature 9-speed Sora or 10-speed Tiagra.
Entry-level bikes may use 7-speed Shimano Tourney or derailleurs from Microshift. Some very basic models might even omit the front derailleur for simplicity.
It’s common for low cost road bikes to feature a mix-and-match groupset, often substituting the chainset with a more affordable option from FSA or another brand. This isn’t necessarily detrimental but is worth noting.
Essential Gear Ratios for Varied Terrain
Most low cost road bikes are equipped with a “compact” 50/34 tooth chainset. Cassettes usually start with an 11-tooth sprocket, providing a useful high gear.
Increasingly, cassettes on these bikes include larger sprockets with 30 or more teeth. Paired with the 34-tooth smaller chainring, this provides a low bottom gear suitable for most climbs. Some bikes even offer a 34-tooth lowest gear, achieving a 1:1 ratio, ideal for steep inclines.
Some lower cost road bikes may limit the largest sprocket to 28 or even 25 teeth, which might be adequate for fitter riders or those in flat areas but could pose challenges on hills for beginners.
Conversely, cassettes with closer gear ratios offer smaller jumps between gears, which can be preferable for maintaining cadence and comfort, although wider-range cassettes are more versatile for varied terrain. Lower-spec groupsets with wider cassettes may sometimes exhibit less smooth shifting between these larger jumps.
It’s worth verifying, but most modern rear derailleurs can accommodate wider range cassettes. Therefore, even if a bike comes with an 11-28t cassette, upgrading to an 11-32t cassette for a greater gear range is often possible.
Brake Types on Affordable Road Bikes
Disc brakes are becoming increasingly prevalent on road bikes due to their consistent performance in wet conditions, enhanced stopping power, and reduced wear on wheel rims.
Higher-end bikes feature hydraulic disc brakes, but low cost road bikes typically come with mechanical disc brakes. While mechanical discs offer less braking efficiency than hydraulics, they still provide superior all-weather performance compared to rim brakes and are easier to maintain.
Rim brakes are still found on some lower priced road bikes. They offer less powerful braking than disc brakes, especially in wet conditions. However, upgrading to higher-quality brake pads can significantly improve their performance inexpensively.
Tire Width Considerations for Comfort and Performance
Rim brake systems limit the maximum tire width due to caliper constraints, often resulting in bikes fitted with 25mm tires, although 28mm tires are becoming more common.
The adoption of disc brakes has removed these limitations, allowing for much wider tires. Many disc brake-equipped bikes can accommodate 32mm tires or even wider, which allows for lower tire pressures, resulting in a more comfortable and potentially faster ride. Low cost disc brake road bikes typically come with 28mm tires as standard.
Our Testing Methodology
At Cycling Weekly, 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 bring substantial experience to product comparisons, identifying strengths and weaknesses to deliver honest and unbiased evaluations of performance.
Road bike testing involves rides of varying lengths and in diverse conditions, typically including flat, rolling, and hilly terrain, as well as varied road surfaces, from smooth tarmac to rough and damaged roads. Testers evaluate each bike across multiple factors, including comfort, handling, and suitability for long-distance riding or racing. Component durability and overall value for money, particularly in the context of low cost road bikes, are also critically assessed.
