Investing in a top-tier road bike can be a significant expense, often reaching thousands of dollars. However, the good news for budget-conscious cyclists is the availability of Affordable Road Bikes that incorporate many features found in their high-end counterparts.
Thanks to advancements in trickle-down technology and the rise of direct-sales manufacturers, high-performance features and technologies are now accessible on mid-range bikes without the premium price tag. These affordable road bikes deliver an excellent riding experience, reliable performance, and durable components that can last for years.
Navigating the expanding market of budget-friendly road bikes can be challenging, especially for cyclists who are just starting out. The Cycling Weekly test team, with extensive experience evaluating bikes across all price ranges – from entry-level to luxury models – is well-equipped to identify exceptional, yet inexpensive bikes.
Whether you’re new to road cycling or 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.
Top Affordable Road Bikes: Our Selections
Decathlon Triban 520 affordable road bike
Decathlon Triban 520
The Decathlon Triban 520 stands out in its price range by offering an 11-speed Shimano 105 groupset, typically found on more expensive bikes, along with semi-hydraulic disc brakes. This combination delivers exceptional value for cyclists seeking performance without breaking the bank.
Brand X affordable road bike option
Brand X Road Bike
The Brand X Road Bike is an incredibly affordable option that doesn’t compromise on essential features. It includes a double chainset, a functional 7-speed gear range, and integrated shifters/brake levers, all at a price point that’s surprisingly accessible, even less than some bike computers.
Boardman SLR 8.9 Carbon affordable road bike with carbon frame
Boardman SLR 8.9 Carbon
For riders seeking the performance benefits of carbon fiber, the Boardman SLR 8.9 Carbon is an impressive choice. It features a carbon fiber frameset paired with Shimano 105 shifting. While equipped with rim brakes instead of discs, it remains an exceptional value, offering carbon frame technology at an affordable price.
The Best Affordable Road Bikes Available Now
Specialized Allez Sport affordable road bike for performance
The Specialized Allez, now updated with disc brakes, provides enhanced tire clearance for a more versatile ride.
(Image credit: Future)
1. Specialized Allez Sport
Best affordable road bike for performance feel
Read 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
- Entry-level rim brakes offer limited stopping power
- Ride can be a bit harsh on rough surfaces
The Specialized Allez range is a popular series known for its performance and value. The Allez Sport model, positioned in the middle of the lineup, has consistently received high ratings, including a near-perfect 4.5 stars in our last review.
Featuring a ‘balanced’ geometry, the Allez Sport provides a comfortable riding position suitable for various cycling activities. Riders can also adjust the stem for a more aggressive posture. This versatility makes it well-suited for fast group rides, commuting, and winter training miles, although the ride quality can be firm.
The aluminum frame incorporates Specialized’s ‘SmoothWeld’ technology for clean and robust joints. Its modern aesthetic is enhanced by dropped seat stays and internal cable routing. The frame geometry prioritizes comfort and stability, making it an excellent choice for entry-level road cyclists. Our review team noted the Allez Sport’s confidence-inspiring and assured handling.
The carbon FACT fork contributes to a smoother ride and reduces overall weight, with the Allez Sport weighing in at just over 9kg. Practical features like mudguard eyelets further enhance its suitability for commuting and year-round use.
The bike 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 wide gear range, making steep climbs and fast flats manageable.
Component compromises at this price point are expected. The Allez Sport uses own-brand Axis 1.0 rim brakes, which were found to be underperforming in our tests, requiring cautious downhill riding. However, upgrading the brake pads or calipers is straightforward and worthwhile, given the excellent Allez frameset.
Read more: Specialized Allez Sport full review
Triban 520 affordable road bike with Shimano 105
The Triban 520 offers exceptional value with Shimano 105 shifting and disc brakes at an affordable price.
2. Triban 520 Road Bike
Best affordable 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 design, recognized twice
Reasons to Avoid
- Semi-hydraulic brakes require more maintenance
The redesigned Triban 520 features an updated aluminum frame and a carbon bladed fork. It has transitioned to TRP HY/RD mechanical disc brakes and remarkably, includes a Shimano 105 groupset, a feature rarely seen at this price.
The frame geometry positions the Triban 520 as an endurance, commuter, and light touring bike. It offers a more upright riding posture with a generous stack height and shorter top tube, prioritizing comfort and stability over aggressive aerodynamics. If comfort and versatility are key, the Triban 520 is an excellent option.
Its all-rounder credentials are enhanced by ample tire clearance and rack and mudguard mounts. The bike comes with 28mm tires but can accommodate up to 36mm, suitable for light gravel paths or audax rides where comfort is paramount. With added fenders and a pannier rack, the Triban 520 is ready for daily commutes or multi-day tours.
The standout feature is the Shimano 105 groupset, although it’s not a complete 105 setup. Decathlon has opted for a Shimano RS510 chainset and a Microshift cassette to reduce costs. While these components might add a bit of weight, they maintain solid performance. The gearing includes a compact 50/34t chainset with an 11-32t cassette, providing a low gear range to tackle steep inclines despite the bike’s weight.
Brand X affordable road bike in black
The Brand X road bike is one of the most budget-friendly options available, yet still delivers impressive performance.
(Image credit: Hannah Bussey)
3. Brand X Road Bike
Best affordable road bike for cyclists on a very tight budget
Read our expert review
Specifications
Frame: Alloy
Fork: Steel
Groupset: Shimano Tourney, rim brakes
Weight: 11.4kg
Reasons to Buy
- High specification for its budget price point
- Combined shifter/brake levers for ease of use
- Includes mounts for mudguards and racks
Reasons to Avoid
- Limited gear range for varied terrain
- Basic rim brakes offer adequate but not exceptional stopping power
- Narrow 23mm tires
The Brand X road bike, offered by Wiggle/Chain Reaction, is an exceptional value proposition.
It features a 2×7-speed Shimano Tourney groupset with a 50/34t Prowheel chainset and a 14-28t freewheel. While the gear range is somewhat limited with larger jumps between gears, the inclusion of a Shimano groupset and combined brake/shifter levers is remarkable at this price.
As expected for an affordable bike, it comes with rim brakes and external cable routing. The Kenda tires, nominally 25mm, actually measure closer to 23mm. Weighing in at 11.4kg, the Brand X is reasonably light for its category.
Practicality is enhanced with mudguard and rack mounts, making the Brand X road bike suitable for commuting and all-weather riding.
Read more: Brand X road bike full review
Diamondback Haanjo 2 affordable gravel road bike
38mm wide tires on the Diamondback Haanjo 2 allow for comfortable riding on varied surfaces, including off-road.
(Image credit: Diamondback)
4. Diamondback Haanjo 2
Best affordable 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 compliant and comfortable ride
- Generous tire clearance for wider, more comfortable tires
Reasons to Avoid
- Overall build is heavier compared to pure road bikes
Recommended by our US testers, the Diamondback Haanjo 2 is a versatile option that diverges slightly from traditional road bikes, leaning towards the gravel/adventure category.
The Haanjo rides smoothly on paved roads but is also equipped with 38c tires, offering cushioning and grip for off-road gravel paths.
Versatility is a key characteristic of the Haanjo. The butted 6061 aluminum frameset includes front and rear rack mounts and mudguard eyelets, making it suitable for light touring, commuting, and winter training. The geometry, featuring a generous stack height, a relaxed headtube angle, and long chainstays, emphasizes stability and comfort.
The wider tires and robust steel fork contribute to a slightly heavier build, but the Haanjo compensates with a sub-compact 46/34t chainset and an 8-speed 11-32t cassette, aiding in climbing. Shifting is handled by Shimano Claris, and braking is managed by Tektro flat-mount mechanical disc brakes, which are easily upgradable if desired.
RIBBLE R872 TIAGRA affordable carbon road bike
The Ribble R872 features a carbon fiber frame, offering high-end material at an accessible price point.
(Image credit: Future)
5. Ribble R872 Tiagra
Best affordable road bike for overall value
Read our expert review
Specifications
Frame: Carbon
Fork: Carbon
Groupset: Shimano Tiagra, rim brake
Weight: 8.64kg (as tested with upgraded wheels)
Reasons to Buy
- Comfortable and compliant ride quality
- Predictable and enjoyable handling
- Lightweight carbon frame
- Frame is worthy of future component upgrades
- Excellent value for money
Reasons to Avoid
- Stock braking performance is weak; upgrading brake pads is recommended
The Ribble R872 received a 9/10 rating and an Editor’s Choice award in 2020, making it a highly recommended affordable road bike.
While most affordable road bikes feature aluminum frames, the R872 stands out with its carbon fiber frameset, making carbon technology more accessible.
Ribble utilizes Toray 700 carbon to achieve affordability while maintaining a comfortable endurance ride quality. The frame is designed to be more forgiving over long distances rather than ultra-stiff for racing, making it ideal for Gran Fondos or Sportives where comfort is crucial. Despite its focus on comfort, the R872 frame remains lightweight, with our size small test bike weighing just over 8.6kgs.
The R872 frameset is an excellent platform for upgrades. Ribble’s ‘bike builder’ tool allows customization of components like handlebars and saddle, potentially saving future upgrade costs. Even with a budget-conscious initial build, the frame’s quality ensures it’s ready for component enhancements down the line.
Read more: Ribble R872 Tiagra full review
Trek Domane AL 3 Disc affordable endurance road bike
The Trek Domane AL 3 Disc features an alloy frame with geometry shared with Trek’s higher-end carbon Domane models.
(Image credit: Trek)
6. Trek Domane AL 3 Disc
Best affordable road bike for varied terrain
Specifications
Frame: Aluminum
Fork: Carbon
Groupset: Shimano Sora shifting, Tektro disc brakes
Weight: 10.45kg
Reasons to Buy
- Shares the same frame geometry as the high-rated Domane SL6
- Beautifully finished smooth welds on the aluminum frame
- Generous tire clearance for up to 35c tires
- Includes rack and mudguard mounts for versatility
Reasons to Avoid
- Lighter options are available in this category
The Domane is Trek’s endurance-focused road bike model, and the higher-end SL6 version received a 4.5/5 rating in our previous review.
The Domane AL 3 Disc offers similar endurance capabilities at a more affordable price point, thanks to its aluminum frame construction. It uses Trek’s 100 Series Alpha Aluminum, paired with a carbon fork and modern features like thru-axles and flat mount disc brakes.
While the aluminum frame reduces cost compared to carbon models like the SL6, the geometry remains consistent, providing a comfortable and stable ride. This geometry makes the AL 3 Disc well-suited for long rides and less-than-perfect road surfaces.
The Domane truly excels in ride comfort. With clearance for up to 35mm tires, it effectively smooths out road imperfections and reduces vibrations. This capability is highlighted by Lizzie Deignan’s victory at the Paris-Roubaix Femmes on a Domane in 2021.
Components include Shimano’s 9-speed Sora groupset and Tektro disc brakes. The Sora groupset offers reliable shifting and comfortable ergonomics, typical of Shimano’s trickle-down technology. The bike features a compact chainset and an 11-32t cassette, providing ample gearing for diverse terrains. The Sora rear derailleur can even accommodate a 34t cassette for even lower gearing if needed.
The Domane AL 3 Disc also includes mudguard and rear rack mounts, enhancing its practicality for commuting and light touring. These features significantly increase the bike’s versatility, especially for riders needing a single bike for multiple purposes.
For more insights, check out the Trek Domane SL6 review.
BOARDMAN SLR 8.9 CARBON affordable road bike for sportives
The Boardman SLR 8.9 Carbon combines a carbon frame and Shimano 105 components at a budget-friendly price.
(Image credit: Future)
7. Boardman SLR 8.9 Carbon
Best affordable road bike for weekend sportives and races
Read our expert review
Specifications
Frame: Carbon
Fork: Carbon
Groupset: Shimano 105, rim brakes
Weight: 8.9kg
Reasons to Buy
- Responsive and engaging ride quality
- Equipped with an 11-speed Shimano 105 groupset
- Generous clearance for rim brakes
- Hidden mudguard mounts for added practicality
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, albeit paired with a lower-level FSA chainset and Tektro brakes to maintain affordability.
The frame design has consistently impressed in our reviews, sharing many attributes with the more expensive SLR 9.6, such as aerodynamic tube profiles, dropped seat stays, and an integrated seat clamp.
Geometry-wise, it mirrors the SLR 9.6, offering a versatile ride that balances responsiveness and comfort. Boardman’s carbon layup is designed to provide compliance for long rides. Hidden mudguard mounts further enhance its versatility for winter riding or commuting.
The 11-speed Shimano 105 groupset is a significant advantage at this price. 105 is known for its efficient and durable shifting performance, often considered all the groupset most cyclists will ever need. Upgrading to a full 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, although at a higher price point.
Read more: Boardman SLR 8.9 Carbon full review
Boardman SLR 8.6 affordable alloy road bike
Boardman opts for an alloy frame in the SLR 8.6 model, maintaining affordability.
(Image credit: Future)
8. Boardman SLR 8.6 Road Bike
Best affordable road bike with quality components for the price
Read our expert review
Specifications
Frame: Alloy
Fork: Carbon
Groupset: Shimano Claris, Tektro rim brakes
Weight: 10kg (claimed)
Reasons to Buy
- Attractive frameset with smooth welds, resembling carbon
- Reasonably racy riding position for aerodynamic efficiency
- Quality finishing kit, including tubeless-ready wheels
Reasons to Avoid
- Rim brakes lack strong bite
- Ride can be somewhat harsh on uneven road surfaces
The Boardman SLR 8.6 is the entry-level model in the Boardman road bike range, yet its alloy frame features smooth welds that give it a premium look similar to carbon frames. It also includes a carbon fork, enhancing front-end compliance.
Like the Pinnacle, it’s equipped with a Shimano Claris groupset and Tektro rim brakes. While Claris offers functional shifting, the gear ratios have larger jumps, and the Tektro brakes are adequate but not exceptional.
Despite these entry-level components, the frame is efficient, and the geometry is reasonably racy, promoting an aerodynamic riding position. However, the ride can be firm on rough roads. Boardman’s own-brand components are functional 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 affordable steel road bike
The Ribble Endurance 725 is a Reynolds steel framed option, offering a classic ride feel.
(Image credit: Future)
9. Ribble Endurance 725 Base Model Road Bike
Best affordable road bike with a durable steel frame
Read 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 for reliability
- Good range of gears with Shimano Tiagra
- Classic, traditional aesthetic
Reasons to Avoid
- Rim brakes only, limiting ultimate stopping power
- Maximum tire size limited to 28mm
- Heavier compared to aluminum or carbon options
The Ribble Endurance 725 is constructed from Reynolds 725 steel tubing and features rim brakes, limiting tire clearance to 28mm, or 25mm with mudguards.
The Shimano Tiagra groupset provides a good spread of gears, and the Mavic Aksium wheels are known for their durability. However, the Continental wire bead tires are a potential upgrade point. The ride quality is stable and steady, ideal for endurance riding, and the robust steel frame handles rough road surfaces well.
Read more: Ribble 725 Endurance full review
Triban RC500 affordable disc brake road bike
Clearance for 40mm tires on the Triban RC500 makes it suitable for light gravel use.
(Image credit: Adam Jones)
10. Triban RC500 Microshift Disc Road Bike
Best affordable road bike with disc brakes
Read 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
- Reliable shifting from Microshift groupset
- Mechanical disc brakes for all-weather stopping
- Fender/mudguard and rack mounts for added versatility
Reasons to Avoid
- Requires some self-assembly
- Only available in black color option
The Triban RC500 offers excellent value in the budget category, emphasizing versatility and long-distance riding capability. It’s designed as a great all-rounder, enhanced by rack and guard mounts and tire clearance for up to 40mm tires, making it adaptable for light gravel use with a tire change.
The semi-compact aluminum frame is paired with a carbon blade fork, and the geometry is relaxed, promoting comfort. The handlebar shape further enhances rider comfort, complemented by 28mm own-brand tires and tubeless-ready wheels.
In the US market, this model is often specced with a 9-speed Shimano Sora groupset instead of Microshift components.
Read more: Triban RC500 Disc road bike full review
Key Considerations When Choosing an Affordable Road Bike
Frame Materials: What to Expect on Budget Road Bikes?
Affordable road bikes predominantly use aluminum alloy for their frames. Steel frames are less common but can be found, while carbon fiber frames typically increase the price significantly.
Aluminum frames, when well-constructed, can offer a ride quality comparable to or even better than budget carbon frames, and may also be lighter.
At lower price points, forks may be steel or aluminum. Carbon forks are advantageous, offering improved compliance and ride comfort.
Groupset: What Level of Components Should You Look For?
The groupset includes gears and shifters. Most road bikes feature a double chainset with front and rear derailleurs.
Shimano dominates the groupset market. Affordable road bikes often feature 8-speed Shimano Claris (16 speeds with a double chainring). Mid-range affordable options may include 9-speed Sora or 10-speed Tiagra.
Entry-level affordable bikes might use 7-speed Shimano Tourney or Microshift derailleurs, and some may omit the front derailleur for simplicity.
It’s common for affordable bikes to feature a mix of groupset components, often using a non-Shimano chainset (e.g., FSA) to reduce costs, which is not necessarily detrimental but worth noting.
Gear Ratios: What Gearing Do You Need?
Most affordable road bikes come with a compact 50/34 tooth chainset. Rear cassettes usually start with an 11-tooth sprocket, providing a useful high gear.
Increasingly, cassettes include larger sprockets with 30 or more teeth, offering a low bottom gear for climbing when paired with the 34-tooth chainring. Some may offer even lower gears with a 34-tooth largest sprocket, providing a 1:1 ratio ideal for steep inclines.
Some affordable road bikes might have cassettes that top out at 28 or even 25 teeth. This might suffice for fitter riders or those in flat areas, but can make climbing challenging for beginners.
Wider ratio cassettes can have larger jumps between gears, which might be noticeable with lower-spec groupsets. Closer ratio cassettes offer smoother transitions but less range.
Most modern rear derailleurs can accommodate wide-range cassettes, allowing for easy upgrades to an 11-32t cassette if more gear range is desired.
Brakes: Rim or Disc Brakes on Affordable Road Bikes?
Disc brakes are becoming more prevalent on road bikes due to their consistent performance in wet conditions, increased stopping power, and reduced wear on wheel rims.
Higher-priced bikes feature hydraulic disc brakes, while affordable road bikes typically use mechanical disc brakes. Mechanical discs offer all-weather performance but are less powerful than hydraulics, although easier to maintain.
Rim brakes are still found on some affordable models. They offer less stopping power than discs, especially in wet conditions. However, upgrading brake pads can significantly improve rim brake performance at a low cost.
Tire Width: How Wide Should Your Tires Be?
Rim brake calipers limit tire width, often resulting in 25mm tires, although 28mm tires are also used.
Disc brakes allow for wider tires, with many disc brake bikes accommodating 32mm or wider. Wider tires improve comfort by allowing lower tire pressures, and can even enhance speed and reduce rolling resistance on rough surfaces. Affordable disc brake bikes typically come with 28mm tires.
How We Test Affordable Road Bikes
At Cycling Weekly, our dedicated team of testers rigorously reviews a wide range of cycling products, providing objective, real-world assessments based on daily use in varied conditions.
Our experienced testers are adept at comparing products, identifying strengths and weaknesses, and delivering honest, unbiased evaluations of performance.
To test road bikes, we conduct rides of varying lengths and in diverse conditions, including flat, rolling, and hilly terrain, and a mix of smooth and rough road surfaces. Testers evaluate each bike on factors such as comfort, handling, suitability for long-distance riding or racing, component durability, and overall value for money, with a particular focus on the latter for affordable models.
