Decathlon Triban 520
Decathlon Triban 520

Best Cheap Road Bikes: Top Budget-Friendly Picks for 2024

Investing in high-performance road cycling doesn’t always require breaking the bank. The good news for budget-conscious cyclists is that the market for affordable road bikes is booming. Thanks to advancements in trickle-down technology and the rise of direct-sales brands, many features once exclusive to high-end models are now accessible on Best Cheap Road Bikes. These bikes deliver a fantastic riding experience, reliable components, and durability, making them ideal for both seasoned riders and newcomers to the sport.

However, the sheer volume of cheap road bikes available can be overwhelming, particularly for beginner cyclists. That’s where Cycling Weekly’s expert review team comes in. Having rigorously tested countless bikes across all price ranges, from entry-level to luxury, we’re well-equipped to identify exceptional, budget-friendly options.

Whether you’re new to road cycling, seeking an affordable commuter, or simply want a great value ride, our curated list of the best cheap road bikes for 2024 has something for everyone.

Best Cheap Road Bikes: Our Top Selections

Decathlon Triban 520Decathlon Triban 520

Decathlon Triban 520

The Decathlon Triban 520 stands out in the best cheap road bike category by offering an impressive 11-speed Shimano 105 groupset, typically found on more expensive bikes. Coupled with semi-hydraulic disc brakes, it delivers exceptional value for money.

Brand X road bikeBrand X road bike

Brand X Road Bike

For cyclists on a tight budget, the Brand X Road Bike is a remarkable option. This best cheap road bike contender provides a double chainset, a functional 7-speed gear range, and integrated shifters/brake levers, all at an incredibly low price point.

Boardman SLR 8.9 CarbonBoardman SLR 8.9 Carbon

Boardman SLR 8.9 Carbon

Stepping up in frame material, the Boardman SLR 8.9 Carbon is a standout best cheap road bike with a carbon fiber frameset and Shimano 105 shifting. While equipped with rim brakes instead of discs, it remains an exceptional value for a carbon road bike.

The Best Cheap Road Bikes in Detail

Specialized Allez Sport cheap road bike with disc brakesSpecialized Allez Sport cheap road bike with disc brakes

The Specialized Allez Sport, a top-rated cheap road bike, now features disc brakes and increased tire clearance for enhanced performance and versatility.

1. Specialized Allez Sport

Best cheap 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

  • Superb quality frame
  • Confident and stable handling
  • Full carbon fork

Reasons to avoid

  • Somewhat clunky shifting
  • Budget rim brakes lack powerful stopping
  • Ride can feel harsh

The Specialized Allez range is a consistently popular choice in the cycling world, and the Allez Sport model, positioned in the middle of the lineup, has earned near-perfect scores in reviews. Its ‘balanced’ geometry provides a comfortable riding position that can be adjusted for a more aggressive feel by slamming the stem. This versatility makes the Allez Sport suitable for fast club rides, commuting, and year-round cycling, although the ride can be a bit firm.

The aluminum frame incorporates Specialized’s ‘SmoothWeld’ technology for clean welds, while dropped seatstays and internal cable routing give it a modern, race-inspired aesthetic. The stack height and chainstay length prioritize comfort and stability, making it an excellent entry-level road bike. Reviewers have consistently praised the Allez Sport for its confidence-inspiring and assured handling.

The carbon FACT fork enhances ride smoothness and reduces weight, contributing to the Allez Sport’s overall weight of just over 9kg. Mudguard eyelets on the fork further boost its practicality for commuting and all-weather riding.

The bike features Shimano’s reliable 9-speed Sora groupset with a threaded bottom bracket. A compact chainset paired with an 11-32t cassette provides a wide gear range, enabling riders to tackle both steep climbs and flat roads effectively.

Like many best cheap road bikes, compromises are necessary to meet budget constraints. On the Allez Sport, these come in the form of own-brand Axis 1.0 rim brakes. While functional, their performance was noted as lacking in reviews, requiring cautious downhill riding. However, the brake pads or even the calipers are easily upgradable, a worthwhile improvement given the exceptional Allez frameset.

Read more: Specialized Allez Sport full review

Triban 520 road bike featuring Shimano 105 groupset and disc brakes, a top contender for best cheap road bikeTriban 520 road bike featuring Shimano 105 groupset and disc brakes, a top contender for best cheap road bike

The Triban 520 road bike offers an outstanding value proposition with its Shimano 105 groupset and disc brakes, making it a top choice among the best cheap road bikes.

2. Triban 520 road bike

Best cheap 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

Reasons to avoid

  • Semi-hydraulic brakes require more maintenance

The rebranded and redesigned Triban 520 features an aluminum frame with a carbon bladed fork and has upgraded to TRP HY/RD mechanical disc brakes. Remarkably, for a bike in this price range, it also boasts a Shimano 105 groupset, a feature rarely seen on best cheap road bikes.

The geometry of the Triban 520 places it 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, aerodynamic riding position. If you value comfort and stability and need a versatile bike capable of commuting and light touring, the Triban 520 is an excellent option to consider within the realm of best cheap road bikes.

Its all-rounder credentials are further enhanced by ample tire clearance and rack and mudguard mounts. The bike comes equipped with 28mm tires but can accommodate up to 36mm tires for venturing onto bridleways, dirt roads, or tackling audax rides where comfort is paramount. Adding mudguards (fenders) and a pannier rack transforms the Triban 520 into a capable daily commuter or multi-day touring machine, highlighting its impressive versatility as a best cheap road bike.

As previously mentioned, the standout feature of this best cheap road bike is its Shimano 105 groupset. However, it’s important to note that it’s not a complete 105 groupset. To manage costs, Decathlon has opted for a Shimano RS510 chainset and a Microshift cassette. While these components may add a slight weight penalty, they shouldn’t significantly impact performance. The gearing setup 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 when climbing steeper inclines.

Brand X Road bike leaning against a white wall, showcasing its budget-friendly design as a best cheap road bike contenderBrand X Road bike leaning against a white wall, showcasing its budget-friendly design as a best cheap road bike contender

The Brand X road bike is among the most affordable options available, yet it still impressed reviewers with its performance and value, making it a strong contender for the best cheap road bike title.

3. Brand X road bike

Best cheap 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 component spec for its budget price
  • Combined shifter/brake levers
  • Includes mudguard/rack mounts

Reasons to avoid

  • Narrow gear range
  • Rim brakes offer adequate but not exceptional stopping power
  • Relatively narrow 23mm tires

The Brand X road bike, an in-house offering from Wiggle/Chain Reaction, delivers exceptional value, especially for cyclists seeking the best cheap road bike on a very limited budget.

It features a 2×7-speed Shimano Tourney groupset, including a 50/34t Prowheel chainset and a 14-28t freewheel. While this provides a somewhat limited gear range with larger jumps between gears compared to higher-end options, the inclusion of a Shimano groupset and combined brake/shifter levers at this price point is remarkable and a key selling point for this best cheap road bike option.

As expected for a best cheap road bike, the Brand X is equipped with rim brakes rather than disc brakes. Cables are externally routed, which, while potentially more exposed to contamination, is common on bikes in this price category. The nominally 25mm Kenda tires measure closer to 23mm in reality. Despite its budget-friendly components, the Brand X road bike is reasonably lightweight at 11.4kg.

Practicality is also considered; the Brand X includes mounts for fenders/mudguards and racks, enhancing its suitability for commuting or all-weather riding. This versatility further solidifies its position as a practical best cheap road bike choice.

Read more: Brand X road bike full review

Diamondback Haanjo 2 road bike featuring wide tires, making it a versatile best cheap road bike for comfortDiamondback Haanjo 2 road bike featuring wide tires, making it a versatile best cheap road bike for comfort

The Diamondback Haanjo 2, equipped with 38mm wide tires, is a versatile and comfortable option, making it a strong contender for the best cheap road bike for riders seeking comfort and off-road capability.

4. Diamondback Haanjo 2

Best cheap 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 forgiving and comfortable ride
  • Generous clearance for wide tires

Reasons to avoid

  • Overall build is heavier compared to other road bikes

Recommended by US testers, the Diamondback Haanjo 2 offers a slightly different approach compared to the pure road bikes on this list. It distinguishes itself as a best cheap road bike by prioritizing comfort and versatility.

Classified as a gravel/adventure bike, the Haanjo rides smoothly on paved roads but also comes equipped with 38c tires, providing cushioning for off-road gravel riding. This blend of on-road and off-road capability makes it a unique best cheap road bike option.

Versatility is a key theme with the Haanjo. The 6061 aluminum frameset features front and rear rack mounts, as well as mudguard (or fender) eyelets, making it well-suited for light touring, commuting, and winter training rides. This versatility is reflected in its geometry, characterized by a generous stack height, a slightly slack headtube angle, and long chainstays, all contributing to a stable and comfortable ride, key attributes for a best cheap road bike focused on comfort.

The wide tires and more robust frame, including a steel fork, do contribute to a heavier overall 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, while Tektro flat-mount mechanical disc brakes provide stopping power. The use of the newer flat mount standard allows for straightforward brake upgrades if desired on this best cheap road bike.

Ribble R872 TIAGRA road bike featuring a carbon fiber frame, a high-value option for best cheap road bike seekersRibble R872 TIAGRA road bike featuring a carbon fiber frame, a high-value option for best cheap road bike seekers

The Ribble R872 Tiagra boasts a carbon fiber frame, offering a significant upgrade in frame material at a budget-friendly price, making it a compelling choice for the best cheap road bike.

5. Ribble R872 Tiagra

Best cheap 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 ride
  • Good handling
  • Lightweight
  • Frame is worthy of future upgrades
  • Excellent value for money

Reasons to avoid

  • Standard braking performance; brake pad and shoe upgrade recommended for improved stopping power

The Ribble R872 received a 9/10 score and an Editor’s Choice award, making it a highly recommended best cheap road bike.

While many best cheap road bikes feature aluminum frames, the Ribble R872 stands out by offering a carbon fiber frameset at a comparable price. For riders looking to experience the benefits of carbon fiber without a hefty price tag, the R872 is an excellent starting point within the best cheap road bike category.

To maintain affordability, Ribble utilizes Toray 700 carbon, optimized for a comfortable endurance ride quality. This means the frame prioritizes forgiveness and compliance over long distances rather than ultimate stiffness. Ideal for tackling Gran Fondos or Sportives, the R872’s carbon frame still results in a lightweight bike; a size small weighed just over 8.6kgs in a previous review, highlighting its appeal as a lightweight best cheap road bike.

This lightweight carbon frameset is worthy of future upgrades. Ribble’s ‘bike builder’ allows customization of components during purchase, enabling riders to select handlebars and saddles that suit their preferences, potentially saving on future upgrades. Even if budget constraints limit initial component choices, the R872’s frame provides a solid foundation for future enhancements, solidifying its position as a value-oriented best cheap road bike.

Read more: Ribble R872 Tiagra full review

Trek Domane AL 3 Disc road bike showcasing its endurance geometry, positioning it as a versatile best cheap road bikeTrek Domane AL 3 Disc road bike showcasing its endurance geometry, positioning it as a versatile best cheap road bike

The Trek Domane AL 3 Disc features an alloy frame that shares the geometry of Trek’s higher-end carbon Domane models, offering endurance-focused design in a best cheap road bike package.

6. Trek Domane AL 3 Disc

Best cheap 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

  • Shares the same frame design as the highly-rated Domane SL6
  • Beautifully smooth frame welds
  • Clearance for up to 35c tires
  • Rack and mudguard mounts enhance versatility

Reasons to avoid

  • Lighter options are available in the best cheap road bike category

The Domane has long been Trek’s endurance-focused model, with the SL6 version earning high praise in reviews. The AL 3 Disc brings the Domane’s renowned endurance capabilities to a more accessible price point, making it a strong contender for best cheap road bike for varied terrain.

The AL 3 Disc utilizes Trek’s 100 Series Alpha Aluminum frame instead of carbon fiber to reduce cost. It retains modern features like thru-axles and flat mount disc brakes and is paired with a carbon fork.

While the frame material differs from the carbon Domane 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, key characteristics for a versatile best cheap road bike.

The Domane excels in ride comfort, particularly on rough roads. With clearance for up to 35mm tires, it effectively absorbs road imperfections and reduces road chatter. This comfort is validated by Lizzie Deignan’s victory at the inaugural Paris-Roubaix Femmes in 2021 on a Domane, highlighting its capability as a comfortable best cheap road bike for challenging conditions.

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 sensible gearing combination of a compact chainset and an 11-32t cassette offers ample range for diverse riding conditions. The Sora rear derailleur can even accommodate a 34t cassette for riders seeking even lower gearing on this best cheap road bike.

The AL 3 Disc also features mudguard (fender) and rear rack mounts, significantly increasing its versatility. It can readily serve as a commuter bike or handle light touring duties, making it a practical choice for riders needing a single versatile bike, further enhancing its appeal as a best cheap road bike.

Check out the Trek Domane SL6 review for more insights into the Domane frame’s performance.

Boardman SLR 8.9 CARBON road bike highlighting its carbon frame and Shimano 105 components, a performance-oriented best cheap road bikeBoardman SLR 8.9 CARBON road bike highlighting its carbon frame and Shimano 105 components, a performance-oriented best cheap road bike

The Boardman SLR 8.9 Carbon combines a carbon frame with Shimano 105 components at a budget-friendly price, making it a performance-oriented best cheap road bike choice.

7. Boardman SLR 8.9 Carbon

Best cheap 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 ride quality
  • 11-speed 105 groupset
  • Generous clearance for rim brakes
  • Hidden mudguard mounts

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. It’s a performance-focused best cheap road bike that doesn’t compromise on key components.

The frame, refined over several iterations, consistently receives positive reviews. It shares 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 SLR 9.6’s geometry, resulting in a versatile bike that is both responsive and comfortable. Boardman’s carbon layup is designed to provide compliance for long days in the saddle, enhancing comfort for endurance rides. Hidden mudguard (fender) mounts add practicality for winter riding or commuting, increasing its versatility as a best cheap road bike.

The 11-speed Shimano 105 groupset is a significant advantage at this price point. 105 is known for its efficient and durable shifting performance, often considered all the groupset most riders will ever need. Upgrading to a matching 105 chainset and brakes is a relatively straightforward and worthwhile enhancement for this best cheap road bike.

For riders sold on the Boardman 8.9 but preferring disc brakes, a version with Shimano 105 hydraulic disc brakes is available, although at a higher price point.

Read more: Boardman SLR 8.9 Carbon full review

Boardman SLR 8.6 road bike set against a red background, highlighting its alloy frame as a quality best cheap road bike optionBoardman SLR 8.6 road bike set against a red background, highlighting its alloy frame as a quality best cheap road bike option

The Boardman SLR 8.6 road bike utilizes an alloy frame, providing a quality and affordable option in the best cheap road bike category.

8. Boardman SLR 8.6 road bike

Best cheap 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

  • Appealing frameset with smooth welds, resembling carbon frames
  • Reasonably racy riding position for aerodynamic posture
  • Quality finishing kit, including tubeless-ready wheels

Reasons to avoid

  • Rim brakes lack strong initial bite
  • Ride can be a bit harsh on uneven road surfaces

The Boardman SLR 8.6 is Boardman’s entry-level model, yet its alloy frame features smoothed welds on the main tubes, giving it a more premium appearance akin to carbon frames. It also includes a carbon fork, a feature often found on higher-priced best cheap road bikes.

Similar to the Pinnacle, it features a Shimano Claris groupset with comparable gear ratios and Tektro rim brakes. While these components have limitations compared to more expensive options—larger gear jumps and adequate but not exceptional braking—they are expected on a best cheap road bike at this price point.

Reviewers were impressed by the frame’s efficiency and relatively racy geometry, although some road buzz was noted on rougher surfaces. Boardman’s own-brand components perform well and are comfortable. The wheels are tubeless-ready, allowing for tire upgrades to enhance ride quality on this best cheap road bike.

Read more: Boardman SLR 8.6 full review

Ribble Endurance 725 road bike, a steel-framed option for best cheap road bike seekers valuing durabilityRibble Endurance 725 road bike, a steel-framed option for best cheap road bike seekers valuing durability

The Ribble Endurance 725 is a Reynolds steel-framed option from Ribble, catering to riders looking for durability and a classic feel in a best cheap road bike.

9. Ribble Endurance 725 base model road bike

Best cheap 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 steel frame construction
  • Decent Mavic Aksium wheelset
  • Good range of gears
  • Classic, traditional aesthetic

Reasons to avoid

  • Rim brakes only
  • Limited to 28mm maximum tire size
  • Heavier compared to aluminum or carbon options

The Ribble Endurance 725 is constructed from Reynolds steel tubing and is equipped with rim brakes rather than discs. This configuration limits tire clearance to a maximum of 28mm, or 25mm when using fenders/mudguards. It stands out as a best cheap road bike for riders prioritizing frame durability and classic aesthetics.

The Shimano Tiagra groupset provides a good spread of gears, and the Mavic Aksium wheels are expected to be durable, although the wire bead Continental tires could be upgraded for improved performance. The ride quality was described as steady rather than racy, but the robust steel frame handled rough roads well during testing. This makes it a solid best cheap road bike choice for riders prioritizing long-lasting frame construction.

Read more: Ribble 725 Endurance full review

Triban RC500 road bike with space for wide tires, a versatile best cheap road bike with gravel potentialTriban RC500 road bike with space for wide tires, a versatile best cheap road bike with gravel potential

The Triban RC500 road bike offers clearance for 40mm tires, making it adaptable for light gravel use and highlighting its versatility as a best cheap road bike.

10. Triban RC500 Microshift Disc road bike

Best cheap 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

  • Quality aluminum frame and carbon bladed fork
  • Reliable shifting performance from Microshift gearing
  • Mechanical disc brakes for all-weather stopping power
  • Fender/mudguard and rack mounts for added versatility

Reasons to avoid

  • Requires self-assembly
  • Only available in black color option

Despite its budget-friendly price, the Triban RC500 is positioned by Decathlon as a versatile bike capable of “going further,” earning it recognition as a great all-rounder and a strong contender for best cheap road bike with disc brakes. Rack and guard mounts further enhance its versatility. With clearance for 40mm tires, it can even be adapted for light gravel riding with a tire change, increasing its appeal as a versatile best cheap road bike.

The semi-compact aluminum frame is paired with a carbon blade fork, and the geometry is relaxed, emphasizing comfort. The handlebar shape also contributes to rider comfort. 28mm own-brand tires and tubeless-ready wheels further enhance ride quality on this best cheap road bike.

In the US market, the same bike is often equipped with a 9-speed Shimano Sora groupset instead of Microshift components.

Read more: Triban RC500 Disc road bike full review

What to consider in a cheap road bike

What frame materials are the best cheap road bikes made from?

Aluminum alloy is the most common frame material for cheap road bikes. While steel frames are occasionally found, carbon fiber is typically reserved for higher price points.

However, a well-constructed aluminum frame can offer a superior ride quality to a budget carbon frame and may even be lighter. Therefore, aluminum is a strong and practical choice for the best cheap road bike.

At the most affordable end of the spectrum, forks may be made of steel or aluminum alloy. Carbon forks offer benefits in terms of compliance and comfort, making them a desirable feature on a best cheap road bike.

What groupset should I expect on a best cheap road bike?

The groupset encompasses the gears and shifters of your bike. Most road bikes feature a double chainset, including both front and rear derailleurs.

Shimano dominates the groupset market. On lower-priced bikes, 8-speed Shimano Claris (16 speeds with a double chainring) is common. More expensive best cheap road bikes may feature 9-speed Sora or 10-speed Tiagra.

Entry-level best cheap road bikes might use 7-speed Shimano Tourney or derailleurs from Microshift. Some may even omit the front derailleur for simplicity.

Often, best cheap road bikes will not have a full Shimano groupset; the chainset may be substituted with one from FSA or another brand. This isn’t necessarily detrimental, but it’s something to be aware of when considering a best cheap road bike.

What gear ratios do I need on a cheap road bike?

Most cheap road bikes are equipped with a “compact” 50/34 tooth chainset. Cassettes typically start with an 11-tooth sprocket, providing a useful high top gear.

Increasingly, cassettes on best cheap road bikes include a largest sprocket with 30 or more teeth. Paired with the 34-tooth smaller chainring, this provides a usefully low bottom gear for tackling most climbs. Some even offer a 34-tooth lowest gear, creating a 1:1 ratio ideal for steeper uphill sections.

Some cheap road bikes may limit the largest sprocket to 28 or even 25 teeth. Fitter riders or those riding primarily on flat terrain may find this sufficient, but beginners tackling climbs may find it challenging.

Conversely, narrower-range cassettes with smaller jumps between gears may be preferred by some riders, allowing for finer gear adjustments to match terrain. Wider-range cassettes can have larger jumps, and lower-spec groupsets might exhibit clunkier shifting between these larger jumps.

While it’s always worth checking, most modern rear derailleurs can accommodate wide-range cassettes. Even if a best cheap road bike comes with an 11-28t cassette, swapping to an 11-32t cassette for a wider gear range is often possible if desired.

What brakes are fitted to cheap road bikes?

Disc brakes are becoming increasingly prevalent on road bikes, including best cheap road bikes. They offer more consistent braking in wet conditions, generally greater stopping power, and reduced wear on wheel rims compared to rim brakes.

Higher-priced bikes feature hydraulic disc brakes, but cheap road bikes typically come with mechanical disc brakes. Mechanical discs offer less overall braking efficiency than hydraulics but maintain the all-weather performance of disc brakes and are easier to maintain.

More affordable cheap road bikes may still be equipped with rim brakes. These offer less stopping power than disc brakes and are less effective in wet weather. However, brake pads are often the weakest link in rim brake systems. Upgrading to higher-quality brake pads can significantly improve braking performance on a best cheap road bike with rim brakes.

What tire width should I expect on a cheap road bike?

Rim brake calipers limit the maximum tire width that can be fitted. Consequently, rim brake bikes, including best cheap road bikes, are often equipped with 25mm tires, although 28mm tires are also seen.

The shift to disc brakes has resulted in greater tire clearance on many bikes. Many disc brake bikes, including disc brake best cheap road bikes, can accommodate 32mm tires or even wider. Wider tires allow for lower tire pressures, resulting in a more comfortable ride and potentially even increased speed. A cheap road bike with disc brakes will typically come with 28mm tires as standard.

How we test best cheap road bikes

Cycling Weekly employs a dedicated team of experienced testers who rigorously review a wide range of cycling products. They conduct objective reviews based on their real-world experiences using the products daily in diverse conditions.

Their extensive experience enables them to effectively compare products, identify strengths and weaknesses, and provide honest, unbiased assessments of performance. This rigorous testing methodology is applied to identifying the best cheap road bikes.

To test road bikes, our testers undertake rides of varying lengths and in different conditions. These rides typically include a mix of flat, rolling, and hilly terrain, along with various road surfaces, from smooth tarmac to broken and potholed roads. Testers evaluate each bike’s performance across multiple factors, including comfort, handling, suitability for long-distance riding or racing, component durability, and overall value for money—with particular emphasis on value when evaluating best cheap road bikes.

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