Budget-friendly road bikes have become increasingly sophisticated, incorporating technology that once was exclusive to high-end models. While the best road bikes can be quite expensive, numerous manufacturers offer affordable options that retain essential modern features, providing excellent riding experiences and reliable components for newcomers to the sport.
These entry-level models may utilize heavier aluminium alloy frames instead of carbon fibre, but often maintain similar geometry and handling characteristics to their pricier counterparts. They typically feature more basic road bike groupsets with fewer gears, yet still deliver dependable shifting performance.
Similarly, while equipped with more economical wheels compared to the best road bike wheels, these bikes offer robust and serviceable wheels, often paired with quality tyres. Upgrading wheels can significantly enhance the overall riding experience down the line.
Choosing your first road bike can feel overwhelming. To simplify the process, we’ve created a helpful guide at the end of this article, covering everything beginners need to know before purchasing an intro road bike.
Here’s our selection of the Best Intro Road Bikes to get you started.
Quick Picks: Top Intro Road Bikes
Giant Contend intro road bike, ideal for all-around riding, shown against a white background
Giant Contend – Best for All-Round Introduction to Road Cycling
The Giant Contend excels as a well-rounded intro road bike, featuring a quality aluminium frame, a carbon fork, and a Shimano Claris groupset. It offers reliability and is well-suited for future upgrades as your skills progress.
Liv Avail AR intro road bike for women, designed with female-specific geometry, white background
Liv Avail AR 4 – Best Women-Specific Intro Road Bike
The Liv Avail AR 4 is specifically designed for women, incorporating female-focused geometry and contact points. This attractive bike includes mechanical disc brakes and a Shimano drivetrain, ensuring confident performance for female riders starting their road cycling journey.
Specialized Allez intro road bike, a great choice for aspiring racers on a budget, white background
Specialized Allez – Best Intro Road Bike for Aspiring Racers
The Specialized Allez is a highly regarded aluminium-framed bike known for its exceptional ride quality. Its stiffness and affordability make it a popular choice among beginner racers looking for a performance-oriented intro road bike.
Triban RC 520 Disc Brake intro road bike, offering exceptional component specifications for its price rangeTriban RC 520 – Best-Spec Intro Road Bike
The Triban RC 520 boasts impressive components for its price, including a Shimano 105 R7000 groupset, TRP disc brakes, and mounts for mudguards and racks. This bike is a fantastic option for those prioritizing high-quality parts in their first road bike.
Trek Domane AL 3 intro road bike, designed for comfortable long-distance rides, white background
Trek Domane AL3 – Best Intro Road Bike for Endurance Riding
The Trek Domane is engineered for comfort over long distances, featuring a carbon fibre fork, tubeless-ready wheels, and plush 32mm tyres. It’s an excellent choice for beginners planning to tackle longer rides and explore various road surfaces.
Cube Attain Pro intro road bike, with a sleek design and attractive aesthetics, white background
Cube Attain Pro – Most Stylish Intro Road Bike
The Cube Attain Pro is not only well-equipped for its price but also stands out with its slender fork and eye-catching maroon finish. Its semi-aero design, including an aerofoil-shaped down tube, adds a touch of performance flair to this visually appealing intro road bike.
Written by Will Jones, a seasoned cycling expert who believes that the entry-level road bike segment is crucial for the sport’s growth. He emphasizes the importance of quality intro road bikes in making cycling accessible and enjoyable for newcomers.
Recent Updates
November 12th, 2024: Reflecting the increasing prevalence of disc brake technology, this guide has been updated to feature primarily disc brake models. Where rim brake bikes were previously recommended, we’ve highlighted their disc brake successors to ensure the guide remains current as of November 2024.
Best Intro Road Bikes in Detail
The Best Intro Road Bike for All-Round Riding
Giant Contend 2 2024 intro road bike, showcasing its versatile design for various riding conditions
(Image credit: Giant)
1. Giant Contend 2
The Giant Contend 2 is our top pick as the best intro road bike for all-around riding, offering a balanced package suitable for beginners exploring different aspects of road cycling.
Specifications
Weight: 9.5kg
Groupset: Shimano Claris
Wheels: Giant S-R3
Frame Sizes: S-XL
Reasons to Buy
- Full carbon fork enhances ride quality and reduces weight.
- D-Fuse technology in the seatpost improves comfort by absorbing road vibrations.
- Impressively lightweight for an intro road bike, enhancing responsiveness and climbing ability.
Reasons to Avoid
- Rim brakes may not offer the same level of stopping power as modern disc brakes, especially in wet conditions.
- Some riders might find its aesthetic understated compared to more visually striking options.
Who Should Buy It:
✅ Beginners Seeking a High-Quality, Affordable Bike: Giant’s scale allows them to deliver excellent value, providing a well-made frame and components for the price, making it an ideal entry point into road cycling.
✅ Riders Who Need a Versatile Gear Range: The wide gear ratios, including a 1:1 low gear, make climbing easier, although the eight-speed cassette means larger jumps between gears.
Who Should Not Buy It:
❌ Riders Prioritizing Modern Disc Brakes: If you prefer the enhanced stopping power and consistency of disc brakes, even mechanical versions, this rim brake model might not be the best choice.
❌ Those Looking for a Flashier, More Eye-Catching Bike: While functional and well-built, the Contend 2’s design is relatively conservative and may not appeal to riders seeking a more visually striking machine.
The Giant Contend 2 features predominantly Giant-branded components, which are all of good quality. It includes durable Giant wheels and 28mm tyres, along with a D-Fuse alloy seatpost designed to enhance comfort by allowing flex in specific directions while maintaining overall stiffness.
The frame is constructed from ALUXX-Grade aluminium, incorporating Giant’s signature compact design and an OverDrive full carbon fork. It’s equipped with Shimano’s 8-speed Claris groupset, providing a reliable and user-friendly introduction to road bike gearing. The component package is nearly complete Shimano, with FSA crankset and Tektro TK-B177 rim brakes as capable substitutes that maintain performance standards.
Practicality is also considered, with mounts for mudguards and a rack, increasing its versatility for year-round riding, commuting, or light touring. While its appearance might be considered somewhat understated compared to some competitors, the Giant Contend 2 offers a compelling blend of performance, comfort, and value for those new to road cycling.
The Best Women-Specific Intro Road Bike
Liv Avail AR 2022 intro road bike, designed by women for women with comfortable geometry
(Image credit: Liv Avail AR 2022)
2. Liv Avail AR 4
The Liv Avail AR 4 is recognized as the best women-specific intro road bike, meticulously designed to cater to the unique ergonomic needs of female cyclists.
Specifications
Weight: 10.77kg
Groupset: Shimano Claris
Wheels: Giant S-R2 Disc
Frame sizes: XXS-L
Reasons to Buy
- Frame geometry is specifically engineered using women’s body dimension data for optimal fit and comfort.
- Tubeless-ready wheels offer the option to upgrade to tubeless tyres for enhanced ride quality and puncture resistance.
- Available in a good range of smaller sizes, ensuring a better fit for petite riders.
Reasons to Avoid
- The Shimano Claris groupset, while reliable, could be considered for an upgrade as skills and riding demands increase.
Who Should Buy It:
✅ Women Requiring Smaller Frame Sizes: Liv specializes in bikes designed for women, offering a broader range of smaller sizes compared to many brands, ensuring a comfortable and efficient fit.
✅ Those Seeking All-Road Versatility: Equipped with 32mm tyres, the Avail AR can confidently handle varied surfaces, including light off-road trails, in addition to traditional road riding.
Who Should Not Buy It:
❌ Riders Planning to Tackle Serious Gravel Terrain: While capable on light off-road, the Avail AR is primarily designed for mixed surface riding. For challenging gravel, a dedicated gravel bike with wider tyres would be more suitable.
❌ Those Preferring Closer Gear Ratios: The eight-speed cassette results in noticeable jumps between gears, which might be less ideal for riders who prefer finer gear adjustments.
Addressing the outdated question of ‘can women ride men’s bikes?’, Liv Cycling proactively develops high-performance bikes specifically for women. Designed, engineered, and tested by women, using extensive data on female body dimensions, the Liv Avail AR 4 is engineered to provide exceptional comfort for women embarking on their road cycling journey.
Liv’s ALUXX-Grade aluminium frame is surprisingly compliant, enhancing rider comfort, while the Advanced-Grade carbon composite fork reduces overall weight and improves front-end responsiveness.
Component-wise, the Avail AR 4 aligns with other intro road bikes in this category, featuring Shimano Claris gearing, Tektro mechanical disc brakes, and tubeless-ready wheels, offering a balanced and reliable setup for beginner to intermediate riders.
The Best Intro Road Bike for Aspiring Racers
Specialized Allez on a rocky surface, highlighting its racing heritage and versatile capabilities
(Image credit: Josh Croxton)
3. Specialized Allez
The Specialized Allez is celebrated as the best intro road bike for aspiring racers, providing a performance-oriented platform for those looking to explore competitive cycling.
Our Expert Review:
Specifications
Weight: 10kg
Groupset: Shimano Claris
Wheels: Specialized Axis Sport Disc
Frame Sizes: 44-61cm
Reasons to Buy
- Well-finished frame available in various colours, offering aesthetic appeal.
- Good quality components provide reliable performance for training and entry-level racing.
- Ample tyre clearance allows for greater comfort and versatility across different road surfaces.
- Mounting points add practicality for commuting and all-weather riding.
Reasons to Avoid
- Tektro brakes, while functional, are not as refined as Shimano brakes in terms of modulation and overall performance.
- The slightly more upright geometry compared to older Allez models is less aerodynamic, prioritizing comfort over pure racing aerodynamics.
Who Should Buy It:
✅ Riders Seeking a Versatile Performance Bike: Specialized designed the Allez to be adaptable for various uses, from racing to commuting, making it a great all-rounder.
✅ Those Valuing Extra Tyre Clearance: Stock 30mm tyres offer a good balance of speed and comfort, and the capability to fit up to 35mm tyres enhances comfort further for varied road conditions.
Who Should Not Buy It:
❌ Riders Wanting an Aggressively Racy Position: The Allez’s updated geometry is more upright than previous versions, which, while comfortable, is less aggressive for out-and-out racing.
❌ Those Hoping to Avoid Future Upgrades: The wheels are the most basic component on the Allez, and upgrading them would significantly improve the bike’s overall performance and feel.
The Allez is Specialized’s longest-standing road bike model, one of their original three bikes, and the latest iteration features significant updates, including disc brakes for enhanced control, solidifying its position as a favourite first ‘proper’ road bike.
The geometry has been refined to be slightly more upright, as noted in our Specialized Allez Sport 2024 review, and it now accommodates wider tyres (up to 35mm) and includes mounts for mudguards and a pannier rack. These changes aim to broaden its appeal from a race-focused machine to a more versatile bike suitable for Sunday club rides, commuting, winter training, light touring, and everything in between.
Navigating the range of Specialized road bikes can be complex, but resources are available to help understand their offerings. The Allez remains a compelling option for those entering road cycling with a hint of competitive ambition.
Best Component Specification in an Intro Road Bike
Triban RC 520 Disc Brake studio image, showcasing its high-quality Shimano 105 groupset
(Image credit: Triban / Decathlon)
4. Triban RC 520 Disc Brake
The Triban RC 520 Disc Brake stands out as the best-spec intro road bike, offering an exceptional Shimano 105 groupset typically found on more expensive models.
Specifications
Weight: 10.4kg
Groupset: Shimano 105 R7000
Wheels: Triban Tubeless Ready Light
Frame Sizes: XS-XL
Reasons to Buy
- Shimano 105 R7000 groupset provides 11-speed shifting and performance, a significant upgrade at this price point.
- Tubeless-ready wheels and clearance for up to 36mm tyres enhance comfort and versatility.
- Cable-operated hydraulic disc brakes offer improved braking power and modulation compared to mechanical disc brakes.
Reasons to Avoid
- The aesthetic is functional rather than visually exciting, prioritizing performance over style.
- External cable routing requires more diligent maintenance compared to fully internal systems to ensure smooth shifting over time.
Who Should Buy It:
✅ Riders Prioritizing High-Spec Components for the Price: The inclusion of Shimano 105, an 11-speed groupset, is rare at this price and offers superior shifting performance compared to the 8 or 9-speed groupsets common on other intro road bikes.
✅ Those Needing Reliable Wet Weather Braking: TRP Spyre hybrid brakes offer a noticeable improvement in braking power and control compared to rim or mechanical disc brakes, particularly advantageous in wet conditions.
Who Should Not Buy It:
❌ Riders Wanting a Tubeless Setup Out-of-the-Box: While the wheels are tubeless-ready, the stock tyres are not, requiring an additional purchase and setup to realize tubeless benefits.
❌ Those Seeking Minimal Maintenance Drivetrain: External cable routing requires more attention to cleanliness and cable condition to maintain optimal shifting performance compared to fully sealed systems.
It’s unusual to find a Shimano 105 R7000 groupset on a bike at this price, making the Triban RC 520 Disc a standout offering. This bike doesn’t compromise on other features either, boasting a modern frame design with dropped seat stays for enhanced comfort and generous tyre clearance (up to 36mm slick tyres).
Additional features include mounts for racks and mudguards, tubeless-ready wheels, and a lifetime warranty on the frame, stem, and handlebars from Decathlon, adding to its value proposition.
The TRP HY/RD mechanical-hydraulic disc brakes are another notable spec choice. While adding a bit of weight and requiring slightly more maintenance than standard mechanical or rim brakes, they provide a significant upgrade in braking power and control, especially beneficial for riders frequently encountering wet or challenging conditions.
The main trade-off is in aesthetics; the Triban RC 520 has a utilitarian look that prioritizes function over visual appeal. The external cable routing, while making maintenance straightforward, requires more attention to keep the exposed sections clean for consistently smooth performance. Overall, the Triban RC 520 Disc is an exceptional choice for riders who value high-end componentry and performance in an intro road bike.
The Best Intro Road Bike for Long, Comfortable Rides
Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4 intro road bike, designed for endurance and comfortable mile-munching
(Image credit: Future)
5. Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4
The Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4 is identified as the best intro road bike for mile-munching, specifically designed for comfort and endurance on longer rides.
Specifications
Weight: 10.55kg
Groupset: Shimano Claris
Wheels: Bontrager Paradigm SL rims on Formula Hubs
Frame Sizes: 44-61cm
Reasons to Buy
- Attractive frame design available in multiple colours and an extensive size range.
- 32mm tyres and tubeless-ready wheels enhance comfort and reduce rolling resistance.
- Numerous mounting points increase versatility for commuting, touring, and all-weather riding.
Reasons to Avoid
- Gearing does not go as low as a 1:1 ratio, which may be less ideal for very steep climbs for some beginners.
Who Should Buy It:
✅ Riders Needing Ample Mounting Points: With rack and mudguard mounts, plus top tube bag bolts, the Domane is exceptionally versatile for carrying gear, making it suitable for commuting, touring, and long-distance adventures.
✅ Those Requiring a Wide Range of Sizes: Available in seven frame sizes from 44 to 61cm, the Domane ensures a good fit for almost all riders, crucial for comfort and efficiency on long rides.
Who Should Not Buy It:
❌ Riders Wanting Very Low Climbing Gears: While the Domane has a good gear range, its lowest gear is slightly higher than a 1:1 ratio, which might be missed by riders frequently tackling very steep inclines.
❌ Those Prioritizing Speed and Agility: With its focus on all-road comfort and a moderate weight, the Domane is geared more towards endurance and stability than outright speed and nimble handling.
Trek, often perceived as a higher-end brand, offers the Domane AL 2 as a surprisingly accessible option in this category. It provides significant value with a well-finished 100 Series Alpha Aluminium frame and a carbon fork, typically features found on more expensive bikes.
The Domane AL 2 is equipped with a Shimano Claris groupset and Tektro C550 dual-piston mechanical flat mount disc brakes. Notably, it includes comfortable 32mm tyres and tubeless-ready Bontrager wheels, an impressive spec at this price point. With eight different frame sizes, finding an optimal fit is highly achievable, enhancing rider comfort and efficiency.
For those considering expanding their budget, Trek offers a range of road bikes. Our guide to Trek road bikes provides further insights into their lineup. The Domane AL 2 remains a strong choice for beginners prioritizing comfort and versatility for longer rides.
Best All-Road Intro Road Bike
Marin Gestalt 2 studio image, highlighting its versatility for both road and light off-road use
(Image credit: Marin)
6. Marin Gestalt 2
The Marin Gestalt 2 is the best all-road intro road bike, designed to handle both paved roads and light off-road terrain, offering versatility for adventurous beginners.
Specifications
Weight: Not specified
Groupset: Shimano GRX
Wheels: Marin alloy
Frame sizes: 50-60cm
Reasons to Buy
- Wide tyre clearance accommodates up to 35mm tyres, enhancing off-road capability and comfort.
- Carbon fork improves ride quality and reduces weight.
- 10-speed Shimano GRX shifting provides a broad gear range suitable for varied terrains.
- Rack and mudguard mounts add practicality for commuting and touring.
Reasons to Avoid
- The Gestalt 2’s specification level pushes it slightly above a typical ‘budget’ price point.
- Lower gearing optimized for off-road might feel slightly less efficient for high-speed road riding.
Who Should Buy It:
✅ Riders Planning to Explore Off-Road Trails: The Shimano GRX groupset provides lower gears ideal for climbing off-road, while the 35mm tyres offer grip and cushioning on gravel and rough surfaces.
✅ Those Seeking Hydraulic Disc Braking: Hydraulic disc brakes offer superior stopping power and modulation compared to mechanical or rim brakes, particularly advantageous in mixed conditions.
Who Should Not Buy It:
❌ Riders Primarily Focused on High-Speed Road Riding: The 46x11t highest gear ratio might limit top-end speed on paved roads compared to road-specific gearing.
❌ Those on a Strict Budget: The higher-end components of the Gestalt 2 make it pricier than many other bikes in this category, potentially stretching a tight budget.
Marin Bikes are known for producing adaptable bikes, and the Gestalt 2 exemplifies this, offering 35mm tyres that provide the flexibility to venture onto light gravel trails. While the stock tyres might not be ideal for aggressive off-road conditions, they allow beginners to explore gravel riding comfortably.
Equipped with a 10-speed Shimano GRX gravel groupset, the Gestalt 2 features low gears that facilitate climbing steep roads and trails, while Shimano hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable stopping power. Practicality is enhanced with mudguard and rack mounts, making the Gestalt 2 a versatile option for all-season and all-surface riding. For those with a tighter budget, the Gestalt 1 or base model Gestalt offer less expensive alternatives with slightly lower specifications.
Best Intro Road Bike for Off-Road Adventures
Diamondback Haanjo 2 studio image, showcasing its gravel capabilities and robust build
(Image credit: Diamondback)
7. Diamondback Haanjo 2
The Diamondback Haanjo 2 is the best intro road bike for gravel riding, designed for those who want to explore beyond paved roads and venture onto gravel and unpaved surfaces.
Specifications
Weight: 11.34kg (claimed)
Groupset: Shimano Claris
Wheels: Diamondback Equation rims on unbranded hubs
Frame sizes: XS/47 – XL/59
Reasons to Buy
- Exceptionally versatile, suitable for touring, gravel riding, commuting, and general road use.
- Gravel-capable geometry and components allow confident riding on unpaved surfaces.
- Numerous mounting options, including on the fork, increase its utility for various adventures.
Reasons to Avoid
- Heavier than some aluminium road bikes, which can affect climbing and acceleration performance.
- Steel fork, while durable, is less compliant and heavier than a carbon fork.
Who Should Buy It:
✅ Riders Seeking Ultimate Versatility: The Haanjo excels as a multi-purpose bike, capable of handling touring, gravel paths, daily commutes, and road riding, ideal for those needing one bike to do it all.
✅ Those Valuing a Comfortable, Plush Ride: The 40mm tyres offer significant comfort and grip, especially when run at lower pressures, smoothing out rough roads and trails.
Who Should Not Buy It:
❌ Riders Prioritizing Low Weight: The Haanjo is heavier compared to many road bikes, which might be a drawback for riders focused on speed and climbing efficiency.
❌ Those Wanting a Carbon Fork: The steel fork, while robust, does not offer the vibration damping and weight savings of a carbon fork, potentially affecting comfort on longer rides.
The Diamondback Haanjo 2 blurs the lines between road and gravel bikes, making it ideal for riders who want a do-it-all machine. While it’s also relevant to our guide on the best budget gravel bikes, the Haanjo is primarily designed as a versatile bike that can manage road riding, commuting, touring, and recreational off-road excursions, negating the need for multiple bikes.
The aluminium frame paired with a steel fork does contribute to a heavier overall weight. However, the abundance of mounting options, including fork mounts, allows for extensive customization for various riding styles and needs.
Driven by a Shimano Claris 2×8-speed drivetrain and Tektro Lyra mechanical disc brakes, the Haanjo 2 comes standard with plush 40mm Vee Rubber Speedster tyres. These tyres offer excellent comfort and reduced rolling resistance when inflated appropriately, making it well-suited for diverse riding conditions.
Best Intro Road Bike for Future Upgrades
Cannondale Synapse 3 studio image, highlighting its upgrade-ready frame and components
(Image credit: cannondale)
8. Cannondale Synapse 3
The Cannondale Synapse 3 is the best intro road bike for those planning future upgrades, built on a high-quality frame that justifies component enhancements over time.
Specifications
Weight: Not specified
Groupset: Shimano Sora
Wheels: RD rims on Formula Hubs
Frame Sizes: 48-61cm
Reasons to Buy
- High-quality SmartForm C2 alloy frame and full carbon fork provide a solid foundation for upgrades.
- Front and rear thru-axles enhance stiffness and wheel security.
Reasons to Avoid
- More expensive compared to other equally-specced intro road bikes, reflecting the investment in the frame quality.
Who Should Buy It:
✅ Riders Planning to Upgrade Components Later: Cannondale’s well-regarded alloy frame offers a platform worth investing in, making future component upgrades a worthwhile enhancement.
✅ Those Prioritizing Frame Comfort: Cannondale’s SAVE technology integrated into the frame and fork enhances compliance and reduces road vibrations, improving ride comfort.
Who Should Not Buy It:
❌ Riders on a Tight Budget: The Synapse 3 is priced higher than some competitors, reflecting its superior frame quality, which may not suit those strictly adhering to a lower budget.
❌ Those Seeking Extensive Off-Road Capability: The Synapse is optimized for endurance road riding and does not have the tyre clearance for wider gravel tyres, limiting its off-road versatility.
Initially, the Cannondale Synapse 3 might appear pricier in this category, but it offers a high-quality frame designed to evolve with a rider’s increasing skill and needs. Built around a refined SmartForm C2 alloy frame and a full carbon fork, both incorporating Cannondale’s SAVE (Synapse Active Vibration Elimination) technology for enhanced comfort, and modern thru-axles for added stiffness and security.
Although equipped with cable-actuated disc brakes, the frame features internal cable routing through both the frame and fork, providing a clean aesthetic and protecting cables from the elements. The Shimano Sora groupset offers reliable performance, borrowing technology from higher-tier Shimano groupsets. The Vittoria Zaffiro tyres, while not top-of-the-line, are from a reputable brand and come in a comfortable 28mm width, balancing grip and rolling efficiency.
To understand where the Synapse fits within Cannondale’s broader range, our guide to Cannondale road bikes provides additional context. The Synapse 3 is a smart choice for beginners who value a superior frame and plan to upgrade components over time to enhance their riding experience.
Most Stylish Intro Road Bike
Cube Attain Pro 2024 intro road bike, showcasing its sleek design and maroon colour scheme against a white background
(Image credit: Future)
9. Cube Attain Pro
The Cube Attain Pro is the best intro road bike for riders who prioritize style and aesthetics, offering an attractive design without compromising on performance.
Specifications
Weight: 10.3kg
Groupset: Shimano Claris
Wheels: Cube RA 2.3 Aero Disc
Frame Sizes: 47-62cm
Reasons to Buy
- Full carbon fork enhances ride quality and reduces front-end weight.
- Colour-matched finishing kit contributes to its cohesive and premium appearance.
- Thru-axles front and rear improve frame stiffness and handling precision.
Reasons to Avoid
- No mudguard mounting points, reducing its practicality for all-weather commuting or riding.
Who Should Buy It:
✅ Riders Who Appreciate Aero Features: Cube markets the Attain frame as semi-aero, incorporating a profiled downtube designed to offer some aerodynamic advantages.
✅ Those Preferring a Full Shimano Drivetrain: Despite being an 8-speed Claris groupset, Cube includes a complete Shimano drivetrain, including the crankset, which is often substituted on budget road bikes.
Who Should Not Buy It:
❌ Riders Needing Wider Tyre Clearance: The frame is limited to 32mm tyre clearance, restricting options for riders wanting significantly wider, more comfort-oriented tyres.
❌ Those Planning to Fit Mudguards: The Attain Pro lacks mounting points for traditional bolt-on mudguards, making it less practical for wet conditions or commuting without clip-on alternatives.
German brand Cube is recognized for its progressive designs, often standing out from more conventional bike aesthetics. The Cube Attain Pro, weighing just over 10kg despite having disc brakes, is notably lightweight for an intro road bike. It features a full carbon fork, internal cable routing, and colour-coordinated components, giving it a more premium look than its price suggests.
The full Shimano Claris groupset delivers reliable performance and smooth shifting, providing excellent value. While Cube offers a more basic Attain model, the Pro version includes key upgrades that justify the slightly higher cost. The combination of its stylish design and capable components makes the Cube Attain Pro a compelling choice for style-conscious beginners.
Choosing the Right Intro Road Bike for You
You can rely on Cyclingnews for expert, unbiased advice. Our team dedicates countless hours to testing cycling technology to provide honest recommendations, helping you make informed decisions. Learn more about our testing process.
When searching for an affordable road bike to start your cycling journey, your options are extensive. Most reputable brands offer entry-level road bikes that provide good quality and specifications for newcomers or those seeking a budget-friendly bike for commuting or as a secondary bike.
Here’s a guide to key considerations when choosing the best intro road bike.
Are Road Bikes Suitable for Beginners?
While drop handlebars, narrow tyres, and clip-in pedals might seem daunting, road bikes are indeed accessible to beginners. Anyone who can ride a bicycle can adapt to a road bike relatively quickly. If concerned about clip-in pedals, starting with best flat pedals can build confidence before transitioning.
Road bike tyre widths have also increased in recent years, with many models now featuring 28mm or wider tyres. This provides enhanced grip and a more comfortable ride by allowing for lower tyre pressure.
How Much Should You Spend on an Intro Road Bike?
Setting a budget is the first step, and fortunately, quality road bikes are available across various price points. The £1,000/$1,000 mark is often considered a sweet spot where you begin to find high-quality bikes that offer both reliability and a noticeable performance advantage.
Bike prices have risen recently, so slightly exceeding this threshold if possible can yield even better options. The positive trend is that even intro road bikes now frequently include features like disc brakes, internal cable routing, and quality finishing components.
Which Frame Material is Best for Beginners?
Carbon fibre is the gold standard for top-tier performance, while aluminium frames are prevalent in entry-level bikes. Aluminium is a perfectly capable material, and shouldn’t be seen as inferior. We even have a guide to the best aluminium road bikes demonstrating their high performance capabilities.
Aluminium bikes are generally lighter than steel but heavier than carbon. For beginners, aluminium frames are practical because they are more robust than carbon, yet won’t rust like steel, providing a good balance of performance and durability, suitable for various conditions, including locking up outdoors if necessary.
Avoid very cheap carbon bikes from unknown manufacturers; quality aluminium is preferable to low-grade carbon.
How Many Gears are Necessary on an Intro Road Bike?
The number of gears depends on the groupset (drivetrain components) equipped on the bike. Intro road bikes typically feature Shimano components, known for their reliability, durability, and ease of use and maintenance.
Higher-end bikes may have 11 or more speeds, while more affordable models might have 8 or 9 speeds. More gears mean smaller increments between each gear, offering finer control over cadence.
However, more gears aren’t always better. As long as the bike has sufficient range for your typical terrain, fewer gears can be more forgiving and require less precise adjustments. Fewer gears can also simplify basic bike maintenance for beginners.
Are Disc Brakes Essential for an Intro Road Bike?
Disc brakes are increasingly common across all price ranges, but haven’t completely replaced rim brakes at the entry level. Disc brakes generally offer superior performance, especially in wet conditions, but rim brakes have been effectively used for decades and are still adequate.
A key tip for rim brakes is to invest in quality brake pads, which can significantly improve their performance.
What Components Should You Prioritize on an Intro Road Bike?
When working with a budget, compromises are inevitable. A higher-quality frame might come with more basic components, which sets the stage for future upgrades. Conversely, a less expensive frame might be paired with slightly better components.
For better component specifications for your money, consider direct-to-consumer brands like Ribble or Canyon, which often offer better value by cutting out the traditional retail middleman. However, ensure you are confident about your size before purchasing online.
Additional Factors to Consider for Your First Road Bike
If this is your first road bike, consider year-round usability. Mudguard mounts are highly practical for wet weather riding. If you plan to commute, rack mounts for carrying bags to work are beneficial. These features also extend the bike’s utility for light touring.
Don’t forget to budget for essential accessories such as a helmet, lights, and a pump. Investing in a good pair of best cycling shorts can also significantly improve saddle comfort, especially for longer rides.
Bike Maintenance for Beginners
A crucial tip for first-time bike owners is to keep your bike clean! A clean bike operates more efficiently, lasts longer, and prevents you from getting covered in grime. Refer to our guide on how to clean your bike for step-by-step instructions and our guide to the best bike chain lube to keep your chain running smoothly after cleaning.
Once your bike is in good working order, consider best bike insurance and one of the best bike locks to protect your investment against theft or damage.
Key Differences Between Entry-Level and High-End Bikes
Significant differences exist between budget and premium bikes. However, remember that rider effort is crucial regardless of bike price.
Cheaper bikes typically have heavier frames made from materials like aluminium and steel, although they may include a carbon fibre fork, similar to higher-end models. Components will generally be heavier and may not offer the same durability or refinement. You’ll also see less advanced technology and fewer features like integrated suspension, storage solutions, or electronic components.
Crucially, avoid the absolute cheapest road bikes on the market, as they often represent false economy in terms of longevity and serviceability. They may also provide a less enjoyable introduction to road cycling. Investing slightly more in an intro road bike from a reputable brand will likely result in a more rewarding and sustainable cycling experience.
