Buying a new road bike is a significant decision for any cyclist. The market is currently overflowing with options, catering to a wide range of budgets and riding styles. While this abundance of choice is beneficial, it can also feel overwhelming. If you’re feeling spoiled for choice, or even a little lost, we’re here to guide you.
At usabikers.net, we’ve rigorously tested countless road bikes, from entry-level models ideal for beginners to high-performance superbikes used in professional races, some of which come with prices reaching five figures. This extensive testing across the spectrum allows us to deeply understand the nuances of the road bike market. More importantly, we can help you navigate the key factors that define a bike’s ride quality, from frame materials and tube shapes to the components from various top road bike brands.
If you’re working with a tighter budget, you might want to check out our guide to the best cheap road bikes. For those interested in top-tier racing machines, our Race Bike of the Year (RBOTY) 2024 awards are a must-read. And if you’re leaning towards a more versatile all-road experience, our guide to the best gravel bikes will be insightful. Otherwise, keep reading for our curated selection of the best road bikes from leading brands for 2024.
Top Road Bike Picks at a Glance
Specialized Allez 2023 road bikeSpecialized Allez: Best entry-level road bike overall1. Specialized Allez
Best Entry-Level Road Bike Overall
Specialized, a renowned road bike brand, presents the Allez, now in its fifth decade, perfectly updated with disc brakes and ample tire clearance. Its well-considered geometry ensures a comfortable ride.
Cannondale CAAD13 Disc road bikeCannondale CAAD13 Disc: Best entry-level road bike for racing2. Cannondale CAAD13 Disc
Best Entry-Level Road Bike for Racing
Cannondale, another top road bike brand, proves alloy can race! The CAAD13 is light, stiff, and surprisingly comfortable, rivaling many entry-level carbon bikes.
Discover the Cannondale CAAD13 Disc
Giant Contend SL 1 road bikeGiant Contend SL1: Best entry-level road bike for value3. Giant Contend SL1
Best Entry-Level Road Bike for Value
Giant, known for value, offers the Contend SL1, ideal for comfortable long rides with its compliant rear end and excellent component package.
Learn more about the Giant Contend SL1
Cervelo S5 race bikeCervelo S5: RBOTY 2023 overall superbike winner4. Cervelo S5
Best Superbike Overall
Cervelo, a leader in performance road bikes, created the S5, a Tour de France-proven race machine. It combines aerodynamics, sharp handling, and surprising comfort for long distances.
Read about the Cervelo S5 superbike
Giant Propel Advanced Pro 1 road bikeGiant Propel Advanced SL: RBOTY 2023 best value superbike5. Giant Propel Advanced SL
Best Value Superbike
Giant continues to impress with the Propel, delivering exceptional performance and features, especially in its more affordable models.
Explore the value of the Giant Propel Advanced SL
Trek Madone SLR 7 aero road bikeTrek Madone: Best aero superbike6. Trek Madone
Best Aero Superbike
Trek, a pioneering road bike brand, engineered the Madone with a radical frameset featuring IsoFlow technology and an aerodynamic cockpit, making it exceptionally fast.
Discover the aerodynamic Trek Madone
Cycling Weekly’s Top Road Bikes: Brands and Models We Recommend
Entry-Level Road Bikes: Great Brands for Beginners
The Best Entry-Level Road Bike Overall: Specialized Allez
Specialized Allez Disc on a yellow background
The Specialized Allez Disc now features disc brakes and increased tire clearance, making it a versatile entry-level option from a top brand.
(Image credit: Future)
1. Specialized Allez
Best Entry-Level Road Bike Overall from a Leading Brand
Read our expert review to understand why the Specialized Allez is a top pick.
Specifications
Frame: Specialized E5 Premium alloy
Groupset: Shimano Claris
Wheels: Axis Sport alloy
Weight: 10.0kg / 22lbs (claimed)
Reasons to Buy
- Excellent ride quality for its class
- Easy and straightforward setup
- Versatile for various riding styles
- Adaptable to different ride characteristics
Reasons to Avoid
- Price point might be slightly higher than some competitors
- Mechanical disc brakes offer less power than hydraulic options
Specialized, a dominant road bike brand, has updated its Allez for 2023, replacing rim brakes with disc brakes. This change has allowed for increased tire clearance, now accommodating up to 35mm tires (or 32mm with mudguards). This upgrade significantly enhances ride comfort and extends the Allez’s capabilities to light gravel paths, freeing it from solely smooth roads.
During our testing, we appreciated this newfound versatility. It even includes rack mounts, making it suitable for touring or commuting. Crucially, the Allez maintains a sporty profile, and with a slammed stem, it felt fast and responsive.
The base model includes Shimano Claris 8-speed shifting and mechanical disc brakes. While Claris offers noticeable gear jumps in its 11-32t cassette, the mechanical disc brakes, as anticipated, lack the stopping power of hydraulic systems.
The Allez range now features just two main models (plus the performance-oriented Allez Sprint). The higher-spec Allez Sport upgrades to ten speeds and hydraulic disc brakes, but comes with a significant price increase despite otherwise similar specifications to the base model.
Upgrading the wheelset would notably improve performance. However, overall, the Specialized Allez is a well-rounded package for its price, making it a strong competitor among the best cheap road bikes we have tested.
Read more: Specialized Allez first ride review
The Best Entry-Level Road Bike for Racing: Cannondale CAAD13 Disc 105
Caad 13 Disc
Cannondale, a leading road bike brand, is renowned for its mastery in alloy bike frame fabrication, exemplified in the CAAD13.
(Image credit: Future)
2. Cannondale CAAD13 Disc 105
Best Entry-Level Road Bike for Racing from a Top Brand
Explore our expert review to see why the Cannondale CAAD13 Disc 105 excels in racing.
Specifications
Frame: SmartForm C1 Premium Alloy
Groupset: Shimano 105
Wheels: RD 2.0 alloy
Weight: 9.0kg / 19.9lb
Reasons to Buy
- Highly versatile for various riding styles
- Exceptional frame ride quality
- Well-specced components for the price
Reasons to Avoid
- Hard to find any downsides at this level
Cannondale, a brand synonymous with performance road bikes, continues its legacy with the CAAD13. This model inherits its fairly long and low geometry from the professional-grade carbon SuperSix EVO, sharing identical stack height and reach figures. A size 54, for instance, features a stack height of 55.5cm and a reach of 38.4cm.
Aerodynamic tube profiles, also inspired by their WorldTour bikes, combine to deliver superb handling and a smooth ride that closely mimics the feel of a carbon frameset. Our test model, equipped with high-spec wheels and tires, undoubtedly enhanced this experience, overcoming typical entry-level component limitations.
Even at lower price points, the CAAD13 remains accessible as a first bike, featuring a frame that riders are unlikely to outgrow. We believe it justifies future upgrades, whether to wheels or groupset, as your skills and preferences evolve.
Even opting for a more affordable CAAD13 model still provides a Shimano 105 hydraulic groupset with an RS510 crankset, alongside DT Swiss R470 rims and Formula hubs—all reliable, quality components. Below this, a Tiagra-equipped version is available, and for traditionalists, rim brake models are also offered.
The size range is extensive, from 44 up to 62, with six sizes in between, highlighting Cannondale’s commitment to fitting a broad spectrum of riders and budgets with the CAAD13.
The only minor drawback we noted was the somewhat high front-end stack. While easily adjustable, it might require cutting down the head tube to avoid an unsightly stack of spacers above the stem for a more aggressive riding position.
Read more: Cannondale CAAD13 Disc full review
The Best Entry-Level Road Bike for Value: Giant Contend SL1
Giant Contend SL1
The Giant Contend SL1 is a high-quality, value-packed entry-level option from one of the Best Road Bike Brands.
(Image credit: Cycling Weekly)
3. Giant Contend SL1
Best Entry-Level Road Bike for Value from a Leading Brand
Read our expert review to see why the Giant Contend SL1 is our top value pick.
Specifications
Frame: ALUXX SL-Grade alloy
Groupset: Shimano 105
Wheels: Giant P-R2 alloy
Weight: 9.0kg / 19.9lbs
Reasons to Buy
- Excellent price for the component spec
- Comfortable and compliant ride quality
- Confident and stable handling
Reasons to Avoid
- Could be lighter compared to higher-end models
Giant, a brand celebrated for delivering exceptional value in road bikes, incorporates features from its higher-end models into the Contend SL. It features a compact alloy frame with a sloping top tube. The D-Fuse seatpost and carbon fork are specifically designed to enhance compliance in the rear and front, respectively. Combined with endurance-focused frame geometry, this results in excellent comfort and handling, allowing for longer rides with increased confidence.
We were particularly impressed by the Contend SL1’s ability to absorb road vibrations, a feature not always present in aluminum frames. This, along with its sensible geometry—a longer wheelbase for stability and a higher stack—and wide tire clearance (up to 34mm), firmly places it in the endurance category, ready for comfortable mile-eating. We believe this setup is ideal for an entry-level bike, catering to a wider range of riders than more aggressive, race-oriented positions.
The Contend SL series hasn’t seen recent updates, but both rim and disc brake versions are still available. Both are equipped with Shimano’s reliable 105 groupset and a Shimano RS510 chainset. The rim brake model uses Tektro calipers, while the disc brake version features 105 hydraulic brakes.
Consistent with its entry-level and endurance designations, it offers ample low gearing, down to a 1:1 ratio, for tackling inclines. Shimano 105 ensures quality shifting performance as always. While not the lightest bike at this price point, which we felt slightly impacted its agility, the Giant Contend SL1 offers outstanding value and is a genuine contender for the best entry-level road bike.
Read more: Giant Contend full review
The Best Road Bike for Versatility: Vitus Venon Evo-RS
Vitus Venon Evo 105 Di2 road bike on a pink background
The Vitus Venon Evo, from a brand focusing on performance and value, is available in both road and gravel specifications, enhancing its versatility.
(Image credit: Future)
4. Vitus Venon Evo-RS
Best Road Bike for Versatility from an Emerging Brand
Read our expert review to discover the versatility of the Vitus Venon Evo-RS.
Specifications
Frame: Venon Evo Carbon
Groupset: Shimano 105 Di2
Wheels: Prime Attaquer alloy
Weight: 7.8kg / 17.2lbs
Reasons to Buy
- Endurance-focused position is excellent for long rides
- Versatile frameset accommodates fenders
- Wide tire clearance of 28-45mm
- Capable on gravel trails in GR specification
Reasons to Avoid
- 28mm tires might look aesthetically narrow given the frame’s tire clearance
While versatility has become increasingly important for road bike buyers, the market has responded with more specialized categories, from aerodynamic race machines to ultra-lightweight climbers.
Vitus, however, takes a different approach with the Venon Evo, designed to serve multiple purposes. Its standout feature is a wide tire clearance of 45mm, making it suitable for both road and gravel. The same frame is available in gravel-specific models, indicated by the GR suffix. We have also reviewed the Vitus Venon Evo-GR gravel variant.
The carbon frame weighs under 1kg and offers noticeable compliance. The road-oriented models are equipped with Michelin Power Cup 28mm tubeless tires on Prime Attaquer alloy wheels. We tested the 105 Di2 version of the Vitus Venon Evo, but a range of electronic and mechanical groupset options from Shimano and SRAM are available.
During road testing, we found the ride to be well-balanced, firm, yet remarkably comfortable. Further enhancing its versatility, hidden mounts allow for mudguard installation, making the Venon Evo a practical choice for year-round riding.
Read more: Vitus Venon Evo-RS full review
Superbikes: Top Brands in High-Performance Road Bikes
Superbikes: Overall Winner – Cervelo S5
Cervélo S5 on a yellow background
The Cervélo S5, from a brand known for speed, blends aerodynamic performance with comfort and exceptional handling, making it a top superbike.
(Image credit: Future)
1. Cervélo S5
Best Superbike Overall from a Performance-Driven Brand
Read our expert review to understand why the Cervelo S5 is the overall superbike champion.
Specifications
Frame: S5 Carbon
Groupset: SRAM Force AXS
Wheels: Reserve 52/63
Weight: 8.2kg / 18.0lbs
Reasons to Buy
- Exceptionally fast aerodynamics
- Superb and responsive handling
- Surprisingly comfortable for an aero bike
- More user-friendly handlebar design
Reasons to Avoid
- Some lighter aero bikes are available in the market
We awarded the Cervélo S5 top marks for its incredible straight-line speed, cornering precision, and superior ride quality. Its handling is what truly distinguishes it from other aero bikes—quick to respond to line changes yet never feeling unstable or twitchy.
The Reserve wheels, with a 52mm depth at the front and 63mm at the rear, also impressed us. Their 24.4mm internal width significantly enhanced tire comfort, allowing our 28mm Vittoria Corsa tires to expand to over 31mm, improving cornering stability and grip.
The only potential downside of the S5 is its weight; at over 8kg, it’s not the lightest. This makes it approximately 1kg heavier than the Scott Foil, for instance. However, the exceptional ride quality of the S5 effectively negates any weight disadvantage, even on moderately steep climbs.
Superbikes like the S5 are designed with professional racers in mind. Its accolades include victories in the 2022 and 2023 Tour de France yellow jersey competitions, the 2022 TdF green jersey, and numerous one-day race wins. These victories, while highlighting the talents of riders like Jonas Vingegaard and Wout van Aert, also demonstrate the S5’s versatility across various race stages and conditions. For us, this reinforces our experience of riding the bike—it is an exceptionally well-rounded race machine.
Read more: Cervélo S5 full review
Superbikes: Best Value – Giant Propel
Giant Propel on a orange background.
The Giant Propel, from a brand synonymous with value, offers high-end superbike features at a more accessible price point.
(Image credit: Future)
2. Giant Propel
Best Value Superbike from a Brand Known for Affordability
Read our expert review to see why the Giant Propel is the best value in the superbike category.
Specifications
Frame: Giant Propel Advanced Pro
Groupset: SRAM Rival AXS
Wheels: Giant SLR 1
Weight: 8.5kg / 18.6lbs
Reasons to Buy
- Highly aerodynamic design
- Smooth and comfortable ride quality
- Includes a power meter for training
- Excellent value for money in the superbike class
Reasons to Avoid
- Slightly heavier than some top-tier superbikes
The latest Giant Propel has been redesigned with a slimmer frameset compared to previous versions, reducing weight and enhancing comfort while reportedly improving aerodynamics by 6.2 watts at 40kph over the older model.
Adjustability has also been improved with a new two-piece bar and stem, maintaining aerodynamic efficiency. Cables are neatly routed through the handlebars and under the channeled stem before entering the frame, creating a sleek aesthetic.
Giant has also adjusted the Propel’s geometry to more closely resemble their TCR climbing bike, resulting in a more responsive ride. Maximum tire clearance is 32mm. These changes combine to deliver a ride that is both fast and stable. The thinner tubes perform better in crosswinds compared to aero bikes with deeper profiles. We were also impressed with the comfort levels, with wider tires and a well-designed front end effectively minimizing road vibrations.
Although our test was on the Rival AXS build, the best value is found in the entry-level models, which outperform competitors in our Race Bike of the Year awards in terms of cost-effectiveness.
Read more: Giant Propel Advanced Pro 1 full review
Superbikes: Best Aero Bike – Trek Madone
Trek Madone SL7 Gen 7 on a pink background
The Trek Madone SL7 Gen 7, from a brand at the forefront of innovation, is engineered for superior aerodynamics, making it the best aero superbike.
(Image credit: Future)
3. Trek Madone SL7 Gen 7
Best Aero Superbike from a Leading Innovator
Read our expert review to discover why the Trek Madone is the best aero superbike.
Specifications
Frame: Madone Gen 7
Groupset: Shimano Ultegra
Wheels: Bontrager Aeolus Pro 51
Weight: 7.5kg / 16.5lbs
Reasons to Buy
- Exceptionally smooth and comfortable ride
- Light for an aero-optimized bike
- Striking and modern aesthetics
Reasons to Avoid
- High price point
- Limited adjustability in cockpit
- Power meter not included in standard spec
The Trek Madone Gen 7 has achieved significant weight reduction, shedding 300g, largely by replacing the IsoSpeed system with IsoFlow technology. This results in a visually striking frame with a distinctive hole under the saddle, which sits on a seatpost cantilevered over the rear.
However, weight saving is only half of the story behind the 20-watt reduction in drag compared to the previous Madone. The other half comes from the handlebars, which position the hands 30mm closer together on the tops for a more aerodynamic tuck. For instance, a 42cm bar measures 39cm at the hoods and 42cm at the drops. Trek offers 14 different cockpit configurations to fine-tune rider position.
We found the Madone to be incredibly stable and assured, offering excellent handling, significant comfort, and high straight-line speed. At 7.5kg for our review model, it is also light for an aero bike. Like many superbikes, the main drawback is the price, with the Madone firmly in the expensive category, especially considering it comes with a second-tier Ultegra groupset at a five-figure price.
Read more: Trek Madone SL7 Gen 7 full review
Superbikes: Best Climbing Bike – Cannondale SuperSix Evo
Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod 2 on a pink background
The Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod, from a brand celebrated for racing heritage, is an exceptional bike for climbers and all-around racers.
(Image credit: Future)
4. Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod 2
Best Climbing Superbike from a Brand with Racing Pedigree
Read our expert review to understand why the Cannondale SuperSix Evo is the best climbing superbike.
Specifications
Frame: SuperSix Hi Mod
Groupset: Shimano Ultegra
Wheels: HollowGram R-SL
Weight: 7.3kg / 16.1lbs
Reasons to Buy
- Super stiff and highly responsive frame
- Stable and precise handling, quick without being overly sensitive
- More aerodynamic than many other climbing bikes in its class
Reasons to Avoid
- Compliance slightly compromised on very long rides
This fourth generation of the Cannondale SuperSix Evo features subtle yet significant updates from its predecessor, making it more aerodynamic and lighter. Key changes include a more steeply sloped top tube and lowered seat stays.
Tire clearance has also increased, now accommodating up to 34mm tires. Additionally, the press-fit bottom bracket has been replaced with a BSA 68mm threaded version—a change we greatly appreciate for easier maintenance. These updates contribute to a claimed frame weight of just 770g, making it the lightest in our Race Bike of the Year awards last year.
We found the latest SuperSix to be better than ever. It is incredibly fast and maintains speed well, thanks to the 50mm deep aero wheelset. Equally, it excels as a climber, with low weight and optimal geometry for out-of-saddle efforts. Descending is also remarkably smooth and controlled.
We did observe that comfort is slightly reduced over longer distances compared to models like the Cervélo S5—common for stiff, lightweight race bikes.
Cannondale typically offers a well-considered range of models and price points for the SuperSix Evo, making it accessible to a variety of riders.
Read more: Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod 2 full review
Swipe to scroll horizontally
| Bike | Frame material | Groupset | Tire clearance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Specialized Allez | Aluminium | Shimano Claris | 35mm |
| Cannondale CAAD13 Disc 105 | Aluminium | Shimano 105 | 30mm |
| Giant Contend SL1 | Aluminium | Shimano 105 | 28mm |
| Vitus Venon Evo-RS | Carbon | Shimano 105 Di2 | 40mm |
| Cervélo S5 | Carbon | SRAM Force AXS | 35mm |
| Giant Propel | Carbon | SRAM Rival AXS | 30mm |
| Trek Madone Gen 7 SL 7 | Carbon | Shimano Ultegra | 28mm |
| Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod 2 | Carbon | Shimano Ultegra | 34mm |
Choosing the Right Road Bike Brand and Model for You
Understanding Race vs. Endurance Geometry: Brand Philosophies
When selecting the best road bike, a critical decision is understanding your riding goals. Are you focused on speed and racing, or do you prefer a more comfortable bike for leisurely rides and long days in the saddle? Different road bike brands often specialize in different geometries.
Geometry is paramount here. A dedicated race bike, often from brands like Cervelo or Cannondale, will position you more aggressively—bent over with your head and shoulders lower over the handlebars. This position is ideal for speed, reducing wind resistance but can be less comfortable, especially for beginners.
Conversely, bikes labeled ‘endurance’ or ‘sportive,’ often championed by brands like Giant or Specialized in their endurance lines, are designed for a more upright posture. The handlebars are higher and closer to the saddle, enhancing comfort for longer rides, though potentially at the expense of outright speed.
If you frequently ride on hilly roads or plan trips to mountainous regions, brands like Cannondale and Trek, known for lightweight designs, offer excellent lightweight bikes. However, for flat, fast terrains, brands like Cervelo and Trek again, with their aero models, prioritize aerodynamics. For racing, the stiff, responsive handling of a race bike from brands like Cannondale or Cervelo is preferable to the more stable handling of an endurance machine.
The versatility trend is growing, with brands like Vitus designing bikes for both tarmac and off-road. A gravel bike provides wider tires and lower gears. Many endurance or ‘all-road’ bikes now also offer significant tire clearance and wide gear ranges, expanding route possibilities.
Budgeting for Your Road Bike: Brand Value and Component Levels
Budget is a key consideration. It’s not just the initial purchase price but also the cost of maintenance, parts replacement, and potential upgrades. Component quality varies greatly, impacting price significantly, especially between mechanical and electronic shifting systems. Direct-to-consumer brands like Canyon and Ribble, and in-house brands like Vitus (Wiggle) or Boardman (Halfords), often offer lower prices. Here’s a general guide to expected specifications at different price points:
£750 – £999 / $1000 – $1500
Aluminum frame with carbon fork, aluminum components, Shimano Sora or Claris, aluminum wheels, rim brakes. Brands like Giant and Specialized offer solid options here.
£1000 – £2000 / $1500 – $2500
Aluminum frame/carbon fork with Shimano 105 or carbon frame/fork with Shimano Tiagra. Aluminum wheels, disc or rim brakes. Brands like Cannondale and Trek enter this range.
£2000 – £3500 / $2500 – $4000
Carbon frame/fork, Shimano 105-Ultegra, aluminum or carbon rims, carbon seatpost, aluminum handlebars/stem, hydraulic disc brakes. Titanium frames become an option. Brands like Vitus and some offerings from Specialized and Giant fit here.
£3500 – £5000/ $4000 – $6000
Carbon or titanium frame/fork, Shimano Ultegra or SRAM AXS eTap, carbon seatpost, aluminum bar/stem, carbon rims. Brands like Cervelo and higher-end Trek and Cannondale models appear.
£5000 – £10,000 / $6,000 – $12,000
Carbon frame/fork, Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 or SRAM Red AXS eTap, 50mm+ carbon wheels, carbon bars/stem. Brands like Cervelo, Trek Madone series, and Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi-Mod are common.
£10,000+ / $12,000+
Top-tier carbon frame/fork, 50mm+ carbon wheels, one-piece carbon bar/stem, Shimano Dura-Ace, SRAM Red AXS, or Campagnolo Super Record Wireless, power meter standard. Brands like Pinarello, Colnago, and top-end models from established brands dominate.
Frame Materials: How Brands Differentiate
Frame material significantly impacts bike cost and performance. Under $/£1000, aluminum alloy is common, offering a strong, light base. Brands like Specialized and Cannondale excel in aluminum frames.
Pricier bikes typically use carbon fiber. Fiber type and lay-up affect ride feel and weight. High-modulus carbon, used by brands like Trek and Cervelo, reduces weight without sacrificing strength.
Titanium is another premium material—light, strong, rust-resistant, and fatigue-resistant. Steel, the traditional material, is robust with a unique ride feel, though heavier.
Fork material also matters. Many bikes have all-carbon forks or carbon blades with alloy steerers for better vibration absorption, enhancing comfort. Alloy or steel forks are found on some lower-priced models.
Bike Sizing: Ensuring the Right Fit from Your Chosen Brand
Proper bike size is crucial for comfort and efficiency. Brands offer size ranges based on rider height. You should feel comfortable seated and be able to stand over the crossbar with both feet flat without contact.
Frame dimensions like reach and stack provide detailed fit information. Stack height indicates uprightness; higher stack means a more upright position. Reach affects bar distance; shorter reach also results in a more upright posture. Race bikes usually have lower stack heights than endurance models.
For optimal setup and injury prevention, professional bike fitting is recommended, ensuring saddle and bar placement for efficient riding. Consider it a valuable investment.
Best road bikes
A professional bike fit, available through many bike brands and retailers, helps ensure your chosen road bike is perfectly comfortable and efficient.
(Image credit: Picasa)
Aero Road Bikes: Brand Innovations in Speed
Bike brands heavily promote aerodynamic features, especially in higher-end models, citing wind tunnel tests and time savings. Aero frames were once heavier, but modern aero bikes from brands like Trek and Cervelo can be as light as non-aero models.
However, rider position accounts for about 80% of wind resistance. Aero benefits are most significant at speeds around 45kph/28mph. At lower speeds, aero features have less impact.
Gearing: Matching Brand Components to Riding Style
Gearing is a key component. Top-end road bikes now often feature 12-speed cassettes, offering 24 gears with a double chainring. More affordable bikes have fewer gears, typically 8-speed to 10-speed, also often with double chainsets.
Shimano is the most common groupset brand, with SRAM and Campagnolo as major alternatives. Shimano’s top groupsets—Dura-Ace, Ultegra, and 105—are 12-speed, while lower-priced options include 10-speed Tiagra, 9-speed Sora, or 8-speed Claris. SRAM and Campagnolo also offer 12-speed top-tier road bike groupsets, and all three brands offer electronic shifting.
Best road bikes
Wider range cassettes, common on endurance bikes from brands like Giant and Specialized, are very helpful for tackling hills.
(Image credit: PHILIPP FORSTNER)
Gear Options: Brand-Specific Configurations
Consider the gear options when choosing a road bike. Brands tailor gearing to bike type. Race bikes may have traditional gearing like a 53/39 chainset with an 11-30 cassette.
Endurance or sportive bikes often have compact 50/34 chainsets and wider cassettes (30-36 teeth), beneficial for hills and maintaining a higher cadence. This can mean larger gaps between gear ratios.
SRAM eTap AXS groupsets offer alternatives like 48/35, 46/33, and 43/30 chainsets, paired with 10-tooth start cassettes, providing similar high-end ratios but greater low-end range for easier climbing.
Best road bikes
Electronic shifting, now a mainstream option on higher-spec bikes from brands like Shimano and SRAM, offers precise and consistent performance.
Electronic vs. Mechanical Shifting: Brand Technology Choices
While mechanical groupsets are still available from Shimano, SRAM, and Campagnolo, electronic shifting has become increasingly prevalent. Electronic systems like Shimano Di2, Campagnolo Wireless, and SRAM eTap AXS use motors for gear changes instead of cables.
Mechanical components are generally cheaper, lighter, and easier to repair. Electronic gears offer consistent, reliable shifting and can be easier to use for those with hand injuries. Electronic systems can be personalized via apps for features like multi-gear shifting but are more expensive and require battery charging.
Rim vs. Disc Brakes: Brand-Driven Industry Shift
Disc brakes have largely replaced rim brakes on road bikes, except for entry-level and some high-end models. Most brands now primarily offer disc brake road bikes.
Disc brakes provide more consistent braking in all conditions, better modulation, and greater stopping power. They are heavier than rim brakes, but frame weight reductions have mitigated this. Hydraulic disc brakes are common, though mechanical disc brakes exist, mainly on cheaper bikes. Disc brakes are increasingly available across price ranges.
Best road bikes
Disc brakes are now standard on the majority of new road bikes from most major brands, offering enhanced braking performance and consistency.
Wheels: Carbon vs. Alloy – Brand Component Selections
Road bike wheels are typically 700c, with 650b on smaller frames. Both carbon and alloy options are available.
Carbon fiber rims are used in most high-quality wheelsets, reducing weight and improving aerodynamics, especially with deeper profiles. Carbon allows for more shape versatility in wheel design.
Alloy rims are more affordable and common on complete bikes. They are heavier than carbon but lightweight alloy options are available. Wheelsets are often a cost-saving area for bike brands, so upgrading may be beneficial for optimal performance, keeping original wheels for winter use.
Best road bikes
Wider tires, increasingly standard on road bikes from many brands, allow for lower tire pressure, improving comfort and grip.
Tire Width: Brand Trends Towards Wider Options
Road bike tire options were once limited, with 23mm tires common. Now, wider tires are standard due to disc brakes. Even race bikes clear 28-32mm tires, and endurance bikes often accommodate wider. Many new bikes, even if specced with 25mm or 28mm tires, have clearance for wider options.
Wider tires allow for lower tire pressure for increased comfort and grip. Wider tires can be as fast or faster than narrower ones. Tubeless-ready wheels and tires are also increasingly common, reducing punctures and improving ride comfort and speed.
Meet Our Expert Testers
Simon Smythe
Simon is a highly experienced cycling tech writer with Cycling Weekly since 2003, recently our senior tech writer. A former time trialist with national recognition, Simon has tested countless road bikes, from high-end aero models to budget-friendly options.
Stefan Abram
After winning the 2019 National Single-Speed Cross-Country Mountain Biking Championships, Stefan transitioned to road cycling. He quickly earned his 2nd cat racing license and has completed challenging endurance rides.
Our Road Bike Testing Methodology
How We Test Road Bikes
At Cycling Weekly, our dedicated team rigorously tests cycling products, providing objective reviews based on daily use in varied conditions. Our testers are highly experienced, enabling them to compare products effectively, identify strengths and weaknesses, and offer unbiased performance assessments.
For road bike testing, we log hundreds of miles, evaluating performance factors. We consider the bike’s intended purpose—aero race, lightweight climber, or endurance model—and general aspects like build and spec quality, durability, and value for money, ensuring our recommendations are comprehensive and reliable for finding the best road bike brands and models.
