Road cycling offers an exhilarating way to explore, get fit, and enjoy the outdoors. For beginners, the world of road bikes can seem daunting, but finding the right entry-level bike doesn’t have to break the bank. Budget road bikes are packed with technology trickling down from high-end models, providing a fantastic riding experience and reliable components without the premium price tag.
While these beginner-friendly bikes might feature heavier aluminum frames instead of carbon fiber, the core geometry and handling often mirror their more expensive counterparts. You can expect dependable shifting from lower-spec groupsets and durable wheels that are ready for miles of riding. Upgrading components later on is always an option, but out of the box, these bikes offer everything a beginner needs to start their road cycling journey.
Choosing your first road bike involves navigating technical specifications and understanding what features are most important for a comfortable and enjoyable ride. This guide will walk you through the best budget road bikes available, highlighting their strengths and helping you make an informed decision. We’ll also cover essential aspects to consider when buying your first road bike, ensuring you feel confident as you pedal into the world of road cycling.
Here are our top picks for the Best Road Bikes For Beginners:
Quick List of Top Beginner Road Bikes
Giant Contend 2 with a white backgroundBest for all-round riding: Giant Contend – A versatile and reliable choice for beginners seeking a quality all-rounder.
Liv Avail with a white backgroundBest women-specific: Liv Avail AR 4 – Designed by women for women, offering superior comfort and fit for female cyclists.
Specialized allez with a white backgroundBest for aspiring racers: Specialized Allez – A performance-oriented option for beginners looking to explore racing and fast group rides.
Triban RC 520 Disc Brake studio imageBest spec
Best spec: Triban RC 520 – Exceptional component quality at this price point, ideal for beginners who value high-performance parts.
Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4 with a white backgroundBest for mile munching: Trek Domane AL3 – Comfort and endurance focused, perfect for beginners planning long rides and exploring various terrains.
Cube Attain Pro with a white backgroundLooker: Cube Attain Pro – Stylish design and well-rounded performance make this bike visually appealing and fun to ride for beginners.
Written by Will Jones, a seasoned cycling expert who understands the importance of accessible entry points into the sport. Having tested countless bikes across all price ranges, Will believes that budget-friendly road bikes are crucial for welcoming new riders and fostering a lifelong passion for cycling. His experience and insights ensure that these recommendations are practical and valuable for beginners.
Recent updates
November 12th, 2024: This guide has been updated to reflect the latest models and availability, ensuring all recommendations are current for beginners in 2024. We have prioritized disc brake models due to their increasing prevalence and enhanced performance, especially for new riders.
The Best Beginner Road Bikes in Detail
The Best for All-Round Riding
Giant Contend 2 2024
(Image credit: Giant)
1. Giant Contend 2
The best budget road bike for all-round riding, perfect for beginners starting their cycling journey.
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 road vibrations, increasing comfort for new riders.
- D-Fuse technology in the seatpost provides added compliance, making longer rides more enjoyable.
- Impressive sub 10kg weight for a budget bike, making it easier to handle and climb hills.
Reasons to avoid:
- Rim brakes might not offer the same stopping power as disc brakes, especially in wet conditions.
- Some riders might find the aesthetics a bit understated compared to flashier options.
Buy it if:
✅ You’re a beginner looking for a quality, affordable road bike: Giant’s reputation and scale allow them to offer excellent value for money, making this an ideal first road bike.
✅ You want a good range of gears for varied terrain: The Shimano Claris groupset provides a wide enough range to tackle climbs and flats, suitable for beginners exploring different routes.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You prioritize modern disc brakes for enhanced stopping power: If you anticipate riding in wet conditions or desire more confident braking, consider models with disc brakes.
❌ You want a bike with a more eye-catching design: If aesthetics are a top priority, other bikes in this list might offer more visually striking options.
The Giant Contend 2 is a well-rounded package, with most components sourced in-house by Giant, ensuring quality and compatibility. Features like the carbon fork and D-Fuse seatpost significantly improve ride comfort, which is crucial for beginners getting accustomed to road cycling. The Shimano Claris groupset provides reliable 8-speed shifting, and the inclusion of mudguard and rack mounts adds versatility for commuting or light touring. While it might not be the most visually exciting bike, the Contend 2 delivers performance and value where it counts, making it a top recommendation for beginner road cyclists.
The Best Budget Road Bike for Women
Liv Avail AR 2022
(Image credit: Liv Avail AR 2022)
2. Liv Avail AR 4
The best budget road bike specifically designed for women, ensuring optimal fit and comfort for female beginners.
Specifications:
- Weight: 10.77kg
- Groupset: Shimano Claris
- Wheels: Giant S-R2 Disc
- Frame sizes: XXS-L
Reasons to buy:
- Designed using women’s body dimension data, offering a more comfortable and efficient riding position for women.
- Tubeless-ready wheels provide the option to upgrade to tubeless tires for enhanced comfort and puncture protection.
- Good range of sizes, including smaller options often missing in standard bike ranges, ensuring a perfect fit for more women.
Reasons to avoid:
- The Shimano Claris groupset, while reliable, is at the lower end and might feel basic to some experienced riders.
- While capable, it’s not a dedicated gravel bike if you plan to tackle very rough off-road terrain.
Buy it if:
✅ You’re a woman seeking a bike designed for your body: Liv’s women-specific design philosophy ensures a better fit and more comfortable ride compared to unisex bikes.
✅ You want all-road capability for varied adventures: With 32mm tires, the Avail AR 4 can handle both paved roads and light gravel paths, perfect for exploring different routes.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You plan on serious gravel riding on challenging terrain: For aggressive gravel riding, a dedicated gravel bike with wider tires and more robust components would be more suitable.
❌ You desire very close gear ratios for competitive riding: The 8-speed Claris groupset has larger jumps between gears compared to higher-end groupsets, which might be less ideal for racing.
Liv Cycling focuses exclusively on creating high-performance bikes for women, and the Avail AR 4 is a testament to their expertise. Designed and tested by women, using women-specific body data, this bike prioritizes comfort and performance for female riders. The ALUXX-Grade aluminum frame is designed to be compliant, and the carbon composite fork further enhances comfort and handling. Equipped with Shimano Claris gearing and mechanical disc brakes, the Liv Avail AR 4 is a fantastic choice for women beginners seeking a comfortable, versatile, and confidence-inspiring road bike.
The Best for Aspiring Racers
A white specialized allez stands on a rocky surface
(Image credit: Josh Croxton)
3. Specialized Allez
The best budget road bike for beginners who are interested in racing or fast group rides and want a performance feel.
Our expert review: Specialized Allez Sport 2024 Review
Specifications:
- Weight: 10kg
- Groupset: Shimano Claris
- Wheels: Specialized Axis Sport Disc
- Frame Sizes: 44-61cm
Reasons to buy:
- Well-finished frame with a choice of colors, offering a premium aesthetic at an entry-level price.
- Good quality components provide reliable performance for training and competitive riding.
- Generous tire clearance allows for wider tires, enhancing comfort and versatility for different road surfaces.
- Mounting points for mudguards and racks increase its practicality for daily use and varied conditions.
Reasons to avoid:
- Tektro brakes are not quite as refined as Shimano brakes in terms of modulation and overall feel.
- More upright geometry compared to older Allez models, prioritizing comfort over aggressive aerodynamics.
Buy it if:
✅ You’re a beginner wanting a versatile bike with racing DNA: The Allez is designed to handle various riding styles, from fast group rides to commuting, making it a great all-around choice.
✅ You value extra tire clearance for comfort and varied surfaces: The ability to run up to 35mm tires provides a smoother ride and opens up possibilities for light gravel or rougher roads.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You prioritize a very aggressive, racy riding position: The Allez’s slightly more upright geometry is more comfortable for endurance but less aerodynamic for pure racing.
❌ You want a bike that’s perfectly spec’d out of the box with no need for upgrades: The wheels are a decent starting point, but upgrading them later would unlock even more of the bike’s potential.
The Specialized Allez is a legendary name in road cycling, known for its performance-oriented aluminum frames. The latest iteration maintains this legacy while adding modern features like disc brakes and increased versatility. The updated geometry offers a balance of comfort and performance, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced riders. With its responsive frame, ample tire clearance, and race-ready pedigree, the Allez is an excellent choice for beginners looking to push their limits and explore the faster side of road cycling.
Best Component Specification
Triban RC 520 Disc Brake studio image
(Image credit: Triban / Decathlon)
4. Triban RC 520 Disc Brake
The best budget road bike for beginners who prioritize high-quality components, especially the exceptional Shimano 105 groupset.
Specifications:
- Weight: 10.4kg
- Groupset: Shimano 105 R7000
- Wheels: Triban Tubeless Ready Light
- Frame Sizes: XS-XL
Reasons to buy:
- Shimano 105 R7000 groupset is rare at this price point, offering 11-speed shifting and performance typically found on more expensive bikes.
- Tubeless-ready wheels and clearance for up to 36mm tires provide versatility and the option for enhanced comfort and puncture protection.
- Cable-operated hydraulic disc brakes offer improved braking performance compared to mechanical disc brakes, especially in wet conditions.
Reasons to avoid:
- The aesthetics are more functional than flashy, prioritizing performance over visual appeal.
- External cable routing requires more maintenance to keep shifting smooth compared to fully internal systems.
Buy it if:
✅ You’re a beginner who wants the best possible components for the price: The Shimano 105 groupset is a standout feature, offering a significant performance advantage over bikes with lower-spec components.
✅ You value good braking performance, especially in wet weather: The TRP Spyre hybrid brakes provide a noticeable upgrade in power and control compared to mechanical disc or rim brakes commonly found at this price point.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You’re set on going tubeless right away without any extra cost: While the wheels are tubeless-ready, the stock tires are not, requiring an additional purchase to go tubeless.
❌ You prefer fully enclosed cable runs for minimal maintenance: The external cables require more attention to keep them clean and functioning smoothly compared to internal routing.
The Triban RC 520 Disc Brake stands out for its exceptional component specification, particularly the inclusion of a full Shimano 105 groupset. This is almost unheard of at this price point and provides beginner riders with access to high-performance shifting and reliability. Beyond the groupset, the bike features a modern frame with dropped seat stays for comfort, ample tire clearance, and practical mounts for racks and mudguards. The TRP HY/RD hybrid disc brakes offer a significant braking upgrade, making this bike a fantastic value proposition for beginners who appreciate quality components and performance.
The Best for Mile-Munching
Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4
(Image credit: Future)
5. Trek Domane AL 3 Gen 4
The best budget road bike for beginners focused on endurance riding and comfort over long distances, or “mile-munching”.
Specifications:
- Weight: 10.55kg
- Groupset: Shimano Claris
- Wheels: Bontrager Paradigm SL rims on Formula Hubs
- Frame Sizes: 44-61cm
Reasons to buy:
- Great-looking frame with a choice of colors and a wide range of sizes, appealing to beginners seeking both style and fit.
- 32mm tires and tubeless-ready wheels enhance comfort and provide a plush ride quality, ideal for long distances.
- Plentiful mounting points, including rack, mudguard, and top tube bag mounts, increase versatility for touring, commuting, and all-weather riding.
Reasons to avoid:
- Gearing doesn’t go down to a 1:1 ratio, which might be less forgiving on very steep climbs for beginners.
- More comfort-oriented geometry might not be as efficient for aggressive, fast riding compared to racier bikes.
Buy it if:
✅ You’re a beginner planning long rides and want maximum comfort: The Domane AL 3 prioritizes comfort with its frame design, tire clearance, and riding position, making it ideal for endurance riding.
✅ You need plenty of mounting points for accessories and versatility: The numerous mounts make it easy to set up for commuting, touring, or all-weather riding, adding to its practicality for beginners.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You need super low gearing for tackling very steep climbs: The gearing is still beginner-friendly, but riders facing extremely steep hills might prefer a bike with a lower gear ratio.
❌ You prioritize pure speed and aerodynamic performance: The Domane AL 3 is designed for comfort and endurance, not outright speed, so racers might prefer a more aerodynamic model.
Trek is known for producing high-quality bikes, and the Domane AL 3 brings that reputation to the budget road bike category. With a well-finished aluminum frame, carbon fork, and comfort-focused geometry, the Domane AL 3 is designed for long days in the saddle. The inclusion of 32mm tires and tubeless-ready wheels further enhances ride comfort, while the numerous mounting points add versatility for various riding styles. For beginners prioritizing comfort and endurance for longer rides, the Trek Domane AL 3 is an excellent choice.
Best All-Road
Marin Gestalt 2 studio image
(Image credit: Marin)
6. Marin Gestalt 2
The best budget road bike for beginners interested in exploring beyond paved roads and venturing onto light gravel paths.
Specifications:
- Weight: Not specified
- Groupset: Shimano GRX
- Wheels: Marin alloy
- Frame sizes: 50-60cm
Reasons to buy:
- Wide tire clearance accommodates 35mm tires, allowing for comfortable riding on both paved and unpaved surfaces.
- Carbon fork enhances front-end compliance and reduces vibrations on rougher roads.
- 10-speed Shimano GRX groupset offers gravel-specific gearing with a wide range for varied terrain.
- Rack and mudguard mounts add versatility for commuting, touring, and all-weather riding.
Reasons to avoid:
- The Gestalt 2’s higher spec pushes it slightly above a strict budget category compared to some other bikes here.
- Low gearing optimized for off-road might feel less efficient at higher speeds on smooth roads.
Buy it if:
✅ You’re a beginner wanting to explore both road and light gravel: The Gestalt 2’s versatility makes it ideal for riders who want to venture off the beaten path without needing a dedicated gravel bike.
✅ You value hydraulic disc braking for confident stopping power: Shimano hydraulic disc brakes offer superior performance and modulation compared to mechanical brakes, especially beneficial for varied terrain.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You primarily ride on paved roads and prioritize high-speed efficiency: The lower gearing might feel less optimal for maintaining fast speeds on flat roads compared to a road-specific bike.
❌ You’re on a very strict budget: The Gestalt 2’s higher specification means it might be slightly more expensive than other entry-level options, but it justifies the price with added versatility and component quality.
Marin Bikes is known for its versatile and adaptable bikes, and the Gestalt 2 is a prime example. Designed to bridge the gap between road and gravel, it offers a comfortable and capable ride on various surfaces. The Shimano GRX gravel groupset provides beginner-friendly gearing for tackling climbs and varied terrain, while the hydraulic disc brakes ensure confident stopping power. For beginners looking for a road bike that can handle a bit of everything, the Marin Gestalt 2 is a fantastic choice.
Best for Off-Road
Diamondback Haanjo 2 studio image
(Image credit: Diamondback)
7. Diamondback Haanjo 2
The best budget road bike for beginners who are primarily interested in gravel riding and want a robust bike for off-pavement adventures.
Specifications:
- Weight: 11.34kg (claimed)
- Groupset: Shimano Claris
- Wheels: Diamondback Equation rims on unbranded hubs
- Frame sizes: XS/47 – XL/59
Reasons to buy:
- Super versatile design makes it a capable “do-it-all” bike for road, gravel, commuting, and touring.
- Gravel-capable geometry and 40mm tires provide excellent stability and traction on unpaved surfaces.
- Lots of mounting options, including fork mounts, for racks, bags, and accessories, enhancing its utility for various adventures.
Reasons to avoid:
- Heavier than some other budget road bikes, which might be noticeable on climbs and during acceleration.
- Steel fork instead of carbon, which is less compliant and adds to the overall weight.
Buy it if:
✅ You’re a beginner wanting a versatile bike for multiple purposes, including gravel riding: The Haanjo 2 excels as a multi-purpose machine, capable of handling road, gravel, commuting, and even light touring duties.
✅ You prioritize a plush and comfortable ride on rough surfaces: The 40mm tires and relaxed geometry provide excellent comfort and stability on gravel and uneven roads.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You’re highly weight-conscious and want the lightest bike possible: The Haanjo 2 is on the heavier side, which might not be ideal for riders prioritizing speed and climbing performance.
❌ You desire a carbon fork for enhanced vibration damping and weight reduction: The steel fork is durable but heavier and less compliant than a carbon fork.
The Diamondback Haanjo 2 is designed to be a versatile and robust machine, capable of handling a wide range of riding styles, with a strong focus on gravel and off-road adventures. While it’s classified as a road bike, its gravel-oriented features make it an excellent choice for beginners wanting to explore beyond paved roads. The aluminum frame and steel fork provide durability, and the 40mm tires offer ample comfort and grip on rough surfaces. With its numerous mounting points and versatile design, the Haanjo 2 is a practical and affordable option for beginners seeking adventure on and off the road.
Best for Upgrades
Cannondale Synapse 3 studio image
(Image credit: cannondale)
8. Cannondale Synapse 3
The best budget road bike for beginners who plan to upgrade components over time and want a high-quality frame as a foundation.
Specifications:
- Weight: Not specified
- Groupset: Shimano Sora
- Wheels: RD rims on Formula Hubs
- Frame Sizes: 48-61cm
Reasons to buy:
- High-quality frame and full carbon fork provide a solid foundation for future upgrades and offer a refined ride quality.
- Front and rear thru-axles enhance stiffness and handling precision, features usually found on higher-end bikes.
Reasons to avoid:
- More expensive compared to other equally specced budget road bikes, potentially stretching the budget for some beginners.
Buy it if:
✅ You’re a beginner who plans to upgrade components later: The Synapse 3’s frame is worth investing in for the long term, as it provides a platform that can grow with your riding skills and preferences.
✅ You value frame comfort and vibration reduction: Cannondale’s SAVE technology in the frame and fork enhances compliance, making longer rides more comfortable for beginners.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You’re on a very tight budget and need the most affordable option: The Synapse 3 is priced higher than some other entry-level bikes, so budget-conscious buyers might find better value elsewhere initially.
❌ You’re looking for a bike with extensive off-road capabilities: The Synapse is primarily designed for endurance road riding and doesn’t have the tire clearance for wider gravel tires.
The Cannondale Synapse 3 stands out for its high-quality frame and carbon fork, making it an excellent platform for future upgrades. While it might be slightly more expensive than some competitors, the Synapse 3 offers a level of frame quality and technology that justifies the investment, especially for beginners planning to progress in the sport. Features like thru-axles and Cannondale’s SAVE technology contribute to a refined ride feel and enhanced performance. For beginners who see their first bike as a long-term investment and plan to upgrade components over time, the Cannondale Synapse 3 is a smart choice.
Best for Looks
cube attain pro 2024 against a white background
(Image credit: Future)
9. Cube Attain Pro
The best budget road bike for beginners who prioritize aesthetics and want a stylish bike that stands out from the crowd.
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 road vibrations, improving comfort and handling.
- Color-matched finishing kit and sleek design create a visually appealing and premium look.
- Thru-axle front and rear provide increased stiffness and modern aesthetics, typically seen on higher-end models.
Reasons to avoid:
- No mudguard mounting points limit its practicality for all-weather commuting or riding.
- Limited tire clearance of 32mm restricts its versatility for rougher roads or gravel compared to bikes with wider clearance.
Buy it if:
✅ You’re a beginner who values aesthetics and wants a stylish bike: The Cube Attain Pro stands out with its attractive design and color-matched components, making it a visually appealing option.
✅ You appreciate semi-aero features for a slightly faster ride: The aerofoil-shaped downtube and overall design suggest a focus on aerodynamic efficiency, adding a touch of speed to your rides.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You need mudguard mounts for commuting or all-weather riding: The Attain Pro lacks mudguard mounts, making it less practical for riders who need full weather protection.
❌ You need wider tire clearance for rough roads or gravel: The 32mm tire limit might be restrictive for beginners who want to explore varied terrain beyond smooth pavement.
The Cube Attain Pro is a visually striking bike that combines appealing aesthetics with solid performance. German brand Cube is known for its modern designs, and the Attain Pro is no exception, with its sleek lines, color-matched components, and semi-aero frame features. Beyond its looks, it offers a full carbon fork, Shimano Claris groupset, and thru-axles, providing a well-rounded package for beginners. If you’re a beginner cyclist who wants a bike that looks as good as it rides, the Cube Attain Pro is an excellent choice.
Beginner’s Guide: Choosing Your First Road Bike
Choosing your first road bike can feel overwhelming, but understanding a few key aspects will simplify the process. Here’s what beginners need to consider:
Can Beginners Use Road Bikes?
Absolutely! Despite the drop handlebars and skinny tires, road bikes are accessible to anyone who can ride a bike. Getting used to the riding position and clipless pedals (if you choose them) is a quick learning curve. Start with flat pedals if you’re unsure about clipless and switch later. Modern road bikes often come with wider 28mm tires or more, offering better grip and a more comfortable ride by allowing for lower tire pressure.
How Much Should I Spend on a Road Bike?
The sweet spot for quality beginner road bikes starts around the £1,000/$1,000 mark. At this price, you begin to see bikes that are reliable, perform well, and offer a genuinely enjoyable riding experience. While bike prices have increased recently, the good news is that even budget-friendly bikes now include features like disc brakes, internal cable routing, and quality finishing kits. Investing slightly more can get you a significantly better bike that will last longer and be more enjoyable to ride.
What Frame Material Do I Need?
Aluminum is the most common frame material for beginner road bikes, and it’s a great choice. While carbon fiber dominates the high-end market, there’s nothing inherently wrong with aluminum. Aluminum frames are generally lighter than steel and more affordable than carbon. They are durable, won’t rust, and offer a good balance of performance and practicality. Avoid very cheap carbon bikes from unknown brands; quality aluminum is preferable to low-grade carbon.
How Many Gears Do I Need on My Bike?
Beginner road bikes typically come with Shimano groupsets, known for their reliability and ease of use. More expensive bikes might have 11 or 12 speeds, while budget models often have 8, 9, or 10 speeds. More gears mean smaller gaps between each gear, allowing for finer adjustments to your pedaling cadence. However, for beginners, having fewer gears is perfectly adequate, and it simplifies maintenance. Ensure the bike has a sufficient gear range for your local terrain.
Do I Need Disc Brakes?
Disc brakes are becoming increasingly common on beginner road bikes and offer several advantages, especially in wet conditions, providing more consistent and powerful braking. While rim brakes have served cyclists well for decades and are still perfectly functional, disc brakes offer enhanced performance and modulation, which can be particularly beneficial for beginners building confidence. If possible, disc brakes are a worthwhile feature to consider. Upgrading brake pads can improve rim brake performance if your bike has rim brakes.
What Components Should I Get on My Bike?
When buying a budget road bike, there will always be compromises in components. A better frame might come with lower-spec components, and vice versa. Consider what’s most important to you. If you prioritize long-term upgrades, a better frame is a good investment. Direct-to-consumer brands like Ribble or Canyon often offer better component specifications for the price by cutting out the middleman. Ensure you know your correct bike size before ordering online.
What Else Should I Look For?
For a first road bike, consider practical features:
- Mudguard mounts: Essential if you plan to ride year-round or commute in wet conditions.
- Rack mounts: Useful for commuting or light touring, allowing you to carry bags and gear.
- Tire clearance: Wider tire clearance (28mm or more) increases comfort and versatility.
Don’t forget to budget for essential accessories like a helmet, lights, a pump, and cycling shorts.
How Much Maintenance Does a Bike Need?
Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your bike running smoothly and prolonging its lifespan. The most important tip for beginners is to keep your bike clean. A clean bike runs better, lasts longer, and is more enjoyable to ride. Learn basic bike cleaning and lubrication. Investing in bike insurance and a good bike lock is also wise to protect your investment.
What Are the Differences Between a Cheap and Expensive Bicycle?
Expensive bikes differ from cheaper bikes in several key areas:
- Frame Material: Expensive bikes use lighter and higher-performance materials like carbon fiber. Cheaper bikes typically use aluminum or steel.
- Components: Expensive bikes have higher-end components that are lighter, more durable, and offer better performance.
- Technology and Features: Expensive bikes often include advanced features like integrated suspension, electronic shifting, and aerodynamic designs.
- Weight: Expensive bikes are significantly lighter, improving climbing and acceleration.
However, remember that regardless of price, fitness and effort are key to cycling enjoyment. Avoid the very cheapest road bikes, as they often compromise on serviceability and ride quality, leading to a less enjoyable experience. Investing in a slightly higher-priced beginner road bike will provide a more rewarding and sustainable entry into road cycling.
