Cycling is a sport that is not only done for competitive and medal purposes. Cycling is also an enjoyable recreational sport: many families and individual go on cycling vacations just to have fun and spend quality time together. When it concerns those that engage in cycling especially for recreational purposes, chances are that they would not want to spend a fortune purchasing a road bike. Persons like this would want to go for the best cheap road bikes. Possibly, they might be searching for the best cheap road bikes under $500 or under $200. Let us come to those that are even engaging in cycling for competitive sport purposes. If you want to start a career as a cyclist, what is best for you should be the best cheap entry-level road bikes around. Why is this so? Since you are just starting a career as a cyclist, you should not prioritise expensive road bikes, you should prioritize cheap but quality entry-level road bikes for easy and seamless mastery of the sport.
The Best ten cheap road bikes are reviewed below
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Now that we know these facts, we are going to examine nine best cheap road bikes. These bikes are not only cheap, they are also of good quality. The lost would feature ones with good chain lubes to ride; so, whether you are a beginner cyclist or an expert, you can enjoy riding them. Follow through then as the best cheap road bikes available to you are examined.
1
VILANO SHADOW 3.0 ROAD BIKE
The vilano shadow 3.0 road bike is a road bike that offers more than its price. The product is one of the best cheap road bikes under $500 that you can find around. Road bikes that have top-notch specs and build most times cost above $500, but the vilano shadow breaks this norm by endearing unique features and parts despite its under-$500 price. The notable quality about this road bike which is one of the best cheap road bikes around are its STI brake levers and shifters. The quality of the STI brake levers and shifters is such that it makes it very easy to change gear while in a descending or ascending motion. Even if you are new to road bikes, you just have to get used to moving the lever and shifter sideways_ and you’ll be good to go.
What more gives us delight about the vilano shadow 3.0 road bike? Comfortability; the distance between the seat and the handlebar is just very comfortable for new and old riders, 5’3 to 6’ tall. Also, the seat us very comfortable with it’s quality and soft padding to the buttocks. Coupled with all these wonderful qualities, the bike is very beautiful with it’s good-looking painting and modern build.
Key Features:
- • Built-in STI brake lever and shifters
- • Double-walled CNC 700×25
- • Caliper brakes front and rear
- • Resin pedal with a reflectorized panel
Specification:
- • Brand- Vilano
- • Model- Vilano Shadow 3.0 Road bike
Pros
- • Highly responsive brake levers and grip shifters
- • The bike frame is light and durable
- • Smooth-rolling wheels
- • The under-$500 price is very cheap for a bike of its quality.
Cons
- • It is market-scarce at some periods
2
GIORDANO LIBERO ROAD BIKE
The Giordano libero road bike is one of the best cheap bikes for beginner riders and professionals alike. The fact that it is quite cheap is surprising as it is one of those road bikes that give you a balanced tide even if you are a beginner. The road bike uses the entry-level Shimano Claris; this particular build gives sufficient balance and speed in joy ascending and describing motions. When it comes to changing gear as well, the Giordano product is quite seamless and fast.
There is a particular road bike function that new riders find hard to navigate through; the function involves slowing down upon approaching a sharp bend. The product has dual-pivot alloy brakes that are so responsive both at sharp corners and straight paths. This assures your safety in the reduction of speed.
Key Features:
- • Dual-pivot alloy brakes
- • Shimano Claris shifters and drivetrain
- • Narrow seat with cushion
- • Seat post with quick-release clamp
Specification:
- • Brand- Giordano
- • Model- Giordano libero road bike
Pros
- • The rubber tires and frames are very suitable for an itch-free ride
- • Excellent gear shifting process
- • Assembling is very easy and straightforward
Cons
- • Very market-scarce
3
RALEIGHCADENTROADBIKE
The Raleigh cadent road bike is one of the best cheap road bikes under $2000. The product is very good for keeping fit and vacation riding purposes. The quality of the Raleigh cadent’s drivetrain and wheels are top notch such that it can seamlessly move through pages roads. In case you are having problems speeding up medium terrains or hilly landscapes, this road bike can help you out! It has a 24-speed setting that can be tuned to produce significant power and sturdiness to navigate through these sort of landscapes.
You might be wondering, “if this road by can be powered to reach top speeds, does it have an effective braking mechanism?” The road bike comes with tetra mecahanical disc brakes that are super effective in braking up top speeds at ascending and descending slopes. The product is really a lot more than its price!
Key Features:
- • 31.8 Alloy riser handlebar
- • 24-speed Shimano equipped deivetrain
- • Tetra M280 mechanical disc brake
- • Shimano EF500 EZ fire 8-speed shifters
Specification:
- • Brand- Raleigh
- • Model- Raleigh Cadent Road Bike
Pros
- • Adequate braking force
- • Light and durable frame
- • Riser handlebar makes for less slouching
- • Overall balanced ride
Cons
- • Pedal durability
4
VILANOR2RoadBike
The Vilano R2 road bike is one of the best cheap entry-level road bikes that are very good for holiday hiking and general commuting. The vilano r2 has quality features that make it a day-to-day road bike; you can use it everyday. The bike has extreme strength and sturdiness. Also, you can use it for your leisure and fitness rides.
The interesting thing about the vilano r2 is that it is already 80% pre-assembled. You do not have to do much when it comes to assembling its parts together. All you have to do is to attach the front wheel, shifters, handlebar, head tube, seat and pedals. It is advisable to still seek technical or professional assistance if you do not know much about road bikes. The balance and steer of this road bike is very good, more so, the brakes are also top-level.
Key Features:
- • Front and rear caliper brakes
- • Double-walled CNC wheels
- • Double-butted aluminium frame
- • Padded urban saddle
Specification:
- • Brand- Vilano
- • Model- Vilano V2 Road Bike
Pros
- • The road bike is very beautiful; great aesthetics
- • Accurate gear transition and sturdy calliper brakes
- • Strong frame material
- • Smooth and detailed engineering finishing
Cons
- • The grip might wear off
5
TAKARAKabutoRoadBike
The amazing single-speed of the Takara Kabuto road bike is so amazing; the road bike has a flip flop hub at the rear axle that allows for smooth riding and freewheeling. The bike is very seamless to ride on any terrain, especially on level plain terrain. Coupled with all these seamless tech, the road bike is well engineered, especially in its welded parts.
When it comes to speed braking, the Takar kabuto is not left behind at all; the road bike has very responsive brake levers, more so, its caliper brakes are very effective. Not all cheap road bikes have effective crank sets, but the Takar road bike is an exception; in fact, you get more value for it than its price. Though this road bike is quite heavy when compared to its aluminium counterparts, it is still relatively lightweight. For the price you pay, the Takar kabuto is worth a lot more!
Key Features:
- • Rear flip flop hub
- • Front and rear caliper brakes
- • 5’8 to 6’2 rider height
Specification:
- • Brand- Takara Kabuto
- • Model- Takara Kabuto road bike
Pros
- • Low maintenance price
- • Quality and sturdy crankset
- • Brakes grip so good and are anti-slip
- • Easily adjustable seat post
Cons
- • The speed has only one settings
6
TRINX 1.0 700C Road Bike
The Trinx 1.0 700C Road bike is one very durable and tough road bike; the road bike is equipped with high quality aluminium and enhanced durability and strength. Despite it tough strength and durability, it is quite lightweight and easy to carry. Not too many cheap road bikes have the build that accommodates multi-position;the trinx 1.0 700C Road bike has crosstop levers and drop bars built on it to enjoy both aerodynamic and upright styles of bike riding. The bike has a 21-speed gearing so you can change the gear according to the road condition.
What about the saddle of the product? The saddle of the trinx 1.0 road bike is made in a sport geometry shape. This gives you additional comfort especially when cycling for a long time. The bike can withstand heavy weights because its double-wall rim is reinforced from aluminium. If you are a beginner, there are double brakes just for you!
Key Features:
- • 21-speed gearing set
- • Spot geometry saddle
- • Double brakes build
- • Dual-wall rim aluminium
Specification:
- • Brand- TRINX
- • Model- Trinx 1.0 700C Road Bike
Pros
- • The quality and detailed design of the road bike makes it very durable
- • The parts are easy to assemble
- • The crosstop lever and the drop bar allows two riding position
- • Fast-stop braking system
Cons
- • Its WinZip brakes are not suitable for beginners
7
OUTROAD SHIMANO 700C Road Bike
The outriad shimano shifter 700C Road bike is that best cheap road bike that gives you an agile and enjoyable riding experience. The bike is made from a long-lasting aluminium frame and durable steel fork. The product allows you to race on any terrain; wet or dry, rough or plain, the road bike is much equipped to give you a smooth rides as it has anti-skid tyres. These tyres grip the groundd surface well to prevent any potential fall. More so, the tyres can extend the tread lifespan even after a prolonged ride.
The bike has a 21-speed build that makes for a super fast experience. Customarily, the bike can be adjusted and switched up to higher speeds from the 14-speed mark. This adjustment can be made simply by switching with a press of your fingers. The bike has pre- and post-alloy linear pull gates which allows your parking to be very easy. As an extra perk, it comes with an assembling and maintenance toolkit.
Key Features:
- • 3 adjustable front chain gear
- • Quality aluminium alloy frame
- • Anti-skid tyres
- • High quality aluminium handlebars
Specification:
- • Brand- Shimano
- • Model- Outroad Shimano Shifter 700C Road Bike
Pros
- • The ergonomic-build chair can relieve fatigue conditions
- • The robust steel fork gives you an agile ride experience
- • Tge anti-skid tyres are very suitable for wet and rough terrains
- • Convenient to ride on
Cons
- • The situation of the brake is not suitable for new bike riders
8
GMC Denali Road Bike
If you are looking for a road bike for pure, enjoyable leisure, this is your road bike right here! The GMC Denali road bike is one that is well built for day-to-day outings and leisure rides. Leisure is speaking all over – the road bike has a kickstand and a water bottle mount. The product is one of the best cheap road bikes under $500, its parts and performance are top quality.
When we talk about performance, it is on the level of the Shimanos of this world with its shifters and derailleur. With this type of build, there are rarely problems of chain clogging and hear speed settings. The speed braking mechanism is very effective; it has front and rear caliper brakes for this. When buying the GMC Denali, think about your height. If you are 5’5 and shorter, go for the small frame size. For taller persons (6, 6’5), go for the standard frame size.
Key Features:
- • Shimano revo shifters
- • Front and rear linear pull up alloy brakes
- • Comes with a kickstand and water bottle mount
- • Shomano derailleur
Specification:
- • Brand- GMC
- • Model- GMC Denali Road Bike
Pros
- • The gear shifting is very smooth
- • Rigid tyres and wheel rims
- • The product is affordable
Cons
- • The gears and brakes might be prone to frequent adjustments
9
SCHWINN Volare 1400 700C Road Bike
Schwinn is a well renowned road bike brand around the world. The particular Schwinn road bike we would be reviewing now is one of the best road bikes under $2000. The Schwinn Volare 1400 Road bike is one that is made up of quality parts and tech; if you are much interested in speed, your road bike is here! The road bike has Shimano brake levers and shifters inbuilt already, making it extra efficient reliable. The 14-speed tech is very enjoyable whether you are ascending or descending a terrain. Also, its tyres are wider when compared to those of regular road bikes. This would allow you navigate long distances.
For this particular product, the medium-sized frame is suitable for 5’8 to 6’ riders. For shorter riders, go for the small-sized frame. For extra comfort, you can install a water bottle mount and upgrade the pedals.
Key Features:
- • Drop down schwinn handlebar
- • Double-walled alloy wheel rims
- • 14-speed STI grip shifters and brake levers
- • Dual pivot alloy caliper brakes
Specification:
- • Brand- SCHWINN
- • Model- SCHWINN Volare 1400 700C Road Bike
Pros
- • The gear shifting is very smooth
- • Rigid tyres and wheel rims
- • Excellent bike grips and shifters
- • The tyres toll smoothly with rigid wheelsets
Cons
- • You need to adjust the brake to some particular settings before riding
10
6KU Urban Track Road Bike
Peculiar to the 6KU urban track road bike, it has a lightweight aluminium frame that helps absorb shock while riding. Because the product is very lightweight, you can use it for your day-to-day operations. The 6KU Urban track is one of the best for entry-level beginners. As time goes on, you can choose to upgrade its pedals and grips. Everything that a road bike needs to have to be standard is right there in the 6KU product. As a beginner especially, you would enjoy the product. It is very okay the price it goes for!
Key Features:
- • Velo plush bike grips
- • BMX Platform medals
- • 31.8mm riser handlebar
- • 1/2” x 1/8” Chain
- • 1-1/8” integrated aluminium fork
Specification:
- • Brand- 6KU
- • Model- 6KU Urban Track Road Bike
Pros
- • The drivetrain is very suitable for day-to-day operations
- • The fork can absorb some shocks
- • The tyres have a firm grip on the terrain
Cons
- • Might not be suitable if you are looking for high tech cheap road bikes
Buying Guide Questions
In this buying guide section, important and frequently asked Qs about the best cheap road bikes would be answered. Do well to follow through.
What is the best affordable road bike?
The quest. that concerns the best affordable road bike around is not all that straightforward. It is bety relative In the sense the affordabilityy of a road bike depends on what you want from the road bike(s). You have to consider whether you are going to be using the road bike for commuting or sporting or hiking purposes. Of course, you would not want to get a toad bike that is not suitable for your particular purpose.
If you want a road bike for commuting purpose, you should buy the Giordano libero or the Trinx 1.0. They are the best affordable road bikes for these purposes. You could also check your manufacturer for the best affordable road bikes for other purposes. If you are not particular about any purposes, you should go for the VILANO Shadow series; they are the best affordable road bikes around for multi-purposes.
What is the best beginner road bike?
The best beginner road bike is undoubtedly the Vilano R2 entry-level road bike. The Vilano R2 road bike is one of the best cheap entry-level road bikes that are very good for holiday hiking and general commuting. The vilano r2 has quality features that make it a day-to-day road bike; you can use it everyday. The bike has extreme strength and sturdiness. Also, you can use it for your leisure and fitness rides.
The interesting thing about the vilano r2 is that it is already 80% pre-assembled. You do not have to do much when it comes to assembling its parts together. All you have to do is to attach the front wheel, shifters, handlebar, head tube, seat and pedals. It is advisable to still seek technical or professional assistance if you do not know much about road bikes. The balance and steer of this road bike is very good, more so, the brakes are also top-level. If you are new to road Nike’s, this should be the road bike you should get – no brainer!
What is the best road bike under $500?
Many times, people (beginner riders especially) bother a lot about a particular brand of road bike that is the best. As it that is not enough, they still bother about the best at some particular prices. The truth is that when it comes to road bikes, one cannot singlehandedly point out one brand as the best. You can only point out a circle of road bike brands as the best under $500. For general commuting and standard riding purposes, we can single out five road bikes that are the best under the price of $500. The Vilano Shadow 2.0, Giordano libero 1.6, Schwinn 1400 and 1600, TRINX 1.0 and the pure fix original fixed gear single speed fixie road bikes are the best road bikes under $500. These road bikes are very quality in their caliper brakes, tyre grips and speed settings.
A lot of persons choose the giordano libero road bike, you might want to check it out as well. The Giordano libero road bike is one of the best cheap bikes for beginner riders and professionals alike. The fact that it is quite cheap is surprising as it is one of those road bikes that give you a balanced tide even if you are a beginner. The road bike uses the entry-level Shimano Claris; this particular build gives sufficient balance and speed in joyh asceding and describing motions. When it comes to changing gear as well, the giordano product is quite seamless and fast.
There is a particular road bike function that new riders find hard to navigate through; the function involves slowing down upon approaching a sharp bend. The product has dual-pivot alloy brakes that are so responsive both at sharp corners and straight paths. This assures you safety in reduction of speed.
How much does a decent road bike cost?
The statement, “how much does a decent road bike cost? “ is a personal one. The Q of price is a very common one among buyers today. A lot of person do not know that what they want in a road bike goes the a long way in ascertaining a cost price range. Generally, standard road bikes cost quite some amount, around $1000 to $5000.
These types of road bikes are very suitable for sport and extreme road bike uses. We also have road bikes price range $900 to $500. If we now want to go to the cheapest of all, those are road bikes of under $500. If you are looking for something decent, you should have around $500 to $700. With thos, you can get a decent quality bike that would be good for normal riding purposes.
Is a road bike harder to ride?
Honestly, if you can get used to the riding technique, it is quite easy to ride. No road bikes are not as hard as some persons put them. Road bikes are very easy to pedal on, and the pedal reacts quickly. More so, the gear and steer settings are very effective. Many persons might find road bikes hard to ride because they are riding them off road. If you are riding a road bike on a mountain or hilly terrain, it is most likely going to cause you a lot of “headache.”
When riden on the appropriate terrain (road), road bikes are not hard at all. You only need to get used to the gear, brake and pedaling system of your particular road bike. The bikes that are harder to ride are mountain bikes. This is because the are very hard to pedal, it would take a lot of diligence to gain mastery in riding mountain bikes. From riders’ experience, we can only say that road bikes are harder to ride than comfort bikes. This is because comfort bikes are solely made for you to ride in premium seamlessness. So, we can conclude that road bikes are still relatively easy to ride.
Are road bikes worth it?
Sure! Road bikes are worth it. Different from the regular bikes we have around, road bikes would give you effective day-to-day steady operations, you would be able to move faster and easier. One Reddit user related, “Road bikes make a difference, sure. You will be faster on a road bike, without concern. But a road bike isn’t magic. Chances are good that those people you see blowing by you would still be blowing by if you swapped bikes. You aren’t seeing the hours of riding and training they are putting in, possibly over multiple years. It is normal for a roadie to be riding 100-150 miles per week in-season, often much more than that. Having said that, a road bike would probably be more enjoyable to ride than your current bike, encouraging you to ride even more.”
So, if you are looking for a transport mode that is quite lightweight, fast and efficient, road bikes are a very good option. Road bikes would give you that productivity in the sense that you can commutethrough your day’s work effectively. If you are considering the price, you need not go for the ones with high prices; you can find good commuting road bikes ranging $500 and below.
What is the best brand of road bikes?
The query that concerns the best brand of road bikes is not straightforward. In reality, there is no particular brand of road bikes that is the best; there are brands that are considered the best as a result of riders experience. When selecting the best brands of road bikes, the compatibility of the models with multiple riding positions is considered. Also, the price points, tech and components used in manufacturing the bikes are used. This way, road bikes that do not use high quality components are not included among the best brands.
Consequent upon these parameters, we came up with Trek Bicycle Corporation, Connondale and Raleigh as the best three brands of road bikes. These brands produce the best-built road bikes. The Raleigh brand for instance comes with tetra mechanical disc brakes that are super effective in braking up top speeds at ascending and descending slopes. The product is one of the best around. The three are well built in the enhanced braking system, gear settings and durability. This is why these brands are quite expensive as opposed to the brands that go for $500 and below. These brands are mostly used for sporting and extreme biking purposes because of their quality.
Conclusion
In this informational content, everything you need to know about the best cheap road bikes in 2021 has been examined thoroughly. In this context, we have examined ten of the best cheap road bikes and what they are best used for. From this content, you can ascertain the cheapest road bike you should go for; this is the VILANO series.
Also, you now have quality knowledge of the bright and grey areas of these best cheap road bikes. If you are in for speed, you should go for the Schwann product. If you are for aesthetics, the Trinx 1.0 product is not a bad idea. Overall, everything you need to choose what suits you best has been dished out herein. Read thoroughly and choose right!