Cycling is a great form of exercise and it can be an environmentally friendly way for you to transport yourself around town. However, a quick internet search will show that there is more than just one type of bike out there and it is challenging to narrow down which bike to buy, especially for beginners. Luckily for you, we have gone through those results and sorted out which will make the best beginner road bike.To help beginners make an informed choice, we will walk you through some commonly asked questions, talk about the more popular bike brands, and discuss the features, pros, and cons of each of the bikes on this list. We will make it easy for you to pick the best beginner road bike for you.
Comparison Table
Best Beginner Road Bike
For someone new to the cycling scene, we have put together a list of common questions that might come up as you decide which is the best beginner road bike to purchase.
Faq
What Is a Road Bike?
A road bike is a bicycle that is built and designed to be ridden on the pavement. Unlike a mountain bike, it is not intended to be ridden off-road in dirt and gravel.
2. What Is a Drop Bar Handlebar?
A drop bar handlebar is designed to allow you to lean forward on the bike and achieve a more aerodynamic design. This style is very common on road bikes and the style that you see riders have in the Tour de France.
3. What Are the Tire Sizes?
Most road bikes are equipped with tires of 700cc that provide a lightweight and aerodynamic design.
How We Reviewed
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To review these bikes, we looked at the features of each bike, the quality of those features, and the cost of that bike compared to the other bikes available. We looked at which bikes provide the best high-quality equipment and design for the best price. That way, you know which road bike will make the best beginner road bike.
Overall Price Range
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The prices for these bikes range from $ to $$$. There are several features that each bike offers and we will show how the most expensive bike does not always make the best beginner road bike.
What We Reviewed
- GMC Denali Road Bike
- Tommaso Imola Endurance Aluminum Road Bike
- Vilano Aluminum Road Bike 21 Speed Shimano
- Schwinn Volare 1300 Men’s Drop Bar Road Bike
- Schwinn Phocus 1600 Men’s Road Bike
- Giordano Libero 1.6 Men’s Road Bike
- Tommaso Forcella Endurance Aluminum Road Bike
- Vilano Shadow Road Bike
- Raleigh Bikes Merit 1 Endurance Road Bike
- Colnago STRADA SL 105 5800 Road Bicycle
GMC Denali Road Bike
No products found.
Features
The GMC Denali road bike is built to get the best performance and value for your investment. This entry-level road bike comes in three sizes (large, medium, and small). The aluminum frame and fork offer a lightweight design of approximately 30 pounds. This makes it easy to carry and transport. It is equipped with a 21-speed Shimano derailleur and Shimano Revo shifters. This allows you to smoothly and quickly change gears without having to remove your hands from the handlebar.
You will maintain your riding pace no matter what the terrain offers. As with most road bikes, it is equipped with 700cc tires which means finding replacement tires and tubes will be a breeze. The 36-alloy spike wheels offer a high-profile design that provides better aerodynamics and is the middle ground between the disc and regular spike wheels.
Pros
- 3 sizes
- Lightweight design
- High-profile design for better aerodynamics
Cons
- The seat is stiff and uncomfortable
- Kickstand is flimsy
- Brake pads are stiff
- where to buy
Tommaso Imola Endurance Aluminum Road Bike
- QUALITY CYCLING PRODUCTS SINCE 1985: Our Italian designed cycling shoes, bicycle, and cycling products have made riders look like pros since '85. But we're more than just fancy gear, we're a community. Our cycling-crazed customer service team in Denver can help with any questions or concerns. Plus, our Lifetime Warranty Replacement Promise means you can put our gear to the test with unrelenting confidence. We hope that you will Join The Ride, for fun, fitness, and community.
- THIS IS AFFORDABLE PERFORMANCE, NOT ENTRY LEVEL: The Imola is a top-performing bike that's not just for beginners. Starting cycling can be intimidating, but we believe that new riders deserve bikes that deliver affordable performance without compromising on quality. We recommend the Imola for new riders who are serious about their cycling goals. Unlike other so-called "beginner bikes" that are quickly outgrown, the Imola comes packed with high-quality components found on high end bikes.
- READY TO TAKE YOUR RIDING TO THE NEXT LEVEL? Look no further than the Imola – the bike that's built to deliver the power, performance, and speed you need to conquer your first century ride or tackle those challenging hilly routes. Equipped with a top-notch 3x8 Shimano Claris drivetrain and an impressive gearing range, this bike is designed to make climbing hills a breeze while still maintaining the speed you need to dominate on the flats.
- NEVER MISS A SHIFT: Shimano Claris shifters provide consistent, reliable shifting in all riding conditions, so you can focus on pushing yourself. Unlike our competitors, who cut corners and use off-brand parts to save money, we use a 100% Shimano drivetrain. Why? Because Shimano makes the best drivetrain on the planet, and they're at their best when used together as a complete set. Please note that professional assembly is required to validate your warranty and ensure optimal performance
- BUILT TO LAST: All too often things are made cheaply and break before their time. We believe that bikes should be reliable and built to last. This is why we use premium aluminum in our frames, and back it with our industry leading lifetime warranty. We use only Shimano components, which are backed by Shimano’s two year warranty and function better than competitors. Ride with confidence! PLEASE NOTE: ALL BIKES ON AMAZON COME UN-TUNED. PROFESSIONAL ASSEMBLY REQUIRED TO VALIDATE WARRANTIES!
Features
The Tommaso Imola Endurance road bike is the definition of affordable performance. It offers top of the line equipment with the 2018 Shimano Claris R2000 group set for its shifters, derailleurs, crank, and brakes. With no mixing of different groupsets, you will get high performance matched with great efficiency. The bike also offers precise laser sizing that creates a compact frame geometry comfortable for any riding position.
The shallow handlebar provides added balance and wind resistance as you cruise along the road. This bike offers functionality and customization with pre-drilled holes for added features such as fenders, racks, and accessories. It is equipped with 700cc tires, comes in 3 colors (black, white, and burnt orange), 6 sizes, and at approximately 22 pounds it is lightweight and easy to transport.
Pros
- 6 sizes
- Top of the line equipment
- Super lightweight at 22 pounds
Cons
- The seat is stiff and uncomfortable
- Kickstand is flimsy
- Brake pads are stiff
- where to buy
Vilano Aluminum Road Bike 21 Speed Shimano
No products found.
Features
This bike is an entry-level purchase for someone looking for an inexpensive option to start cycling for fitness. The aluminum frame creates a lightweight design at 24 pounds. The integrated headset creates a clean and simple design that makes home maintenance easy. The handlebar-mounted shifters and Shimano drivetrain will make for a smooth ride as you roll along the streets.
Equipped with standard 700cc tires, this bike will provide you with maneuverability and stability. The alloy caliper brake system will give you the power to make a quick stop when needed. It comes in 3 sizes (large, medium, and small), and 3 colors (black, gray/red, and white).
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Good quality for a good price
Cons
- Limited size options
- where to buy
Schwinn Volare 1300 Men’s Drop Bar Road Bike
- Aluminum road frame paired with a carbon fiber road fork for swift and agile riding, with 700c wheels that fit to riders 5'4" to 6'2" height
- 16 speeds, Shimano derailleurs and intergrated Micro-shift shifter brake lever combo for precise gear shifting
- High-profile alloy double-wall rims with paired spokes are lightweight and strong with front quick release
- Promax alloy dual pivot caliper road brakes ensure precise and confident braking, delivering crisp stops
- Alloy crank for a broad gear range and road-style tread tires for fast and smooth riding, and optimal performance
Features
Schwinn is a company that has been making bikes for a long time. It has been purchased and sold multiple times during its lifetime but that has not stopped them from making good quality bikes. This entry level road bike is no exception to that. The Schwinn Volare offers an aluminum design at 30 pounds. It’s an excellent place to start if you are looking to get into road biking. However, if you get more serious about your road biking adventures, you will need to make some changes to this bike to make it more efficient and more enjoyable for longer rides. You will want to start by making the bike lighter and upgrading the parts.
Pros
- Great for entry-level riders
- Good quality for a good price
Cons
- Might need to make multiple visits to a bike shop to re-tune the wheels
- Needs upgrades as your experience increases
- where to buy
Schwinn Phocus 1600 Men’s Road Bike
- Quick and agile riding with the 21-inch aluminum fitness frame and rigid fork, with 700c wheels fit riders 5'4" to 6'2" height
- Swift and seamless gear change with the Shimano 14-speed A050 shifters and rear derailleur
- Road bike equipped with alloy crank with double chain rings offers optimal gearing and alloy caliper brakes that ensure superior braking performance
- Hybrid bike with drop style handlebar and sport saddle, and with high profile double-wall alloy rims for added durability
- Arrives partially assembled, will require tools, Philips head screwdriver, Allen wrench 4-8mm, adjustable wrench, pair of pliers with cable cutting ability
Features
The Schwinn Phocus road bike offers a lightweight aluminum design and a carbon fiber fork which provides for an easy transportation experience. The 16-speed micro-shift shifters will glide you into any ride you see fit. The dual suspension and 700cc tires offer a smooth ride. The seat and handlebars can be tilted and adjusted offering you versatile riding experience. The Promax alloy dual pivot caliper brakes provide for excellent stopping power when you need it. It is delivered fully assembled as ordered.
Pros
- Lightweight frame
- Carbon fiber fork
- Fully assembled
Cons
- Limited size options
- where to buy
Giordano Libero 1.6 Men’s Road Bike
No products found.
Features
This handcrafted Italian bike performs exceptionally well at an affordable price. The lightweight aluminum frame provides this bike with mobility and performance. It is equipped with Shimano Claris 16-speed shifters that provide smooth shifting as your terrain changes. The compact crankset offers an ideal setup for climbing hills and with the 700cc tires, you will climb with comfort and control. The dual water bottle mounts will provide you with plenty of water supply to keep you well-hydrated for your longer rides. At just 27 pounds, this bike is easy to transport and climb up the hills with. With three sizes available, you will be able to find one that fits you best.
Pros
- Handcrafted design for mobility and performance
- Compact crankset for climbing
Cons
- Might need to make multiple visits to a bike shop to re-tune the wheels
- where to buy
Tommaso Forcella Endurance Aluminum Road Bike
- QUALITY CYCLING PRODUCTS SINCE 1985: Our Italian designed cycling shoes, bicycle, and cycling products have made riders look like pros since '85. But we're more than just fancy gear, we're a community. Our cycling-crazed customer service team in Denver can help with any questions or concerns. Plus, our Lifetime Warranty Replacement Promise means you can put our gear to the test with unrelenting confidence. We hope that you will Join The Ride, for fun, fitness, and community.
- POWERFUL PEFORMANCE & SPEED: The Forcella is a top-performing bike that's not just for beginners. Starting cycling can be intimidating, but we believe that new riders deserve bikes that deliver affordable performance without compromising on quality. We recommend the Forcella for new riders who are serious about their cycling goals. Unlike other so-called "beginner bikes" that are quickly outgrown, the Forcella comes packed with high-quality components, like a carbon fork, found on high end bikes
- READY TO TAKE YOUR RIDING TO THE NEXT LEVEL? Look no further than the Foreclla – the bike that's built to deliver the power, performance, and speed you need to conquer your first century ride or tackle those challenging hilly routes. Equipped with a top-notch 3x8 Shimano Claris drivetrain and an impressive gearing range, this bike is designed to make climbing hills a breeze while still maintaining the speed you need to dominate on the flats.
- NEVER MISS A SHIFT: Shimano Claris shifters provide consistent, reliable shifting in all riding conditions, so you can focus on pushing yourself. Unlike our competitors, who cut corners and use off-brand parts to save money, we use a 100% Shimano drivetrain. Why? Because Shimano makes the best drivetrain on the planet, and they're at their best when used together as a complete set. Please note that professional assembly is required to validate your warranty and ensure optimal performance
- BUILT TO LAST: All too often things are made cheaply and break before their time. We believe that bikes should be reliable and built to last. This is why we use premium aluminum in our frames, and back it with our industry leading lifetime warranty. We use only Shimano components, which are backed by Shimano’s two year warranty and function better than competitors. Ride with confidence! PLEASE NOTE: ALL BIKES ON AMAZON COME UN-TUNED. PROFESSIONAL ASSEMBLY REQUIRED TO VALIDATE WARRANTIES!
Features
The Tommaso Forcella Endurance road bike is an amazing bike. It offers the functionality of a high-end road bike for a fraction of the price. Imagine going up against someone with a $5000 road bike and beating them. This bike lets you do just that. Its lightweight design gives it aerodynamic mobility far above most other entry-level road bikes. The carbon fiber fork provides maximum road vibration dampening and extra comfort. The TC-30 wheelset is lightweight and aerodynamic and is far greater than what you would see on most other entry-level bikes. It is available in two colors: matte black and matte white.
Pros
- Carbon fiber fork
- High-quality wheelset
Cons
- Limited size options
- Price
- where to buy
Vilano Shadow Road Bike
No products found.
Features
The Vilano Shadow road bike is an extremely versatile bike. It offers the ability to enjoy casual rides or intense exercise. The double butted aluminum aero frame provides durability so it can take heavy damage but still provides a lightweight design. The integrated shifters and brakes make it easy to use for beginners providing needed functionality and welcomed simplicity. It’s also equipped with dual-pivot alloy caliper brakes to provide plenty of stopping power when needed.
This road bike provides you with 14 speeds which makes climbing hills or hitting the pavement a breeze. The drop handlebar design provides added aerodynamics at high speeds. These features make it one of the most user-friendly bikes on the market.
Pros
- Versatile design
- Lightweight, durable frame
- Very user-friendly
Cons
- professional assembly required
- where to buy
Raleigh Merit 1 Endurance Road Bike
No products found.
Features
f you’re looking for a bike that will give you comfort and versatility, then look no further than the Raleigh Merit 1 Endurance road bike. This bike possesses an aluminum frame that provides a lightweight design. The Shimano Claris drivetrain provides plenty of gears for a variety of terrain. The aluminum fork and dual caliper pivot brakes will provide ample stopping power and stability. The larger than standard tires, 700x28cc, provide additional riding comfort and stability. The drop bar handlebar design gives you added aerodynamics at higher speeds. This bike’s classic design and user functionality will keep you peddling no matter what kind of ride you choose. It is made for comfort and efficiency whether you’re commuting to work or out on a weekend ride.
Pros
- High-quality Italian craftsmanship and design
- High-quality parts
Cons
- Larger than standard tires
- where to buy
Colnago WORLD CUP Bicycle
No products found.
Features
If you are looking for an entry-level bike with name brand recognition, then the Colnago WORLD CUP is the bike for you. Colnago has a long history of famous frame geometry craftsmanship, designing some of the best high-end bicycles available, and now there is an option for beginners. The aluminum frame offers a lightweight but stable design. It is equipped with a Shimano 105 drivetrain, FSA Cranks, Deda cockpit, and a Colnago branded saddle. Your bike will not only look stylish but it will also be well designed for lots of enjoyable rides.
Pros
- Lightweight, design
- Very user-friendly
Cons
- More costly than most entry-level bikes
- where to buy
The Verdict
There are plenty of options to choose from when looking for an entry-level bicycle to be the best beginner road bike. We want to start off your cycling adventures with the one that will get you your best bang for your buck. That means if you are looking for a moderately priced bicycle that will give you the best quality to create enjoyable rides, then our pick for the best beginner road bike for you is the Giordano Libero.
This bike is packed with high-quality features but offers a lightweight and user-friendly design that will help any beginner learn to use their cycling legs. You will test this bike’s aerodynamic design on fast flat rides but also be able to take hill climbing.
We have sorted through the entry-level road bikes that are out there on the market to give you the best beginner road bike. Now it is time for you to get outside and ride. It’s time to order your best beginner road bike so you can hit the pavement and start peddling!
Featured image via Pexels