Cycling can be done as a form of recreation or for health purposes. Whichever the case, it has a host of benefits associated with it. From weight loss to muscle building and improved mental health.
However, to enjoy the full benefits of biking, you will need to have a great bike. Cool bikes need not be a preserve for the rich.
Even if your budget is squeezed, you can still get one at an affordable price and ride yourself to better health. Below is a review of the best road bikes under 500 dollars and a buying guide.
Top Pick - Best Road Bikes Under 500 USD
Sl | Name | What I Love Most | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
1. | Rigid aluminum frame, easy to use brake, easy assembly. | ||
2. | Braking system, aero frame design. | ||
3. | Aluminum frame, lightweight design. | ||
4. | Lightweight design, kickstand. | ||
5. | Easy to put together, dual suspension. | ||
6. | Water bottle mount, suitable for tall riders. | ||
7. | Disc brake, suitable for both short & tall riders. | ||
8. | 24 speed, caliper brakes. | ||
9. | 16 speed, enhanced geometry for upright riding. | ||
10. | Upright comfortable riding handlebar, disc brakes | ||
11. | Horizontal drop out frame, flip flop hub | ||
12. | Curved handlebars, professional tire |
** At the time of publishing this post, each products price were under $500 in Amazon
Why Should You Choose Road Bikes?
Road bikes are great because they ride fast and work well on paved roads. While their price is higher than other bikes, many people prefer road bikes because they are fun, lightweight, and efficient to ride. This makes them the most common bike type because of their ease of use.
Riders who are into speed can enjoy riding a road bike while using minimal effort. Most road bikes have drop handlebars, light and skinny tires that make them fast. They are also lightweight because they don’t have rear or front suspension.
If you need a great bike for commuting or riding around your neighborhood, a road bike is a great choice. However, you should consider your terrain because road bikes don’t work well on rough terrains. Instead, you can consider buying a mountain bike or a hybrid bike for rough terrains.
What Are The Common Types Of Road Bikes?
Understanding the different types of road bikes available is crucial to helping you make an informed purchase. Below are the types of road bikes you should know.
1. Race Bikes:
These are road bikes specifically made for racing. The bikes feature a lightweight design and their braking system is exemplary. These bikes are best suited for experienced riders.
2. Sportive:
The bikes have a larger design than the race bikes and are suited for endurance racing. They are comfortable so you can enjoy longer rides without getting fatigued. If you need a road bike for long commutes, this one will make a great purchase.
3. Time Trial:
A seasoned cyclist who races from time to time is best suited for this bike. The bikes have less wind resistance and they also offer speedy rides.
4. Commuter:
This is the major category of road bikes. Commuter bikes allow easy riding on paved roads. They focus more on aerodynamics and comfort as compared to speed. The bikes are designed with sturdy wheels and some have rack and mud flaps.
5. Aero:
These bikes resemble time trail bikes without all the extras included. For riders who need to ride at a moderate speed or aerodynamic bike, this one is ideal.
6. Touring:
Once you are an experienced rider, you might need to ride longer and this calls for a touring road bike. The bikes provide comfort and you can ride them for a longer time without getting tired. Most of them feature a rack and these bikes are not made for speed.
7. Cyclocross:
These are bikes designed for the Cyclocross sport where riders ride through different riding surfaces. It could be pavement, mud, dirt, or sand. Riding on such terrains calls for an all-purpose road bike. Their tires are wider with a knobby grip and have a smaller gear range than the normal road bike. They are also made with lighter frame wheel components.
8. E-Road Bikes:
The bikes have an electric motor that acts as an assist pedaling. Most of the bikes have a motor that can produce up to 200 watts of power per hour and they are great for mountain climbing. Older people or the physically challenged are best suited for these road bikes.
9. Gravel Bikes:
This is a new category of road bikes that combines touring bike element’s and cyclocross bikes. The bikes have wide tires, a wide gearing range, disc brakes, and a lightweight design for easy handling. It doesn’t matter where your adventure takes you, a gravel bike can handle all that. The bikes have rack mounts and fenders and this makes them suitable for light touring.
10. Fixie Bike:
This bike is also known as a track bike and it has a single fixed gear. Therefore, you can’t pedal or coast backward. They are specially made for track racing or riding. Some fixie bikes either have one or two brakes.
Best Road Bikes Under 500 -Complete Buying Guide
Top Rated Road Bikes Under $500 Review For Beginners To Advanced Riders
1. Schwinn Volare 1400 Men's Road Bicycle
If you are the kind that is concerned with safety, then the 700C Schwinn men's road bike is your best choice. This bicycle's suspension is made of steel to ensure safety even when riding on the worst of terrain.
Steel being a sturdy metal does not break even when you hit potholes and rocks along the ride.Hence your bicycle is assured of long life while keeping you safe.
It also acts as a shock absorber thereby cushioning you against vibrations. The Schwinn is a bike for anyone both young and old alike due to its lightweight. The 53cm aluminum frame it is made of makes it easier to lift and ride along steep terrains while maintaining stability.
Also, it comes with oversized road tires and rims with double walls that enhance your speed, stability and smooth riding. When it comes to the comfort of riding, you can choose speeds from low to high from the 14-speed drivetrain and brake lever combo. The combination works with the Shinano derailleurs to offer precise shifting and braking whenever needed.
The seat and the handlebars are ergonomically set ensuring your back does not hurt during and after the ride. In this setting, both your calves and hamstrings are put into exercise thereby improving your overall health. And when it gets hot, you do not have to worry as the bike has several water mounts where you can store water and stay hydrated.
Note: The bike is available in various colors which include: blue, red, blue/black, green, matte blue, teal/gray and available styles are volara 1200, volara 1300, volara 1400, volara 1500.
Important Features:
2. Vilano Shadow 3.0 Road Bike
The Vilano Shadow road bike is best suited for weekend rides, commuting, exercise and fitness. The speedy road bike features a lightweight aluminum frame for durability and easier handling.
The frame has an integrated headset together with internal cable routing for unmatched performance. The bike is equipped with an integrated brake lever with 14-speed for controlled braking and shifting. Regardless of where you want to go, this road bike is designed to take you there.
It features 700c double-walled wheels that contribute to smooth rides and offer good traction. There is a water bottle cage mount to help you keep your hydration near you. The bike comes with free pedals and is partially assembled.
You need to complete the rest of the assembly before you start riding. The parts you need to install include the handlebars, saddle, pedals, front wheel, tune brakes, and true the wheels.
Note: The bike is available in three sizes: small (49cm), medium (53cm),large (57cm) & black color.
Important Features:
3. Trinx TEMPO1.0 700C Road Bike
If you need a fast and general-purpose bike, this one will serve your needs. It is designed with skinny tires that provide good speed for commuting.
This good-value road bike also has a classy appearance and offers a comfortable riding experience.
The road bike has an aluminum alloy frame available in two sizes. The 53 com frame is can accommodate riders from 5 feet 6 inches to 5 feet 10 inches. The 56-inch frame is good for riders from 5 feet 10 inches to 6 feet 2 inches.
The Trinx Hi-Ten steel fork contributes to smoother rides by absorbing bumps along your way. Achieve precise shifting with the Shimano A050 shifter. It features a 21-speed drivetrain so you can achieve both speed and control.
Users also love the drop-down handlebar design featuring dual brake levers. You can easily achieve your preferred riding style. You can also adjust the height of the seat for a comfortable riding experience.
While the bike rides fast, the Winzip alloy brakes ensure your rides are safe and you can stop whenever you need to. Weighing only 25 pounds, the bike is light enough for easy maneuverability.
Note: The bike is available in two colors:black/green, blue/white colors and two sizes:small (53cm),large (56cm).
Important Features:
4. Merax Finiss 700C Road Bike Racing Bicycle
Going by its price, you may easily dismiss this bicycle. However, if you are in for improving your health through exercise at an affordable price, go for Merax. It is attractive and of high quality.
The aluminum frame makes the bike light ensuring comfort and long-term usage. Also, it makes the bike easier for you to maneuver, maintain control and stability even when speeding or in harsh terrain.
The frame besides being light is sturdy hence adding to the overall safety of the bike. To avoid back discomforts, you can adjust the seat to a comfortable position. For precision and smoothness of changing gears, it is fitted with Shimano shifters and derailleurs.
You can easily change gears to match the speed or resistance you need for enhanced performance. Also, you can access steep terrains as a form of workout or weight loss exercise. With speed comes the need to brake. The alloy-caliper brakes are suited for this action and pressing on them brings your bike to a safe stop.
Note: The bike is available in red/black and yellow color and 52cm and 58cm frame sizes.
Important Features:
5. Giordano Libero Aluminum Road Bike
If you are an intermediate or a serious rider looking for a high-quality road bike for the price, the Giordano is right for you. This is an amazing bike with incredible features at an affordable price. The bike is equipped with Shimano Claris 16 speed drive that works together with the STI shifters to give you controlled rides.
This is an adult-size road bike featuring a lightweight aluminum frame. The bike has a dual suspension fork for smooth rides. Not only does it give you speedy rides but also reliable stops. It has dual-pivot brakes that give powerful stopping power.
Depending on your size, you can choose from 3 different sizes. The small one is ideal for riders with a height of 5 feet 4 inches- 5 feet 8 inches. The medium one suits riders from 5 feet 7 inches to 5 feet 11 inches. The larger size is ideal for 5 feet 10 inches to 6 feet 4 inches.
All the components of this road bike are well-crafted for comfortable and durable rides. It has 700 c tires and a 32-hole double-wall alloy rim for enhanced riding performance.
Note: The bike is available in small,medium & large sizes with black color.
Important Features:
6. Giordano Libero Acciao Road Bike
While many bicycles have a limitation on the size of the rider, the Giordano Libero is very accommodating. If you are large-sized, this is your perfect fit for a memorable riding experience.
The frame and fork are made of steel, and so are the handlebars. This adds to the durability of the bike meaning you will not be shopping for another one soon.
Also, it boosts performance as the steel acts as a shock absorber cushioning you against vibrations. This means you can ride the bike comfortably at any terrain and speed while remaining safe. The braking system is excellent as it is side-pulled and works on both the front and rear wheels.
Even when speeding, your safety is guaranteed by the proper working of the brakes. The Road clincher tires used work best in all conditions from uneven terrain to gravel and smooth road. The drive train comprises of Shimano Tourney parts with 14 levels of speed to choose from.
Steel pedals covered with plastic makes them last longer and comfortable. And you do not need to keep yourself dehydrated when riding: the bike supports two water bottles mounts that hold your water to quench your thirst.
Note: The bike is available in small size with black color.
Important Features:
7. EUROBIKE OBK XC550 Road Bike
This is yet another budget-friendly road bike with premium features. The bike has rear and front suspension to make your rides the most comfortable.
It is designed with a heavy-duty aluminum frame that is not only lightweight but also durable.
The bike can accommodate users of various heights since it is available in 49cm and 54 cm. therefore, check your height well and choose the right bike that fits you. the road bike is designed with aluminum and magnesium alloy wheels for durability.
The 21-speed road bike provides smooth speed changes on various terrains. With the rear and front dual disc brakes, you can achieve precise stops since the brakes are sensitive. They offer reliable and powerful stopping power regardless of the weather.
It comes 85% assembled so you need to install the handlebar, pedals, front wheel and inflate the tires. Before assembling the front wheel, rotate the fork to 180-degrees such that the brake is in front.
Note: The bike is available in 3 spoke wheel, aluminum rims 1 & 2 colors with 49 cm and 54 cm frame sizes.
Important Features:
8. HASA R4 Road Bike Shimano 2400
The HASA R4 is a great entry level road bike with impressive features that compare with high-end road bikes. Besides being cheap, it requires low maintenance, and it is best if you are into exercise or if you want to shed off some weight.
If you love riding up mountains and down the hills, this is the bike for you With 24 speed Shimano shifters, you can quickly and easily adjust your speed to suit the terrain you are riding along.
You do not need to sweat to ride uphill, but in the event, you are training, it allows for variation of resistance to put you in exercise mode. Speed and safety go along. And that's why it is fitted with Shimano brake levers. The brakes are so reliable that you can come to a complete halt in matters of seconds.
Do not be fooled by its lightweight. Although it has a frame made of light aluminum, the bike is structurally strong. It can support a weight of more than 200 lbs despite it weighing less than 22 lbs. Its light weight makes it suitable for young, elderly and physically weak people as they can lift and move it easily. The lightweight also adds to its speed.
Note: The bike is available in 54 cm and 56 cm frame sizes with one color.
Important Features:
9. Diamondback Bicycles 2016 Complete Women's Road Bike
Every inch of this bike is given a feminine touch. The stylish features and the color are great given its low price. The more you ride this bike the much you will love it.
Cycling is associated with many health benefits from cardiovascular to weight loss and should be done by everyone. A good bike though should offer you comfortable riding even when done for hours.
The Airen Sport does that as it has an endurance geometry that features a slacker tube and a short top tube that keeps you in an upright position as well as comfortable handling while riding. This gives you more control of the bike. Even if you are a beginner or want to do long miles, you will be able to do it without much strain.
When descending hills or riding along wet and slippery roads during rains, you need to know you can trust your braking system. This bike comes with disc brakes different from the normal rim brakes.
The biggest advantage of a mechanical disc brake is that you only need to apply a little force and the bike comes to a halt. That's why it suits women more. Adding to its suitability is the nine different speed Shimano Sora system of gears.
Note: The bike is available in 48 cm(XXS) frame size with silver color.
Important Features:
10. Vilano Diverse 3.0 Performance Hybrid Road Bike
When it comes to riding for fun, training or commuting, you should think Vilano Diverse. This hybrid bike is the answer to both your need for speed and safety.
For high speeds and ability to transform from a road bike to a mountain bike, the Vilano features derailleurs both at the front and the back. Also, a triple crank set and cranked up arms are fitted to boost speed.
You have a choice of up to 24 different speeds depending on the terrain you are riding on. The shifting of gears is quick and smooth thanks to the Shimano components. When the weather changes, it is normal to worry if you out there riding. This should not be the case anymore as this bike comes with 700C tires and disc brakes.
The tires can withstand any terrain and condition while the disc brakes offer excellent stopping power hence keeping you safe. With the disc brakes, you feel much more in control thus raising your riding confidence. Also, the upright handlebars and the ergonomic design of the seat provides you with maximum comfort.
Note: The bike is available in black color with 53 cm and 57 cm frame sizes.
Important Features:
11. Takara Kabuto Single Speed Road Bike
If you are looking for a bike to move around the city at an affordable price, then you should go for the Takara Kabuto. It is an excellent bike for adventure and sightseeing.
Due to its lightweight, you can quickly and safely maneuver through heavy traffic in the city while maintaining stability. Besides being affordable, it is a commuter bike, and if used to go to work, you save money otherwise to be used on gasoline or bus fare.
The frame is made of steel, and hence you are guaranteed it will not be wearing out any time soon. Safety is also greatly enhanced by the steel frame as it is not impossible to completely break down during a harsh ride. Having said that, if speed is of the essence, then this bike is unstoppable.
Regardless of terrain, the Takara offers you a comfortable ride. The seat is comfortable, and the sitting posture is great for your back. The flip-flop design of the hub is also unique. The gears transition smoothly and are easy to reach giving you a smooth ride.
The brakes and gears ensure you have maximum control of the bike for stability and comfort. Adding to the smooth riding are the thick and robust wheels. The bike can comfortably accommodate a heavy and tall person, and the tires will not deflate or lose balance.
Note: The bike is available in black/green color with 58cm(large) frame size.
Important Features:
12. Road Bike XC550 700C Wheels Road Bicycle
If you have a taste for good designs, you will fall in love with the XC550. The price is amazingly affordable, and the wheel design of three spokes is perfect giving it a fashionable look.
Besides enjoying the ride, you will be smiling along the way when strangers admire your bike. As with many entry-level bikes, it is fitted with 21 speed Shimano systems of gears to meet the needs of different riders.
From riding for fun to training and exercises, the different speeds ensure you enjoy to the maximum. The ability to vary resistance with the front and rear gears improve the gains you make when training with the bike.
The dual brake discs ensure you can ride up and down the mountain, ride through difficult terrain and remain safe. The bike is lightweight hence it can be used by anyone as it is easier to lift and ride. Because it is made of steel, durability is greatly enhanced. Also, it comes in different sizes, and you choose one that fits you well.
Note: The bike is available in three frame sizes which are 49cm, 54cm, 56 cm and six different color options as per style.
Important Features:
Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs
Q: Can you get a decent road bike for 500?
A: The answer is YES you can get a decent road bike under 500 dollars. Some reputed bike brands are making very durable yet lightweight road bikes under $500.
Q: Do expensive road bikes make a difference?
A: Yes expensive bikes definitely make high-quality road bikes. Because expensive bikes use high-quality component and are lighter, stiffer and perform better than less expensive road bikes. Most of the high-quality road bikes are made of carbon fiber materials that make the bike very durable.
Q: How much does an entry-level road bike cost?
A: Most of the manufacturers make entry-level road bikes from $200 to way up to $2500. The price could be high for an entry-level rider but if you plan to ride the bike regularly then you should invest in a quality entry-level road bike.
Q: How can I get a cheap road bike?
A: You can get a cheap road bike very easily. You can buy a bike from new bike brand company or you can fix your older bike by yourself or by an expert in your nearest local bike shop. Moreover, you can get discounted bikes from respected online retailers.
Q: How long do road bikes last?
A: Road bikes normally last for five years or more. Lifetime can be different based on how frequently you use the bike and how you take care of it. You can increase your bike lifetime by changing some components and regular maintenance.
Q: What should I look for in a good road bike?
A: You should consider a lightweight frame and wheels. Also look for a drop bar or flat bar handlebar based on your preference. Other things you should consider are front fork material, suspension on front or rear, men's or women's style, size, etc.
Q: What is a good weight for a road bike?
A: The average weight for a good road bike must be between 17 to 25 pounds. Due to smaller or thicker tire road bikes are lighter than other types of bikes.
Q: What should I look for when buying a used road bike?
A: When you look for buying a used road bike there are some bike components you should look closely at. The bike you buy should have a nice frame and fork. Also both sides of frame tubes must be dents or cracks free.
Q: Is riding a road bike difficult?
A: Riding road bikes are very easy. You can pedal your bike easily on the different pavement. Road bikes are not designed to ride on off-road. The only issue you can face on either riding position or seat post.
Q: Does weight matter on a road bike?
A: The answer is no as you carry total weight of the bike said Jim Martin, Associate Professor on exercise and sport science at the University of Utah. You should look for a bike weight of around 17 to 20 pounds if weight really matters to you.
Q: What is a good price for a used road bike?
A: You should spend maximum $200 or a bit more for a used road bike. Don't spend much more.
Q: How many gears are best for a road bike?
A: For starters, you just need one gear. If you plan to ride faster then you can choose more gears based on your preferences.
Q: What is the shortest stem for a road bike?
A: The shortest stem for a road bike is considered less than 90mm. And long stem size is 100 mm to 130mm or more.
Final Verdict:
Besides providing healthy exercise for your body, road biking is great for adventure as it brings you closer to nature. Unlike walking which is limited, with a bike you can explore vast areas. Pick any of the reviewed bikes above for a memorable riding experience. If you are a beginner or an experienced cyclist, the time is now to cycle to your health and overall wellness.
Relevant Resources:
Hello Guys! I am John Reese, a professional biker and my hobby is biking! I have been biking for last 10 years and I love using bikes while outing as well. Based on my experiences with the different type of bikes (mountain bikes, road bikes and hybrid bikes); I am sharing my opinion about various bikes so that a beginner can get started right away. Happy reading!