6 Best Beginner Road Bikes Under $500 to Get in 2023

If you want to dip your toe into road cycling, the number of bikes available can make it very confusing. There are a lot of manufacturers competing for your money.

We want you to make the best-informed choice you can, so we’ve created a guide to the 6 best cheap road bikes under $500 available in 2023.

After the bikes, we’ll have a little guide to help you pick the very best bike for you. They’ll be no fancy terms, no jargon, just straight forward advice. So read on and find the new road bike that you’re wanting.

Best Overall
Vilano Shadow 3.0 Road Bike
Vilano Shadow 3.0 Road Bike
  • Affordable
  • Aluminum construction
  • Internal cable routing
  • Integrated shifters
Premium Pick

Trinx TEMPO1.0 700C Road Bike
Trinx TEMPO1.0 700C Road Bike
  • Shimano 21 speed
  • WinZip alloy brakes
  • Easy assembling
  • Aluminium Alloy Frame
Budget Pick
Vilano Diverse 3.0 Road Bike
Vilano Diverse 3.0 Road Bike
  • Performance Hybrid
  • Upright Handlebar for Comfort
  • Soft front suspension.
  • Excellent

Which Road Bike is Best For A Beginner?

The Trinx TEMPO 1.0 700c is the ideal road bike for a beginner. This road bike comes with WinZip alloy brakes, Shimano 21 speed, and an aluminum frame. Moreover, what makes it best for an entry-level cyclist is that this road bike is very easy to assemble.

How To Choose Road Bikes Under $500

When looking for a road bike, you should consider these five characteristics:

  • Lightweight frame
  • Sturdy wheels
  • Slim tire rims
  • Handlebars, brakes, and saddle
  • Ease of assembly

Lightweight Frame

The material of your bike’s frame should be a lightweight aluminum (or other superior material). This will make your ride more pleasant, as most aluminum frames prove quite durable. This material also makes it much easier to ride as you won’t tire as quickly during a long ride.

A lightweight frame should weigh between 20 and 30lbs. Be sure to check the material when buying since some companies use metals or composites that aren’t optimal for a road bike. Bike frames of steel, carbon fiber, titanium, or alloy also work perfectly.

When choosing the correct frame, you should also keep your height in mind. If you measure the height of the inside of your leg, aka your “inseam length,” your bike must be at least two inches taller. This will ensure that you can fully extend your legs while riding.

Sturdy Wheels

You should choose tires that are sturdy and built for speed. Tires that produce less friction move much faster, though you should be careful using your bike when it rains. The bike you choose should have tires measuring between 26 and 29 inches.

If you like a bike but not its wheels, you can always change them. However, not all bikes have the same size or type of wheel, so pay close attention to the specs if you plan to replace the wheels.

Slim Tire Rims

Rims should measure about 23–28mm. Like smaller wheels, thin rims allow the bike to move much faster, making for an easier ride. They also add less weight to the overall frame, meaning you won’t work as hard.

Handlebars, Brakes, And Saddle

The handlebars and saddle on a road bike can make a huge difference. Your handlebars should not force you to crouch over as you ride, causing back pain. You should be able to reach the handlebars and brakes while sitting fully upright.

Having a comfortable saddle is also a must. Unfortunately, many of the best road bikes under $500 do not have comfortable seats included. This can lead to severe discomfort when on long rides.

Though a poorly designed saddle should not deter you from buying a specific make and model of a bike, you should consider replacing it as soon as possible. You will find many replacement options or covers you can buy to widen the saddle or make it softer.

Finally, make sure the bike has high-quality and easily accessible brakes. For example, mechanical disc brakes, which stop the bike from moving by creating tension with a steel cable, are perfectly acceptable. You can find this sort of information in the specs and reviews.

Vilano Shadow 3.0 Road Bike

TOP PICK
Vilano Shadow 3.0 Road Bike
9.4/10 Our Score

Specifications:

  • Wheel Size: 29 inches
  • Bike Type: Road Bike
  • Special Feature: Aluminum Frame

The Vilano Shadow 3.0 Road Bike is the best model for both beginners and professional riders alike. The reason behind this is that Vilano Shadow 3.0 road bike is built with high-grade materials and has amazing features. This is also the reason why this model is rated among the top road bikes under $500.The manufacturers have used aluminum in the construction of this model. The usage of aluminum brings durability, strength, and corrosion resistance to the design of this bike.Moreover, it does that while keeping the weight of the bike on the lighter side.

Our Verdict:
If you need the best men’s road bike under $500, then the Vilano Shadow 3.0 Road bike is the ideal fit for you. This model comes with high-quality aluminum frame construction, which makes it capable of bearing heavy weight. Moreover, the internal cable routing and the integrated shifters make this model the perfect fit for both beginners and professional cyclists.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Aluminum construction
  • Internal cable routing
  • Integrated shifters

Cons

  • Kickstand not included

Trinx TEMPO1.0 700C Road Bike

TOP PICK
Trinx TEMPO1.0 700C Road Bike
9.4/10 Our Score

Specifications:

  • Color: Black/Green
  • Bike Type: Road Bike
  • Special Feature: Aluminum Frame

First of all, the Trinx TEMPO 1.0 700c Road Bike comes in two different colors, so that is the first great thing about this model.The second is that beneath the vibrant and eye-catching color is a sturdy and robust frame, which will last you many years.Trinx has made sure to add every perk in this model that makes it the best road bike under 500..

Our Verdict:
If you need a model of road bike that you can use every single day, then the best fit for you is the Trinx TEMPO 1.0 700c Road Bike. This model has been manufactured with sturdy materials, so even with regular use, the bike will stay intact. Moreover, the braking system, along with the Shimano 21 speed, makes it the best entry-level road bike under 500.

Pros

  • Shimano 21 speed
  • WinZip alloy brakes
  • Easy assembling

Cons

  • Saddle is not comfortable

Vilano R2 Commuter Aluminum Road Bike

TOP PICK
Vilano R2 Commuter Aluminum Road Bike
9.4/10 Our Score

Specifications:

  • Color: Black
  • Bike Type: Road Bike
  • Special Feature: Aluminum Frame

Vilano R2 21 Speed 700c Commuter Aluminum Road Bike will be your best companion for daily commuters because it offers you a highly comfortable ride, excellent controllability, and smoother braking.Based on my experience with this fantastic road bike, I must call it one of the best road bikes under $500 available at a very fair price, yet the manufacturers have not compromised on the quality of the product.

Our Verdict:
It’s time to realize your dream of grabbing the best road bike at the fairest price. We are indicating towards the premium grade road bike like Vilano R2. This road bike offers you a longer lifespan because it has premium-grade components. In addition to this, a smoother and more comfortable ride with excellent agility will make you experience a better ride. Therefore, we strongly recommend you go for this superbly efficient road bike.

Pros

  • Highly sturdy frame
  • Smoother braking
  • Padded seat

Cons

  • Frequent tuning required

Giordano Libero Road Bike

TOP PICK
Giordano Libero Road Bike
9.4/10 Our Score

Specifications:

  • Color: Silver
  • Bike Type: Road Bike
  • Special Feature: Aluminum Frame

The Giordano Libero Road Bike is the best model for people who need a road bike for regular use.From high-quality construction to amazing and smooth performance, this road bike checks all the boxes.First of all, it comes in two sizes, so you can pick one that suits your height range the best.

Our Verdict:
Get yourself the Giordano Libero Road Bike if you need an amazing model of a bike without spending thousands of bucks. This model will give you smooth transitioning and amazing performance despite coming at a low price. The 6061 aluminum alloy frame will make sure that even after continuous use, your bike stays in shape.

Pros

  • Costs less than $500
  • Aluminum frame
  • 16 speeds
  • Caliper style brake

Cons

  • Derailleur requires adjusting from time to time

EUROBIKE OBK XC550 Road Bike

TOP PICK
EUROBIKE OBK XC550 Road Bike
9.4/10 Our Score

Specifications:

  • Color: 3 Spoke Wheel
  • Bike Type: Road Bike
  • Special Feature: 21Speed

The flashy design and the striking colors of this model are the first attention-catching features of this model.What holds that attention is the fact that this bike has been manufactured with the best materials and parts. Therefore, you can keep your hopes high from this model, as the EUROBIKE OBK XC550 Road Bike will befit those hopes.

Our Verdict:
Every woman out there who needs the best road bike that comes at a reasonable cost needs to invest their money in this model. This road bike has been constructed with high-quality materials and parts. It is not only sturdy, but the design of this model also features high durability, which makes it the best road bike under 500.

Pros

  • 6061 aluminum alloy construction
  • Comes partially assembled
  • 700c tires
  • Made from aluminum
  • Advanced braking system
  • Costs less than $500

Cons

  • Occasional Tuning

Schwinn Volare Mens and Womens Hybrid Road Bike

TOP PICK
Schwinn Volare Mens and Womens Hybrid Road Bike
9.4/10 Our Score

Specifications:

  • Color: Blue
  • Bike Type: Road Bike
  • Special Feature: Lightweight, Aluminum Frame

The Schwinn Volare 1300 Adult Hybrid Road Bike is no joke. This model has been manufactured specifically to cater to the needs of cyclists.So, even if you are a beginner, this road bike will be a great investment for you. The eye-catching design on the frame of the bike is the first feature that I really like about it.

Our Verdict:
The Schwinn Volare 1300 Adult Hybrid Road Bike is a must-have if you love riding a bicycle every day. This road bike comes with a pure aluminum construction that gives it a long life. Moreover, it has advanced gears and a braking system so you will definitely enjoy the smooth performance.

Pros

  • Under $500 price
  • Comfortable saddle
  • 14-speed shifters
  • Aluminum construction

Cons

  • Single handle brake

FAQs

How do I pick the right road bike?

There are a few things that you need to consider before purchasing a road bike if you want to pick the right model. The first is the construction of the bike, then comes the braking and the gear system. Another important thing is the tire size of the road bike.

How many gears should a road bike have?

The number of gears that your road bike should have depends on where you are planning on riding the bike. If you are going to ride on a hilly road, then getting a road bike with 20 gears will be ideal for you. On the other hand, for entry-level bikers, a road bike with 27 gears will be best.

Conclusion: Best Beginner Road Bikes Under $500

Whether you are a beginner in the cycling hobby or an experienced cyclist looking for a high-quality but affordable bike, you don’t have to invest thousands of dollars. Remember to check the specs and size charts when choosing your new bike.

When you buy online, remember that most bikes do not come pre-assembled. Keep in mind that if you have yet to complete a full bike assembly, you should probably take it to your local bike shop to help.

As for the best bike on the list for you, consider your level of cycling expertise and what you need the bike for. Our overall top pick in this list is the Trinx Tempo – a great balance of speed and value.

Though these rank as the best road bikes under $500, other bikes available have more advanced technology and will last for longer. These options are more expensive, but for bikers who indulge in the hobby often, think about spending the extra money.

If you need a bike for other purposes, such as for mountainous terrain or long-distance biking, you will find other specialized options available. You should consider another type of bike that suits your needs better, as road bikes are solely meant for biking on paved streets.

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