11 Best Beginner Road Bike Under $500 Reviews in 2022
Although many people think that road bikes are expensive, as a beginner, there’s no need to look at the most high-end and luxury road bikes straightforwardly. Instead, the best beginner road bike under 500 would still serve your purpose of daily commuting, riding, and training.
You will just have to pick the right bike within the budget to get the best bang for it. If you feel finding the best entry-level road bike is challenging, this review on eleven top-quality road bikes would draw you out of the vacuum.
These road bikes are made solid for long-lasting use, comfort while riding, and easiness in controlling for beginners. Also, we have included a detailed buying guide on road bikes under 500 to help you in purchasing further.
Thus, if you are interested in getting a budget-friendly yet attractive, durable, and sturdy road bike, go through the review.
Our Top 3 Best Beginner Road Bike Under $500
This article will cover everything about beginner road bike with details info, review, FAQ and buying guide. Before that, look at our top 3 picks.
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
 
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overall best Giordano Libero Aluminum Road Bike |
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Great Value Trinx TEMPO1.0 700C Road Bike |
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Premium Pick Vilano R2 Commuter Aluminum Road Bike |
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The Eleven Best Beginner Road Bike Under $500 Reviews
The following is a list of 11 best road bikes for 2022.
- Giordano Libero Aluminum Road Bike, 700c Medium
- Schwinn Phocus 1400 and 1600 Drop Bar Road Bicycle
- Trinx TEMPO1.0 700C Road Bike
- Vilano R2 Commuter Aluminum Road Bike
- Giordano Libero 1.6 Men’s Road Bike
- 6KU Single-Speed Fixie Urban Track Bike
- Vilano Diverse 3.0 Performance Hybrid Road Bike
- Schwinn Volare Adult Hybrid Road Bike
- Giordano Libero Aluminum Road Bike
- Hiland Road Bike 700c Racing Bike
- Tommaso Imola Endurance Aluminum Road Bike
Road bikes, with their elegance, cutting-edge technology, and user-convenience, are thought to be a luxury segment. Yet, we have separated 11 top-class road bikes that are gettable in or around $500 to kick-off cycling career.
1. Giordano Libero Aluminum Road Bike, 700c Medium
Features
Product Specs
| Brand | Giordano |
| Bike Frame | Aluminum Frame |
| Wheel Size | 29 Inches |
| Speed | 16 Speed |
| Brake | Caliper – Alloy Dual Pivot Brakes |
| Suspension | Rigid |
| Color | Black/ Silver |
| Rim | Alloy Rim |
| Tires | 700c x 25mm tires |
| Weight | 42 Pounds |
Pros
Cons
Whether you are a serious or intermediate rider, you will find the Giordano Libero road bike’s best value for the money. It comes with feature-packed benefits without setting the price too high. The road bike is made solid and sturdy for long-lasting usage in most conditions. Also, its controls are of top-class to help ride through the city street with ease.
To begin with, it is made with a lightweight aluminum frame. Thus, it doesn’t feel heavier as you paddle forward. The drive train has 16 speed Shimano Claris for better control and quick changes between gears to meet your wish. Also, the STI shifters make gear shifting smooth and consistent.
The brakes are on both sides with a dual-pivot system. It makes sure the road bike stops right where you pull the brake. The overall built-quality and riding experience on the bike is satisfactory and will be a nice choice for beginners and intermediate riders.
2. Schwinn Phocus 1400 and 1600 Drop Bar Road Bicycle
Features
Product Specs
| Brand | Schwinn |
| Bike Frame | Aluminum |
| Wheel Size | 29 Inches (Ex) |
| Speed | 16 Speed |
| Brake | Caliper |
| Suspension | Rigid |
| Color | Black |
| Rim | Alloy Rim |
| Fork | Carbon Fiber Fork |
| Weight | 31 Pounds |
Pros
Cons
Drop bar featuring road bikes are suitable for casual commuting and workout alike. Thus, many people opt for drop bar road bikes. The Schwinn Phocus road bike remains the top recommendation if you are one of them looking for drop-bar bikes.
The bike is available in two models, 1400 and 1600. The first one has 14-speed drive trains while the second has 16 drive trains. The frame is made of lightweight aluminum. Its fork is made of carbon fiber. Thus, it is one of the lightest road bikes on the market. Also, its lightweight design makes it the best women’s road bike under $500.
The rims have dual-walls with paired spokes for quick release and comfortable riding. Its Promax braking system is highly responsive as well. The gear change is consistent and easy too. Thus, you will love the riding experience on it for daily commuting and roaming around occasionally.
3. Trinx TEMPO1.0 700C Road Bike
Features
Product Specs
| Brand | Trinx |
| Bike Frame | Aluminum, Steel |
| Size | 56 cm |
| Speed | 21 Speed |
| Brake | Caliper |
| Suspension | Rear, Front |
| Color | Black/Green |
| Rim | Alloy Rim |
| Fork | Hi-Ten Steel Fork |
| Weight | 25 Pounds |
Pros
Cons
Are you on the hunt for a racing road bike? You will be pleased to know that Trinx Temp01 truly upholds the road bike features with its racing ability. You will appreciate its riding smoothness. Also, the bike really looks classy with its bright colors.
Once you fine-tune the assembly, its Shimano A050 shifters will feel consistent and comfy. You get 21 drive trains which means you can really go up with speed and still feel the improved control. It comes with a Cst Czar tire. These tires are skinny and offer great riding smoothness. On top of it, skinny tires are useful for racing which is the best selling point of this road bike.
The drop-down handlebar features dual brake levers. Hence, it quickly suits your preferred riding style. The seat height is also adjustable for a comfy ride. The only drawback of the road bike is its hard seat which at times feels a little annoying.
4. Vilano R2 Commuter Aluminum Road Bike
Features
Product Specs
| Brand | Vilano |
| Bike Frame | Aluminum |
| Size | 50cm Small |
| Wheel Size | 700 Centimeters |
| Speed | 21 Speed |
| Brake | Caliper |
| Suspension | Rear, Front |
| Color | Black/Green |
| Rim | Alloy Rim |
| Weight | 27 Pounds |
Pros
Cons
These commuter road bikes come from Vilano Store who is famous for high-end manufacturing bikes. This time they have brought something for entry-level road bikes. Yes, the Vilano R2 bike is beneficial for daily commuting and also usable in multipurpose activities such as training and workouts.
Since it has 21 speeds, it runs extremely fast. Also, the speeds are highly functional while the gear change is made buttery smooth. Hence, you will appreciate its performance in city streets and off-trail riding as well. The frame is lightweight, and the brakes are made of alloy caliper. Hence, you will indeed feel confident to control the bike and guide it through the city spaces.
Its rear derailleur is made of Shimano Tourney, and the front one comes from Shimano directly. Thus, you can trust its responsiveness and consistency in all situations.
5. Giordano Libero 1.6 Men’s Road Bike
Features
Product Specs
| Brand | Giordano |
| Bike Frame | Aluminum |
| Size | 56cm/Medium |
| Wheel Size | 700 Inches |
| Speed | 16 Speed |
| Brake | Linear Pull |
| Suspension | Dual |
| Color | Black/Red |
| Rim | Alloy Rim |
| Weight | 26.05 Pounds |
Pros
Cons
Giordano Libero 1.6 is made in Italy and easily fits in the slot for the best road bikes under $500, thanks to its practical and useful features. The road bike personifies the highest-quality workmanship and is made to withstand years of use. Also, it is safe for all riders, from beginners to adventurers.
Its feature-packed construction deserves accolades. The qualities it inherits include lightweight, budget-friendliness, and appearance, to mention a few. Also, it is made for riding long distances comfortably and safely in all conditions.
The STI drive train has 16 speeds with quick gear transition. The brakes have a linear-pull system that is both functional and responsive. And when you plan for a weekend bike tour, its two bottle mounting spots truly bring peace of mind for the riders. With all these benefits, the bike perfectly fits as the daily commute and weekend adventure trip companion for all.
6. 6KU Single-Speed Fixie Urban Track Bike
Features
Product Specs
| Brand | 6KU |
| Bike Frame | Aluminum |
| Size | X-Small |
| Wheel Size | 700 Inches |
| Speed | 1 Speed |
| Brake | Caliper |
| Suspension | Rigid |
| Color | Shadow Black |
| Rim | Alloy Rim |
| Weight | 29.9 Pounds (Package) |
Pros
Cons
6kU’s motto is to manufacture high-end bikes for all without breaking their bank accounts. And they truly highlighted their motto with the 6KU urban track bike. Although the bike is relatively new in the market, it has some favorable benefits for beginners.
First off, the all-black color of the bike looks so amazing that you can pass hours looking at it. Also, its price point is affordable and perfectly balances the features in its price range. The bike feels lighter than other competitors in this category. Also, the overall design and construction are of high-quality, and there’s hardly any dissatisfactory point you will ever find.
The alloy wheels are dual-walled, and the gear is fixed. The hub features a flip-flop facility for a comfortable ride through the busiest city streets. The overall riding experience on the track bike is comfy and convenient for all too.
7. Vilano Diverse 3.0 Performance Hybrid Road Bike
Features
Product Specs
| Brand | Vilano |
| Bike Frame | Aluminum |
| Size | 53 cm |
| Wheel Size | 700c Wheel |
| Speed | 24 Speed |
| Brake | Mechanical Disc Brake |
| Suspension | Rear, Front |
| Color | Black |
| Rim | Alloy Rim |
| Weight | 26.5 Pounds |
Pros
Cons
Hybrid road bikes bring the best of both worlds by combining comfort in daily commuting and thrill in weekend off-road biking. The Vilano Diverse 3.0 does the same with its hybrid performance. It indeed delivers beast performance in both on-road and off-road riding.
The frame and fork are made of light aluminum with optimal ruggedness for durability. It, thus, easily withstand rough usages for years to be worthy of the investment. And for riding convenience, you get 24 drive trains which ensure you enjoy the maximum speed with the road bike—also, the flat handlebar and adjustable seating position promise to provide you the most comfortable riding experience.
Since it is a hybrid road bike, Vilano has given special attention to its braking capacity. It uses mechanical disc brakes for immediate stops in emergencies. The overall performance and built-quality of the road bike are top-class and dependable for beginners to intermediate riders.
8. Schwinn Volare Adult Hybrid Road Bike
Features
Product Specs
| Brand | Schwinn |
| Bike Frame | Aluminum |
| Size | 18″/Medium |
| Wheel Size | 700c Wheel |
| Speed | 14 Speed |
| Brake | Caliper |
| Suspension | Rigid |
| Color | Green |
| Rim | Alloy Rim |
| Tire | 28C road tires |
| Weight | 29.8 Pounds |
Pros
Cons
This Schwinn hybrid bike is one of the top-of-the-line road bikes from the famous manufacturer, and you can depend on its practical features as a beginner rider. Also, it is a cheap road bike that brings the most useful technologies of a high-end hybrid road bike into reality.
It provides quick and responsive riding thanks to its lightweight fork and frame made of aluminum. The whole setup is designed with durability and comfort on focus. It comes with 14 speeds which is just good enough for daily rides and occasional off-road adventures. The gear changes between the drive trains are precise and responsive due to the Shimano derailleur and A050 shifters.
Apart from the shifters and speeds, the braking of the bike is also highly appreciable. It uses the caliper brake system for a reliable stoppage. The rims have dual-alloy, and it has 28C road tires. You will, thus, enjoy a fast run like a racer bike.
9. Giordano Libero Aluminum Road Bike
Features
Product Specs
| Brand | Giordano |
| Bike Frame | Aluminum |
| Size | Medium |
| Wheel Size | 29 Inches |
| Speed | 16 Speed |
| Brake | Caliper |
| Suspension | Rigid |
| Color | Black/ Silver |
| Rim | Alloy Rim |
| Tire | 700c x 25mm tires |
| Weight | 29.8 Pounds |
Pros
Cons
Smarty cyclists love riding Giordano Libero bikes because of their workmanship and highly reliable road performance. The 700C aluminum road bike is no exception to it. It comes with everything you want in the cheap road bikes, from reliability to durability.
The frame is made of lightweight aluminum, and its fork is made of tensile steel. Thus, it ensures great durability even after the harshest usage. The 16-speed drive trains come from Shimano Claris, and the shifters are made by STI. Both features promise to provide the smoothest cycling through the busy city streets, even for beginners.
The braking system has a dual pivot for powerful stoppage whenever necessary. Thus, the overall design and usability of the bike are impressive and highly recommendable for entry-level bikers.
10. Hiland Road Bike 700c Racing Bike
Features
Product Specs
| Brand | HH HILAND |
| Bike Frame | Aluminum Alloy |
| Size | 55cm |
| Wheel Size | 700C wheels |
| Speed | 14 Speed |
| Brake | Caliper |
| Suspension | Rigid |
| Color | Black |
| Rim | Alloy Rim |
| Weight | 33.4 Pounds |
Pros
Cons
The Hiland road bike serves both the purpose of looking attractive and a speedy riding experience for all cyclists. Whether you are a beginner or an adventurer, the racing bike equally serves all purposes. You can ride through the city streets and go on the highway riding with friends with this bike. And trust us, it won’t disappoint you.
It comes with 14 drive trains which are swiftly changeable using the STI shifter. Thus, you can quickly shift between the gears and get your desired speed on the road. And when you need an immediate stop, its caliper brakes with dual mechanisms are ready to offer you the perfect reliability.
The fact that the racing plus road bike comes 85% pre-assembled means you won’t have to call for a professional to assemble it. Thus, it is a perfect money-saver deal.
11. Tommaso Imola Endurance Aluminum Road Bike
Features
Product Specs
| Brand | Tommaso |
| Bike Frame | Aluminum |
| Size | XS (5’2″-5’6″) |
| Wheel Size | 700C wheels |
| Speed | 24 Speed |
| Brake | Rim Brakes |
| Drivetrain | Shimano Claris |
| Suspension | Rigid |
| Color | Black/ White |
| Rim | Alloy Rim |
| Tire | 700x25c |
| Weight | 33.4 Pounds |
Pros
Cons
100% Shimano gears, lightweight wheels, and frame, all these make the Tommaso road bike the favorite of all. Also, the overall design concept and features make sure a great value for the money. Thus, you can consider the endurance road bike a highly promising investment even as a beginner rider. And trust we, Tommaso, won’t disappoint you.
The bike has a 100% Shimano groupset, which brings forth affordable performance. And you have the option to step up the comfort and performance of the bike with the Claris R2000 set up. It will cost a little more, but it is worth the investment considering the smoothness of riding. The seating position is usually comfortable, and the 25cm 700C wheels provide smooth riders through the busiest streets.
Hence, you will appreciate the road bike performance. Also, it comes 90% assembled. You won’t have to waste money on the assembly anymore.
Why Road Bikes? – Benefits of Using Road Bikes
Buying Guide for the Best Beginner Road Bike Under $500
When you want the best road bike under $500, especially for beginners, you have to be choosy. There’s hardly any space for experimenting with the road bike features with such a budget. Henceforth, you have to consider the important road bike factors carefully.
Start by checking the frame design and weight. The frame weight should be 20lbs to 30lbs for comfy riding. Most road bikes under $500 are made using alloy or aluminum. The frame should be durable for rough use under all weather.
The fork of the road bike doesn’t contain any suspension. It is usually mounted at a steep angle to maximize the speed and comfort of riding. The entry-level road bike fork is made of alloy or steel for optimum ruggedness.
And at this price point of $500, you shouldn’t expect the wheels, rims, and tires to be thick. In fact, most road bikes have 25cm 700C wheels. The rims should have dual-alloy walls for sturdiness. The diameter of the tires ranges between 26cm-29cm.
As a beginner, you may be worried about the brake system of the road bikes. The brake should offer a quick stop for the steepest inclines. Road bikes have mechanical disc brakes. But even these brakes can of different types. Thus, read the specs to know which brake type the bike has used. Next, look at the handlebar design. The drop handlebar comes with the best comfort thanks to its upright and comfy seating position.
Lastly, the saddle is a key point of attention for road bikes under $500. Many road bikes have a hard saddle which isn’t ideal for long-distance riding. Hence, people actually replace the hard saddle with a softer one.
And, of course, check the road bike size attentively. If the bike is too large or small, you won’t find it comfortable to ride. Most road bike models are available in three sizes to suit your physique. The size chart is available in inches or centimeters. Check the label to pick the right size. It will make your riding experience smoother and better.
Types of Road Bikes
Road bikes are the most popular and sold bikes among cyclists. Due to popularity and versatile usage, road bikes have developed different variations. Its types include-
- Daily Commuters: it is the most widely seen road bike and is the true workhorse too. It is comfortable for daily riding and is made to be ridden in all weather.
- Touring bikes: These road bikes are designed to carry heavy loads and distance traveling. The wheels are usually larger, and the bike has an upright seating position. The components are made for lasting durability.
- Endurance bikes: Endurance or sport road bikes work best for fitness freaks and regular workouts. Also, it is made for comfortable long-distance riding. The bikes are designed to ensure comfort with lightweight construction.
- Race bikes: As the name suggests, these bikes are for racing. The bikes are lightweight and have an aerodynamic design. There’s no fuss about these bikes, and speed plays a key role in the overall design of the race road bikes.
- Aero bikes: These bikes have the best aerodynamic design that a road bike may offer. The frame is made of carbon which is the key distinctive feature of these bikes. As it slices through the air, you need less power to move the bike forward.
Some other popular versions of road bikes include triathlon road bikes, gravel bikes, and hybrid bikes. All these road bikes are lightweight and made to ensure maximum comfort for all riders.
List of Top Five Road Bike Brands:
- Vilano- http://www.vilanobikes.com/
- Tomasso- https://tommasobikes.com/
- Schwinn- http://www.schwinnbikes.com
- Holland Cycles- http://www.hollandcycles.com/
- 6ku- https://www.6ku.com/
What Is The Best Road Bike Under $500?
When you are buying a bike, it is important to consider what you will be using the bike for. If your primary purpose for the road bike is leisure or fitness riding, then this one will fit your needs perfectly.
The Giordano Libero 700c Road Bike has many features that make it ideal for beginners and intermediate riders alike.
It’s lightweight design makes it easy to handle on any type of terrain and its comfort guarantee means that you can ride in style without worrying about an uncomfortable ride.
This bicycle offers everything a rider could want with great looks and performance as well as affordability.
It comes equipped with Shimano STI dual-pivot braking system so that stopping power is always at hand when needed most along with 16 speeds so users have more control over their speed levels than ever before.
Its lightweight aluminum frame ensures that users won’t feel weighed down while riding which allows them to enjoy every minute they spend on the bike.
The bike is also equipped with front and rear alloy linear pull brakes that are easy to control, so users can stop at any time without having to worry about the safety of themselves or anyone else nearby.
The aluminum frame makes this bicycle lightweight but still offers a lot of security as well which means it’s ideal for use on rough roads.
What to Expect in a Road Bike Under $500
The first thing you’ll notice about a bike under $500 is that they will not have the same level of quality as one in the price range between $1000 and 1500.
If this is your first time shopping for a road bike, then it may be best to save up more money before purchasing anything below $1000 so that you can get the best quality possible.
How Much Should I Spend On A Cheap Road Bike?
If you’re on a tight budget, we recommend that you don’t spend more than $200-$300. This way, if the bike doesn’t work out for whatever reason (you get injured and can no longer ride it), then at least you didn’t waste too much money. You’ll also be able to find a decent quality machine for this price range.
Are Road Bikes Worth It?
Road bikes are worth it if you plan on riding a lot. They’re much more expensive than mountain bikes, but they offer a smoother ride and can be used on pavement or dirt roads.
If your main goal is to get exercise and lose weight, there are less expensive options that will work just fine for beginning cyclists—and you’ll get just as much of a workout.
Buying A Beginner Road Bike FAQ’s
What Is The Best Road Bike For A Beginner?
The best road bike for a beginner is one that has lightweight frames, thin rims (for improved ergonomics), and durable wheels.
A well priced bicycle should have features like easy to reach hand brakes, quick release levers on tires and seat adjustment mechanisms .
These will make it easier for the rider to adjust as necessary using just their hands without requiring any tools.
For a beginner, the best road bikes are those with an aluminum frame that is lightweight and durable. They also have thin tires for improved comfort on the street or highway. Finally, these bikes should be easy to assemble so you can hit the pavement as soon as possible!
How Should A Beginner Buy A Road Bike?
When you are buying a road bike, the most important thing to consider is your height. Your frame size should be about two-inches taller than your inseam length for optimal comfort and safety on the roads.
One of our favorite beginner bikes is The Giordano Libero Aluminum Road Bike because it features an aluminum frame with thin rims that provide improved ergonomics while offering lightweight handling so new riders don’t get fatigued easily. It also has quality shifters for fast gear changes as well as easy assembly!
What Are Some Quality Indicators For Beginner Bikes?
As you look for a new bike, there are several features to watch out for that will give you an idea of the quality and durability.
Namely, the frame should be made from good-quality aluminum with thin rims as well as reliable components like Shimano derailleurs and brakes.
It’s also important to consider how easy it is to assemble your bike when deciding which model is best for beginners because who wants to spend hours trying to figure out where everything goes?
Make sure you find one that comes partly assembled or has instructions written in plain English! And finally, don’t forget about safety: a solid lock can prevent theft too! Consider this content; it’s going to help you get quality road bike !
What To Avoid When Buying A Beginner Road Bike?
When you are buying a road bike, avoid models with heavy frames or steel rims. Those bikes will be too hard to pedal and they won’t react well when the roads get bumpy.
Its important that you buy the right size. You should be able to stand over your frame with about two inches of clearance and while seated there should be no more than an inch or so between the top tube and groin area.
Conclusion
As a beginner, you would want the best comfort and easiness while riding the road bikes. Also, you may not have a massive budget for the bikes. Whatever may be the reason, getting our recommended best beginner road bike under $500 would surely serve your purpose.
These bikes have reliable performance, lightweight frames and fork, and durable construction. You will love their flawless riding on the city streets, highways, and even slightly off-road places. Once you are comfortable with the saddle, these cheap road bikes will transform your daily commuting forever.
Guide To Buying Your First Road Bike
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does an expensive bike make a difference?
Yes, expensive road bikes make a massive difference in your overall riding experience. Expensive bikes are usually made with stiffer and lighter components. The frame is made of carbon fiber for maximum durability and lightweight. Also, these bikes have better aerodynamics for a comfy ride.
Are expensive bikes worth it?
Undoubtedly, expensive road bikes are truly worth the investment. These bikes have a durable frame, better ergonomics, and softer saddle. Also, the wheels are larger with thick rims that enhance comfort as you ride through the streets and highways.
What is the best road bicycle for the money?
We found the Giordano Libero Aluminum Road Bike and Vilano R2 Commuter bikes best road cycle for the money. These bikes provide lightweight frames and thin rims for improved ergonomics on the roads for all.
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