If you’re looking for a high-quality road bike with a budget of under $ 500, fortunately, this article i s for you. Many people think that money cannot buy a good road bike under 500 but I will point out that it is a wrong thought.
Below are 14 best road bikes under 500 and its quality is not inferior to the more expensive bikes. Furthermore, it serves all your purposes such as commuting, training, or racing.
Try exploring the available road bike models, pick the best suitable one, and enjoy a great riding experience.
What Does Road Bike Mean?
Let’s dive deeper into the “road bike” definition:
The road bike is simply defined as a bike that used to be ridden on paved surfaces. It is also a synonym for cycle racing, but it does not feature much hi-tech racing. In addition, it is more inclined into the persistence characteristic and not as fast as racing bicycles.
The road bike is WAY opposite in comparison to a mountain bike. Mountain bikes have a complex full-suspension and are mainly used on off-road or mountainous topography while road bikes are preferred on road surfaces.
I’ll go over some traits of road bikes to have a general look:
- Speedily
- The lightweight frame, wheels and ingredients
- Narrow tires
- Drop (Curled) handlebars
- Derailleur gears
- Disc brakes or rim brakes
- Women’s style available
Sub-types:
- Aero
- Ultralight
- Endurance
- Touring
- All-Road
In short, road bikes are fast and for recreational riding, especially on paved roads. It can go farther and quicker than most bike types.
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How To Get The Correct Road Bike Size
Bike size is a crucial element that has a direct influence on your posture and comfort level. Because of that, having a right bike size is a top priority before you decide to purchase a bike. Road bike sizes vary in a wide range from basic small, medium and large sizes.
Next, I’ll consider the key to get the right road bike size. Using the LeMond method is a great measurement. First, you need to determine your leg length using a particular gear. Then, multiply those assizes by 0.885. You can also adjust the saddle in a way that suits your straight leg when you pedal.
Another way to get the correct road bike size is to take advantage of guidelines of bike manufacturers or road bike size charts on the Internet. This is the simplest and easiest way to know what your road bike size goes for.
When you can opt for the right road bike size, your ride performance will be exceptional and top-notch. You can thank me later for helping you to choose the one!
What Are The Best Road Bikes Under 500$ to Buy?
Everyone wants a good road bike, but not all people know how to pick the best and cheapest ones. So I recommend this list for people who want to have inexpensive and efficient choices for a road bike. These bikes may not be the greatest ones, but they work well compared with the prices.
So if you are determined to get the best road bikes under 500$, let’s check this out!
- Best Overall: 6KU Aluminum Fixed Gear Urban Track Bike
“Included front and rear brake, lightweight aluminum frame, and fork, 30mm deep V double-walled alloy wheels.”
- Best Cheap Price: Pure Fix Original Fixed Gear Single Speed Bike
“Reasonably priced, tires are Thickslick 700 X 28c to adapt to different terrains, single speed but stable on the ride.”
- Best For The Money: Outroad Road Bike
“Reasonably priced, 14 speeds suitable for a lot of riding styles, standard 700C wheels to maintain good top speed.”
- Best For Beginners: Vilano R2 Commuter Aluminum Road Bike
“21 speed modes for wider options of bike riding, doubled walled CNC machined wheelset offers better shock filtering and balance, double-butted aluminum frame for better durability and strength.”
- Best For Men: Eurobike HYXC550 Road Bike
“Good range of 21 speeds for various purposes, aluminum multi spokes, durable steel frame.”
- Best For Women: Schwinn Phocus 1400 and 1600 Road Bike
“Unisex model suitable for female riders, aluminum road frame weighing less so can be carried easily, Shimano Claris 16 speed derailleur to improve the performance.”
- Best For Teenagers: Kent Gzr700 Road Bike
“High-quality steel frame for the best balance, pivot alloy brakes to stop the bike smoothly, good sizes available for young grown-ups.”
- Best For Commuting: Hiland Aluminum Road Bike
“21 speeds for any type of cycling, Hiland aluminum frame to reduce weight and allow over-the-shoulder carrying, stable and smooth performance.”
- Best For Casual Riding: Hiland Road Bike
“Shimano A050 shifter to ensure better control, lightweight and durable Hiland aluminum frame suitable for new cyclists, 14 speeds good for daily using.”
- Best For Heavy Riders: Giordano Libero Aluminum Road Bike
“16 speed modes to suit different riding styles, good weight capacity extends to heavy riders range, strong and lightweight aluminum frame.”
“Standard 700C tires that are easy to use, 21 speed for different purposes and no-hassle assembling work.”
“21 Speeds can be used for all cycling styles, reinforced aluminum alloy rims for better durability, lightweight aluminum frame for easy carrying over the shoulders.”
“Double-butted aluminum aero frame for better aerodynamic and riding posture, 14 speeds good for entry-level bike riding.”
“21 speed mode suits all types of cycling styles, Trinx Hi-Ten steel road fork increases stability and shock filtering.”
Best Road Bikes Under 500 Comparison Chart 2021
For a quick guide through the best option, you can check out this comparison chart of the 14 Best Road Bikes Under 500$. This shortlist will suggest to you some of the best aspects of each model.
Top 14 Best Road Bikes Under 500 Review In 2021 – June Update!
Here are my in-depth reviews of the top 14 Best Road Bikes Under 500$:
Best Overall: 6KU Road Bike
The 6KU Road Bike is a fool-proof choice for a road bike because it is simple and efficient – anyone can ride it. With such a low price of under 500$, I still get a high-quality aluminum frame and front and rear brakes, nothing to complain about.
Not only the quality of the frame material is good, but this bike is also easy to ride on. With several different sizes, anyone can pick the model that fits the best. Moreover, the wheels of this bike are deep V double-walled, allowing the rider to have a smooth and less bumpy journey.
This aluminum road is only weighed under 30 pounds, so sometimes I can carry it on my shoulders during my ride. Even though this bike model is available in 2 black and white options, the modern and urban look make up for the rest.
Pros
- Lightweight and simple design fitting all riders
- The front brake and rear brake are included for better safety
- Good and simple for beginner riders
- Easy for maintenance and fixing
- Reasonable price compared to high-quality and durability
- Different sizes are available for a wide range of riders
Cons
- Only two color options available
- The top speed is average, so not suitable for racing.
Product Specs
| Weight | 29.9 Pounds |
| Dimensions | 38.8 x 28.7 x 10.6 inches |
| Frame | Aluminum |
Key features:
- Lightweight Full Aluminum Frame and Fork
- 30mm Deep V Double-Walled Alloy Wheels
- Ride Fixed Gear or Freewheel with a Flip-Flop Hub
- Front and Rear Brakes Included
To learn more about this road bikes, please watch this review video:
EURXC550 Road Bike
EURXC550 Road Bike is a good choice whenever I want to opt for the multi-speed and heavily geared road bike. This one has 21 speeds, so for rides that often cycle on multi-surfaced and tough terrains, it helps to conquer the trail easily.
When I bought this model, there was little work of assembling since it came in almost full state, so beginner riders would never have any problem figuring out where to attach all the pieces. However, there are only two frame sizes; it would not fit all the riders height.
Pros
- 21 speeds to accommodate all types of bike riding
- Good gears and frame construction for a stable ride
- No hard time assembling this model
Cons
- Only two sizes available
Product Specs
| Weight | 35 Pounds |
| Dimensions | 53 x 29 x 8 inches |
| Frame | Steel |
Key features:
- 700C Road Bike
- 21 Speed Shifting System And Dual Disc Brake.
- Arrives With 85% Assembled.
- Fits Up For 5’8” To 6′.
To learn more about this road bikes, please watch this review video:
Best For Casual Riding: Hiland Road Bike
Whenever I want to go for a ride in the city, I always trust the Hiland Road Bike with 14 Speed Drivetrain. This bike is one of the most comfortable and easy-to-ride models, and it even gets the SHIMANO 2*7-speed Shifters even though this one is dirt cheap.
The general feeling when riding this bike is stable, balanced, and well-controlled. The 700C wheels feel great on paved roads, and the drop handlebars are good to turn and control the direction.
Another thing worth mentioning is the quick-release levers on both the front and back sides, along with double-walled rims to reduce all the impact from the road. It can not filter all the vibration, but for a casual ride in the neighborhood, I can hardly feel any disturbance.
Pros
- Lightweight and high-quality frame material ensures an enjoyable ride
- 700C wheels are good for casual and inner-city riding
- Modern design fits both beginners and pro riders
Cons
- Limited sizes so not suitable for too tall riders.
Product Specs
| Weight | 33.4 Pounds |
| Dimensions | 50.3 x 28.2 x 8 inches |
| Frame | Aluminum Alloy |
Key features:
- Frame: Hiland aluminum(55/60 cm)
- Fork: 700C Fork
- Chain wheel: Prowheel 42*52 teeth
- Shifters：Shimano A050
- Tubes: 700c x 25c, Presta valve 48 mm
Best For Commuting: Hiland Aluminum Road Bike
Coming from the same well-praised manufacturer, the Hiland Road Bike with 21 Speeds does a good job in long-distance cycling. This model is one of the most frequently cycled bikes I choose to get to work.
Compared with the above model, this bike has a lower frame design but maintains the same level of lightweight and simple construction, so it won’t need too much power to ride for a long time.
For a budget road bike, getting double caliper brakes is a valuable deal, ensuring no problem with bike stops.
I don’t like the hassle of bike assembling, so for a model coming 85% assembled right out of the box; I simply have to recommend it. Especially for people with little bike constructing an experience, this model will be a suitable choice.
Pros
- 21 speeds and double caliper brakes for the most powerful riding
- Good for long-distance riding with a comfortable design
- No trouble for assembling work that is suitable for beginner riders
Cons
- This is a men’s bike, so the frame construction does not suit women.
Product Specs
| Weight | 31.65 Pounds |
| Dimensions | 51.4 x 27.8 x 8 inches |
| Frame | Aluminum |
Key features:
- Fork: 700C Fork
- Chain wheel: Prowheel 30*40*52 teeth
- Shifters: Shimano A050
- Tyres: 700c x 25c
- Tubes: 700c x 25c, Presta valve 48 mm
To learn more about this road bikes, please watch this review video:
Merax Finiss Road Bike
Road bike racing is my life-long passion, but I did not start with a high-end choice. The Merax Finiss Road Bike will be the recommendation if you are thinking of trying road bike racing.
This one can beat all its opponents in weight, with only 28 pounds, allowing it to speed up and maintain the top speed better. The Shimano Derailleur guaranteed the best performance; combining with the comfortable and adjustable seat, this model was worth every penny.
Moreover, it can support up to 330lbs, quite a great number for such slim and delicate frame construction. Nevertheless, the assembling part may be a bit confusing, especially for newbie riders, so remember to check the instructions carefully.
Pros
- Super lightweight and comfortable, suitable for racing
- Good top speed and control for a long ride
- Can support heavy riders with a decent weight capacity
Cons
- One size only
Product Specs
| Weight | 28 Pounds |
| Dimensions | Not available |
| Frame | Aluminum |
Key features:
- Fork: KENDA 700*28C
- Rims: Reinforced aluminum alloy rim
- Tires: Kenda 700*28C
- Weight Capacity: 330 LBS
To learn more about this road bikes, please watch this review video:
Best For Men: Eurobike HYXC550 Road Bike
In the men’s department, the Eurobike Bikes HYXC550 Road Bike is what male riders should consider with a budget of 500$. Although I had to go through the process of attaching the pedals for over an hour, the performance made up for the effort.
It is not the lightest model, but the acceleration and top speed are positively better than average. The steel frame and fork do add some more weight, but in exchange, I can feel the stability and control even on bad road conditions.
For an entry-level road bike, this one is more suitable for men. The frame geometry was designed for male riders, but female riders can still give it a chance.
Pros
- Dual disc brakes and 21-speed shifting system to suit all riding style
- Good for men riders with the special frame geometry
- The top speed and acceleration is quite great
Cons
- Buyer have to attach some of the components on their own
Product Specs
| Weight | 46 Pounds |
| Dimensions | 52 x 28 x 8 inches |
| Frame | Steel |
Key features:
- 700C Steel Frame
- Dual Disc Brake
- 21-Speed Shifting System
- Aluminum Multi Spokes
To learn more about this road bikes, please watch this review video:
Best For The Money: Outroad Road Bike
In the low-end range, the Outroad Road Bike may be the most all-rounded choice. It can support heavy riders; it has 14 speeds to shift and even a steel fork for a quick turn.
I use this bike on many different terrains and conclude that this one can ride on every surface that road bikes generally can ride. I did have to put all the pieces together, but for such a low price, I can not expect more.
The color scheme of red, white, and black give off a vibrant and energetic vibe, so this model will fit passionate cyclists and young people more. the front chain gear has three adjustable chains, so it will be a you-can-go-anywhere choice.
Pros
- 14 speeds and a lightweight aluminum frame that worth the price
- Offering a well-control and quick-response riding on various surface
- Great sporty appearance for cycling enthusiasts
Cons
- Riders have to assemble everything
Product Specs
| Weight | 35 Pounds |
| Dimensions | Not available |
| Frame | Aluminum |
Key features:
- 700C Wheel, 14 Speed Grip Shifter
- Max Weight Up To 220 Lbs
- Roller Sport 700X28c Tires
Best For Teenagers: Kent Gzr700 Road Bike
Talking about young people, I would like to recommend this Kent Gzr700 Road Bike. This bike is the definition of simplicity and ease of control, so for teenagers who just start cycling, it will fit well.
There is not much to talk about this model, not because it is so-so, but because its mechanism is simple and easy to ride on. The Pivot alloy caliper brakes do their job just fine, and I quite like the steel frame and fork construction.
The rigid design makes this model suitable for riders who are not fully grown yet, since it requires less physical effort to ride this bike.
Pros
- Simple design suitable for young entry-level riders
- Steel frame and fork for a stable and well-control ride
- Pivot alloy brakes for a quick and calm stopping response
Cons
- One size only, so it may not suit tall riders
Product Specs
| Weight | 31.2 Pounds |
| Dimensions | 53 x 29 x 8 inches |
| Frame | Steel |
Key features:
- High Tensile Steel Frame & Fork
- Shimano 21-Speed Stem Shifters
- Alloy Double Wall 36 Hole Rims, 25mm Width Tires
- Single Pivot Alloy Brakes
To learn more about this road bikes, please watch this review video:
Best For Beginners: Vilano R2 Road Bike
For riders who just get familiar with bike riding, an entry-level road bike will be best. The Vilano R2 Road Bike is the candidate for that slot with the easy-to-control mechanism.
The most prominent feature of this model must be the Double-butted aluminum aero frame, allowing it to weigh less than an average road bike. This lightweight makes it better for newbie cyclists to support when accelerating.
The thin-rimmed wheels and quick release skewers are the desirable choices for entry-level riders, aiming for ease of control and balance. Moreover, it includes 21 speeds – you are free to choose which suits your riding style the most.
Pros
- Super lightweight and responsive design good for beginner riders
- Lightweight frames allow riders to carry without any difficulty
- 21 speeds to conquer any types of terrain
- Front and rear suspensions offer better performance and control
Cons
- The top speed is not the best, so not suitable for the speedy or racing style.
Product Specs
| Weight | 27 Pounds |
| Dimensions | 52 x 29 x 8 inches |
| Frame | Aluminum |
Key features:
- 6061 Double Butted Aluminum Frame
- A050 Thumb Shifters
- 700c Doubled Walled CNC Machined Wheelset
- 21 Speed Drivetrain
To learn more about this road bikes, please watch this review video:
Vilano Shadow 2.0 Road Bike
I did not expect it to be a good inexpensive bike, but it turned out the Vilano Shadow 2.0 Road Bike can even ride comfortably on gravel and such. Commuting and casual riding are also good using suggestions for this model.
The double-butted aluminum aero frame is not an everyday thing to see on cheap bikes, but this model employs it smoothly and gets an overall lightweight and stable control.
The thing I like most about this model is on course, its Dual Pivot alloy caliper, very responsive and easy to use. Moreover, this one is good on a wide range of terrains, and especially for gravel riding.
Sadly, I had a hard time trying to assemble this bike. So for other fellows, you should learn bike assembling first before working with this.
Pros
- High-quality components offer an efficient and speedy performance
- Dual pivot caliper brakes are responsive and do not cause much shock
- 14 speeds to ride on all surface, can be used on gravel terrain
Cons
- Only partially assembled, so riders have to spend a lot of time to get the bike ready.
Product Specs
| Weight | Not available |
| Dimensions | 52 x 29.3 x 8 inches |
| Frame | Aluminum |
Key features:
- Integrated Headset
- Internal Cable Routing
- 700c 1 1/8″ Threadless Fork
- Shimano A070 STI Integrated Brake Lever Shifters
- Dual Pivot Alloy Caliper Brakes
To learn more about this road bikes, please watch this review video:
Best For Heavy Riders: Giordano Libero Road Bike
No worry for heavy riders because the Giordano Libero Aluminum Road Bike is what you need. The design is aerodynamic with great coating work, bringing a feel of fast and reliable riding.
The signature drop handlebars proved to be a good choice since they are responsive and easy to make quick turns. The alloy caliper brake has nothing to complain about; it supports the control just as well as other high-end models.
For road biking, high-speed bikes are more popular, so this bike highly values performance. Even with heavy riders, the top speed of this one is no joke.
Pros
- No assembling work required because it comes ready to go
- Heavy-duty design that can withstand great weight
- 16 speeds and Shimano Claris STI Shifters to accommodate all types of riding
- Well-designed brakes for ease of control
Cons
- Only two sizes are available, so it may not fit all riders.
Product Specs
| Weight | 33.5 Pounds |
| Dimensions | 60 x 25 x 40 inches |
| Frame | Aluminum |
Key features:
- High Tensile Steel Fork
- Shimano Claris STI Shifters
- 32 Hole Double Wall Alloy Rim
- 700c x 25mm tires
- Alloy Dual Pivot Brakes
To learn more about this road bikes, please watch this review video:
Best For Women: Schwinn Phocus Road Bike
Coming from the brand name that is widely loved, the Schwinn Phocus Road Bicycle is a unisex model suitable for women riders the most. Under 500$, the choices for a good women’s road bike are limited, so I trusted this well-known model from Schwinn.
At such a price, I can hardly find any option with a carbon fork, but this model offers just what I need. Combining with the Schwinn aluminum road frame, this bike feels lightweight and natural for both male and female riders.
The drop handlebars are my favorite since they can maneuver better than the straight ones. 16 speeds to choose from; I guess this one is the combo between good performance and reasonable price.
Pros
- The unisex model that can fit female rider well
- High-quality component and frame construction comparing with such cheap price
- Responsive and high-speed performance, good for casual riding and commuting
Cons
- One size only, so it may not fit all riders
Product Specs
| Weight | 31 Pounds |
| Dimensions | Not available |
| Frame | Aluminum |
Key features:
- Schwinn Aluminum Road Frame
- Shimano Claris 16 Speed Derailleur
- Promax Alloy Dual Pivot Caliper Road Brakes
To learn more about this road bikes, please watch this review video:
Best Cheap Price: Pure Fix Original Road Bike
Let’s say you are tight on the budget; getting a Pure Fix Original Fixed Gear Single Speed Bicycle will not burn a hole in your wallet. This model is the basic choice with average and ordinary components, but it can ride just fine. For a dirt-cheap price, this one is the best you can get out there.
The steel frame and fork are solid and work better than their price; also, they are durable. The design is a bit old-school with a straight handlebar, not the best for speedy riding, but for casual riding styles, you can still manage well.
It is single speed and does not come with many upgrade parts, but well, it is ready to go out of the box with just a little work of assembling — still a good deal for the price.
Pros
- Lightweight and good-looking bike for such an inexpensive bike
- Most assembled when purchased, riders don’t need to spend much time putting it up
- Flexible and responsive gears that good for different types of riding
Cons
- Quite a small frame size, so it may not suit tall and heavy riders.
Product Specs
| Weight | 860 Grams |
| Dimensions | 35 x 46 x 12 cm |
| Frame | 35 x 46 x 12 cm Steel |
Key features:
- Flip-Flop Rear Hub
- Loose-Ball Hubs
- Thickslick 700 X 28c Tires
- Tig-Welded High Tensile Steel Frame And Fork
To learn more about this road bikes, please watch this review video:
Trinx TEMPO1.0 700C Road Bike
Falling in the middle of the price range, this Trinx TEMPO1.0 700C Road Bike is also a great choice for entry-level cyclists. Only weighing just around 20lbs, the lightweight aluminum frame helps new riders to get better control of the ride.
Moreover, 21 speeds are incredibly diverse, so I can ride it on all kinds of different surfaces. It needs to be put together when purchased, but the instructions are clear and easy to follow.
One more thing about this model is the frame and seat geometries; all are aerodynamic and sporty, allowing the performance to shift a great deal.
Pros
- High-quality component and frame for a reasonable price
- 21 speeds can accommodate all types of terrains
- Super lightweight and durable, it can last for a long time under frequent riding.
- Easy to control, good for beginner cyclists
Cons
- Require assembling, but it is really easy to do
Product Specs
| Weight | 25 Pounds |
| Dimensions | Not available |
| Frame | Aluminium Alloy |
Key features:
- Alloy Frame: 530mm for height 5’6-5’10, and 560mm for 5’10-6’2
- Fork: Trinx Hi-Ten Steel Road
- Tire: Cst 700C*25C Colorful
- Shifter Lever: Shimano SL-A050
To learn more about this road bikes, please watch this review video:
The Ultimate Guide To Choosing Best Road Bikes Under $500 In 2021
If this is your first time buying an road bike, you might encounter some difficulties choosing a bike. In the worst case, you could end up buying a poor quality bike.
That’s why I’m here to help you choose the best road bike! The following are the characteristics that you need to consider before deciding to buy any electric skateboards.
Frame material
Whether you use the bike for any purpose such as traveling, training, or racing, you need a road bike with the best performance. To achieve high performance, you should pay attention to the frame material.
The frame accounts for the majority of bicycle weight. Therefore, you should choose a lightweight and durable frame material. It gives you many advantages in terms of speed, extra power, flexibility, or control.
Aluminum is the most popular material because it meets the basic requirements for a good frame. It is lightweight, strong, and durable.
Drivetrain
The drivetrain is the part that directly affects the speed of the bike. The drivetrain commonly found on road bikes today is from the Shimano brand. Shimano is a famous brand specialized in manufacturing bicycle parts with superior quality.
At this price, the Shimano drivetrain is the best. It allows you to switch gear levels quickly and accurately. From there, it provides the ability to change the speed quickly and smoothly.
Brake
Braking is a necessary component to ensure safety for you and other users. Currently, cable-operated caliper brakes are the most popular because it’s cheap, efficient and easy to use. Users just need to hold the brake lever to slow down or stop.
Besides, some other improved brakes were born such as hydraulic calipers or disc brakes. Disc brakes have been used more because they have superior performance, more efficiency, more safety.
Total weight
A road bike with light total weight gives you mobility and sharp handling.
The lighter the bike, the more technology it has. Thus, it is more expensive. If your budget allows, choose a lighter weight road bike.
FAQs
What is the best cheap road bike?
With great understanding, I chose Giordano Aversa Road Bikes for the best cheap road bike.
How much is a good road bike?
All of the bikes listed above cost less than 500 dollars. I think with that money you can own a high-quality road bike.
Are cheap road bikes any good?
Of course, no matter the price segment, there has good quality products because the manufacturer always wants to serve customers with valuable products.
Which bike is best to buy in 2021?
With my review, the best bike to buy in 2021 is Schwinn Volare Road Bikes.
How much should you spend on a road bike?
The amount of money you should use for road bikes is dependent on your budget. I recommend 300 – 500 dollars for a good road bike.
Conclusion
Each of the bikes introduced in the above list is qualified to be the best road bike. I hope you can find a bike that suits you the best after reading my detailed review.
This is truly a good investment for your health and your future. Also, please research carefully before choosing which to buy.
I bet you’ll have the best racing experiences with your choice.
If you are using another best bike, leave a comment below so we can discuss it!