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Whether you want to get some exercise or simply want to enjoy a day out in the sun, cycling is the best way to go about it. As a beginner, cycling may seem challenging, but all you need is a couple of days of practice to excel in the sport.
It is also mainly used for recreational purposes where people either go out alone or with a bunch of friends to enjoy a rainy or windy day. There are also various bike races and triathlons that people indulge in to get into the competitive spirit, but more on that later.
If you are looking to buy an entry-level bike for yourself or your child, you have certainly come to the right place. This article introduces some of the best models in the market. It also compares them against their pros and cons to help you make a better choice.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Entry Level Road Bikes
- OUR TOP PICK: Savadeck Warwinds3.0
- RUNNER-UP: Schwinn Phocus 1400 and 1600
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Vilano R2 Commuter Aluminum Road Bike
Comparison of the Best Entry Level Road Bikes
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What Makes a Great Entry-Level Road Bike?
Entry-level bikes are different from multi-level bikes, and since you will be using the unit for the very first time, it is important you practice extra caution. There are a couple of features that a unit should offer in order to stand out in the crowd. Here is what makes a model really great.
Efficient Brakes
Since you are going to be riding for the first time, it is imperative to consider all the features that provide you with safety and protection. Having efficient and more responsive brakes also means that you won’t get into any sudden accidents.
Moreover, these will ensure that you ride well on a hill or on wet ground. Durable brakes are more likely to produce more friction with the road and hence limit speed.
Savadeck Warwinds3.0
The Angle of the Frame
The frame material is another important feature of the model. The frame should be made with the most durable materials in the market. This not only provides longevity to the model but also ensures that you need very few repairs or replacements.
As a beginner, you want this frame to be a bit relaxed rather than aggressive. The former will provide better endurance and a sportier feel. It will also allow you to be in an upright and comfortable position.
Diverse Fit
Entry-level bikes are usually bought for children or adolescents who are at a growing age, and hence it is important that the model provides greater diversity. You don't want to grow out of your bike in just a year.
A perfect fit will not only add to your comfort but will also assist you in the safe handling of the bike. You will also get to add things as you go along. This includes accessories like a basket or more handles with time.
Review of the Best Entry-Level Road Bikes
Some bikes come with better durability, whilst others come with a number of add-ons. It is really up to the user to choose what unit fulfills their criteria. But there are some features like extra strength, safety features, and responsive brakes that all good models should have. Here is a list of some top models:
Best Overall:
Savadeck Warwinds3.0
pros
cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers didn’t have to think twice before buying the model. They had no qualms with the relatively higher price of the unit as long as they were opting for the most advanced model in the market. They have also praised the inclusion of contoured seat tubes that not only provide comfort but also enhance stability. They also like the cleaner airflow that ensures better speeds.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Equipped with a carbon frame, the model comes with a fork and seat post design with a wind tunnel mechanism that provides greater compliance. The seat tubes are also aerodynamically contoured and are strengthened with high torsion rigidity that provides better handling.
But perhaps the biggest contributor to the model’s success is its Speed controller. This comes with a shifter lever and a front derailleur that enables you to operate and kickstart the ride effectively, even on a wetter surface.
Its durability is also outstanding and allows users to use the unit for as long as they want. So if you want the best of the best, you should certainly stick with this Savadeck unit.
Bottom Line
It takes a lot of effort for a brand to be on the very top of a list, and Savadeck has done this with grace. It comes with not only a strong exterior body but also an attractive body that is soothing to the eyes. You will also get access to efficient speed control that is useful for managing and adjusting your speeds.
Runner-up:
Schwinn Phocus 1400 and 1600
pros
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What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers who were looking for high durability have certainly found it in the Schwinn Phocus. It has drop handlebars that enhance your confidence and allow you to feel more energetic on the road. They also love the inclusion of lighter wheels that enhance their speeds and allow them to indulge in many competitive sports.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Aluminum bodies are highly recommended for people who want less stiffness and more relative durability. Such a frame also stands out because of its alloy crank that adds to a wider gear range. This, along with the Promax alloy, also ensures a smoother double-wall rim that is paired with spokes to give an overall light structure to the whole unit.
However, the most surprising element of the Schwinn unit has to be its amazing road brakes. These not only provide greater responsiveness but also protect you on wet and uneven roads. Moreover, if you want to practice with a little higher speed, you wouldn’t find a better model than this.
Bottom Line
Schwinn Phocus comes with a lightweight frame and body that ensures easy peddling. This is good news for beginners who want to get into competitive sports like bike racing. Multiple gears are also included to provide better safety and protection. But the best thing is the narrow pressured tires that ensure less resistance against the road.
Best for the Money:
Vilano R2 Commuter Aluminum Road Bike
pros
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What Recent Buyers Report
Users didn’t believe any myths surrounding cheap models and instantly went on to buy this incredible unit, and they haven’t been disappointed for a single second. The bike not only comes with thumb shifters that enable proper learning but also provides better access to adjoining components and add-ons.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Choosing an appropriately-sized bike is essential if you want to remain comfortable and safe in all situations. Ideally, a model should be fast, but that shouldn't be the case for an entry-level unit. Since such a bike is designed for beginners only, it should offer greater weight and durability. This not only adds to the stability but also ensures that your grip on the road is better than others.
Moreover, this unit is appropriately sized, offering the same comfort for both lightweight and heavier people. So even if you are a tad bit obese, never let that stop you from riding a gigantic bike.
Bottom Line
Affordability, compatibility, and resilience come together to make this model worthy of this list. The unit is incredibly unique because it comes with the advanced technology that can handle any kind of difficult situation on the road. So if you are looking to save some bucks whilst also getting a reliable model, this is the bike for you.
Best Entry Level Women’s Road Bike:
Schwinn Fastback AL Claris
pros
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What Recent Buyers Report
Women stopped going to the shops altogether because they had to return disappointed every time they looked for a bike. But that changed the day Schwinn introduced its specialized bike. The Schwinn Fastback is relatively cheaper and available in a range of attractive designs and colors. They have loved that they’ve finally found a unit that caters to their taste and size.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Usually, women have had a hard time choosing a good model for the road. One major reason for this is the lack of proper features that suit women only. Schwinn has finally done something remarkable by introducing an attractive model that also offers amazing durability and stability.
The model comes with a triple-butted frame made of aircraft-grade aluminum. This also comes with aluminum forks and steers needed for better friction on the road. Moreover, you will get superior brakes that will provide greater responsiveness in times of need. Among other things, this feature enables you to ride freely on the road without fearing any accidents.
Bottom Line
Females are as resilient and strong as men, and the buildup of this Schwinn bike is a testament to that. It is produced with aluminum caliper brakes that provide greater responsiveness. Among other things, this also provides a better chance to avoid any accidents on the road. So if you are a woman and looking for a lifelong companion, here is one for you.
Best Entry-Level Road Bike Under $500:
Giordano Aversa
pros
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What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers were in for a treat when they decided to buy this unit, and we have only noticed positive reviews from them. They love the steel fork design of the unit that provides better compliance. Not just that, but they are also happy to get a lower center of mass that provides them with better stability.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It is one thing to have a strong model, but an entirely different thing to have a unit that is extremely affordable. Equipped with a minimalistic and durable design, Giordano is making a good name for itself in the industry. This unit comes with an aluminum frame that is both light and provides greater stability to riders.
There is also a double-wall included that decreases the center of mass and hence prevents accidents. It also comes with a high tensile steel fork and dual-pivot brakes, both of which are essential features for a smoother ride. Lastly, you will be provided with all the accessories you want within the package.
Bottom Line
Undoubtedly, it is amazing to find a bike that is half the price of most original models. The Giordano Aversa is one of the most compact models in the market, and that is one reason beginners love it so much. It is easy to paddle the bike, but the repairing costs are also low, making for a great investment.
Best Entry-Level Road Bike Under $1000:
Bavel Commuter Aluminum Road Bike
pros
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What Recent Buyers Report
As apparent by reviews, buyers were delighted to get their hands on this unique model. It comes with a lightweight and compact design which ensures better speeds. Buyers have also taken it outside to challenge their friends, and they have been more than happy to report greater wins than losses.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This model might be a tad bit expensive than others, but it is also one of the best ones in the market. The use of aluminum frames and road forks ensure a lightweight structure that enables you to indulge in competitive sports like bike racing.
There is also a derailleur added that allows you to shift between gears easily and smoothly, thus increasing your speeds whenever you want. Disc brakes included as well as drive brakes are also included, both of which provide greater safety and flexibility.
But perhaps the best part of this Bevel unit is that it fits all people. It is neither too large nor too small, which means that even if you grow in size, you won’t have any problem riding it.
Bottom Line
Despite the relatively higher price of the model, it is considered as one of the most revered units in the market. It comes with incredible brakes that ensure a responsive and flexible braking system. They not only feel smooth and steady under the feet but also provide relatively faster speeds. So if you want to stand out, this unit might be the way.
Aspects to Consider Before Buying
We have already established the basics of buying a good model, but there is certainly a lot more that you need to know. There are some crucial factors that each unit should come with. You will have to look out for them whenever you are buying an entry-level bike. Here are some important ones:
Number of Components
As a beginner, you are bound to be excited by your purchase, and hence it is important that you get the best out of your investment. The number of components of the bike includes all the accessories it comes with and any add-ons that you can add later.
You should ideally look out for a model with storage space to keep helmets and gloves. If you live in a town with unpredictable weather, the unit should come with extra tires too.
Wheels
The type of wheels that you get will also determine your success. Since riding on the road can be quite overwhelming, we don’t recommend that you use very narrow wheels. These are more likely to provide greater speeds and less friction, especially on wet roads. You can opt for slightly wider wheels that hold their ground better and offer more stable performance.
Cost
This might seem like an obvious factor to consider, but many people overlook it. Since you are only just getting started with riding a bike, it is important that you don’t make a very heavy investment. Many models out there are quite expensive and can be a burden on your wallet. You need to ensure that you are also getting a modern body and a good warranty if you are spending more.
Comparison Overview
People should have knowledge about various things before they make a decision. In terms of cycling, knowing about different features is imperative to making a wise choice. Here is an honest comparison overview to help you out.
Entry-Level vs. High-End Road Bike
A person who has used both types will know the difference very well. There are stark differences in the way both are designed and manufactured.
As the name suggests, an entry-level bike is suitable for beginners and hence comes with wider wheels that provide a more stable ground. They are also more likely to be affordable since people often transition to other types once they have learned the basics. Plus, they come with larger storage space to place things like helmets, gloves, and umbrellas.
On the other hand, a high-end road bike comes with a relatively light frame that provides high speed for races and competitive sports. There is also an additional handlebar that allows the biker to move up mountains and hills easily.
The wheels are also sleek, and there is usually no front or rear suspension. The best high-end units also tend to be quite expensive.
Source
Aluminum vs. Steel vs. Carbon For Entry-Level Road Bike
There is considerable debate surrounding the difference between the two. The major difference between the two is in the way they function during the ride. A carbon frame is less stiff and hence makes the ride a bit more comfortable than an aluminum frame. It is also more durable and hence offers longevity.
On the other hand, aluminum is stiffer and hence makes the ride seem a bit harsh. This is not always a drawback because many professional riders prefer riding in that way. Moreover, aluminum frames tend to be more cost-efficient. The material is also relatively lightweight hence providing better portability.
Conclusion
It is quite challenging and nerve-wracking to learn a new skill, and beginners should be hailed for their brave choices. A huge deterrent to learning cycling could be the unavailability of a durable and strong model, but that is about to change.
We scoured the internet and found you the best units in the market. They have been evaluated on the basis of their safety, size, and strength. One look at the list is enough to wow you. The models have been rated with the help of their features. All you have to do is make comparisons between them and find the bike that will accompany you on this adventurous journey.
People Also Ask
People who have never ridden a bike are pretty excited about trying this entry-level unit. They have heard so much about these exciting models, and in order to confirm all the good things, they have resorted to leaving their queries online. In an honest attempt to help these enthusiasts, here are answers to some common questions.
How Light Should a Road Bike Be For Entry Level?
Wheels that are lightweight provide less puncture-resistance, but they often tend to be more suited for professionals. They not only allow for greater speeds but also require a harsher performance. So before you buy your next model, make sure it is a bit stiff and not very compact. You will need the additional stability provided by weight.
How Much Does an Entry-Level Road Bike Cost?
This usually depends on the brand and the size of the model. Most units with a greater number of components tend to be expensive. But there are other units that are very affordable. You can get a good unit in as little as $1000. If you want a better warranty, you might have to spend double the amount.
How Fast Can You Go on an Entry-Level Road Bike?
Many beginners don’t prefer moving at higher speeds, but people practicing for a race might like to speed up their training. Since these bikes tend to be slightly heavier, they don’t always provide great speeds. You might be able to go at 10 to 14 mph at any given time.
Are Road Bikes Harder to Ride For Beginners?
Road bikes are easier to ride, especially for beginners. They are not only easy to pedal but also provide adequate speeds. On the other hand, mountain bikes tend to be stiffer and hence difficult to control. They also tend to be lightweight and offer greater speeds.
