What are the Best Road Bikes under 500?

gravel bike

Picking out the best road bike under 500 can be daunting and overwhelming, especially when you walk into a store and you have all these beautiful bikes staring at you. Like most people, you might end up buying a road bike that is just good looking without much functionality.

It turns out choosing a road bike is not so hard after all! A little research is all you need to understand the features, design technology, and materials to look out for.

Great news! We have done the research for you. In this article, we have come up with a comprehensive buyer’s guide and looked at 10 of the best road bikes under 500. We have also answered four frequently asked questions in relation to road bikes. You might find these useful in your search for the ideal bike to meet your preferences and riding needs.

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How to Choose the Best Road Bike under 500

Since a bike is a big investment, we have done extensive research on the options available in the market. When looking for the best men’s road bikes under 500 and women’s road bikes under 500, it is important to come up with a selection guide. We look at the top features you need to look for when choosing the best road bike to help you focus on your most ideal options and rule out what you do not want.

womens-road-bikesWhat is the Lightest Road Bike Frame?

The frame is the most important part of your bike and it cannot be changed. As such, you need to get the strongest and lightest frame for smooth and easy riding, although this will depend on your preference and budget.

The most common frame materials are aluminum, steel, carbon fiber, and titanium.

frame materials of road bikeAluminum: it is the most common material used to make inexpensive road bikes because it is lightweight and relatively cheap. The best aluminum frames are those that have butted tubes because they are lighter and have varying thicknesses. The middle is less thick than the ends, which makes it easy for the ends to handle the stress at the joints.

Steel: it is the heaviest of the materials, making it good for bikes where weight resistance is not a problem like casual riding or commuting to work.

Titanium: it is a premium material for making a road bike since it is more durable than steel and lighter than aluminum. However, bikes made from it are very expensive.

Carbon fiber: this is currently among the best material for making road bikes. It is lightweight, comfortable, durable, and can be molded to fit different shapes. Carbon fiber can be altered to fit specific properties on your bike without compromising the rest of the structure. The type of carbon fiber used and its manufacturer will influence the quality of your bike. As such, it is good to be aware and buy from top rated sellers.

What are the Best Road Bike Shifters?

A road bike drivetrain includes the front chainrings, a chain, a rear cassette, a shifter, and derailleurs. Shifters allow you to move your bike’s chain between the chain rings at the front and the cogs on the rear cassette.

Road bike shifters are integrated into your bike’s brake levers and are easily reachable.

shifters road bikeAlternative drivetrain components are:

Electronic shifters: these use wires and batteries and are very easy to operate. You need to break the bank for this feature however.

Internally geared hubs: these work with a belt or chain drive. They are protected against dirt and water, making them low maintenance.The gears it provides, however, are limited.

Belt drives: these use a belt instead of a chain to move and are stronger, cleaner, and quieter compared to the chain drivetrains. They are mostly made from carbon fiber and urethane.

How many gears should a road bike have?

The number of gears to have on your bike depends on where and how you ride. A wider gearing is ideal for mountain riding because it offers low gears. For flat terrain and easy trails, fewer gears are okay. The broader the gearing, the more speed you can achieve and more terrain you can cover. To know the number of gears your bike has, multiply the number of chain rings by the number of cassette cogs.

Which groupset does a road bike have?

A groupset refers to the bike’s brakes and drivetrain differentiated in weight, price, and performance. When looking for a road bike, buy one with a groupset you can afford. Expensive groupset road bikes offer more gear options, are lightweight, and offer smooth and precise gear shifting. For Shimano, there are five groupset levels, namely:

  • Sora – Best for beginners
  • Tiagra – Affordable and gives a posh shifting feel
  • 105 – Heavier but gives great performance. Combines the functionality of Ultegra and Dura Ace
  • Ultegra – Ideal for amateur racing enthusiastsDura Ace – great for professionals and features high speeds
  • Shimano Di2 – Combines versions of the Dura Ace and Ultegra with electronic shifting. Are ideal for professionals.

groupsets road bikeWhat size road bike should I buy?

The right bike size will ensure an unadulterated riding experience and prevent injury. When measuring your bike size, place your feet on the ground flat and slightly apart.

Measure your inseam length by measuring the distance from the floor to your crotch.

size of road bike

You can look at manufacturer websites to compare your size with the bikes we offer. However, it is important to note that bikes fit differently even with the same measurements. It is advisable, therefore, to check the precise size charts to get your perfect size.

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Top-10 Best Road Bikes under 500

PicturesBike NameKey FeaturesCheck Price
Tommaso FascinoGears: 21
Frame: Aluminum
Pure Fix Cycles ClassicGears: 16
Frame: Steel
Schwinn Phocus 1500 Flat BarGears: 14
Frame: Aluminum
Schwinn Volare 1400Gears: 14
Frame: Aluminum
Merax FinissGears: 21
Frame: Aluminum
Poseidon Triton road bikeGears: 24
Frame: Aluminum
Schwinn Volare 1300Gears: 14
Frame: Aluminum
Vilano forza 4.0Gears: 24
Frame: Aluminum
Vilano forza 3.0Gears: 24
Frame: Aluminum
Vilano shadow 3.0Gears: 14
Frame: Aluminum

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1. Tommaso Fascino -Best Aluminum Road Bicycle under 500

The Tommaso road bike is made from a strong but lightweight aluminum frame that keeps it stable even at high speed. This bike features full Shimano groupsets combined for the ultimate riding experience. The 21-speed bike uses Shimano shifters for smooth gearing over a wide range of gearing options. Its wheel size also ensures a smooth ride on open road.

Features

  • Frame: Aluminum
  • Shifters: Shimano Tourney shifters and 3×7 Shimano drivetrain
  • Number of speeds: 21
  • Size: XL (6’2″-6’5″)
  • Weight: 23.6 pounds
  • Wheel size: 700C x 25mm

The Tomaso Company is fully employee-owned with a goal to provide high-quality yet affordable road bikes. The frame on this bike are laser measured and its components sized to produce a perfect fit. Adjustable components include the stem length, handlebar width, and crank arm length. It is a great budget option and ideal for beginners and frequent riders alike.

PROS:
  • Lightweight
  • 7 day trial and lifetime warranty
  • High quality drivetrain at a low price
  • Quick release front wheel makes assembly, disassembly, and repairs easier

CONS:
  • For the same amount, you can get a bike with more features
  • It is only available in one color
  • Has a steel fork that might make it too heavy for some users

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2. Pure Fix Cycles Classic – Lightweight Steel Road Bike under 500

Coming in four colors and six different sizes, The Pure Fix Cycles road bike is among the top cheap bicycles available. It features a 4130 chromoly steel frame and fork that are lightweight but strong and durable. Additionally, the frame has attachment and mounting points for add-ons.

Features

  • Frame: chromoly steel
  • Shifters: Shimano Claris STI shifters
  • Number of speeds: 16
  • Size: 6 models (X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large)
  • Weight: 26 pounds
  • Wheel size:700c x 28mm tires

The 16-speed Shimano shifters allow easy and smooth gear shifting. The bike’s tires have enough traction for different riding terrain. It also features an adjustable drop handle bar that allows you to customize it to your size. This bike is ideal for beginners, regular commuters, and professional riders.

PROS:
  • 1 year warranty on components and a lifetime warranty on the frame
  • Four color choices
  • High quality Shimano STI shifters
  • Ideal for tall riders

CONS:
  • The Warranty is valid only if the bike was assembled by a professional
  • You will need to hire a professional to tune it up before you can start riding

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3. Schwinn Phocus 1500 Flat Bar – Best Cheap Road Bike

The frame on this Schwinn road bike is made of aluminum, which is both lightweight and strong. Combined with a carbon fork that absorbs vibration, this setup gives you stability on whatever road you are riding on.

Features

  • Frame: Aluminum
  • Shifters: Shimano 24-speed EZ-Fire trigger shifters
  • Number of speeds: 24 speeds
  • Size: 17″ and 19″ frame size

The bike’s Shimano drivetrain allows you to switch between speeds easily. It also has ProMax weather resistant brakes that allow precise stopping. The front wheels are quick release and the wheels are made with double walls.

PROS:
  • Great value for money
  • Easy assembly
  • Lightweight and strong
  • Quality Shimano parts

CONS:
  • Pedals are poor quality

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4. Schwinn Volare 1400 – Budget Women’S Road Bike with 14 Speed Shimano

Undoubtedly directed towards female riders, this Schwinn road bike comes in a standard size and is purple. It has a lightweight aluminum frame that keeps it steady even at high speed. The handlebar, seat, and stem, are also lightweight for easy handling.

Features

  • Frame: Aluminum
  • Shifters: Shimano shifter
  • Number of speeds: 14
  • Weight: 29 pounds
  • Size: 48 cm
  • Wheel size: 700C

It features a 21-speed Shimano integrated shifter and braking lever with both rear and front derailleurs for easy gear shifting according to the riding environment. The double wall alloy rims are strong, offering additional support to the durability of the bike.

PROS:
  • Big tires that navigate rough terrain easily
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Shifter, derailleur, and brake levers are high quality

CONS:
  • The steel fork adds weight
  • Comes in only one size
  • Not ideal for beginners since you have to learn how to use the integrated brakes

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5. Merax Finiss – Best Road Bike with Aluminum Frame

Offering improved style and performance, this bike from Merax is designed for speed and comfort. The bike features a 6061 aluminum frame and a kickstand that are lightweight and stable at top speeds. Its brakes, seat post, and rims are also made of aluminum.

Features

  • Frame: Lightweight and Sturdy 6061 Aluminum
  • Shifters: Shimano shifter and Shimano derailleur
  • Number of speeds: 21
  • Weight: 28 pounds
  • Wheel size: 700C
  • Quick-Release Front Wheels

This 21 speed Merax road bike is designed with  Shimano parts i.e. a derailleur and shifter. These facilitate reliable and smooth gear shifting for different riding environments. Its front wheel also features a quick release feature that makes it easy to assemble and disassemble for transport and storage. This Merax Finiss road bike can carry up to 330 pounds

PROS:
  • Lightweight and stable
  • Multipurpose use
  • Reaches high speeds
  • The bike comes 85 percent assembled
  • Has quality Shimano parts

CONS:
  • Uncomfortable seat
  • Needs to be lubricated before the first use

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6. Poseidon Triton road bike – Lightest Road Bike under 500

Affordable and functional is how the Poseidon Triton road bike can be defined. It comes loaded with a wide array of features and you will not get on another bike at the same price. Its 6061 aluminum welded frame, a carbon fork, and alloy halde bars provide a smooth riding experience. The fork absorbs vibration effectively with the handle bars giving you steady control of your bike.

Features

  • Frame: Aluminum
  • Shifters: Shimano Claris STI shifters integrated with the brake lever
  • Number of speeds: 24
  • Size: 48 cm
  • Wheel size: 700c x 23mm

The crankset and hyper-glide cassette are a great combination for those tough steep climbs. Its dual pivot calipers also allow you to stop quickly in all situations, making it ideal for beginners and professional riders alike.

PROS:
  • Lightweight and strong
  • Comes with a lifetime warranty on the frame and a 1-year warranty on components
  • 24 speeds for different riding needs

CONS:
  • Assembly is quite difficult and it requires a tune up before the first use
  • Warranty is only valid if the bike is set up by a professional
  • Comes in one size

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7. Schwinn Volare 1300 – Drop Bar Aluminum Road Bike for Men

This Schwinn road bike is made from a lightweight aluminum frame that makes it easy to pick up speed and last longer. Combined with a rigid fork, the frame allows you to make quick responses when riding.

Features

  • Frame: Aluminum
  • Shifters: Shimano A050 shifters
  • Number of speeds: 14
  • Size: 18″ Medium Frame
  • Wheel size: 700c x 23mm

It comes with caliper brakes that allow precise stopping even in difficult situations. The seat and saddle are lightweight and comfortable to ensure smooth riding all the time. As a result, the bike is ideal for regular riders looking for a bike to commute, to enhance fitness, and explore bike trails.

PROS:
  • Lightweight and strong
  • Easy to assemble

CONS:
  • Comes in only one size
  • Handlebars are not adjustable

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8. Vilano forza 4.0 – Good Inexpensive Road Bike 2019

The Vilano Forza 4.0 road bike features an aluminum frame that is both lightweight and strong. It comes in four sizes allowing you to choose the best fit. It also comes with a 24-speed Shimano shifter and derailleurs that help you make precise gear changes for different riding terrain.

Features

  • Frame: Lightweight and Sturdy 6061 Aluminum Frame
  • Shifters: Shimano Claris STI shifters integrated with the brake lever
  • Number of speeds: 24
  • Size: small (49 cm), medium (53 cm), large (57 cm), X large (61 cm)
  • Wheel size: 700c x 23mm

Its large wheels give you extra power and speed for the road. The package will need to be assembled professionally and users have reported replacing weak parts even before riding it. That notwithstanding, it comes with free pedals.

PROS:
  • High quality Shimano components
  • Four sizes to choose from
  • Adjustable handlebars and seat

CONS:
  • Integrated shifters and brakes are hard to use
  • Cheap components are prone to breaking

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9. Vilano forza 3.0 – Lightest Road Bicycle with Aluminum Frame under 500

The bike’s lightweight aluminum frame and carbon fork make it ideal for multipurpose riding. The Vilano road bike also features a 24-speed Shimano shifter integrated with the brake lever for accurate gearing.

Features

  • Frame: Aluminum
  • Shifters: Shimano Claris STI shifters
  • Number of speeds: 24
  • Size: small (49 cm), medium (53 cm), large (57 cm), X large (61 cm)
  • Wheel size: 700c x 23mm

Its Kenda tires make it easy to ride on different roads and its caliper brakes allow quick braking. As a result, this bike makes an excellent choice for frequent riders who are looking for a wide range of riding activities like fitness and commuting.

PROS:
  • Lightweight and strong
  • 24 speeds for different riding situations
  • Four sizes to choose from
  • Comes with free pedals

CONS:
  • Cheap components that are prone to breaking
  • Assembly is not easy

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10. Vilano shadow 3.0 – Cheap Light Road Bike with 700c Wheelset

Made with a 6061 aluminum frame with an integrated headset, this bike offers a smooth riding experience on most terrain. The Vilano road bike also comes with 14-speed Shimano integrated shifters and a braking lever for smooth and precise gear changes. Its dual disc brakes and rims are also great for fast braking in various situations.

Features

  • Frame: Aluminum
  • Shifters: Shimano STI Integrated shifters and brake Lever
  • Number of speeds: 14 speeds
  • Weight: 23 pounds
  • Size: 53 and 57 cm
  • Wheel set: 700C x 25mm

The wheels on this bike are large, making them perfect for speed on various terrain. It is ideal for beginners and great for commuting, fitness, and bike trails. The package also comes with free pedals. Assembly and tuning are required before using the bike.

PROS:
  • Quick release pedals
  • Lightweight and strong
  • Has dual disc brakes
  • Comes with free pedals

CONS:
  • Non Shimano components break easily
  • Some users might have a hard time reaching the shifters
  • Requires professional tune-up before first use

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What to Know about Road Bike?

Now you know how to determine what you want in a road bike. Now, we want to answer some commonly asked questions regarding the best road bike under 500.

Most people buy bikes online, and most of their questions are not answered there. You might also have questions come up later regarding the product. Getting the right responses is important in helping you choose the ideal bike for you. More good news though! After doing some broad research, we are here the answers to some questions.

How do road bike gears work?

When making small changes, shift the chain between the front chainrings and the rear cassette cogs. Remember you cannot do both at once since you are using one shifter at a time. You can choose a bike with standard cranksets that have a 39-tooth small ring and a 53-tooth large chainring for regular road riding. Those with compact cranksets have two chainrings (34-tooth and 50-tooth rings) that are smaller than standard and are ideal for climbing hilly terrain.

Are road bikes faster than mountain bikes?

Yes they are. Road bikes are very light, which reduces their rolling resistance. They also have thinner tires that reduce resistance, thus allowing you to accelerate much faster. The gearing featured also allows you to obtain high speeds. Since they do not have any suspension, they allow for precise turning without any strain and offers more acceleration. Learning to turn quickly will teach you how to maneuver holes and stones, thus making you a faster rider as well.

What makes a good road bike?

A good road bike is one that is light and strong enough to keep you stable even when at high speed.It should also have several higher gears for easier cruising. This is because it will be used mostly on the road as opposed to hilly areas. A quality drive train is also important for precise gear changes and braking. Additionally, it should fit your size or have adjustable parts that can be customized to meet your specific size requirements.

What is the lightest road bike frame?

Titanium and carbon fiber are the lightest, yet strongest materials for road bike frames although they are very expensive. Aluminum is also light and affordable. When choosing the lightest bike, any of these three options is good. It is imperative to note, the pricing for each is different. As such, you need to choose one that fits your budget.

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What is the Best Road Bike under 500?

Every rider can find the ideal bike for him or her. Getting the bike, however, depends on your biking perception, needs, and priority features for different riding requirements. We understand this and that is why we’ve reviewed different choices for different riders. Now look at all the options and consider getting one that meets your preferences.

best road bike under 500So which is the best road bike under 500? From our review, The Tommaso Fascino is our top pick for the best road bike under 500. Exceptionally designed and functional, this bike gives a smooth ride for beginners and professionals alike. It also features an aluminum frame

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