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best road bikes under $500

Can you get a good road bike for $500?

Road biking is a popular and exhilarating form of exercise and transportation that can provide a great cardiovascular workout and allow you to explore new areas.

However, finding a quality road bike that won’t break the bank can be challenging. Fortunately, there are many affordable options available that can still deliver a great riding experience.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best road bikes under $500 that offer excellent value for their price.Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cyclist, there’s sure to be an option on this list that fits your needs and budget.

list of best road bikes under$500

These are just a few examples of the many excellent road bikes for under $500. When choosing a bike, consider your riding style, terrain, and personal preferences.

1:6KU Urban Track Bike-best budget: Hiland 21-Speed Road Bike

2: Vilano R2 Commuter Road Bike

3:Vilano Shadow 3.0 Road Bike – Best Mens Road Bike

4:Trinx TEMPO 1.0 700c Road Bike

5:EUROBIKE OBK XC550 Road Bike

6:Schwinn Volare 1300 Road Bike

7:Giordano Acciao 700c

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6KU Urban Track Bike-Best Single-Speed Road Bike: best budget under $500

Features
Frame material:
aluminum
Speeds:
1
Frame size:
52, 55, 58 cm
Wheel size:
700C
Aesthetic design
Budget-friendly
6061 double-butted aluminum frame
Perfect bike for commuters
Best suited for 5’4 ft. to 6’4 ft.
10-Weight:
23 lbs.
Other features: rear and front suspension, caliper brake, flip-flop hub, riser handlebars
Pros
Bolts and chains were appropriately lubricated.
Welds look very high quality.
Handlebar grip tape has some squish to it.
The visual appearance is high quality; the matte black looks uniform and great.
Construction was straightforward, and there were small guide markings to help with alignment and setup.
It weighs less than expected.
Brakes were calibrated out of the box and applied equal and solid pressure.
The frame is solid, the welds look great, and it is light.
The 48-16 gearing makes it possible to ride at high speeds on flat ground and easier to ride down hills without having to pedal furiously.
The wheels and tires are a good size for fast city riding, with enough grip to handle gravel or loose dirt.
The bike is very lightweight and easy to carry.
The matte finish on the rims looks nice.
The brakes are potent and responsive, with quick releases to make removing the wheels easier.
It is an excellent option for those looking for a lightweight, practical, and low-maintenance bike.

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Pros

Bolts and chains were appropriately lubricated.
Welds look very high quality.
Handlebar grip tape has some squish to it.
The visual appearance is high quality; the matte black looks uniform and great.
Construction was straightforward, and there were small guide markings to help with alignment and setup.
It weighs less than expected.
Brakes were calibrated out of the box and applied equal and solid pressure.
The frame is solid, the welds look great, and it is light.
The 48-16 gearing makes it possible to ride at high speeds on flat ground and easier to ride down hills without having to pedal furiously.
The wheels and tires are a good size for fast city riding, with enough grip to handle gravel or loose dirt.
The bike is very lightweight and easy to carry.
The matte finish on the rims looks nice.
The brakes are potent and responsive, with quick releases to make removing the wheels easier.
The brakes are potent and responsive, with quick releases to make removing the wheels easier.

Cons

The bike is designed to be simple and affordable, so there are limited options for customization. Riders who prefer a more personalized setup may need to upgrade individual components.
The bike is only available in a single-speed configuration, which may not be suitable for all terrain or riding styles. Riders frequently encountering hills or prefer a more comprehensive range of gearing options may find this limiting.
The bike is primarily designed for urban riding, and it is narrow tires and lightweight frame may not be suitable for off-road use.
The bike does not come with any accessories, such as lights or a rack, so riders must purchase these separately if desired. There are no bottle cage mount points and no kickstand.
While the bike is designed for comfort, the upright riding position and lack of suspension may make it less comfortable for longer rides or rougher roads.
The bike has a weight capacity of around 220 pounds, which may not be suitable for heavier riders or those carrying heavy loads.

Hiland 21-Speed Road Bike

Best Road Bikes under $500 for Commuters

Frame material:
aluminum
Speeds:
21
Frame size:
49, 57 cm
Wheel size:
700C
Weight:
not specified
Other features: Shimano shifters and derailleur, KMC Z7 chain, Presta valve 48 mm

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Pros

The bike has all the required details, including a seat and pedals.
The HILAND road bike is an excellent choice for beginners, with its lightweight construction, fast speed, and suitability for commuting.
Quality frame, brakes, and wheels The frame, dual caliper brakes, and wheels are standout features of the bike, with high-quality construction and geometry.
Suitable for commuting The bike’s design and construction make it best option for commuting.
Setting up the bike is relatively easy, even for those not experienced with bike assembly.
Perfect size for taller riders The 57cm frame is a great fit for taller riders with a height of 5’11”.
Lightweight and easy to ride The bike’s lightweight construction makes it easy to ride and maneuver.
Attractive design The frame’s welds and paint scheme are visually appealing, making the bike a stylish choice.
Fast and efficient The bike’s design and construction make it a quick and efficient option for riders looking to travel quickly.

Cons

The bike comes partly assembled and includes a manual, required parts, and tools, making it easy to assemble
Not suitable for off-road terrain. The HILAND road bike is designed for use on paved roads and may need to perform better on rough or uneven terrain.
Lack of kickstand The bike does not come with a kickstand, which may be inconvenient for some riders when parking or taking breaks.
The included pedals are essential and may not be suitable for riders who prefer more advanced or customized pedal options.
Limited color options The bike is only available in one color scheme, which may only appeal to some riders.
It may require professional assembly. While the bike comes 85% pre-assembled, some riders may need help to complete the assembly process and seek professional assistance.
Some riders may find the saddle uncomfortable and need a replacement saddle separately.
No storage options The bike does not come with any storage options, such as a rack or basket, which may be inconvenient for riders who need to transport items while cycling.

Vilano R2 Commuter Road Bike

Best Beginner Road Bike under $500

Features
Frame material:
aluminum
Speeds:
21
Frame size:
50, 54, 58 cm
Wheel size:
700C
Weight:
27 lbs.
Other features: rear and front suspension, A050 thumb shifters, doubled walled CNC machined wheelset with quick-release skewers
Bike
Best For Adults
Brake Type: Caliper
Frame: Aluminum
Number of Speed: 21

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Pros

The bike is stylish and does not look like a cheaply made bike.
The bike is easy to assemble, which is a positive for those who may need to gain experience with bike assembly.
The bike’s frame is lightweight, even when fully loaded with equipment, making it easier to handle.
The handlebars are comfortable griping, and the brake levers function well, adding to the bike’s overall ease and comfort.
The bike is mainly pre-assembled when it arrives, which is convenient for the buyer.
The bike is stable and rides smoothly, thanks to the quality construction of the frame and drivetrain.
The shifter works smoothly, an essential part of any bike’s performance.
There is no need to repair or adjust the bike frequently.

Cons

The gear shifters are very cheap and of poor quality.
The circular plastic piece near the rear tire is made of cheap material, while most bikes have a metal one in its place.
The tires that came with the bike are low quality and will likely need to be replaced.
The thumb shifters included with the bike need to be more satisfactory.
The front shifter is only designed for a two-gear front system, but it can be forced to work with a three-gear system, which is not ideal.

Vilano Shadow 3.0 Road Bike-

men’s best Road bike under $500

Frame material:
aluminum
Speeds:
24
Frame size:
53 cm
Wheel size:
700C
Weight:
41 lbs.
Other features: hybrid road bike, rigid suspension, upright handlebar, variable height seatpost, disc brakes Wheel Size: 29 inches
Number of Speed: 24
Suspension Type: Rigid

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Pros

The lightweight aluminum frame makes it easy to ride and maneuver.
A comfortable seat provides a comfortable ride for extended periods.
The brakes are strong, making it safe to ride.
Gears shift smoothly, and adjustments are simple to make.
Good value for a road bike, making it affordable for beginners or those on a budget under $500.
Easy to assemble and adjust to fit personal preferences.
Suitable for commuting, making it a more leisurely ride than a mountain bike, and cheaper to replace if damaged.
Additional features like the water bottle cage and excellent appearance enhance the overall experience.

Cons

The bike’s wheels are incredibly cheap, which could affect the bike’s overall quality and durability.
Shifting can be difficult, especially getting into certain gears, which may disadvantage more experienced or competitive riders.
The bike may need help shifting on hills and may not be suitable for more challenging terrain.
The bike does not come with a kickstand, which may be inconvenient for some riders.
The gears go lower than some riders might prefer, which could limit their ability to push themselves on flat straightaways.
The bike is heavy and slow, which could disadvantage more experienced or competitive riders.
The specs on the bike are minimal from the manufacturer, which could make it difficult to determine whether the cycle is the right fit for a particular rider.

Trinx TEMPO 1.0 700c Road Bike- Best Entry-Level Road Bike under $500

Best Entry-Level Road Bike under $500

Wheel Size: Rear, Front
Frame: Aluminum Frame
Number of Speed: 21
Features
Frame material:
aluminum
Speeds:
21
Frame size:
56 cm
Wheel size:
700C
Weight:
24.6 lbs.
Other features: Shimano shifter lever, rear and front suspension, colorful tires, alloy double wall rim, Winzip alloy brakes, KMC C50 chain

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Pros

you can assemble the bike quickly thanks to the quick-release tires, although adjustments to brakes, brake pads, and shifters will be necessary.
The Cst Czar tires are skinny, smooth, and good-looking, while the Winzip brand caliper brakes have good stopping power after adjustment.
The handlebar is a drop-down type with both brake levers, providing versatility for riding preferences.
The Shimano A050 hand shifters are smooth and comfortable to change with thumbs but may need to adjust to individual preferences and hand size.
The bike is lightweight and stable, with no issues related to stability, and the brakes have successfully stopped the bike on all hills and intersections.
The gears shift smoothly, and the frame is sturdy, providing a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience.
The bike is stunning and surprisingly lightweight.

Cons

The brakes are very weak and may not be suitable for heavier individuals, as noted by a complaint from a 250 lb rider.
The pedals are plain and functional but may have issues, like pads being out of place and losing cables. Additionally, Gear shifting could be smoother.
The seat is below average in terms of comfort, which is already low for this bike seat. However, you can adjust the height to a maximum of 15cm.

EUROBIKE OBK XC550 Road Bike- Best Women’s Road Bike under $500

Best Women’s Road Bike under $500

Features
Frame material:
high-carbon steel
Speeds:
21
Frame size:
54 cm
Wheel size:
700C
Weight:
30.8 lbs.
Other features: Shimano, rigid suspension, curved handlebars
Best For: Road Cycling
Suspension: Rear, Front
Weight: 35 lbs.
Shifter: Shimano A050, 21 Speed

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Pros

Easy to assemble straight out of the box.
Comfortable seat.
Simple Gear changing.
The dual disc brakes have exceeded expectations regarding stopping power, providing impressive braking capabilities. Additionally, the construction is durable and robust, allowing it to withstand drops or impacts without damage.

Cons

It is a heavier bike.

Schwinn Volare 1300 Road Bike

men’s and women’s hybrid road bike under $500

Wheel Size: 28 inches
Number of Speed: 14
Suspension Type: Rigid
Frame: Lightweight Aluminum
Shimano A050 shifters
Double wall alloy rims
14 speed

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Pros

The sturdy aluminum frame of the bicycle is lighter than steel, making it easier to maneuver. Furthermore, the aluminum rims feature machined braking surfaces, which enhance the bike’s braking performance.
Genuine wheels that remain stable over time.
All bike components work well, and the bike itself looks impressive.
Bike is easy to set up, with in a few minutes to tune the brakes.
The bicycle features a solid build quality, and its mechanical parts are well-functioning, ensuring reliable performance.
Plenty of gears for finding the perfect speed, with smooth shifting transitions.
Lightweight, making it easier to handle and transport.
The bicycle has a comfortable seat, raising the enjoyment and comfort of riding.
Despite being used for several months, the bicycle has retained its brand-new appearance.
Budget-friendly bike under $500.

Cons

The tires need to be replaced.
Wheel hubs require additional attention, as the factory grease is insufficient and needs to be cleaned and re-greased, especially in the rear wheel hub.
The instructions provided with the bike could have been more helpful. Check and adjust the rear derailleur. Even if it arrives changed, it’s always a good idea to double-check and ensure it functions properly.
Make sure to thread the pedals into the correct crank arms. Use a pedal wrench or a thin adjustable wrench if necessary. It will help prevent the pedals from stripping the threads on the crank arms and falling off.
Adjust the front derailleur limiter screws to prevent the chain from falling off the rings. If you need help with this, look it up or seek a professional.
Tighten the headset to ensure the handlebars are securely attached to the bike frame.
Check the brake adjustments and make any necessary adjustments. It will ensure that the brakes engage properly and safely.
During your test ride, listen for any unusual sounds. If you hear anything other than the tires on the pavement or wind noise, it’s a sign that something may need to fix.

Giordano Acciao 700c

Best Value Road bike under $500

Features
Frame material:
aluminum
Speeds:
16
Frame size:
small, medium, and large
Wheel size:
700C
Weight:
26 – 32 lbs.
Other features: high tensile steel fork, Shimano Claris STI shifters, alloy dual pivot brakes
14-speed Shimano Tourney STI drivetrain.
Very durable
Steel frame
Shimano A050 shifters
Double wall alloy rims
14 speed

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Pros

Suitable quality materials used in the Shimano Claris shifters and derailleurs work fine and are comfortable to hold and use.
The frame has expertly welded, resulting in a sturdy construction, and its geometry is well-suited to the user’s preferences.
Comfortable seat.
This bicycle is an excellent option for those seeking an affordable entry-level road bike with high-quality components. Priced below $500, it offers comparable features to more expensive models.
Easy to assemble with a bike multi-tool set.
Derailleurs were easy to adjust to avoid chain rub.
The bicycle’s fork and brakes provide excellent clearance, allowing for the use of larger tires up to 700x35c.
Lightweight and easy to ride.
This bicycle is an absolute blast, and its smooth shifting and responsive brakes make it easy to handle.
Suitable for a user who is 5’10” to 5’11”.

Cons

The bike is heavy, which may not be suitable for riders who prioritize a lighter bike for ease of use and transport.
Not suitable for taller riders. If you are about 5′ 7″, this bike works, but it does not at 6 feet or even 5′ 11″ or 10″.
The size of the bike may need to be more accurate, as it is sold as a medium but may be small.

What brake is better for road bikes?

Disc brakes offer superior modulation compared to rim brakes, enabling precise measurement of clamping force and peak stopping power just before lock-up. Bicycles equipped with disc brakes provide better control in such situations.

What is the fastest gear on a road bike?

When cycling downhill, the highest gear (big chainring and small rear cog) provides a challenging pedalling experience, allowing for acceleration.

Does weight matter in a road bike?

Additional weight increases inertia, requiring more energy to overcome when accelerating. Lighter wheels can make a noticeable difference in the cycling experience, even for novice riders.

best road bikes under $500

best road bikes under $500

list of best road bikes under$500