Have you been willing to buy a new road bike but are baffled at their five-figure sums? You are definitely not the only one to feel so. Buying a good-quality bike can cost a fortune these days. We have been made to believe that it’s not possible to get a top-tier model within a low budget.Â
You will be relieved to know that none of it is true. It may be challenging to find the right bike with an affordable price tag, but with proper research, you can get your hands on some budget-friendly options which will turn out to be your best purchase.Â
To save you time and effort from this mind-boggling task of browsing the web, I have compiled a list of some of the best road bikes available in the market. You can compare their features and shortcomings and assess your own preferences to find the best road bike under 500.
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7 Best Road Bikes Under $500: Aaron’s Picks
- Lightweight Frame
- Brake System
- Professional Shimano Drivetrain
- 700C Tires
- 20MPH Commuting Electric Mountain Bike
- 7-Speed
- 26" Tires and Front Fork Suspension
Schwinn Volare 1400 Drop Style Hybrid Sports Road Bike
- 14-Speed
- 700c Wheels
- 21-Inch Aluminum Frame
DYU C6 26 Inch City Electric Bike
- 30-37 mile range per charge
- 15.5 mph top speed
- 350W motor for slope climbing
- Detachable battery with anti-theft lock
- Smooth and efficient ride
- Fast and accurate gear changes
- Comfortable riding position with the alloy hi-rise stem
Schwinn Phocus 1600 Drop Bar Adult Road Bicycle
- Aluminum road frame with carbon fiber road fork
- 16-speed shifter / brake lever combination offers precise
- High profile alloy double wall rims with paired spokes
- Promax alloy dual pivot caliper road brakes deliver crisp, secure stops
- Alloy crank for wide gear range; road style tread tires supply fast and smooth riding
Schwinn Discover Men's and Women's Hybrid Bike
- Comfortable upright handlebars and padded seat
- Fenders for protection against dirt and splashes
- Rear cargo carrier for added convenience
- Front suspension for smooth rides over bumps
1. Hiland 700C Racing Bike
- Lightweight Frame
- Brake System
- Professional Shimano Drivetrain
- 700C Tires
The Hiland 700C Racing Bike is a versatile road bike that combines style, functionality, and affordability, making it a strong candidate in the under $500 category. This bike features a sleek black aluminum frame, contributing to both its aesthetic appeal and lightweight nature. It comes partially assembled, which is a bonus for those who prefer a quick setup. The included assembly tools make the process straightforward, although some technical challenges might require a bit more effort or a visit to a local bike shop.
In terms of performance, the bike is equipped with a Shimano gear system that offers 14 speeds, providing a wider range than the typical 21-speed bikes. This allows for smooth transitions and greater control, especially on varying terrains. The cushioned seat ensures comfort during rides, and the bike’s overall construction appears sturdy enough to withstand the rigors of regular use, even for younger cyclists.
However, the bike is not without its drawbacks. The front fork may arrive installed backward, and the disk brakes can be a challenge to adjust, especially for beginners. After some initial tuning, which might take a few hours, the brakes perform well, but this initial hurdle can be frustrating. Additionally, there are some concerns about the quality of components like the brake cable, and some users have reported frame scratches.
Over time, the bike demonstrates its reliability and fun factor, particularly after the disk brakes are finely tuned. Users have reported satisfaction with its performance over distances exceeding 500 miles, indicating its durability for long-term use. Despite some early issues, the bike’s overall performance seems to improve significantly with use.
Pros:
- Lightweight and sturdy aluminum frame.
- Smooth and versatile Shimano 14-speed gear system.
- Cushioned seat and overall durable construction.
- Aesthetically pleasing with a sleek black design.
- Partially assembled with necessary tools included for easy setup.
Cons:
- Front fork may arrive installed backward, requiring adjustment.
- Disk brakes can be challenging to tune, especially for beginners.
- Some quality concerns with brake cables and frame scratches.
- Shifter indicator may malfunction after extensive use.
2. Jasion EB5 Electric Bike for Adults
- 20MPH Commuting Electric Mountain Bike
- 7-Speed
- 26" Tires and Front Fork Suspension
The Jasion EB5 Electric Bike is an intriguing option for those exploring the electric bike market, especially within a budget-friendly range. This bike is designed to cater to both the daily commuter and the leisure rider, striking a balance between technological advancement and user-friendly features.
Equipped with a 350W brushless motor, the EB5 can achieve a top speed of 20 MPH, making it ideal for quick commutes or brisk rides. Its upgraded LCD display panel is not only visually appealing but also highly functional, offering adjustable backlight brightness and providing essential data like speed and battery power level. The PAS mode customization up to 3 levels adds to the bike’s versatility, allowing for a tailored riding experience.
The bike’s 360Wh lithium-ion battery is a standout feature. It’s capable of covering a range of 25-40 miles per charge, which is quite impressive for an e-bike in this price range. The removable battery design enhances convenience, allowing for easy charging at home or in the office.
Riding comfort hasn’t been overlooked. The Jasion EB5 boasts 26″ puncture-resistant tires, ensuring durability and reliability on various terrains. The high-strength front fork suspension, coupled with the Shimano 7-Speed gears, makes for a smooth ride across different road conditions. Safety is also a priority, with front and rear mechanical disc brakes providing reliable stopping power.
The bike’s minimalist appearance is another appealing aspect. Its lightweight frame, built from high-carbon steel, offers stability without adding unnecessary weight. This design choice not only contributes to the bike’s sleek look but also enhances its handling and overall ride quality.
However, the bike isn’t without its challenges. Some assembly confusion may arise due to updates not reflected in the instructions or videos, posing a potential difficulty for beginners. Also, minor quality issues like the occasional flat tire or the absence of pre-installed holders for accessories like bottle or phone holders might require additional attention or aftermarket solutions.
Pros
- Strong motor with a top speed of 20 MPH.
- Removable 360Wh lithium-ion battery with a good range.
- Four versatile riding modes for different preferences and needs.
- Durable, puncture-resistant tires and reliable Shimano 7-Speed gears.
- Minimalist design with a lightweight, high-carbon steel frame.
Cons
- Assembly can be confusing due to unreflected changes in instructions.
- Some bikes may have minor quality issues like flat tires.
- Lack of pre-installed holders for accessories.
3. Schwinn Volare 1400 Drop Style Hybrid Sports Road Bike
- 14-Speed
- 700c Wheels
- 21-Inch Aluminum Frame
When it comes to blending the agility of a road bike with the durability of a hybrid, the Schwinn Volare 1400 stands out. This bike, with its 21-inch aluminum fitness frame and rigid fork, is a robust yet nimble choice for riders ranging from 5’4″ to 6’2″. I recently had the chance to take the Volare 1400 for a spin, and it was an experience worth sharing.
The 700c wheels offer quick and responsive handling, making the bike suitable for a variety of terrains – from smooth city streets to more challenging suburban roads. The 14-speed shifter and brake lever combo was a highlight, providing smooth and precise shifting throughout the ride. As someone who appreciates reliability in gear transitions, I found this feature particularly impressive.
Equipped with alloy linear pull hand brakes, the Volare 1400 ensures superior braking performance. During my test ride, the brakes responded effectively, offering a sense of security, especially when navigating through traffic or during sudden stops.
The drop style handlebar and sport saddle are designed for a more aggressive riding position, which can be great for speed and aerodynamics. However, it might take some getting used to if you’re more familiar with upright handlebars. The alloy wheels, crank, and other components contribute to the bike’s overall lightness and agility.
The bike arrives partially assembled. You’ll need a Philips head screwdriver, Allen wrenches (4-8mm), an adjustable wrench, and pliers with cable cutting ability for the setup. While assembling the bike, I found the instructions straightforward, but it’s worth noting that some basic mechanical skills are required. Overall, this can be a great option for those who are looking for a road bike under $500 budget, and the fact that it is from Schwinn is a big relief as the brand is known for its reliability and durability.
Pros
- Quick and agile handling, suitable for various terrains.
- Precise and reliable 14-speed shifter and brake lever combo.
- Superior braking performance with alloy linear pull brakes.
- Lightweight design with alloy components.
- Suitable for a wide range of rider heights.
Cons
- The aggressive riding position might not suit all riders.
- Assembly requires some mechanical knowledge and tools.
- Drop handlebars may require an adjustment period for those used to upright styles.
4. DYU C6 26 Inch City Electric Bike
- 30-37 mile range per charge
- 15.5 mph top speed
- 350W motor for slope climbing
- Detachable battery with anti-theft lock
Exploring the city on the DYU C6 26 Inch City Electric Bike was an eye-opening experience. This electric bike, while not your conventional road bike, falls impressively into an affordable category that’s quite rare for electric bikes, especially under $500.
The DYU C6 is a solid example of how electric bikes are evolving to become more accessible and practical for everyday use. Its 30-37 mile range per charge in pedal-assist mode is ideal for city commutes and leisure rides. During my time with it, the 15.5 mph top speed felt perfectly balanced for navigating through urban traffic and bike lanes.
The bike’s 350W motor is a standout feature, providing sufficient power to confidently tackle slopes up to a 15° incline. In an urban setting, this power is not just about speed but also about the ease of navigating varying cityscapes. The removable battery, a feature I particularly appreciate, adds convenience for charging, especially for those living in apartment buildings without dedicated bike storage.
Comfort is where the DYU C6 really shines. The front fork shock absorption is a game-changer when riding over cobblestones and uneven surfaces commonly found in the city. Adjustability in the seat height caters to a range of riders, which I found useful for finding the perfect riding position.
The bike’s Shimano 7-speed derailleur allows for smooth gear transitions, an essential feature for tackling different terrains, from flat roads to hilly streets. The inclusion of hydraulic disc brakes is another plus, offering reliable stopping power and control, which is crucial for busy city streets.
For night riding, the bright LED headlight provided ample illumination, making evening commutes safer and more enjoyable. The folding pedals and rear rack add to the bike’s practicality, making it easy to store and carry groceries or a backpack.
However, it’s important to note that at 60 lbs, the DYU C6 is on the heavier side, which might be a consideration for those who need to carry their bike up flights of stairs. Additionally, its maximum load capacity of 265 lbs is something to keep in mind for heavier riders or those carrying extra cargo.
All in all, the DYU C6 26 Inch City Electric Bike is a remarkable option for those looking for an electric bike experience at a price point that doesn’t break the bank. Its combination of power, comfort, and practical features make it a great choice, especially for urban commuters seeking an affordable electric bike solution.
Pros
- 30-37 mile range per charge
- 15.5 mph top speed
- 350W motor for slope climbing
- Detachable battery with anti-theft lock
- Front fork shock absorption
- Adjustable seat height
Cons
- Heavier at 60 lbs, challenging to carry
- Maximum load capacity of 265 lbs
- Limited to 15 mph, not suitable for high-speed cycling
- 6-8 hours charging time
- IP54 waterproof rating, limited in heavy rain
5. Schwinn Network Hybrid BikeÂ
- Smooth and efficient ride
- Fast and accurate gear changes
- Comfortable riding position with the alloy hi-rise stem
The Schwinn Network Hybrid Bike is a versatile option for those who enjoy both road cycling and light trail riding. It features an 18-inch alloy hybrid frame and 28-inch wheels, making it a suitable choice for riders between 5’4″ and 6’2″ in height. This bike strikes a fine balance with its 21-speed twist shifters and rear derailleur, ensuring fast and accurate gear changes suitable for various terrains.
The bike’s alloy linear pull brakes provide superior stopping power, essential for both urban and off-road environments. Comfort is key in the design of the Schwinn Network, with a suspension seat post, hybrid saddle, and ergonomic grips contributing to a pleasant riding experience. This hybrid bike is also noted for its lightweight and off-road capabilities, adding to its appeal as a versatile option.
Assembly is relatively simple as the bike arrives 80% assembled. Tools required for the final setup include a Philips head screwdriver, Allen wrenches (4-8mm), adjustable wrench, and pliers with cable cutting ability. The bike’s lightweight nature, at 14.51 kilograms, and its rigid suspension type, enhance its performance and ease of use.
Pros:
- Suitable for a wide range of rider heights, from 5’4″ to 6’2″.
- Efficient gear shifting with 21-speed twist shifters and rear derailleur.
- Excellent stopping power with alloy linear pull brakes.
- Comfortable riding experience with a suspension seat post and hybrid saddle.
- Relatively easy to assemble with basic tools.
Cons:
- Sizing may be a concern for some riders, particularly in terms of reaching the ground comfortably while seated.
- Some riders may consider modifying the wheel size for a more customized fit, which could be a complex process
6. Schwinn Phocus Adult Road Bike
- Aluminum road frame with carbon fiber road fork
- 16-speed shifter / brake lever combination offers precise
- High profile alloy double wall rims with paired spokes
- Promax alloy dual pivot caliper road brakes deliver crisp, secure stops
- Alloy crank for wide gear range; road style tread tires supply fast and smooth riding
As someone who has always appreciated the value of a good road bike that doesn’t break the bank, I recently had the opportunity to take the Schwinn Phocus Adult Road Bike for a spin. This bike, priced under $500, struck me as a promising option for both entry-level and intermediate cyclists.
The first thing that stands out about the Schwinn Phocus is its sleek aluminum frame paired with a steel road fork. This combination offers a nice balance between swift, agile handling and durability. Its 700c wheels are well-suited for a range of riders, comfortably fitting those who are 5’4″ to 6’2″ in height. As someone closer to the 6’2″ mark, I found the bike accommodated my height quite comfortably.
Equipped with a 14-speed Shimano rear derailleur and an integrated Micro-shift shifter brake lever combo, the Phocus delivers precise and smooth gear shifting. During my test rides, I found the gearing adequate for city landscapes and some hilly terrains, although avid cyclists might yearn for more speeds.
The front and rear alloy caliper brakes on the Phocus provide reliable and responsive stopping power. In my experience, this is crucial for a road bike, especially when navigating through traffic or during sudden stops. The bike’s braking system didn’t disappoint, offering a sense of security with each ride.
What I particularly enjoyed about the Phocus was its overall riding experience. The oversized 700c x 28c road tires on lightweight alloy rims contributed to a smooth and swift ride. The bike handles well on different road surfaces, from smooth city streets to slightly rougher patches.
The bike’s black color and high-profile alloy wheels give it an aesthetic appeal that stands out. Additionally, the aluminum handlebar, stem, and seat post not only add to the bike’s sleek look but also contribute to its lightweight feel.
One point to note is that the Phocus comes partially assembled. While I didn’t find the assembly process overly complicated, some might prefer professional help, especially for fine-tuning the gears and brakes.
Pros
- Agile and responsive handling
- Precise and smooth gear shifting with 14 speeds
- Reliable stopping power with alloy caliper brakes
- Suitable for a wide range of rider heights
- Attractive design with high-profile alloy wheels
- Lightweight for a road bike at this price point
Cons
- Limited gear range for advanced cyclists
- Assembly and adjustments may require professional assistance
- Steel fork adds a bit of weight compared to a fully aluminum frame
7. Schwinn Discover Men’s and Women’s Hybrid Bike
- Comfortable upright handlebars and padded seat
- Fenders for protection against dirt and splashes
- Rear cargo carrier for added convenience
- Front suspension for smooth rides over bumps
The Schwinn Discover Hybrid Bike is a versatile option for both men and women, tailored to offer a comfortable and efficient ride in urban settings. Having spent some time with this bike, I was eager to see how it measured up in terms of performance and comfort, especially given its hybrid nature.
Sporting a 19-inch frame, the Schwinn Discover is well-suited for riders between 5’9″ and 6’1″ tall. Its lightweight yet durable aluminum frame is a key feature, ensuring both ease of handling and longevity. The front suspension fork and alloy crank add to the bike’s ability to handle varied city terrains with ease.
Equipped with a 21-speed SRAM grip shifter and rear derailleur, the bike offers a range of gears that make uphill pedaling more manageable. During my rides, I found the gear transitions smooth and the alloy twist shifter compatible with 4 finger brake levers particularly convenient, allowing for easy and comfortable gear changes.
The Promax alloy linear pull brakes stood out for their reliable stopping power. The alloy ahead stem is also noteworthy, allowing for straightforward adjustment of the handlebar angle for a customized riding posture.
Comfort is where the Schwinn Discover truly shines. The swept-back upright handlebars and padded seat offer an ergonomically sound and comfortable riding experience, ideal for longer commutes or leisurely weekend rides. The addition of fenders is a practical touch, protecting the rider from dirt and splashes, ensuring a clean ride in various weather conditions. Moreover, the rear cargo carrier adds a layer of convenience, perfect for carrying groceries or personal items.
Pros
- Suitable for riders 5’9″ to 6’1″ tall
- Lightweight and durable aluminum frame
- 21-speed SRAM grip shifter for easy gear changes
- Reliable Promax alloy linear pull brakes
Cons
- May require some adjustments for optimal comfort
- Limited color options
- Best suited for urban and light trail riding, not for rugged terrains
Things To Consider While Buying A Road Bike Under $500
The compiled list, coupled with detailed descriptions of the most popular bikes included in this guide, will definitely save you time and energy. However, having so many options with different features and styles tends to confuse us.Â
Buying a bike is unfortunately not limited to comparing the shortcomings of different models. It extends to many other factors, including your own riding preferences. Even if you buy a bike merely based on features, you would need some benchmarks that will help you compare.Â
To help you with this, I have listed a few factors and criteria you need to keep in mind before rushing to purchase a new road bike. Considering them could significantly guide and influence your decision.Â
1. Bike frame
Choosing the appropriate frame for your road bike is the first step, irrespective of the amount you spend on it. It is vital to consider the material your bike frame has been built of and check which size fits you the best. For a road bike, you will generally want your frame to promise durability and be ultralight at the same time.Â
The light weight of your bike’s frame is essential for attaining high speeds with better control. An aluminum frame tends to be the ideal choice in such a case as it offers a super-light finish to the bike. Furthermore, it is sturdy and resistant to rusting and corrosion.Â
2. AssemblyÂ
Your decision of choosing the best road bike under 500 should definitely be guided by the ease of assembly. If you are a novice rider with no technical knowledge, you will face difficulties while assembling most bikes.Â
It is essential to know how easy or difficult it will be to assemble the bike you are planning to purchase. In case you lack knowledge, you will have to get your bike components adjusted and put together by a local bicycle shop that will charge a small fee.Â
You can also resort to buying a pre-assembled bike if you do not wish to get it tuned by a professional mechanic. Some bikes do not include basic or specialized installation tools with the bike.Â
If you are planning to assemble the bike yourself, make sure you arrange these tools or get a bike that offers them. You can also check if the bike you are planning to buy has online tutorials for assembling it. It will be more convenient to choose a bike that is easy to assemble.Â
3. Braking system and gearsÂ
Getting a sturdy road bike will be useless if its braking system is not efficient enough. For safe and smooth rides, you should consider the kind of brakes that provide commendable stopping power, even on rough and uneven surfaces.Â
The most prominently used brakes in road bikes are disc brakes and caliper brakes. Choosing between them will also be an important decision based on your needs and the kind of surfaces you will be riding on. Both of them do a great job. If you are looking forward to better performance and stopping ability that immediately brings your bike to a halt, you can consider disc brakes.Â
They are an excellent option for uncertain weather and emergencies. However, they tend to slow you down a little, and if you are concerned with efficiency and speed, you can go for caliper brakes.Â
4. Riding preferencesÂ
The features and components equipped in the bike are not enough to pick the best road bike under 500. This is because different features work differently for people. What may sound like a shortcoming to you may not be a big deal for some other riders. If there really were a perfect bike, everybody would have been riding it.Â
What makes a bike good or bad is a blend of your own requirements and the specifications of that road bike. You may get a bike with excellent reviews and attractive features, but if it does not fit in with your needs and match your expectations, it will turn out to be the wrong decision. Therefore, analyzing your own expectations on the basis of your preferred riding style is a crucial step before you make a purchase.Â
5. Comfort and appearanceÂ
To be called the best road bike under 500, a bike needs to be comfortable and smooth to ride. If the geometry or size of your bike is not ideal for you, you will be compelled to have uncomfortable rides. An uncomfortable saddle is just as annoying as it can result in unnecessary pressure over your sit bones.Â
This could cause muscle soreness. At the same time, if your saddle is too wide for you, you may end up with chafed skin. If your bike is hard to pedal, it could lead to some discomfort. Moreover, the positioning of handlebars and the ability of your seat post to be adjusted are just as crucial for a comfortable ride.Â
Therefore, it is essential to focus on components that can affect your comfort levels. Although the looks of your bike should be what you are least bothered about, they still cannot be neglected. Some buyers like to purchase an attractive-looking bike that is just as functional.Â
6. Suspension forks
The bike’s suspension system is crucial to consider when picking the best road bike under 500. It is due to efficient suspension forks that your road bike is able to absorb shocks and bumps efficiently.Â
Such a system is necessary when your trails include obstacles and barriers. A suspension fork also adds to the durability and reliability of a road bike. This will only work if your suspension forks are built of quality material. Generally, steel and carbon forks are considered to be a good choice for a road bike.Â
7. Tires and handlebars
Finding durable and puncture-resistant tires with an appropriate rim width is essential for getting the best road bike under 500. This is because the wheels and tires play an essential role in the comfort and agility of your bike. The type of tires can influence your speed and affect your performance.Â
Therefore, getting appropriate tires according to your trails and utility will be a wise choice to make. The tires you get should also be able to maintain a firm grip over the surface. But, it should not be strong enough to affect your agility as being able to ride at higher speeds is the primary feature of a road bike.Â
Furthermore, you should not miss out on the handlebars while buying a new road bike. Most road bikes are equipped with drop handlebars which encourage a forward-leaning position.Â
However, some riders avoid this posture as it arches your back and leads to back problems, especially if continued for long hours. If you want an upright posture, you can always resort to flat handlebars.Â
8. Components included
You may have noticed in this guide the number of bikes that do not offer specific components like a kickstand. Before making a purchase, you should be aware of what components you are paying for.Â
If you do not wish to pay a decent amount for the bike and still be compelled to buy these components separately, you should simply consider the bikes that offer them along with the bike. However, if you are impressed by all the features and don’t mind spending extra on these components, you may purchase the bike.Â
9. ExperienceÂ
It is essential to buy a new road bike considering your previous experience with biking. If you are a beginner, you should prefer entry-level road bikes, which are focused on helping you integrate cycling into your routine.Â
A bike with simpler features may not maximize your performance, but it will definitely give you a great start. If you are a novice with minimal technical knowledge, you should consider road bikes, which are easy to put together or pre-assembled.Â
Verdict
By now, you would have known that there are several affordable options for road bikes available in the market. This still does not make the process of finding the best road bike under 500 any less overwhelming.Â
Trying to find such bikes online and visiting numerous websites can be an exhausting task. Hopefully, this guide will minimize your efforts with a list of some of the best road bikes under 500. To help you decide among these bikes, I have also compiled the most essential factors that you need to consider before rushing to make a purchase.Â
From the material of the bike frame to your own riding style, a road bike will only prove to be appropriate for you if your decision is guided by a blend of these aspects. Having said that, you need to prioritize your own requirements and look for the features that fulfill them.Â
There is no bike that can be considered the best merely on the basis of its specifications. But if I have to make a decision based on my experience and riding style, I will pick the Vilano Diverse 3.0 Performance Hybrid Road Bike as the best road bike under 500. It is lightweight, durable, and possesses an appreciable stopping power for emergencies.Â
Even though its brakes require tuning, I’m impressed by its puncture-resistant tires and the ease of assembly it offers. I prefer an upright seating position which is easily facilitated by its flat handlebars, which also allow me better control over the bike.Â
FAQs
What Is A Reasonable Price For A Road Bike?
On average, most entry-level road bikes can cost around $800. However, you can also get a quality road bike with a reasonable price tag of under $500.Â
Is 9kg Heavy For A Road Bike?
A beginner road bike or a mid-level road bike could weigh between 9.1 and 11.3 kg. Therefore, 9kg is not heavy for a road bike. It is the average weight a road bike is known to have.Â
Is It Hard To Ride A Road Bike?
Once you have experience and are well-worn with riding a road bike, you will not find it hard. However, if you are a new rider, it may be difficult for you to get accustomed to narrow tires in the initial stages. Most road bikes are fitted with drop handlebars which encourage a front-leaning position. If you face back issues and abstain from arching your back, you may find it hard.Â