Biking is a hobby enjoyed by millions of people around the world. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of the open road beneath your pedals as you ride. Whether it’s on the street or off-roading, biking is a pastime that almost everyone enjoys.
However, if you’re new to biking, or just haven’t had much experience doing it, you may be wondering how to get started. While you could just theoretically buy the first bike you see, if you want to have a comfortable bike experience, it’s important that you choose the right set of wheels.
Today I’ll be talking about the best entry-level road bikes to help you get started. Whether you’re just looking for a casual bike to take out with the family or a bicycle to commute to work, all of the models you see are top-rated and ready to go.
Top 5 Best Entry Level Road Bikes Reviews
If you go to the store to find a bike, you may be amazed at how many different makes and models are offered. If you’ve never bought a bike before, it’s easy to get lost in all the different brand names and features. I’ll discuss the things to look for in a bicycle later on, but first, let’s see my top picks for an entry-level bike.
1.Vilano Aluminum Road Bike 21-Speed Shimano
First on our list is the Vilano Aluminum Speed Bicycle. Since this bike is made of aluminum, it’s both lightweight and surprisingly durable. If you’re looking for something simple that will last for years, this is a great bike to get.
Shimano makes some of the best gears and shifters (called derailleurs) in the industry, and the Vilano comes with both, so you know that it will be easy to use and shift remarkably well. This bike has 21 speeds to choose from, so you get the best ride possible.
Durability is the name of the game with this bike, as it is made with 6061 Double Butted Aluminum. What that means is that the metal is thicker around the joints for extra strength, while the tubing itself is thinner so you get the least weight possible.
Overall, this is one of the lightest and strongest bikes available from Vilano.
This model also comes with alloy caliper brakes. What this means is that the brakes press against the rim of the tire to slow you down, as opposed to disc brakes, which press against a metal disk in the center of the tire. The brakes are controlled via triggers on the handlebars.
For your riding comfort, the Vilano also has a thick padded seat that’s designed for casual street riding.
2. GMC Denali Road Bike
Even though GMC Denali is mostly known for its cars and vehicles, the company does make a very capable road bike that is ideal for beginners and enthusiasts alike.
The Denali road bike comes with a lot of the same standard features as the Vilano, making it an excellent, albeit simple bicycle.
The GMC Denali comes with Shimano brand derailleurs (shifters) and gears for maximum performance. With 21 speeds to choose from, you can ride comfortably across almost any terrain or incline.
Another thing that makes this bike a great buy is the alloy Vitesse racing rims. Vitesse is one of the top bike producers in the world, and the company makes some of the best bicycle rims you can buy.
Even if you aren’t using the Denali for racing, the wheels are built for high-intensity riding so that they will last for years.
Along with the high-profile rims, this bike also comes with ultra-durable racing wheels that can take a pounding.
From top to bottom, this bike is built for maximum performance, so you can go as hard as you want without worrying about damage or putting too much wear on the wheels.
Like the Vilano, this bike has alloy caliper brakes that are controlled via two triggers on the handlebars.
This bike is made of high-quality aluminum and weighs only 29 pounds.
3. Schwinn Phocus 1400 and 1600 Drop Bar Road Bicycle
When most people think of bicycle brands, Schwinn is a name that pops up almost immediately. The Schwinn Phocus 1600 Men’s Road Bike is a perfect example of Schwinn’s commitment to excellence for both beginning and expert riders alike.
The Phocus is a high-quality aluminum frame bike that comes with a carbon fiber fork for the best performance possible. If you want speed and agility, the Phocus is an ideal choice.
Like the other bikes on this list, the Phocus uses Shimano brand derailleurs and gears, so you get a smooth ride every time. Unlike the other bikes, I’ve shown, however, the Phocus only has 14 speeds, making it both practical and efficient.
What makes shifting on this bike such a breeze is the SR Suntour alloy crank, which allows you to switch gears much more smoothly than with other models.
SR Suntour is a top-quality manufacturer of bike gears, so you know that you’re getting the best with this bike.
The Phocus weighs 35 pounds and comes with durable Promax alloy caliper brakes. The brakes are controlled by triggers in the handlebars.
When it comes to size, the Phocus only comes with 56-inch wheels, so it’s ideal for people who are around six feet tall.
Unfortunately, Schwinn doesn’t produce a smaller model of this particular bike, so if you’re much shorter than six feet, you’ll need to find something else.
4. Takara Kabuto Single Speed Road Bike
Next on our list is the Takara Kabuto Single Speed Road Bike. Unlike the other models on this list, the Takara Bike can switch between fixed gears and what’s known as “freewheel” riding.
What this means is that instead of adjusting your gear level to match your pedal speed, the bike will only use one gear chain to move forward. It’s called a freewheel because you can pedal backward without it affecting your movement.
This road bike is made of steel, which makes it slightly more durable than the other bikes on this list, but you need to make sure not to leave it out in wet environments, as it can rust.
The brakes on this bike are calipers made of alloy metal. They are also side-pull designed, which means that the brake line is off to the side instead of in the center.
It also means is that you will have to calibrate the brakes every so often to ensure an even press on both sides.
Like the Schwinn, the Takara Bike is only made for people who are around six feet tall. On the short end, it can fit someone five feet ten inches.
However, if you’re much shorter than that, you’ll need to find a different model that can fit your frame.
5. Giordano Libero 1.6 Men’s Road Bike-700c
Finally, we come to the Giordano Libero Men’s Bike. This model is similar to the Denali or Vilano bikes since it is both made of aluminum and comes with variable speed options.
This bike uses Shimano brand derailleurs and gears for superior performance and a smooth ride. It also has 16 speeds to choose from so you can ride comfortably on any terrain.
To also help with your ride, this bike has durable and reliable alloy rims that you can remove very easily.
The Libero has a quick release system for changing both tires, which is helpful for both transporting the bicycle as well as swapping out the tires.
Like the Vilano bike, the Libero is made of 6061 aluminum, so it’s both lightweight and durable.
However, this is a single butt version, so it is not quite as durable at the joints as the Vilano. What that does mean, however, is that this bike is super lightweight, coming in at only twenty-six pounds.
This bike uses alloy metal caliper brakes. They are linear pull style, so you don’t have to recalibrate them as often as the Takara model, although it is still recommended on occasion for best results.
This bike uses alloy metal caliper brakes. They are linear pull style, so you don’t have to recalibrate them as often as the Takara model, although it is still recommended on occasion for best results.
How to Choose Best Entry Level Road Bikes
Size
If you plan on riding regularly, then comfort should be your biggest concern. When looking at entry-level bikes, take a look at how high it stands when compared to your body.
Ideally, the seat should come up just below the bottom of your pelvis, so you can easily get on and off without discomfort.
If the bike is too small, then you’ll risk hitting your arms as you ride, since you’ll be bunched up and hunched over.
If the bike is too big, then you may have a hard time reaching the pedals as well as dismounting. Also, for men, a Best Mountain bike that is too big can have a greater chance of injuring you in your more sensitive areas.
Before buying your bike, make sure to sit on it and test it first to make sure that the size is comfortable.
Material
When looking at modern bicycles, most models are made of one of four materials. Each one has its own benefits and downsides, but usually, what it will come down to is the cost.
The more high-end the frame is, the pricier it will be. If you’re on a budget, then choose a material that both feels comfortable and won’t break the bank.
Steel
For much of biking history, all models were made of steel. This durable metal was the material of choice for many bike makers because of its sturdiness and comfort.
However, the downside of steel is that it can rust over time, and it is a bit heavy. If you plan on racing with your bike, then you’ll want something lighter.
Aluminum
Many modern bikes are now made of aluminum. This lightweight yet strong material is the premier choice for many new bike riders as well as those who want performance without having to spend extra on a more high-end frame.
Titanium
When titanium bikes first came out, they were the cream of the crop. Titanium is naturally as strong as steel but as light as aluminum, so it’s the best of both worlds.
Another reason to choose titanium is the fact that it never rusts.
Carbon Fiber
For hardcore riders and racers, nothing compares to carbon fiber. This lightweight material is super dependable and provides heavy-duty strength while still be lighter than titanium or aluminum. If you want the absolute best, then carbon fiber is the way to go.
A note about carbon fiber, though. Although technology has progressed to where bike frames made of this material are much cheaper than they were before (these bikes used to cost several thousand dollars), that doesn’t mean that all carbon fiber bikes are the same.
Be careful to choose a model from a reputable manufacturer to ensure that your bike frame is as high-quality as it should be.
Gears
Even if you’re new to biking, you should be familiar with the concept of gears. The reason they exist is so you don’t have to work as hard while riding up hills or on rough terrain.
Most entry-level bikes use a standard gear set, which is ideal for most environments.
If you plan on racing at all, then you may want to get a double chainset instead of a standard set. Double chainsets are designed to operate better at high speeds as well as switch gears much quicker and more efficiently.
If you want to go off-roading or good mountain biking a lot, then a compact or semi-compact chainset is the best way to go, since it’s designed for hills and rough terrain.
Wheels
Before you can decide on which bike to get, you’ll first need to know what type of riding you’ll be doing. If you only plan on riding on the streets or commuting to work, then you will want thin tread tires.
If you want to race your bike, then you will need ultra-thin tires that are designed for asphalt and pavement.
Off-roading will require thick tires that have a lot of treads, so you don’t slip while you ride.
Other Components
If you want to make sure that you get the best entry-level road bike, you may also want to consider these other parts of the bike that can be customized to fit your needs.
Seat
You want to make sure that your seat is as comfortable as possible. When choosing the right saddle for your bike, first determine how you sit, meaning if you lean forward or backward as you ride.
Pedals
Hardcore bikers will swap out their bike pedals to get the most performance out of their bicycle. For entry-level bikes, however, you should be fine with the standard pedals that come with the set.
Handlebars
If you’ve looked at a variety of bikes, you’ve probably seen that there are different types of Bicycle handlebars. Some curve around so you have more grip options, whereas most casual bikes only have a T-style set of bars for you to grab.
Weight
Unless you plan on racing or competing with your bike, the weight shouldn’t matter. However, it may be a necessary factor if you plan on hauling your bike anywhere.
Advantages of Entry-Level Road Bikes
If you’re new to the biking world, it’s smart to get an entry-level road bike to ease you into the fold.
Here are the top three advantages of starting off with an entry-level bike instead of a high-end racing or mountain bike.
Easy To Ride
Since entry-level road bikes are designed for beginners, speakers, speed control, lights, brakes, gloves, and handlebars are much easier to use and master.
You don’t want to get a bike with a lot of sophisticated features that you may never need or want.
Cost-Effective
If you’re on a budget, buying an entry-level bike is usually much cheaper bikes than going for a deluxe model.
Until you’re sure how often you’ll ride and in what capacity, an entry-level bike is a great way to get started without paying a ton of money.
Comfortable
Biking enthusiasts usually will adjust to their bikes, rather than the other way around. Since hardcore bikers use their bicycles much more often, they can get used to the way it rides and how it feels.
For beginners, comfort is usually the most important thing, so many entry-level bikes are designed to be as comfortable as possible so you won’t get injured or develop any bruises or rashes after your ride.
Final Verdict
When choosing the best entry-level road bike, I like to get one that has variable speed options. The area where I live has some intense hills, so I need to switch gears frequently so I can make it up each incline.
My top picks for the bikes on this list are either the Schwinn Phocus or the Vilano Aluminum. I’ve had great experiences with both brands, and I highly recommend them for new bikers.
If you just want something easy to ride, however, the Takara Kabuto is ideal for flat surfaces, like riding along the beach or through town. I would not recommend that bike for any hilly areas, however, since you will be exhausted by the time you reach the top.
Overall, each bike on this list is high-quality and top-rated, so no matter which one you choose, it’s sure to be a winner.
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