11 Best Road Bikes Under $500 Reviews

If you are a beginner and looking for an entry level road bike for starting road biking or just thinking of changing your existing road bike but not sure which road bike to choose, then you are at the right place. We are here to help you out. No worries! After passing a series of sleepless nights of studies and analysis we have come up with the list of the best road bikes under $500 – best quality under your budget.

Whether you need a bike for commuting to work or for casual riding or racing with friends and families or for physical fitness, a good road bike will serve all these purpose well. And with $500, it is possible to get such a road bike. But frankly speaking, if you are looking for all the latest and best technologies in your bike then you will definitely need to increase your budget.   

In order to search an ideal road bike, one should pay attention to key features like quality, durability, performance and weight, which depends on the frame, speed, gears, crankset, wheels and suspension of the bikes. And we have tried our best to pay heed to these important features as they are the essential elements in making our list of top road bikes under $500

Now have a look at the following list of top road bikes. We have tried to include every feature and drawbacks if there is any so that it becomes easier for you to make up your mind. We have tried to make sure you spend your money wisely so that it does not get wasted and you get the best quality at an affordable price.

11 Best Road Bikes Under $500 At A Glance:

The Road Bikes Are Discussed In Details Below:

1.  Vilano Shadow 3.0 Road Bike with Integrated Shifters

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At an affordable price under $500, the Vilano Shadow 3.0 road bike with integrated shifters has been considered by many as one of the top picks which exceeds the expectations of its users due to its unique features and specifications. This bike seems like an upgraded version of Vilano Diverse 3.0 Performance Hybrid road bike which we will review next.

Due to its 6061 double butted aluminum aero frame, this bike is extremely light –weighted. And for this reason it can move very fast from one place to another. It has a 14 speed gears and its Shimano STI shifters and brake levers help to change gears quickly and smoothly while moving. Its 700 centimeters doubled walled CNC Machined side wheels and 700 cm X 25 cm tires are quite strong and durable for racing as well as commuting to work.

This bike is comfortable for riders ranging from 5 feet to 6 feet tall. This is due to the position of the seat and the handlebars. Moreover, the bike has padded saddle which gives comfort to its riders while riding.

Talking about it looks, we can say that it is quite stylish with modern and sportive look and both men and women can use it.

Features At A Glance:

• 6061 double butted aluminum aero frame with integrated headset and internal cable
• 14 Speed Gears
• Shimano STI shifters
• Shimano front derailleur and Shimano tourney rear derailleur
• Dual Pivot Alloy Caliper brakes
• 700 centimeters double walled CNC alloy wheels
• 700 cm X 25 cm tires
• Rigid suspension

Pros & Cons:

All the above features make it ideal for entry level road bike under $500 . You can have it and enjoy your rides.

2.  Vilano Diverse 3.0 Performance 24 Speed Disc Brakes Hybrid Road bike under $500:

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You can also rely on the Vilano Diverse 3.0 Performance Hybrid Bike alongside the Vilano Shadow 3.0 Road bike. Its name says it all- Vilano 3.0 diverse performance- a bike which has diverse features and can act as a multifunctional bike. This hybrid bike is a mixture of a perfect road bike as well as a mountain bike. You can use it for casual rides, group rides or for commuting to work.

The frame and fork of this bike is made up of 6061 hydro formed aluminum alloy making it light-weight and durable as well. Its 24 different speeds offer a wide range of speed choice to its riders. Moreover, the triple crankset with replaceable chain rings and alloy crank arms helps to increase speed.

The shimano components of the bike allows smooth and quick gear shifts while the disc brakes allows quick sudden stops at the right time avoiding accidents. The Kenda 700c tires help the bike to keep on riding in different conditions and terrains. In addition to all these, the handlebars and the user-friendly seat post provides much comfort to its users.

Features At A Glance:

• 6061 hydroformed aluminum alloy frame and fork
• 24 speeds
• Disc brakes
• Shimano tourney TX front and rear derailleur
• Shimano EF 51 3/8 Speed integrated brake lever
• Triple crankset with replaceable chain rings and alloy crank arms
• Upright handlebar and ergonomic seat post
• Kenda 700C X 35C tires
• 700C rims
• Available in two different sizes- 21inch and 26 inch

Pros & Cons:

Considering the above features it can be said that this bike goes with different riders riding it in different terrains and conditions. As it is a diverse performance bike, so you can choose it as one of the best road bikes under $500.

3.  Trinx TEMPO 1.0 700C Shimano 21 Speed Road Bike

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The Trinx Tempo 1.0 700C Shimano Speed Road Bike is designed with quality features which makes it an all rounder bike. Its high quality aluminum road bike frameset increases its strength and makes it a durable bike. The rim of the bike is double walled which helps to withstand more body weight of the rider. In addition this light weight frame helps the entry level cyclist to get a better control over the bike. The 21 Speed gears give diverse choice of speeds to its riders. You can ride at variety of speeds on different terrains. The SL A050 shifter lever offers smooth and easy gear shifting with your thumbs. Moreover, the front and rear Shimano derailleur boosts these easy and smooth shifts.

Though being a road bike, it owns some racing bike features. Its most important racing bike feature is its sport bike look. Its eye catchy color contrast- black and green gives a race track feeling to the complete look of the bike and thus increases its visibility. The Cst 700C X 25C colorful tires are skinny which is suitable for racing purpose. Moreover the skinny tires give great smoothness while riding it. The drop bars and dual brake levers allow a change in riding positions giving some comfort to the riders while riding for long time. In addition the drop bar position is aerodynamic which increases speed which is beneficial for a race.

Features At A Glance:

• 6061 hydroformed aluminum alloy frame
• Hi-ten steel fork
• 21 Speed gear system
• Shifter Lever: Shimano SL-A050
• Front Derailleur: Shimano FD-TZ31
• Rear Derailleur: Shimano RD-TZ50
• Shimano TZ21 14-28T Cassette
• Trinx Aluminum Alloy Doubled Walled Rim
• Winzip Alloy brakes
• 700C X 25C colorful tires
• 25 lbs net weight
• KMC C50 Chain

Pros & Cons:

This could be a great bike for beginners. Whether it is for commuting to work or rides with friends on neighborhood, this bike will serve your purpose well. You will get so many quality features in such an affordable price. Thus you can considered it as one of the best affordable road bikes.

4.  Vilano R2 Commuter 21 Speed 700C Aluminum Road Bike Under $500:

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Are you looking for a fast, good looking, well featured road bike at an affordable price? Then this Vilano R2 21 Speed 700C Commuter aluminum Road Bike can be a great option for you. With Shimano components fitted to it, this cheap road bike well suits various purposes like commuting to work, recreational tours, or small races with friends on paved trails.

Featuring high quality 6061 doubled-butted aluminum frame, this bike is light weight and sturdy at the same time which does not compromise on its durability.

This bike features easy to access 21 Speed Shimano drivetrain which gives you a wide range of gears at your disposal. You can choose suitable gears to ride at different terrains. We know that Shimano components are best for entry level bikes as it guarantees reliability and decent performance. The gears are operated by A050 SIS shifters mounted on the handlebars. At such an affordable price range you will get alloy caliper brakes here which will help you to stop the bike in no time. The wheelset is 700C doubled walled CNC Machined side.

Another notable feature is its attractive look. Its different body colors makes it eye catchy.

Features At A Glance:

• 6061 doubled-butted aluminum frame with integrated headset
• High ten steel fork
• Drop bar
• 700C doubled walled CNC Machined side wheelset.
• 21 Speed Shimano drivetrain
• A050 SIS shifters mounted on the handlebars
• Its gear sifting is simple and smooth.
• Alloy Caliper brakes
• Shimano front and rear derailleur
• 700C X25C wheels, presta valve
• Urban commuter saddle

Pros & Cons:

This bike is one of the best selling bike of Vilano. You will get great quality of a high priced bike like good looks, durability, reliability, etc in such an affordable price. Thus this can be considered as one of the best road bikes for beginners.

5.  Eurobike Bikes HYXC550 700C Wheels 21 Speed Shifting Dual Disc Brake Road Bike Under $500 :

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I doubt there is any cyclist who has not heard of Eurobikes. These bikes are well featured and liked by most of the cyclists. You can also try one. The Eurobikes HYXC550 700C Wheels Dual Disc Brake 21 Speed Shifting Road Bike is worth buying.

The frame of the bike is made up of steel which ensures durability without compromising on performance. Moreover this bike features Shimano TX-30 Shifters and Shimano A050 21 speed gears which are components mostly found on high priced bikes. These Shimano components provide good control over the speeds and also instant change of gears when necessary. The smooth and flexible dual disc braking system allows you to stop the bike instantly even if your speed is very high and thus helps you to avoid serious accidents.

Features At A Glance:

The 26 inch aluminum rims and 700C wheels enables the bike to be used in various terrains without compromising on performance. The handlebars and seat are designed in such a way that gives its riders comfortable riding position and proper visibility of the road.

• High quality steel frame and steel fork
• 700C X 28C wheels
• 26 inch aluminum fashion rims
• Dual Disc Braking system
• Shimano TX-30 Shifters
• Shimano A050 21 speed gears
• Ergonomic handlebars and seat               

Pros & Cons:

Though this bike is comprised of many good features needed for an entry level cyclist, however you should keep in mind that advanced riders might need some more features on their bikes such as more speed, more power, etc. This bike can be the right road bike for beginners. And if you a beginner cyclist then you can just go for it and enjoy your road biking.

6.  6KU Aluminum Fixed Gear Single-Speed Fixie Urban Track Bike Under $500 :

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The 6KU Aluminum Fixed Gear Single-Speed Fixie Urban Track Bike is among the best budget fixie bike with reliable high quality features. It’s smoothly welded double butted 6061 aluminum alloy frame and fork is light weighted which will allow you to ride with easy and speed. Its fixed gear and single speed will help you have more exercise while enjoying your ride throughout the city. The head tube is steep at such an angle which gives stability and makes it user friendly.

The Kenda 700C X 25C tires provides good grip on the road regardless of roughness of road. They also absorb shocks which is necessary for smoother rides on rougher terrains. Moreover these tires are much strong and allow you to tackle small obstacles on its way without the fear of the tubes being blown away.

The 31.8mm riser handlebar gives a more upright position of the rider allowing a better navigation through the city. The simple style and color of the bike is of high quality and can be used by both male and females.

Features At A Glance:                

• Smoothly welded double butted 6061 aluminum alloy frame
• Aluminum 1.125 inch alloy fork
• Integrated 1.125 inch headset
• 31.8mm riser hanglebar
• Kenda 700C X 25C tires
• Novatech flip-flop hubs
• Synthetic Leather saddle
• Ergonomic seats, saddle and seat post
• Double-walled 30mm deep alloy wheels.

Pros & Cons:

Not only is this bike ideal for beginners but also great for experienced riders who are looking for best road bikes under $500  So you can have it without hesitation. It will be a purchase you won’t regret. You will be able to use it for your regular commute to work or for casual rides round the neighborhood.

7.  Eurobike 21 Speed Shifting System Road Bike 54 cm Frame 700C Wheel Adult Road Bicycle Under $500 :

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Eurobike 21 Speed Shifting System Road Bike 54 cm Frame 700C Wheel featuring 21 Speed Shimano Shifter is also worthy of mention among the list of best bicycles under $500. Its high carbon steel frame and steel fork with its endurance geometry ensures long lasting durability and comfort to its riders. It features high performance 700C X 28C wheels which reduces extra bumps caused due to riding on uneven road surfaces. Moreover, the reduction of riding vibration helps to decrease fatigue and thus gives better comfort while riding.

 Due to the 21 speed grip shifters, you can change though the gears very quickly with your fingers and choose a suitable gear for different terrains. Manufacturer recommends this bike for riders of height 5 feet 7 inch to 5 feet 9 inch. And the maximum weight capacity is 330 lbs which is quite enough.

Features At A Glance:

• High quality Carbon steel frame
• Steel Fork
• Curved handle bars
• Ergonomic endurance geometry
• High performance 700C X 28C wheels
• Tires are smooth and cushioned
• 21 Speed Grip Shifter
• High quality Duel Disc brakes
• Maximum weight capacity is 330 lbs
• Riders of height 5 feet 7 inch to 5 feet 9 inch can ride this bike
• Comes 85% assembled. The rest is easy to assemble.
• Is available in 2 different models – regular spoke and 3 spoke wheels.

Pros & Cons:

The pros outweigh the cons. So it can be considered as one of the best road bikes under 500 dollars and you could choose this bike for your daily commute or casual rides. It will give you smooth and safe user experience and enhance your everyday cycling pleasure.

8.  Hiland Road Bike 700c Racing Bike Aluminum City Commuter Bicycle with 21 Speeds :

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The Hiland bikes are also high quality bikes which fall on the list of best road bikes under $500 brands. There are good Hiland road bikes in low budget which you could try one. The Hiland 700C Road bike with 21 Speeds Aluminum city commute and racing bike is one of them. Manufactured with high quality ultra light 6061 aluminum frame with inner wire design this bike offers easy, fast and safe user experience to its riders. The Shimano 21 Speed A050 Shifter and double caliper braking system provides its rider full control of every situation avoiding accidents just at the right time.

Its 700C X 25C Kenda tires are ideal for road biking as they are thin and light but strong at the same time. As a result it will allow you to ride considerably at top speed without losing control over the bike.

This bike is available at different sizes for riders of different heights- 49cm for riders between 5’3” & 5’6”, 53cm for riders between 5’6” & 6’, 59 cm for riders between 6’ & 6’4”. So please make sure of the size before ordering the bike.

Features At A Glance:

• High quality ultra light 6061 aluminum frame with inner wire design
• Shimano 21 Speed Shifter
• Double caliper braking system
• 700C X 25C Kenda Tires
• Shimano TZ510 Front Derailleur
• Shimano TY300D Rear Derailleur
• 170mm long crank arm
• 14-28T teeth freewheel
• Light and sturdy double walled H 19mm Aluminum Rims
• 27.2mm X 300mm Aluminum seat post
• KMC Z7 Chains

Pros & Cons:

Considering all the above features it can be said that this Hiland Road Bike is a worthy purchase for riders who wants a nice road bike for daily commute and as well as for casual rides round the neighborhood.

9.  Hiland Road Bike 700C Racing Bicycle with Shimano14 Speeds 3 Colors :

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There is another affordable Hiland road bike which is worthy of mention. The Hiland 700C Shimano 14 Speeds road bike is also one of the best road bikes under $500. In a very short time many users started to like it. Manufactured with sturdy and durable Hiland hi-ten steel frame and fork this bike offers many likable features.

With Shimano TY21 Thumb Shifters and Shimano TZ51 front and rear derailleur with 14 speeds, this bike ensures greater speed, quickness and efficiency to its riders. The 700C X 25C aluminum doubled wall H 20mm rim tires due to its high performance offers better riding experience to its users.

Features At A Glance:

• Hiland Hi-ten steel frame and fork
• Shimano TY21 Thumb Shifters
• Shimano TZ51 front and rear derailleur
• 14 speeds
• 700C X 25C high performance tires
• Aluminum doubled wall H 20mm rim
• Aluminum 24.5mm X 350mm seat post
• 170mm long crank arm
• 9/16 inch pedals

Pros & Cons:

The Hiland 700C Shimano 14 Speeds road bike is a reliable one in an affordable price range. Its durable hiland hi-ten steel frame with 14 Speeds Shimano components and high performance tires will give you the experience of smooth, fast and safe rides through the city.

 10. Schwinn Stites Fixie Adult Commuter Road Bike, Single-Speed, Steel Stand-Over Frame, 700c Wheels, Flip-Flop Hub, Multiple Colors :

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In search of best low price bikes you can also consider having a look into this single speed fixed gear bike – Schwinn Stites Fixie Adult Commuter Road Bike, Single-Speed, Steel Stand-Over Frame, 700c Wheels, Flip-Flop Hub, Multiple Colors

With a group of high quality features this bike is also suitable for entry level cyclist who wants a bike for casual rides and commute to work.

Build with high tensile steel frame and fork, this bike is ready to face the challenges of rough urban terrains without being damaged. In addition this bike has high profile alloy rims and 700C tires which offers better strength, durability and performance.

Though it as a single speed fixed gear bike, but it has flip-flop hub which will give you the option of riding on fixed gear or free wheel. Further more this bike comes with front and rear alloy caliper hand brakes which provide the rider better control over the bike.

Features At A Glance:

• High tensile steel frame and fork
• High profile alloy rim
• 700C tires
• 46T by 18T Single speed drivetrain.
• Fixed gear
• Flip-flop rear hub
• Front and rear alloy caliper brake
• Riser bars

Pros & Cons:

For a price this low, this bike is of high quality. Because of its great style and simplistic features, both male and female can use it. At an affordable price you will get a bike for casual ridings round the town and as well as for daily commuting. So without delay grab one and enjoy your ride.

11.Giordano Libero 700 Medium Aluminum Road Bike Under $500 :

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Last but not the least the Giordano Libero Aluminum 700C Road Bike with its quality features has become a smart choice for many beginner and intermediate cyclists these days. You can also try it. Made up of light-weight and sturdy 6061 Aluminum frame and high tensile steel fork, this bike is a well equipped road bike. Moreover, the Shimano Claris 16 Speed Drivetrain  along with STI Shifters and dual pivot side brakes of alloy ensures a fast, smooth and safe ride to its riders.

Features At A Glance:

The 700C X 25mm tires with doubled walled Alloy rim of 32 hole is also responsible for high speed of the bike.

• 6061 Aluminum Frame
• High tensile steel fork
• 16 Speed Drivetrain of Shimano Claris
• STI Shifters
• Alloy dual pivot brakes
• Caliper Braking Style
• 700C X 25mm tires
• 32 hole doubled wall alloy rim
• Drop bars

Pros & Cons:

In this bike you will get a handful of desired features at an affordable price. So it can also be enlisted in the list of best road bikes under $500. So purchase it and have great user experience.

A Buying Guide Of How To Choose Best Road Bikes Under $500 :

As you are here reading this article, so it is obvious that you want to buy the best budget road bike. But how will you know that a specific bike is perfect for your entry level road cycling? Do not worry. We are here to discuss with you about the factors which you should look for in a road bike below $500. So please read on to get a proper guideline.

Frame & Fork:  

When you think of the materials with which the bike is made of, the first thing which comes to mind is the light-weight and durability. The material should be light-weight and durable. The most common and best materials used for frames of road bikes under $500 are Aluminum, Carbon and Steel.

Aluminum is light-weight and durable and thus offers greater speed than steel. Though steel is a bit heavier than Aluminum but it is cheaper and durable as well. Carbon is the lightest and the most expensive one among the three and is normally used to build bike frames above $500. So it is better you do not expect carbon frame is such price range. But incase if you get carbon frame within this range then it will be wiser for you to choose that. Or else you can choose anyone between aluminum and steel. Both are good.

About the type of fork in a road bike, you need to know that unlike mountain bike, road bike does not have a suspension fork, rather it has a rigid fork which mounts at a steeper angle compared to a fork in a mountain bike.

Rims and Tires:

 Thin rims and wheels are good for road bikes as it provides low friction which in turn gives higher speed. The high performance road bikes which are under $500 normally have tires between 26” to 29” with rims between 23mm to 28mm. But the rims should also be durable at the same time. Cheap road bikes costing less than $500 mostly uses durable double walled alloy rims.

Groupset / Gear system :

The groupset of a bike is the gear system or the drivetrain which is comprised of gear levers, brake levers, integrated shifters, derailleurs, crank-set and cog-set. It directly controls the speed of the bike. The Shimano groupset are the best and most reliable groupset and fortunately the groupset used in most of the road bikes are Shimano- high quality or low quality depending on the price of the bikes. Do not worry. However, both the qualities are reliable. As your budget is under $500 so it is obvious that the quality of your Shimano components will not be that high. So prepare yourself for that.

However everyone is not interested to use this gear system as they like to control their speed through direct pedaling rather than through use of shifters. In that case they can buy the fixed gear single speed bike.

Brake System:

One of the most important things to consider is the braking system which is essential for the safety of the rider as well as for others on the same track. The most common brakes which are used in road bikes under this budget are caliper brakes or V-brakes. They are efficient and quite reliable. Some road bikes also use disc brakes which can handle wet roads better. But there are also hydraulic brakes which are most expensive so you will not get hydraulic brakes in bikes under $500. For that you have to increase your price range as well.

Size and Comfort:

While buying a bike, determining the perfect bike size is one of the most important factors. Riding a bike of wrong size will not only make you uncomfortable but also cause some serious health problems in the long run. Do not buy a bike of wrong size just because the price is low, because you will have to regret later. There are many articles on Google about bike fit and size chart. Check those or you can simply check the features of the bike from where you are buying it. The bike size and fit will be mentioned there. So choose the perfect size for you and be comfortable while riding.

Apart from the bike size it is also important to check whether the seat, the handlebars, the pedals and other parts are ergonomically adjustable and thus ensures comfort.

Maintenance and Assembly:

As the cost of the bike will be low so you should consider the maintenance cost of the bike too. Like how durable the parts of the bike are, whether the parts are available when you need to change it or not, etc. If the parts are not available, then you should not go for it.

Moreover after you get the bike at hand you need to do some assembly. If you do not do it properly then you might face some problems like brake fails, loose chains, etc. So manufacturers themselves recommends to take the bike to a bike mechanic for the complete installation and tuning before you start riding it for ensuring your safety. Because small adjustments might be needed however high priced the bike be. But if you are an experienced rider and is capable of doing it yourself then it is better to do it yourself.

The Final Verdict:                   

In this article we have tried to present you the list of best road bikes under $500 along with the guideline about the factors which you should look for in a perfect road bike. Each of the road bikes has some quality features to be considered enlisting here. You just have to select a bike which will be suitable for you. You can also visit the amazon store online to see our customer’s firsthand experience and reviews on the specific bike.

Above all, the road bikes which have been mentioned above are built with best quality features possible at an affordable price range. However you should keep in mind that there could be minor flaws which you can change or upgrade later. The most important thing to consider is that here you will get the best road bike for the money. So use your wise judgment and choose one from the given list and enjoy your journey to road cycling.