Road bikes are the perfect way to hang around in the town. These versatile bicycles offer the best bang for your buck in the longer-run.
There are hundreds of different manufacturers popping out various road bike models every single year. Making the choice a lot harder. The problem gets even worst if you are on a tight budget.
Don’t Worry! We have compiled a complete list of best road bikes under 500 USD available in the market. We have put together 7 top-performing bikes after trying and testing 23 top road bikes available in the market.
So without wasting any further time, Let’s get right into it and check out which road bikes made out into our list of best road bikes under 500 USD in 2020.
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
  | Tommaso Imola Endurance | Shimano Claris R2000 24 Speeds | |
  | Schwinn Phocus 1400 | Aluminum frame Carbon fiber road fork | |
  | Vilano Shadow 2.0 | Double Butted Aluminum Aero Frame Free pedals included | |
  | SE Bikes Royal 14-Speed | SE 1 alloy Shimano A070, 14 speed | |
  | Vilano R2 Commuter Aluminum | Double Butted Aluminum Frame Free Pedals Included | |
  | Trinx TEMPO1.0 700C | Aluminium Alloy Frame Shimano 21 Speed Road Bike | |
  | Giordano Libero 1.6 | Aluminum frame 16-speed Shimano STI drive train |
Contents
7 Top Road Bikes Under 500 USD
1. Tommaso Imola Endurance Aluminum Road Bike
The Tommaso Imola is the best road bike that comes under the budget of 500 USD. This bike with its superior build quality and ultimate comfort is a bliss to ride.
The durable yet lightweight aluminum frame used in this bicycle enhances the durability of this bicycle while keeping your comfort-level intact. In addition, it has sturdy wheels that are also made out of aluminum. Hence, you can expect this bicycle to run at a higher speed while offering excellent reliability.
The handle, as well as the saddle on this bicycle, is made out of superb quality materials. These high-quality materials make sure that your riding experience is pleasurable on this bicycle.
The braking system on this road bike is also fantastic. The Tommaso has one of the finest brakes we tested on road bikes in this price range. You will not any face any problem with stopping the bike. Rather the brake response will be sharp and instinct. Thus, you can accelerate the bike with an open heart.
The stock tires installed in this bicycle also complement the braking system on this bicycle. These tires have great traction on the road and offer excellent stability regardless of the track.
This bicycle by Tommaso uses only the quality materials in its construction. The usage of industry-leading Shimano parts is the perfect example of that. Tommaso Imola uses the best of the best parts to offer you the best bang for your bucks.
Therefore, you can expect your bicycle to last much longer than the normal road bikes available on the market with crappy third-party parts.
There are a bunch of customization options available on this bicycle too. You can customize the bicycle the way you want to. The good thing is, this bicycle also comes under a limited warranty, which provides you the additional peace of mind you need.
- Custom Design Frame
- Superb Quality Ride
- High Traction Tires
- Shimano Parts Used
- Excellent Braking System
- Built to Last
- Nothing to Complain About in this Price
Tommaso Imola Endurance is a top-quality road bike that comes under a limited budget of 500 Dollars. If you are looking for the best bang for your buck, and want a comfortable bicycle that offers a superior quality ride, you cannot go wrong with this model.
2. Schwinn Phocus 1400 Bicycle
The Schwinn Phocus 1400 is a great alternative to our top pick (Tommaso Imola Endurance). If you are not satisfied with the offering of the Tommaso Imola Endurance, this road bike can be an excellent choice for you.
This bicycle just like all the top-performing road bicycles has a lightweight construction, with its sturdy aluminum frame. In addition, it uses Carbon Fiber forks to provide you the peace of mind while splashing the money on a brand new bicycle.
Schwinn Phocus 1400 uses the dual-wall alloy rims with paired spokes to offer you the durability needed for off-track capabilities. These robust rims will get you through every single bump and dip without any trouble.
The Promax alloy dual-pivot braking system integrated into this road-bike is perfect for stopping the bike whenever and wherever you need to. Thus, you can speed up the bike in the way you want it to be knowing that it will stop when required.
The Shimano Claris 16 speed derailleur with the high-performance micro-shifters give this bike capabilities to cruise at different speeds, and terrains easily. Moreover, this speed-system has a seamless gear transition mechanism that allows you to easily shift the gears.
- High-Speed
- Excellent Stability
- 16-Speed Shimano Derailleur
- Seamless Gear Transition
- Superb Traction
- Trickier to Assemble
The Schwinn Phocus 1400 is another high-quality road bike. If you are looking for a high-performance road bike under 500 USD, you must take it into consideration.
3. Vilano Shadow 2.0 Road Bike
Vilano Shadow 2.0 is one of the most sought-after bikes ever produced by Vilano. It’s definitely is a great pick for people seeking the best road bike under 500 USD with Vilano branding.
The 6061 Double Butted Aluminum Aero Frame used in this bicycle gives it a very light feel. Not only light feel, but the aluminum frame is also very rigid and lasts much longer than the traditional alloys used. In addition, the frame of this bike is custom-designed to fit the body.
This bike features the industry-leading Shimano Derailleurs on both the front and rear to offer you excellent durability. It also uses the Shimano STI shifters to offer you versatile riding experience. You can easily change the gears of the bike using the STI shifters to suit your riding mode and road terrain.
The 700C threadless forks used in this bicycle also adds to the durability of this bicycle. In addition, it uses lightweight alloy rims to offer you the finest riding experience.
The Dual Pivot Alloy Caliper brakes in this bike also compliment the overall construction of this bicycle. It provides you the necessary power to stop the bicycle when required. In addition, it uses fantastic quality all-terrain tires that provide pompous stability and traction to the bicycle.
The handlebar on this bicycle is also properly designed, and very comfortable to hold. The seat although is good, but feel a bit hard. So you have to change it in the longer run.
- Reliable
- Excellent Braking
- Shimano Shifters
- Super Traction Tires
- Steel Forks
- Easy to Assemble
- The saddle is a Bit Hard
Shadow 2 is one of the finest bikes ever produced by Vilano. If you are a Vilano fanboy and looking for a stud-performance road bike. Here you go!
4. SE Bikes Royal 14-Speed Road Bicycle
The SE Bikes Royal is another high-quality addition in our list of the best road bicycles under 500 list. If you are looking for a bicycle that is capable on running at a relatively high speed. Here it is.
This bicycle offers excellent ride comfort, as well as stability. All thanks to the usage of a high-quality aluminum frame. This lightweight aluminum frame also provides the bike with robust riding capabilities. In addition, it uses the highest quality steel fork forks to enhance the riding pleasure.
The handlebar and the saddle are also superb in providing a comfortable riding posture for long-journeys. Hence, you can take a full round of the town without feeling tired.
SE Bikes Royal bicycle features one of the best brakes. The brake response on this bicycle is very swift, and thus you can expect this bicycle to run at higher speeds, and stop when the brakes are applied.
The 30 TPI tires used in this bicycle are also high-quality. They provide the required stability and traction to the bike required for cruising at high-speed.
Like all the other top-performing bikes, this bicycle uses the Shimano 14-speed Derailleurs. That means you have plenty of options to choose the gear-speed. In addition, the gear changing is butter-smooth. Therefore, you can cruise the bike at the speed of your choice, and the terrain requirements.
- Durable
- High-Speed Capability
- 14-Speed System
- Smooth Gear Transition
- Superb Quality Braking System
- Seat magnets Dirt
The SE Bikes Royal is a relatively new contender in the best road bikes category. Still, it is one of the finest road bikes that you can get under a tight budget.
5. Vilano R2 Commuter Aluminum Road Bike
The Vilano R2 Commuter road bike is another high-quality bicycle by Vilano on our list of best road bikes under 500 USD. In fact, it is one of the most sought-after commute bikes that you can buy.
It has a high-quality durable 6061 Double Butted Aluminum Frame that makes this bike ultra-same. At the same time, it also provides durable construction to the bike. It also uses high-quality aluminum rims to enhance the durability of this bicycle. The rims on this bicycle are drilled with a CNC machine to offer a premium feel.
There is a 21-speed drivetrain option to tackle any given situation. Changing the speed gears on this bicycle is not a brainer either. You can easily shift the gears on this bicycle using the thumb gears shifters.
The handlebar and the saddle on this bike are also made out of superb quality materials. Therefore, you can expect them to last you a lifetime. Moreover, these materials are soft to touch. Hence, you can ride the bicycle for a longer period of time without feeling tired or uncomfortable.
Talking of braking, the brakes on this bicycle are of superb quality. You will notice an immediate stop after the application of brakes.
The overall riding experience of this bicycle is on another level. Usually, you experience such a ride on relatively expensive models.
- Lightweight Frame
- Rigid Construction
- Multiple Gear Options
- Durable Rims
- High-Speed Capability
- Trickier to Assemble
- Some Users Reported Flattening of Tires
Vilano R2 is the best road bike for all the commuters. If you are a commuter looking for a quality road bicycle, here is the best pick for you.
6. Trinx TEMPO1.0 700C Road Bike
Trinx Tempo 700C is another high-speed road bike that you can get under 500 USD. It offers superb ride quality at a very reasonable price.
Trinx Tempo uses only the finest quality materials to offer you fantastic riding experience. It uses the best-class aluminum alloy with a steel fork to provide you a comfortable ride. The weight of the bike due to the usage of aluminum alloy is extremely low while maintaining the durability of the bicycle.
The Cst 700C*25C Colorful Tires used in this bicycle are very slim and offers superior quality riding experience. Moreover, the traction provided by these tires is on another level.
It uses the industry-leading Shimano TZ500 Front and TZ500 Rear Derailleur. In addition, it also uses the Shimano A050 Shifter to seamlessly transition between different hears whenever you want it to.
Like all the other parts, this bicycle has fantastic quality pedals and chain. It uses the KMC chain, that provides the reliability required during long-rides.
In addition, the braking system of this bicycle is up to the standard of the overall bike. The Trinx Tempo 700C has Winzip Alloy integrated for a swift braking response. So, you can immediately stop the bicycle whenever you require it to.
- Comfortable Ride
- Excellent Traction
- Superior Braking System
- KMC Chain
- Shimano Derailleur
- Not the Best Quality Tires
Trinx Tempo 700C is another high-speed bicycle that comes under 500 USD, it has got all the qualities of a superior quality bicycle.
7. Giordano Libero 1.6 Men’s Road Bike
The last not the least addition into our list of best bicycles under 500 USD is the Giordano Libero 1.6 Men’s Road Bike. It boasts all the features that make a superior to others.
It has a very comfortable riding experience in its lightweight aluminum frame. This frame is not only lightweight but also offers superior durability. Moreover, the steel forks also add to the durability of the bicycle.
The alloy rims used in this bicycle are made out of high-quality aluminum. In addition, there are 32 spokes for added reliability. The Giordano Libero also uses the high-traction high-stability tires for your added safety and security during the ride. These tires provide consistent support in all the different terrains.
The 16-speed Shimano STI drive train provides you a variety of different choices to choose your driving style and terrain type. Moreover, the changing of gears is also easy, and convenient. You can easily change the gears on this bicycle using the Shimano Gear Shifter.
The handlebar on this bicycle is made out of 42cm alloy. There is a superior coating of plastic that makes the riding experience pleasurable on this bicycle. It also uses a very comfortable saddle to enhance the riding pleasure on this bicycle.
Alloy Side Pull Front and Rear braking system integrated into this bike is perfect for stopping the bicycle, even when cruising at high-speed. Hence, you can focus more on the ride and less on stopping the bicycle.
Like all the other parts used in this bicycle, this bicycle uses top-class parts from reputable manufacturers for chain, crank, and pedals. Hence, you can expect the bicycle to last a much longer period than the normal bikes.
- High-Quality Materials Used
- Excellent Ride
- Built to Last
- Superior Riding Pleasure
- Fantastic Brakes
- Might Wobble at High Speed
- Pedals are a bit Slippery
The last addition on our list is another high-performance road bike. This bicycle with its durable construction and reliable parts is a perfect companion for your rides. Highly recommended for serious bikers!
How to Choose the Best Road Bikes Under Budget [Buying Guide]
Road bikes are a great way to commute. Especially when you want to travel eco-friendly. Well, enough of bragging about the road bikes.
Choosing the right road bike for your needs is not rocket science. But, it’s not a piece of cake either. We have compiled a complete buying guide that you can follow step-by-step to find out the best road bike for your needs.
So, without any further fuss. Let’s get right into it.
Price
The price of a product is perhaps the most important crucial factor that decides the fate of the purchase. Therefore, make a budget plan on your mind before jumping into the purchase process of the product.
Frame
The frame of the bike keeps all the different components in place. It is one of the most important components of the bicycle. An ideal bike frame should be lightweight yet rigid. A good quality bike should have a lightweight frame to offer superior quality performance.
Aluminum alloy is a good quality material for the frame of the bikes. In addition, some higher-end bicycles use Carbon Fibre construction for ultimate riding pleasure and durability.
Gears
The gear system of a bicycle allows you to change the speed and acceleration of the bicycle according to the terrain type. Therefore, always make sure the bicycle you are choosing has a variety of different gear options.
Tires
A good quality bicycle should have excellent tires. So, it should provide you with sufficient stability and traction. Therefore, we highly recommend looking for a bicycle with high-quality tires.
Braking System
Last, not least. The braking system is another feature that is a deal maker. Before you splash the cash of a brand new road cycle, ensure that it has a quality braking system. A high-end braking system lets you enjoy your ride with full peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
There are some questions that we frequently get asked by people. Instead of answering every single question over and over again. We have published a complete FAQ section that you can use to get your questions answered.
What is the difference between a Road bike and Normal Bike?
The key difference between a road bike and a normal bike is their terrain suitability. A mountain bike is specially built for off-roading purposes with the usage of fat tires. These bikes are not able to achieve higher speeds as compared to road bikes.
On the other hand, road bikes are specifically designed to be used on plain areas with their slimmer design and high-speed capabilities.
Should I get a Mountain Bike or Road Bike?
Well, it totally depends upon your riding preference. If you are a mountain rider and often ride your bicycle into the woods. A Mountain bike is best suited for you. On the other hand, a road bike is perfect for road adventures.
If you have a mixture of both of these, then you can go with the hybrid bikes. These hybrid bikes user versatile compatibility and can be used in the hilly areas as well as on the roads.
Which type of bicycle is the fastest?
Among all the different bicycle types. Road bikes are the fastest. If you are looking for a fast-paced bike that runs at amazing speeds. Road bicycles are your best bet hands-down.
How do I choose a bike?
Well, choosing a bicycle is not a simple task. Therefore, we have put together a complete buying guide that you can follow to choose the best bicycle for your needs easily.
What makes a bike good?
There are tens of different factors that you should be looking at before choosing a bicycle. All these factors combined make a bicycle good. Therefore, we recommend going through the complete buying guide that we have provided above.
Final Verdict
Road bikes are the best bicycles that you can get for high-speed performance as well as commutes. Choosing the right bicycle for your needs is not a simple task. Therefore, after hours and hours of research, we have put together a complete list of the best road bikes under 500 bucks.
If you are still confused in choosing the right bicycle for your needs, we highly recommend choosing the Tommaso Imola Endurance Aluminum Road Bike.
It’s the best bicycle that you can get for under 500 USD due to its premium build quality, excellent reliability, and pompous ride.
If you have any questions regarding the road bikes, feel free to start a discussion in the comments section below.
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Last Updated on February 22, 2022