When I first got into road cycling, I was overwhelmed by the number of choices. Every road bike had different geometry, tube shapes, and frame material that seemed to affect the ride quality in ways I didn’t fully understand at the time. As a beginner, my budget wasn’t huge, and I needed to stay within a price bracket. Still, I wanted something reliable and fun to ride. What helped me most was reading a guide that broke down all the categories of bikes and explained the difference between models designed for climbing, endurance, and everyday use.
My goal was simple: find the best bike for beginner cyclist that delivered great value for money. I didn’t need a WorldTour-level machine, but I also didn’t want to compromise on quality. You were lucky to come across ChiceBike; their team had reviewed dozens of bikes, from high-end machines to more accessible picks for newcomers. Their insights into how tire width, frame material, and geometry influence handling made my decision easier.
Eventually, I landed on a road bike that ticked all the right boxes. It wasn’t the flashiest, but it had solid ride quality, dependable components, and sat right within my price bracket. Through this experience, I learned that understanding how options, categories, and influence come together when buying a bike is crucial.
best bike for beginner cyclist
Best Road Race bikes
When I first started riding, I didn’t want a garage full of bikes—just one bike garage that could handle climbing, offer strong aerodynamic support, and still keep up in a bunch. That’s where road race bikes shine. These machines are designed for speed and performance, but they’re not limited to race days.
They’re perfect if you like to ride fast, test your limits, and appreciate agile handling. Many riders who enjoy mixing long efforts with quick sprints will find them ideal. You’ll get a direct feel of the road, especially in an aggressive position, which really helps build confidence as a beginner.
Best race bike
Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL8
Specifications
Frame: Built with FACT 12r Carbon.
Groupset: Comes equipped with the premium Sram Red AXS 12-speed Groupset for smooth and precise shifting
Wheels: Rolls on Roval Rapide CLX II Wheels.
Weight: Just 6.6kg, putting it well under 7kg .
Reasons to buy
Super fast on climbs and sprints, making it a thrill to ride even for enthusiastic beginners
Delivers decisive handling, especially useful for gaining confidence on sharp turns and descents
Highly compliant, which means it smooths out bumps for comfort on long rides
Excellent stiffness-to-weight ratio, ensuring that every pedal stroke counts
Reasons to avoid
Very expensive, even more than many advanced riders may be ready to invest in
Limited handlebar options, which could be a drawback for those who want a personalized fit
As someone who’s ridden many bikes across Europe and tested models in different categories, I can say the Tarmac SL8 is not just a racer’s dream but a solid choice for serious beginners. Its ability to handle a wide variety of terrain while delivering impressive acceleration and ride quality is what earned it the Race Bike of the Year award. What makes this model special is how it blends performance with comfort—something not all racing bikes achieve so exceptionally.
Frame-wise, the SL8 evolves from the SL7 with more rounded tube designs and a sleek speed sniffer head tube that improves aerodynamics without adding weight. The frame weight is just 685g, making it lighter and more stiffer than the previous version. This isn’t just a cosmetic upgrade—the geometry is refined to suit both pro racers and enthusiastic beginners. The SL8’s well-rounded edge, which strikes a balance between speed, agility, and long-ride stability, is mostly derived from Spesh’s featherlight wonder bike, the Aethos.
But what truly adds to its appeal is the on-road experience. On my first test ride, I immediately felt the difference in the seat post and rear end—engineered for compliance and comfort without dulling the response. Fit it with 35mm tires, and you’ve got a setup ready for both race days and year-round riding. Whether you’re pushing on a parcours at high speed or gliding through local roads, this racing machine is built to perform—and it does, without compromise.
Best value race bike
Merida Scultura 9000
Specifications
Frame: The Scultura CF5 Frame is built with race-ready geometry and designed for efficiency
Groupset: Features a Sram Force AXS Groupset.
Wheels: Comes equipped with Reynolds Aero 46 DB Wheels.
Weight: The total Weight of the bike is 7.57kg, light enough for climbs and quick accelerations
Reasons to buy
Offers excellent value across the range, making it a smart investment for committed beginners
The frameset feels incredibly stiff, helping transfer power directly with each pedal stroke
A very capable all-rounder that covers what nearly every rider needs, even as they progress
Reasons to avoid
The ride quality can feel rigid, especially on longer routes or rougher surfaces
The competition in this category is slightly lighter, which may appeal more to racers looking to shave grams
The Merida Scultura 9000 stands out as a sharp choice for beginner riders who are ready to take their cycling to the next level. It blends high-performance design with serious value, making it one of the best race bikes you can get at a competitive price. Built on the elite CF5 frameset, this bike features a carbon layup that includes high modulus fibers, which help boost stiffness without sacrificing weight. The geometry is as aggressive as the Reacto aero bike, offering a long and low position that mirrors what’s used in the WorldTour. The frameset boasts a one-piece carbon cockpit, integrated cabling, and a reported cockpit weight of under 280g—a fantastic combination of efficiency and simple design.
The top-spec 9000 has Shimano Dura-Ace Di2, whereas my test bike, the 8000 build, had SRAM Rival AXS. There’s also the 6000, which uses a more accessible CF carbon layup and the reliable 105 Di2 groupset for those with a tighter budget. Across all build options, the Scultura delivers serious performance, often coming in at sub 7.5kg, which helps during climbs and quick acceleration. The slightly rounder tubes, unlike deep aero tubes, are designed to reduce weight and boost compliance, resulting in a versatile do-it-all race bike that still feels at home on the road.
What truly impressed me was how responsive and agile it felt on corners, thanks to the rock solid bottom bracket, planted head tube, and rear end that tracks well through sharp descents. Every movement translated into immediate feedback, giving me a sense of precision and speed that’s hard to find in bikes at this price tag.
Best lightweight road bikes
If you’re new to cycling and live in an area with lots of steep climbs and rolling hills, you’ll quickly understand the importance of lightweight bikes. When the roads tilt upward, every gram matters. I remember one of my earliest rides up a long ascent—what I needed wasn’t speed on the flat, but something that could handle the climbing with ease. That’s where bikes built in pursuit of the lightest weights, paired with the right geometry and stiffness, shine.
Today’s road race bikes lean more toward an all-around performance approach, often balancing aerodynamics and comfort. Because of this, there has been a decline in brands focusing solely on weight-saving, but that doesn’t mean the appeal is gone. Many are still attracted to the rounder, less aero profiles of ultralight frames.
Best lightweight bike
Cervélo R5
Specifications
Frame: The R5 Frame is built with premium Carbon.
Groupset: Uses the advanced SRAM Force eTap AXS 12-speed Groupset, complete with a power meter for tracking every watt
Wheels: Equipped with Reserve 34/37 Wheels, tubeless ready for lower rolling resistance and better control
Weight: Comes in at a very respectable 7.4kg, keeping it firmly in the lightweight category
Reasons to buy
Offers razor-sharp handling with a geometry tuned for both climbing and descending
Strong pedalling stiffness ensures that none of your effort goes to waste when accelerating
The rear end of the bike is built for comfort, smoothing out road chatter for longer rides
Timeless looks with a clean, traditional design that doesn’t go out of style
Reasons to avoid
- Comes at a high price,
The Cervélo R5 isn’t just a race bike built for the pros; it’s a surprisingly versatile machine that beginners can grow into. Known for winning stages in the Tour de France, this bike balances performance with comfort, thanks in part to its D-shaped seat post and updated fork geometry. On long distances, I immediately noticed the plushness throughout the bike, especially at the front end, where earlier models felt too stiff. The newest version smooths out previous creases while maintaining just enough rigidity to feel responsive on the road.
What really makes the R5 special is how it rides on the hills. At just 703g for a medium frame, it’s a true climbing bike—light enough to fly uphill, yet stable when descending. During our testing, the feeling of connectedness to the road made downhill sections feel safe, never too soft or overly hard, avoiding that skittery feel that some overly rigid setups give. That perfect balance builds rider confidence, especially for beginners who are still learning to descend at speed.
Though it’s not a full aero bike, the R5 still includes smart aero enhancements, like the integrated cockpit, reshaped tube shapes, and a small fairing behind the fork crown that helps improve airflow along the bike. These features are added with care—not to compromise comfort but to enhance efficiency. All in all, the R5 is an exceptional choice for those who want something that’s flat-out fast in the mountains yet flexible and comfortable enough for general training and real-world use.
Best value climbing bike
Giant TCR Advanced Pro
Specifications
Frame: Built using Advanced-Grade Composite, the Frame offers stiffness and responsiveness in a lightweight design
Groupset: Comes with a Shimano Ultegra Di2 Groupset, giving smooth and precise electronic shifting
Wheels: Features the Giant SLR 0 40 Wheels, part of an aerodynamic WheelSystem for efficient riding
Weight: Total Weight is just 7.31kg, making it extremely light and quick on climbs
Includes a built-in power meter, perfect for tracking performance and improving over time
Reasons to buy
The fast wheels and frame geometry deliver sharp handling, helping new riders feel confident quickly
Its lightweight build makes it an ideal choice for riders aiming to train seriously without being overwhelmed
The Giant TCR Advanced Pro is a top-tier all-rounder that offers real value for money, especially for new riders who want performance without overcomplicating things. As a lightweight climber, it’s responsive and lively, with a springy feel on every hill. I found the ride quality incredibly balanced during my review bike test—plenty of stiffness for quick sprints, yet enough comfort to enjoy long rides.
The confidence it gives through corners and descents stems from how well connectedness is built into its frame and cockpit. Thanks to features like integrated cabling, the OverDrive Aero steerer tube, and a Contact SL AeroLight stem paired with a Contact SL handlebar, the bike feels sleek and dialed in right out of the box.
Spec-wise, the model includes the Giant Power Pro power meter, full Ultegra Di2 12-speed groupset, and fast-rolling carbon Giant SLR 40mm wheels. For the price point, this build is hard to beat, especially compared to others in the same range. Even though the SL 0 sits higher in the lineup, the Advanced Pro feels just as polished in real-world builds and components, making it one of the most competitive bikes you can get if you’re just starting out and want something to grow with.
Best aero road bikes
For beginner riders who love riding fast or often find themselves trying to keep up with buddies on open roads, aerodynamic bikes can offer a real edge. In modern cycling, where aerodynamics plays a major role, even saving a few watts here and there can make a substantial difference.
The real benefits kick in when speeds increase or the wind becomes a factor, especially if you’re trying to save watts and close the gap on your competition. While these bikes may look aggressive with their sleek profiles, that visual attraction comes with function—they’re built on a solid foundation to help you ramp up your speed and efficiency right from the start.
Best aero bike
Look 795 Blade RS
Specifications
Frame: Built from Ultra High Modulus carbon fiber, the Frame is engineered for speed and stiffness without sacrificing comfort
Groupset: Comes with a premium Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 Groupset
Wheels: Equipped with high-performance Corima Wheels.
Weight: Comes in at 7.48kg.
Features a two-piece handlebar and stem, which adds an extra layer of adjustability and practicality
Reasons to buy
Extremely responsive in turns and sprints, giving riders a confident feel from the first ride
Despite being an aero-bike, it climbs impressively well, even when pushing up steep grades
The overall ride quality is refined and balanced, making it a great option for someone who wants to grow into a high-performance platform
Reasons to avoid
- Still relatively heavy for the price, especially when compared to other aero-focused bikes in the same tier
The Look 795 Blade RS is a serious aero bike with real WorldTour pedigree, having been ridden by the Cofidis team. It’s a race bike that’s been cleverly built for both power and comfort, combining a frame set with 25% ultra-high modulus carbon in key areas to deliver noticeable stiffness and compliance.
During our testing, we were impressed by how snappy the ride felt, especially through the BB area and bottom bracket, which made every pedal stroke feel sharp. The tube shapes are slightly slender compared to others in the same category, adding to its versatility on rolling roads or even climbing—quite surprising for a bike of this kind.
Our review model, which featured a full Dura-Ace Di2 build, weighed in at just 7.48kg, making it light enough for long climbs while still feeling stable and fast on the flat. It accelerated with ease, showing no unnecessary movement, and maintained a good balance between race aggression and all-day rideability. For all of this, it earned its title as the best aero bike in our latest Race Bike of the Year awards—a well-deserved honor for a model that brings top-tier performance and polish to any frame it’s built upon.
Best value aero bike
Giant Propel
Specifications
Frame: Built with the Giant Propel Advanced Pro Frame, focused on maximizing speed and responsiveness
Groupset: Equipped with the reliable SRAM Rival AXS Groupset
Wheels: Rolls on Giant SLR 1 Wheels,
Weight: Weighs 8.5kg (18.6lbs)
Comes with a built-in power meter
Reasons to buy
Excellent value considering the frame tech, components, and integrated features
Incredibly smooth ride
Aerodynamic design helps beginners experience speed benefits typically reserved for high-end racers
Reasons to avoid
- Slightly heavy for its class, especially when compared to lighter climbing or endurance bikes
The Giant Propel Advanced Pro is a sharp choice for beginners who want a fast and aerodynamic road bike that performs well across mixed terrain. It’s not just for race day—this is an everyday bike built with practical features and modern speed tech. The frameset uses Advanced Grade Composite, Giant’s second-tier carbon layup, and it combines smart frame design with sleek tube shapes to improve aerodynamics while boosting comfort. For longer rides and a variety of routes, the geometry’s 73° parallel angles provide stability and balance.
One standout feature is the OverDrive system, which includes a D-shaped steerer, integrated cables, and a clean bar and stem setup that gives the front a cleaner finish and improved handling. Even in crosswinds, the slimmer front end and rims help maintain control. During our testing, we found the vibration damping impressive—it’s the kind of smooth ride that inspires confidence from the first pedal stroke. Though not the lightest at 8.46kg, the Propel is designed to excel with speed over outright climbing ability.
Paired with Sram’s Rival AXS groupset, the model holds its own in terms of value and performance, especially at this price point. Giant claims it’s over 6 watts faster at 40 kph than the previous model, and we can believe it.
Related: 10 Essential Tools for a Bike Ride
Best endurance road bikes
For new cyclists who want to ride big miles in comfort, endurance road bikes are a great choice. These bikes are designed with a more upright position and relaxed positions, which work better for riders still building flexibility and confidence.
Whether you’re rolling over rough terrain or tackling the famous cobbles of Paris Roubaix, endurance bikes offer stability without giving up on speed. Thanks to increased tire clearances, they handle uneven roads with ease and even share some crossover with gravel bikes, which is why many people now refer to them as All-road bikes.
Best endurance bike
Giant Defy Advanced
Specifications
Frame: Made from Advanced SL-grade composite, the Frame offers a responsive yet forgiving ride ideal for long-distance beginners
Groupset: Equipped with SRAM Red eTap AXS Groupset, providing crisp, wireless shifting and a built-in power meter
Wheels: Comes with lightweight and aerodynamic CADEX 36 Wheels
Weight: Tipping the scale at just 7.3kg, it qualifies as Lightweight, making climbs and acceleration easier for newer riders
Reasons to buy
Designed with a strong focus on Comfort
The sleek Looks combined with top-tier components give it a premium presence on the road
Just over 7kg, it’s light enough to feel agile while still offering stability for growing rider confidence
Reasons to avoid
The handling is slightly less sharp compared to race-focused bikes
Positioned at a higher Price point
The Giant Defy has built a strong reputation in the endurance category, and the latest version makes it even more appealing for new riders looking to cover serious miles in total comfort. The frameset uses an updated carbon layup to reduce weight while improving strength, bringing the frame weight down by 200 grams. That gives it a better stiffness-to-weight ratio, which means it feels steady but still responsive. For beginners spending long days in the saddle, this makes a huge difference. The geometry is slightly relaxed, and a longer wheelbase helps smooth out rough surfaces and keep control in more unpredictable conditions.
Giant offers a wide range of road bikes, and the Defy comes in builds from entry-level Advanced to the premium Advanced SL 0. What makes the Defy special is how it blends luxury with performance. Wider tire clearance (up to 38mm) and features like the D-shaped stem, SLR D-Fuse seatpost, and bars with redesigned tops and a gravel bike-style 8º flare in the drops all work together to absorb vibration and flex just enough to protect your body from fatigue. It’s not about going all-out on speed, but about sustaining solid performance over varied terrain.
Whether you’re tackling gran fondos, weekend sportives, or just aiming to explore new roads, the Defy feels ideally suited for the everyday cyclist.
Best endurance bike with suspension
Specialized Roubaix SL8 Expert
Specifications
Frame: FACT 10r carbon, built for both strength and compliance on rough roads
Groupset: SRAM Rival eTap AXS 12-speed electronic shifting
Wheels: Roval Terra C paired with DT Swiss hubs
Weight: Approx. 8.6 kg, making it reasonably light for an endurance-focused frame
Reasons to buy
The ride quality is genuinely impressive, offering comfort and control on unpredictable, broken tarmac
Delivers serious confidence in fast cornering, especially on long hills and twisty descents
Reasons to avoid
You may notice a bit of suspension bob when climbing, especially on steeper hills
The seatpost adjustment can be a bit tricky and requires patience to fine-tune the perfect saddle height
If you’re a new rider looking for confidence and comfort over rough roads, the Roubaix might be the bike for you. The Expert model brings some significant updates like the Future Shock 3.2 system. This version is hydraulically damped, and while it lacks on-the-fly adjustment, it can be made firmer using preload washers and springs. With increased tire clearance—from 33mm to 40mm—and a longer wheelbase, this endurance bike delivers stability and smoothness on tarmac, trail, or off-road sections. The suspension in the front end takes the sting out of bumpy paths, making the ride more comfortable.
During testing, the bike impressed us with its ability to handle various surfaces. The wider tires create a better contact patch, which really helps during descending. While the bike’s design works well overall, we did notice a bit of bounce when pushing hard on steeper climbs or riding out of the saddle. Still, the combined elements of the updated frame and smart models make it one of the most notable choices in the endurance bike category. It strikes a nice balance between efficiency and comfort, even on the toughest sections of your ride.
Best budget road bikes
If you’re new to cycling or an experienced road cyclist looking to add a second bike for indoor training or winter use, a cost-effective option might be your best route. These cheap road bikes aren’t just for beginners—they hit the right price points for anyone entering the market yet also deliver real benefits for experienced cyclists. Many budget bikes are made from metals like aluminium instead of carbon fiber but still deliver strong performance.
Some even offer high-end specs on frames built to rack up serious winter miles. If you want something affordable yet close to a high-spec setup, these bikes provide a great path into the sport, whether for daily riding or adding a reliable piece to your fleet. They are reliable, useful, and frequently unexpectedly fun to ride.
Best budget road bike
Specialized Allez
Specifications
Frame: E5 Premium alloy from Specialized, built for durability and agility
Groupset: Shimano Claris, smooth and efficient shifting for beginners
Wheels: Axis Sport alloy, strong and dependable on varied terrain
Weight: 10.0kg (22lbs claimed), making it solid but manageable
Reasons to buy
Excellent ride quality, especially for those new to road cycling
Ease of set up helps beginners get rolling quickly
Offers true versatility – perfect for commuting, training, or weekend rides
Unique ability to change ride characteristics by upgrading or tweaking parts
Attractive price for the quality, especially for a branded alloy frame
Reasons to avoid
- The performance of the mechanical disc brakes isn’t top-tier – may lack bite on fast descents or in wet weather
The 2023 update of the Specialized Allez is a solid step forward for beginners who want a road bike that’s ready for more than just smooth tarmac. Now with disc brakes replacing the older rim brakes, it offers better stopping power, increased tire clearance of up to 35mm (or 32mm with mudguards), and added comfort. This means it can easily handle light gravel or rougher city roads. During our testing, I found it surprisingly versatile, especially with the inclusion of rack mounts for commuting or even light touring. Despite these changes, it still maintains a sporty profile, and with a slammed stem, it rides like a fast, playful companion.
The base model comes with Shimano Claris 8-speed shifting and mechanical disc brakes, which are functional though don’t match the stopping power of hydraulics. The 11-32t cassette creates noticeable gear ratio jumps, which could take some getting used to for new riders. Still, the ride experience overall remains smooth. If you want a bit more, the Allez Sport with ten speeds and hydraulic disc brakes is also in the Allez line-up, though the price jumps noticeably.
For the money, it’s one of the best cheap road bikes we’ve reviewed. A wheelset upgrade would boost its performance, but even in its stock package, it holds its own as a competitive option in the market. Whether you’re buying your first model or adding a second to your line-up, the Allez hits a sweet spot in spec, value, and usability.
Best budget race bike
Cannondale CAAD13 Disc 105
Specifications
Frame: SmartForm C1 Premium Alloy offers a durable yet refined base that balances performance and everyday usability.
Groupset: Shimano 105, known for smooth shifting and reliability
Wheels: The RD 2.0 alloy wheelset complements the frame’s stiffness with responsive handling.
Weight: At 9.0kg (or 19.9lb),
Reasons to buy
The versatile geometry lets riders enjoy racing, training, or weekend rides without compromise.
Impressive ride quality for an alloy frame—smooth over tarmac, lively when pushing on climbs.
Offers a great spec for the money
If you’re looking for your first bike but want something that won’t let you down as your skills grow, the Cannondale CAAD13 is a smart pick. It carries over the race-proven geometry from the SuperSix EVO, giving it a responsive handling feel with a stack height of 55.5cm and reach of 38.4cm for size 54.
The aero tube profiles are directly inspired by WorldTour designs, which means this bike delivers impressive performance even on a budget. The SmartForm C1 Premium Alloy frame mimics the feel of a carbon frameset, and the smooth ride surprised me when I tested the high-spec model with upgraded wheels and tires.
Even the entry level version offers serious value. For example, it comes equipped with a reliable Shimano 105 groupset, RS510 crank set, and durable DT Swiss R470 rims paired with Formula hubs. If you’re on a tighter budget, there’s also a Tiagra offering, and even calipers for those who prefer rim brakes. With a size range from 44 to 62 and six sizes in between, there’s a fit for nearly all rider builds. The build options make it a versatile model that suits both new and experienced cyclists.
While the front end feels a bit high, this is easy to rectify by trimming the head tube to avoid stacking spacers above the stem. It’s one of the few alloy frames in this class that feels just as quick and rewarding as more expensive carbon options.
Best Women's road bikes
For female beginners or riders with smaller builds, choosing a women’s specific bike can offer real benefits—especially if you’re shorter or need more refined sizing. These bikes often go down to XXS, which helps many find a better fit and form than some standard road bikes. Beyond the more feminine colour options, the specification is largely the same, so there’s usually no performance difference compared to unisex models. Brands like Liv—which we feature in our guide to the best women’s road bikes—really stand out with outstanding options that sometimes outperform their standard versions.
While marketing often separates bikes by gender, don’t let it limit your choices.
Best lightweight women's bike
Liv Langma Advanced Pro 0
Specifications
Frame: Advance Grade Composite that offers a solid base for both performance and comfort
Groupset: Shimano Ultegra Di2, known for smooth and precise shifting
Power System: Integrated Giant Power Pro power meter for tracking your effort in real time
Wheels: CADEX Max 40, Carbon Disc WheelSystem designed to balance speed and control
Weight: Just 6.7kg, making it incredibly lightweight and efficient on climbs
Reasons to buy
Extremely agile handling helps new riders build confidence on varying terrain
A great blend of comfort and stiffness, ideal for longer rides without fatigue
Top-tier specification that supports progression as your cycling improves
Integrated features like the power meter bring added value for training and fitness tracking
If you’re a new rider aiming for a smooth transition into road cycling with a touch of performance, the Liv Langma is a fantastic choice. As a true race bike, it’s built with a monocoque carbon frame that is incredibly light and stiff, making it quick and responsive. The airfoil sections and integrated cables are designed to reduce drag, helping you go faster with less effort.
During testing, it performed impressively on the flat, offering excellent stiffness and quick accelerations—you could really feel the urgency in every pedal stroke. Whether you’re grinding up steep climbs or cruising on long rides, this bike remains agile, stable, and surprisingly comfortable considering its racing pedigree.
The Pro 0 build comes packed with high-performance components, including the lightweight Liv Contact SLR bars and a responsive Cadex Max 40 wheelset, both of which elevate the ride quality. It’s also equipped with the trusted Shimano Ultegra Di2 groupset, which delivers smooth shifting and reliable braking in every condition.
Best women's bike
Wilier Filante SLR
Specifications
Frame: Filante 0 SLR, full Carbon construction for a responsive yet smooth ride
Groupset: Shimano Ultegra 12s for reliable shifting performance
Wheels: Wilier Triestina SLR 42KC Wheels with high-end tire combination
Weight: Just 7.38kg, making it an incredibly lightweight and fast option
Reasons to buy
Extremely agile, strong, and comfortable, ideal for riders who want performance without harshness
Vast fit options with Easy-fit spacers to fine-tune stack height for optimal comfort and control
Premium wheelset and component combination that leaves “nothing wanting”
Reasons to avoid
- The price can be a barrier, especially for those just starting out—it truly is a wishlist bike for many beginners
The Wilier Filante SLR might appear in the women’s section, but it’s not a women-specific model. Instead, this road bike offers full sizes, starting from XS, and uses Wilier’s Accufit system—perfect for smaller riders looking for a tailored fit. Its carbon cockpit includes five stem length options, while spacers let you adjust the stack up to 35mm. You can also choose from two seat post variants to create a more customised setup.
Made with a carbon frame using liquid-crystal polymer, the Filante SLR is light, stiff, and built for serious speed without compromising comfort. A super-wide fork improves airflow and reduces drag, giving the bike an edge in both performance and handling. During our testing, it showed impressive stiffness on climbs and held its line confidently at speed. True to its Italian brand roots, this aero bike combines sleek design with rider-friendly details that make it a high-performance option even for newcomers.
How we test the best road bikes
At Chice Bike, our team of experienced testers work hands-on with all kinds of cycling products to ensure we provide only objective reviews based on real-world experience. Each product is used in different conditions, allowing us to compare various products fairly.
We take note of their strengths, weaknesses, and provide a clear assessment of how each performs for new riders. Whether you are aiming for an aero race bike, a lightweight climber, or an endurance model, our goal is to match you with a bike that brings value and ease.
When testing road bikes, we ride for hundreds of miles, evaluating each on specific factors like performance, build, spec, quality, durability, and whether it’s worth your money.
How to choose the best road bike for you
What's the difference between race and endurance geometry?
Making the right decision when picking a road bike depends a lot on how you plan to use it. If you’re aiming to go fast, take part in a race, or want something responsive, a race bike is designed just for that. By lowering your head and shoulders over the handlebar, it’s a more hunched-over riding position that lowers your frontal profile and lessens wind resistance. This setup helps boost your speed, but it may feel less comfortable for a beginner on long days in the saddle.
On the flip side, endurance or sportive bikes are built for leisurely rides and greater comfort. Their geometry gives you a more upright stance, with bars set higher and closer to the saddle, making them ideal for longer rides. While they may be a bit slower, they’re far easier on the body—especially useful on hilly roads, or even during a scenic trip through the Alps. Many of these bikes are lightweight and stable, giving you the confidence to enjoy every mile.
If your adventures go beyond smooth tarmac, an all-road or gravel bike might suit you better. These bikes offer wide tires, lower gears, and better tire clearance, making them perfect for a variety of routes. Whether you want to ride efficiently on flatter terrain or need aerodynamics for speed, choosing between a stiffer, more edgy handling race bike, or a more stable endurance machine, is all about matching the bike to your riding style.
What are the best frame materials for road bikes?
When picking a beginner road bike, understanding the frame material is key. Aluminium alloy is often found on cheaper bikes, especially those under $/£1000. It’s a great choice because it’s lightweight, strong, and easy to weld, forming tubes into a robust and reliable frame. To help absorb road bumps and provide a more comfortable ride, many bikes at this class also have carbon forks or fork blades combined with aluminum steerers. Even though it’s a traditional approach, it still delivers a solid ride feel for new cyclists.
As you move to more expensive models, you’ll notice the use of carbon fiber. It’s not just light—the fibers and synthetic resin are designed through a process called lay-up to deliver precise strength and an incredibly smooth ride feel. Some high-end bikes use high-modulus carbon fiber, which gives more stiffness without extra weight.
Then there’s titanium, known for being lightweight, resisting rust and fatigue, and giving a distinctive feel on the road. And while not as common today, steel tubing is still loved for its comfort and durability, especially by those who appreciate the traditional aesthetic.
How do I choose the right size road bike for me?
The most crucial step for any novice rider is choosing the appropriate bike size. Different bike makers offer a range of sizes based on a rider’s height range, which helps match a specific size to your stature. A proper fit means you should feel comfortable when seated, with both feet flat on the ground when standing over the crossbar—without it touching you. Many brands also list detailed frame dimensions, especially reach and stack, usually shown in cm or mm, which describe your riding position.
If you prefer a more upright ride, go for a taller stack and shorter reach, which will bring the bars closer to you. This setup works well for beginners and those choosing endurance models over more aggressive race bikes, which often have a lower stack and longer reach.
To avoid injury from incorrect fit, I strongly recommend getting a professional bike fit. While it might have a cost, some bike shops offer it at a discount or even free with your purchase. A good fit ensures your saddle and bars are optimally placed for efficient riding, turning your bike into a true investment in both performance and comfort.
What is an 'aero' road bike and do I need one?
Many bike makers highlight the aero credentials of their more expensive road bikes, claiming benefits backed by wind tunnel testing and promises of time saved. Older aero framesets used to be much heavier than those built with traditional round tubes, but the best aero bikes today are just as light as non-aero options.
Here’s the key: about 80% of wind resistance comes from the rider, not the bike. Those advertised time savings often only apply when you’re riding fast—around 45kph (28mph). But if you’re cycling at a more relaxed pace, the drag is much lower because it follows the cube of speed. So, all those fancy aero features might not make a big difference for a beginner who’s still learning the ropes or riding for fitness and fun.
