When we think of the road bike, we commonly look at the Tour De France and consider the top bikes these guys use. However, most of the top road bikes are custom and made specifically for the individual riding them. The best road bike for under 300 dollars is an affordable option that can be used by almost anyone with an interest in cycling. The Vilano R2 Commuter Aluminum Road Bike is one of the top options when it comes to affordable road bikes.
There are many different road bikes on the market today, but very few of them are affordable. It is often noted that most of these bikes will cost you close to $1000. However, we have done some research to look at the top entry-level bikes. Now, you can buy the best road bike for under 300 dollars and have complete confidence in your purchase.
| Frame Material | Drivetrain | Brakes | Price | Rating | |
| Vilano R2 Commuter Aluminum Road Bike | Aluminum | 21-speed Shimano | Caliper Brakes | $$$ | ★★★★★ |
| Critical Cycles Classic Fixed-Gear Single-Speed Bike | Steel | Single-Speed | Caliper Brakes | $$ | ★★★★★ |
| 6KU Aluminum Fixed Gear Single-Speed Fixie Urban Track Bike | Aluminum | Single-Speed | Caliper Brakes | $$$ | ★★★★★ |
| Eurobike EURXC550 21 Speed Road Bike | Steel | 21-Speed Shimano | Caliper V Brakes | $$ | ★★★★★ |
| Goplus Road Bike Commuter Bike | Aluminum | Single-Speed | Caliper Brakes | $$ | ★★★★★ |
| Sundeal 50cm R7 700c Road Bike | Aluminum | 21-speed Shimano Tourney | Caliper Brakes | $$$$ | ★★★★★ |
Best Road Bikes For Under 300 On The Market Today
Road bike features are pretty standard and regardless of the bike you choose, the basic principles of selection will remain universal. While we have added some of the top features for you to consider, we should start with the best road bike for under 300 dollars. The buyer’s guide will follow with some of the top aspects to consider.
Top Pick: Vilano R2 Commuter Aluminum Road Bike
The first bike on the list is one of the top options in the Vilano R2 Commuter Aluminum Road Bike. The bike is constructed from 6061 aluminum, which is one of the lightest bike materials on the market today. It features a 21-speed Shimano drivetrain, which enables the rider to take on almost every terrain in urban areas.
What We Like:
- Double Walled Wheels: The double-walled wheels are much more durable than some of the others to handle tough terrains.
- Drivetrain: The 21-speed Shimano drivetrain will give you heaps of versatility to increase or decrease speed.
- Kickstand: The bike can be bought with the kickstand, which makes it much easier when you need to stop.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Assembly: Unfortunately, you will need to assemble the bike, which might require some specialized tools.
Best Single-Speed Gear: Critical Cycles Classic Fixed-Gear Single-Speed Bike
It is often best to have a single-speed bike if you are an entry-level cyclist. The Critical Cycles Classic Fixed-Gear Single-Speed Bike is one of the top options on the market today. The bike is constructed from durable steel, with double-walled V rims. The single-speed is perfect for beginners to get started on the road.
What We Like:
- Single-Speed: The single-speed design ensures that you don’t need to worry about the different gears.
- Durable: The use of double-walled V rims and steel frame makes it one of the durable options on the market.
- Accessories: The handlebars and rubber are one of the most comfortable options to ensure your hands are comfortable when riding.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Beginners Only: Unfortunately, the bike is only designed for beginners, but does not have the same speeds high-end bikes
Editor’s Choice: 6KU Aluminum Fixed Gear Single-Speed Fixie Urban Track Bike
The track bike is one of the top options for those that like to compete. The 6KU Aluminum Fixed Gear Single-Speed Fixie Urban Track Bike is one of the best options for taking your bike to the track. It features a single-speed drivetrain and a full aluminum frame. Additionally, it features a stylish black color that makes it “pop”.
What We Like:
- Design: One of the main features that stand out is the stylish design of the bike, which makes it look great.
- Brakes: We generally look at the disc brakes, but the caliper brakes are also some of the most useful for beginners.
- Aluminum Frame: The aluminum frame is great for durability. However, it also keeps the frame lightweight.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Frame: Unfortunately, the frame can often chip, which leads to damage and could hurt the look of the bike.
Best Road Bike: Eurobike EURXC550 21 Speed Road Bike
As you move away from the fixed gear bikes, you might also be interested in the Eurobike EURXC550 21 Speed Road Bike. The bike features a Shimano 21-speed drivetrain, which offers you tons of versatility. While the bike is made from solid steel, it includes high-end caliper brakes found on most of the top entry-level bikes available.
What We Like:
- Durable: Having a solid steel frame will ensure that the bike remains in top shape when you accidentally fall as a beginner.
- Caliper Brakes: having caliper brakes might not compete with the high-end disc brakes, but offer decent stopping power.
- Drivetrain: The more gears you have for your bike, the more versatility you will have on the road when you tire out.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Heavy: Unfortunately, it remains a heavy bike and you might need some assistance with the assembly.
Best Commuter Road Bike: Goplus Road Bike Commuter Bike
Goplus might not be one of the top brands on the market today. However, the Goplus Road Bike Commuter Bike is made from durable aluminum and remains lightweight. The bike features a single-speed drivetrain. It is also one of the options you can find in a variety of different colors if you need something specific.
What We Like:
- Aluminum Frame: The aluminum frame is great for beginners and should give you the benefit of lightweight and durability.
- Numerous Colors: As mentioned, the bike is available in five different colors to find the best version for women as well.
- Assembly: One of the best features is that the bike is mostly assembled when it arrives, which reduces your need for tools.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Single Speed: The downside to single-speed drivetrains is the limitations that you are faced with when taking on tough terrains.
Best High-End Road Bike: Sundeal 50cm R7 700c Road Bike
Last but certainly not least, we have one of the more expensive options on the market today. However, the Sundeal 50cm R7 700c Road Bike features a 21-speed Shimano Tourney drivetrain and it has been constructed from aluminum. While it might not compete with the top road bikes, it offers many of the same benefits.
What We Like:
- Drivetrain: The Shimano Tourney drivetrain is one of the best options when it comes to budget bikes.
- Aluminum Frame: The aluminum frame will ensure the bike remains durable and it is lightweight for high speeds.
- Tires: 700c tires are now some of the most useful tires, as they can take on any rugged terrains in urban areas.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Price: Unfortunately, it is one of the more expensive options on the market today and might be more than your allotted budget.
Key Features To Consider When Looking At The Best Road Bike For Under 300
The most important features for buying any bike will remain the same for the most part. As you will notice in the buyer’s guide, most of these features have been discussed before. However, you must have some sort of knowledge of the features to ensure that you buy the right bike for your needs and get value for your money:
Bike Frame Materials
In terms of materials, you will need to find a lightweight bike. Most road bikes are designed to help you garner speed on the road. While steel is one of the most durable materials on the market today, it is also heavy. Fortunately, you can find multiple aluminum bikes, which have the same durability, but lighter weight. Unfortunately, carbon fiber bikes are some of the most expensive options on the market today.
Drivetrain
The drivetrain of the bike one of the most important aspects. The gears will allow you to improve your speed and reduce speed when climbing. The single-speed drivetrain is perfect for beginners. However, you want more gears as you improve. The Shimano Tourney drivetrain is one of the prime examples of an affordable option with high-end features.
Brakes
Your brakes are by far the most important aspect of the bike. Once you have a lot of speed, you need to stop the bike to avoid potential crashes. Disc brakes are by far the best brakes for almost any bike on the market today. However, the caliper or caliper V-brakes can be useful when it comes to entry-level bikes.
Handlebar Design
There are multiple handlebar designs when it comes to the best road bike for under 300 dollars. However, the sophisticated forward bending handlebars are great for adding more comfort. These handlebars give you versatility on the road. However, the standard handlebar design is still ideal for most beginners.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best road bikes for under 300 might seem straightforward. However, there are different questions that many beginners might have. Whilst doing the research, we have found a couple of important questions that you might also have. Now, you can have all the information related to finding the best road bike for under 300:
Which Bike Frame Material Is the Best?
In terms of selecting the best road bike, you might want to consider spending a bit more. Carbon fiber is one of the best materials on the market today. It has the same strength as steel, but slightly lighter than aluminum. However, it is much more expensive.
Are These Bikes Preassembled?
Unfortunately, not every bike you buy will be preassembled. However, most entry-level bikes are very easy to assemble. With the introduction of the quick-release tires, you should easily be able to assemble the wheels, while the frame is commonly assembled before it arrives.
Wrap-Up
With any bike, value is the most important factor to consider. The above-mentioned bikes have high-quality features and should allow you to get into the sport. Unfortunately, the best road bike for under 300 dollars might not be the final bike you own on your journey to becoming a top cyclist. You might need to look for more of the top bikes as you improve. With that being said, we would love to see some of your comments on the best road bikes under $300.
