TOP 12 best road bikes: 2024-2025 ranking in terms of price / quality and which model to choose

Road bikes are sports equipment for riding on flat surfaces. Professional models are much more expensive, but in the lines of many brands there are also entry-level models.

A distinctive feature of such a bicycle is a lightweight frame, narrow wheels and an effective braking system.

In this article you will find a rating of the leading road bikes - we took into account the feedback from athletes and amateurs, experts, as well as statistics from Rosstat. When selecting, not only general technical aspects were taken into account, but also the features of each individual model.

TOP 12 best road bikes for 2024-2025

This rating includes the best road bikes according to experts and users.

How to choose a road bike?

When choosing a road bike, be sure to consider the following:

• size - one of the main factors when choosing a road model. There are many calculators that will allow you to calculate the required ratio, but these results are most often rounded and approximate, so it is worth choosing a bike live, trying it on. When the frame is located between the legs, the optimal distance from the groin to the frame is 10 cm. The legs must reach the pedals in the lower position;
• frame material - Carbon or aluminum frames are considered the best. Steel models are heavier and harder to drive, harder to overclock (with the exception of premium models);
• wheels and tires - Most often, the wheel diameter of road bikes is 28 inches, this is the most optimal size, but you can find models with a larger or smaller diameter. Racing tires are lighter, but if the bike is going to be used for city trips, stiffer options should be preferred;
• handlebar and seat - must be comfortable, and the width of the steering wheel should normally correspond to the width of the shoulders;
• transmission - ordinary people believe that the more speeds, the better, but this only applies to professional models. For entry-level riders, 7-14 speeds will be enough, and for more advanced bike riders, models with 18-21 speeds will do.

TOP 6 best road bikes by price/quality for 2024-2025

STELSXT 280 V010 (2020)

A bright entry-level road bike that will stand out when you need to move around the road. roads.Supplied in several colors.

The aluminum lightweight frame can withstand weights up to 90 kg and provides excellent cycling handling. The rigid fork is also made of aluminum. The entry-level 14-speed transmission with Dual Control shifter ensures a smooth ride on trails with any terrain.

Clip-on rim brakes qualitatively control the speed of movement, and, if necessary, provide emergency instant braking. Hard tires guarantee the necessary grip even on wet roads.

Specifications:

• Rider weight: up to 90 kg;
• Drive: chain;
• Frame: aluminum alloy, 20″, 21.5″, 23″, 24″;
• Bicycle depreciation: none;
• Wheels: aluminum alloy, 28 inches;
• Front / rear brake type: caliper / caliper;
• Bike weight: 12.5 kg.

pros

• design;
• comfortable transmission;
• comfortable saddle;
• efficient brakes.

Minuses

• the brakes squeak unpleasantly.

Merida Scultura 100 (2020)

The classic road bike, one of the lightest on the list, features excellent frame rigidity with vibration dampening. The wheels of the classic diameter have double branded rims, and Kevlar acts as the material of the bead cord.

A 16-speed transmission is a good option for already experienced road users, especially since the trim level is touring, not entry-level. Shifters of the Dual Control design are also walking, quite convenient in gear shifting.

The chrome-molybdenum alloy seat frame provides excellent vibration dampening, durability and reliability. Nevertheless, all the equipment belongs to the budget level, as evidenced by the presence of caliper brakes, and the cost of the model is quite high.

Specifications:

• Rider weight: up to 120 kg;
• Drive: chain;
• Frame: aluminum alloy, 17.3″, 18.5″, 19.7″, 20.5″, 21.3″, 22″, 23.2″;
• Bicycle depreciation: none;
• Wheels: aluminum alloy, 28 inches;
• Front / rear brake type: caliper / caliper;
• Bike weight: 9.58 kg.

pros

• one of the easiest
• walking transmission;
• Kevlar bead cord;
• chrome-molybdenum alloy seat.

Minuses

• the cost is too high.

TREK Verve 2 (2019)

The hybrid road bike has some of the best value for money.

The absence of shock absorbers does not affect comfort during trips. The softness and smoothness of the entry is ensured by the high quality of the wheels, excellent tires that guarantee good grip. The bike performs well both on smooth roads and on dirt roads.

A little cushioning is provided by the shock absorbing seat post. Despite the weight, the model accelerates easily and demonstrates excellent performance in various conditions. Trigger double-lever walking type shifters perfectly switch 24 transmission speeds.

Specifications:

• Rider weight: up to 136 kg;
• Drive: chain;
• Frame: aluminum alloy, 38.1 cm, 44.5 cm, 50.8 cm, 57.2 cm;
• Bicycle depreciation: none;
• Wheels: aluminum alloy, 28 inches;
• Front/rear brake type: V-Brake/ V-Brake;
• Bike weight: 12.59 kg.

pros

• transmission;
• brake system;
• smooth running;
• maximum rider weight.

Minuses

• steering wheel design.

Cube Hyde (2020)

Reliable German hybrid bike with high quality equipment. Thoughtfulness to the smallest detail betrays German pedantry and Bavarian assembly. The only thing that is made in China is an aluminum frame, but its processing takes place already at company factories.

The increased diameter of the wheels gives good speed dynamics and lightning-fast acceleration. Hydraulic brakes are reliable during emergency braking.

The 27-speed transmission, sporty rear derailleur and touring front derailleur ensure excellent speeds on the practice trails and in the city.

Specifications:

• Rider weight: up to 120 kg;
• Drive: chain;
• Frame: aluminum alloy, 46cm, 50cm, 54cm, 58cm, 62cm;
• Bicycle depreciation: none;
• Wheels: aluminum alloy, 29 inches;
• Front / rear brake type: hydraulic disc / hydraulic disc;
• Bike weight: 13.4 kg.

pros

• transmission;
• brakes;
• build quality;
• increased wheel diameter.

Minuses

• heavy.

Format 2322

Road bike for fans of high-speed driving on city roads. The model has a stable frame corrosion, strength and durability.

The rigid fork is made of carbon, and high-quality bushings made of industrial bearings only add reliability to the bike and increase its service life. The bike can easily support a cyclist weighing up to 120 kg, so it can also be used as a vehicle for road travel.

A good 20-speed transmission consists of sports shifters, an integrated sports bottom bracket and Dual Control sports shifters. Thanks to the design, the model can be used not only on flat roads, but also on rough terrain.

Specifications:

• Rider weight: up to 120 kg;
• Drive: chain;
• Frame: aluminum alloy, 21.65?;
• Bicycle depreciation: none;
• Wheels: aluminum alloy, 28 inches;
• Front / rear brake type: mechanical disc / mechanical disc;
• Bike weight: 10.7 kg.

pros

• one of the easiest
• walking transmission;
• Kevlar bead cord;
• chrome-molybdenum alloy seat.

Minuses

• the cost is too high.

Welt R80 (2020)

An entry-level bike with a good body kit will be a great solution for both beginner riders and experienced cyclists. It has a 16-speed transmission with Dual Control touring-type shifters.

Despite the fact that the model is positioned as a road model, it is quite suitable for trips on the dirt road - you just need to remember that there is no depreciation. But the braking system is not the best.

The caliper brakes are reliable and will provide timely braking, but in terms of emergency situations, they do not show themselves in the best way. Wheels with hard tires provide the necessary traction, give a good rolling and flotation.

Specifications:

• Rider weight: up to 80 kg;
• Drive: chain;
• Frame: aluminum alloy, 20.07, 21.25, 22.44?;
• Bicycle depreciation: none;
• Wheels: aluminum alloy, 28 inches;
• Front / rear brake type: caliper / caliper;
• Bike weight: 11.2 kg.

pros

• light frame;
• strength;
• speed indicators.

Minuses

• brake system.

TOP 3 road bikes for beginners

FORWARD Impulse (2020)

Russian road bike on a lightweight aluminum frame that will provide both ease of control and transportation bike. A distinctive feature is the original design of the saddle, which is great for long bike rides at high speeds and guarantees the comfort of the athlete.

High-quality tires will provide the necessary grip with the track and make it easy to accelerate on any flat road surface. The caliper-type brakes are not sports, but walking, however, they will allow you to control the speed without any problems, but are not very effective on wet roads.

The 14-speed transmission is controlled by Dual Control starters. The design of the frame allows you to fix the holder for the pump and flask. The bike is becoming a great choice for entry-level cyclists.

Specifications:

• Rider weight: up to 120 kg;
• Drive: chain;
• Frame: aluminum alloy, 18.9?, 21.3?;
• Bicycle depreciation: none;
• Wheels: aluminum alloy, 28 inches;
• Front / rear brake type: caliper / caliper;
• Bike weight: 11.2 kg.

pros

• steering column;
• price;
• transmission;
• light weight.

Minuses

• not the most efficient brakes.

BearBike Minsk

A classic entry-level road bike designed primarily for riding on flat surfaces. Not the best the solution for this type is a steel frame - it makes the structure heavier and somewhat impairs handling.

The caliper brakes are also not the best solution, but for quiet trips on flat roads it is quite suitable. The entry-level 7-speed transmission with Dual Control shifters is quite simple - almost perfect for beginners.

The steel frame of the saddle may feel a little stiff, but it gives more stability and a certain degree of cushioning when riding on uneven surfaces.

Specifications:

• Rider weight: up to 120 kg;
• Drive: chain;
• Frame: steel, 22?, 24?;
• Bicycle depreciation: none;
• Wheels: aluminum alloy, 28 inches;
• Front / rear brake type: caliper / caliper;
• Bike weight: 13.2 kg.

pros

• acceleration;
• strength.

Minuses

• brake system;
• steel frame.

Stinger Stream STD 28 (2019)

Speed, lightness and agility are the three main features of this road bike. Great option for beginner riders, but may well be suitable as a training vehicle for amateurs.

Entry level 21 speed transmission with Dual Control shifters. Another distinguishing feature is mechanical disc brakes - not the most common solution for road models.

A high-quality fit and height adjustment of the saddle and steering wheel will allow you to use the bike with almost any height. Wide pedals provide the necessary stability to the feet during trips.

Specifications:

• Rider weight: up to 90 kg;
• Drive: chain;
• Frame: aluminum alloy, 21?, 22?, 23?
• Bicycle depreciation: none;
• Wheels: aluminum alloy, 28 inches;
• Front / rear brake type: mechanical disc / mechanical disc;
• Bike weight: 10.2 kg.

pros

• price;
• quality of materials;
• ease of management.

Minuses

• the saddle may be uncomfortable.

TOP 3 road bikes for professionals

Silverback Strela Sport (2019)

A bicycle from a German manufacturer on a lightweight aluminum frame with a springless carbon fork is also suitable for professional cyclists, and just for fans of sports cycling.

An efficient 18-speed transmission with Dual Control shifters is responsible for the uniform transmission of forces, and Shimano Sora BR-R3000 caliper sports brakes are responsible for the braking system. Hard tires on a double rim behave predictably.

The build quality and workmanship here are generally not satisfactory (but no one excludes the possibility of a manufacturing defect). The model is one of the most inexpensive on the market in 2024-2025, which is why it is very popular among beginner cyclists.

Specifications:

• Rider weight: up to 120 kg;
• Drive: chain;
• Frame: aluminum alloy, 16.14, 17.32, 18.50, 19.68, 20.86, 22.04, 23.22 inches;
• Bicycle depreciation: none;
• Wheels: aluminum alloy, 28 inches;
• Front / rear brake type: caliper / caliper;
• Bike weight: 10.28 kg.

pros

• price;
• build quality;
• effective brakes;
• light weight.

Minuses

• some instances have difficulty shifting gears.

Stinger Stream Pro 28 (2019)

A professional racing model with a high-quality transmission and brakes is clearly not a model for beginners.

A high-quality braking system is implemented here - the Shimano KRS405, 160mm hydraulic disc brake is not only reliable and reliable, but also has an instant emergency braking system with a minimum braking distance.

A 20-speed transmission with a semi-professional rear derailleur and a sports front derailleur, Dual Control sports shifters all speak to the high level of organization of the model. Also, due to a special aluminum alloy, the model has an almost minimum weight with a fairly serious equipment.

Specifications:

• Rider weight: up to 90 kg;
• Drive: chain;
• Frame: aluminum alloy, 21″, 22″, 23″;
• Bicycle depreciation: none;
• Wheels: aluminum alloy, 28 inches;
• Front / rear brake type: hydraulic disc / hydraulic disc;
• Bike weight: 9.87 kg.

pros

• light;
• professional transmission;
• sports brakes.

Minuses

• price.

Merida Reacto 500 (2019)

A popular model among both professional bike riders and amateurs. Its popularity is due to low weight, due to which excellent handling and high speeds are achieved, a professional suspension at 22 speeds, which are switched by Dual Control shifters, and a high quality braking system, although the latter is implemented through a caliper type.

The semi-professional 11-star cassette is crisp and reliable under any load. Branded rims and tires are optimal for training and serious racing events.

Tires are equipped with a special protective layer against punctures. And all this, despite the good level of assembly and equipment, is distinguished in turn by a relatively low cost.

Specifications:

• Rider weight: up to 90 kg;
• Drive: chain;
• Frame: aluminum alloy, 18.50, 19.68, 20.47, 21.25, 22.04, 23.22?;
• Bicycle depreciation: none;
• Wheels: aluminum alloy, 28 inches;
• Front / rear brake type: caliper / caliper;
• Bike weight: 9.24 kg.

pros

• one of the easiest
• brake system;
• professional transmission;
• price.

Minuses

• caliper type brakes.

Which firm to choose?

Among the manufacturers are popular:

• FORWARD is a Russian manufacturer supplying mainly city and mountain bikes. Their models are quite light, durable, the collection is updated annually, developments are underway to improve previously released models.Bicycles are adapted for Russian roads, but professional models are almost never found in their lines;
• Merida - one of the largest manufacturers from Taiwan produces various types of bikes from mountain bikes to road bikes. Models are distinguished by a high-quality braking system, and also stand out from the premium line;
• Cervelo is a Canadian brand that produces professional racing models, but there are also models for amateurs in the line. The special proprietary aluminum alloy composition rivals carbon frames in quality.

Useful video

How to choose a road bike: