Best Road Bikes – The Ultimate Guide

Buying a new road bike is a commitment, and if you’re new to cycling, you want to get it right. If you’re left pondering which model is worth its salt, look no further as we explore the best road bikes to propel you down winding country lanes, or bustling city streets. 

When it comes to pedal-powered performance, good road bikes come in all shapes and sizes. And there are so many questions to ask. How do you know which brand is right for you? Do you need a carbon or an aero frame? How do you find a bike that will suit your budget? 

We’ve broken the process down into some simple steps to help you find the best road bicycle that suits your wallet and riding requirements. 

What are the best road bike brands out there? 

The best road bikes are more than just a load of parts put together; each component plays an important part in the bike’s performance. So, which brands make the best road-worthy bikes? Depending on whether you’re just after a bike to use for leisurely rides, or you want to compete in a race, your needs are going to be totally different.  

Merida, known for their progressive geometry and contemporary aesthetic, is a great option that covers various needs. Their bikes are handmade and designed to suit the specific requirements of every rider.  

On the more advanced end of the scale, Specialized and Trek bikes are known for their extensive knowledge, innovative components, versatility, and true value for money. Trusted by professionals and commuters alike, these world-renowned names are stalwarts of quality, performance and innovation. 

However, if you’re after a good all-rounder with a balance of speed, comfort and handling, British brand Orro could be the one for you. They work with industry-leading technicians and mechanics to produce bikes made from the finest materials on the market, and they are produced in the UK. 

Best road bikes under £3000

If you’re a racer with a budget or a commuter without one, Merida bikes are the race-proven aero specialist in the cycling world. The Merida Scultura Limited Road Bike is made of a lightweight frame with a Shimano 105 11-speed groupset. It’s a performance road bike with the brand’s excellent handling and geometry, and you can choose between carbon and aluminium, and disc or rim break options. 

Slightly more affordable still and boasting the comfort and race-worthiness of the Limited model, the Merida Scultura Endurance Rival Road Bike offers a modern design with more comfort-orientated geometry. This bike is perfect if you want to spend more time in the saddle while staying comfortable and relaxed on the bike. 

Best performance road bikes

What is a performance road bike? Arguably, all road bikes are designed and built with performance in mind. But some are a step above the rest in terms of the components engineered to decrease wind resistance and improve handling while delivering comfort. 

If you’re chasing personal bests or getting into racing, opt for a performance road bike that offers a lightweight frame, aerodynamic profile, and responsive components when you are selecting your spec.

If cruising along scenic routes is more your thing, an endurance road bike might be the option for you. Comfort is key with endurance bikes, as well as the ability to dampen vibration caused by rougher roads or tracks without compromising on speed and agility.

Channelling over forty years of expertise, Specialized created the Specialized Aethos Comp Road Bike, which delivers massive gains in stiffness and balance without affecting weight. If you’re in pursuit of the perfect ride, this could be the high-performance road bike you’re looking for. 

Professional road bikes 

Want to look like one of the pros? You’re likely looking at a higher price point. The Specialized Tarmac SL8 S-Works is right up there in terms of professional specification. It’s built from carbon, only 685g in weight, and features only the best components spanning two decades of development.  

Brands like Merida have also been integral to the success of cycling teams from all over the world, such as Bahrain Victorious, supplying race-winning bikes since 2017. 

When it comes to making the final decision and buying a road bike that meets your needs, make sure you ask for expert advice.