8 Best Road Bikes Under $1,000 in 2023

We’ve received numerous requests from our readers to curate a list of the best road bikes available for under $1,000. Well, after countless hours of meticulous research and analysis, we’ve delivered!

We understand the struggle of wanting to hit the road but being overwhelmed by the myriad of choices out there.

So, allow us to simplify things for you. We present to you a no-nonsense list of the top road bikes under $1,000. This compilation is the result of extensive comparisons among a vast array of commendable bikes.

Do note, however, that the prices of these bikes might vary over time, so some may cost a little over $1,000, but we’ll give our best to keep the list up to date.

Without further ado, here are the 8 best road bikes under $1,000!

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1. Tommaso Imola
2. Ride1UP Roadster V2 (Electric)
3. Priority ACE
4. Diamondback Haanjo 2
5. Tommaso Forcella
6. Salsa Journeyer Claris 700C
7. Hiland Road Bike
8. Vilano Shadow 3.0

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Let’s see exactly what you’ll get if you buy it.

First of all, the whole bike is built over a strong aluminum frame and a comfortable and durable steel fork with an easy-to-use quick-release system. The bike is available in three attractive colors (black, orange, and white), which is always a big plus.

It’s a fantastic choice for commutes or fitness rides.

The value is pretty obvious when you look at the components, specifically the derailleurs and the brakes. The derailleurs on this Tommaso road bike are Shimano Claris and the brakes are also Claris caliper brakes. The drivetrain has 24 speeds with Shimano Claris cassette and crank.

Tommaso Imola is a proper road bike with 25 mm Kenda tires. They come with a Tommaso TC-20 wheelset which is not particularly aero but is great for climbing.

Tommaso Imola is a decent choice that will be a good companion for you if you wish to commute, complete centuries, or have fun in local group rides.

The frame geometry is comfortable, it’s not at all racy, so you will be able to ride without pains and aches even on long days in the saddle.

Moreover, the WTB Volt saddle is also regarded as very comfortable by people who have used it, so you are up for a lot of plush rides.

To sum up, Tommaso Imola is a decent entry-level gravel machine for less than $1,000. For those who want to start riding more and upgrade from their entry-level hybrids, the Imola is the best pick!

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2. Ride1UP Roadster V2 (Electric)

Best Electric Road Bike

MSRP: $1,095

• Frame: Aluminum
• Fork: Aluminum
• Drivetrain: Single-speed, Belt driven
• Brakes: Tektro Mechanical Disc Brakes
• Tires: Kenda Kwest 700Cx28

 

Ride1UP describes the Roadster V2 as a simple, fast, and fun electric road bike. This e-bike does not have drop bars, but its tires are sleek enough to fly up and down paved roads, which is something you can easily achieve with electric pedal assistance.

The Roadster V2 pretty much has all you need – solid components, a maintenance-free design, an aluminum frame and fork, and an attractive appearance.

This bike is powered by a geared rear hub motor that will support you up to 24 MPH, which makes the Roadster V2 a Class 3 e-bike. The 250 Wh battery is neatly integrated into the down tube, so you can’t really tell it’s even there.

But there’s more: The standard build includes Kenda Kwest 700c x 28 mm tires – an optimal and reliable choice for a wide range of riding applications.

Ride1UP claims that the Roadster V2 has a range of 20–35 miles and charges fully in 2–4 hours, which is pretty decent. You can use it for daily commutes and recharge the battery while at work.

Ride1UP Roadster V2 will help you get fit and cover greater distances than ever before at a more than competitive price point.

Roadster V2’s frameset includes two water bottle mounts, allowing you to stay hydrated on long rides. This bike also has a carbon belt drive instead of a traditional chain, which is really hard to find on an e-bike in this price range. It requires almost zero maintenance and lasts much longer than a chain.

Roadster V2 comes in two sizes—Small and Large—that fit riders between 5’3″ and 6’2″ tall.

To summarize, we call this the best electric road bike under $1,000, even though it has flat bars. With its comfortable geometry, the Roadster V2 will devour long training rides and trips of any length.

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3. Priority ACE

Best Affordable Do-It-All Bike

MSRP: $599

• Frame: Aluminum
• Fork: Aluminum
• Drivetrain: Single-speed, Belt driven
• Brakes: Dual-pivot brake calipers
• Tires: WTB ThickSlick 700×28

 

We know that Priority ACE is not a road bike in the full sense of the word. It doesn’t have drop bars or super-slick tires. However, this bike is built for paved roads and city streets, which is why we decided to add it to our list.

Full overview of the brand

The Priority Ace is made with versatility in mind, so it can complete different tasks, such as daily commutes, fitness rides, weekend leisure spins, or trips to the school.

This bike is available in two versions—Ace of Clubs and Ace of Spades. The former is less expensive and features an aluminum frame and steel fork, whereas the latter comes with a carbon fork. What’s common for both models is a carbon belt instead of a traditional chain and a unique flip-flop rear hub. You can ride the ACE as a fixed or single-speed bike.

The frame is painted in a simple black color with white accents and features two water bottle mounts. This bike rolls on WTB ThickSlick 700 x 28 tires, which is the ideal width for city streets. It will provide you with plenty of grip without sacrificing speed.

Priority ACE also features flat bars and alloy dual-pivot rim brakes, which was necessary to keep the price low. However, disc brakes are often an overkill for beginner riders, unless they plan to ride in very wet weather.

To sum up, if you want a maintenance-free bike for urban rides that prioritizes smooth looks and speed, one of the two Priority ACE models will meet most of your requirements.

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4. Diamondback Haanjo 2

Best All-Road Bike

The Diamondback Haanjo 2 is a good example of a capable multi-surface machine. It’s built around a lightweight aluminum frameset with dependable Shimano components, the combination of which provides reliable day-to-day performance.

One of the main characteristics of versatile bikes is tires that are wider than those on traditional road bikes. The Haanjo 2 has 700c x 38mm tires that feel nimble and fast on any kind of terrain. If you ride off the beaten track more often, there’s clearance for even more width.

For the money, you’ll get a 2×8 Shimano Claris drivetrain, which is a solid choice in this price range.

This bike sports mechanical disc brakes that will offer lots of stopping power in all conditions.

The Haanjo 2 is a modern all-road machine, so it has a smooth green paint job with rack and fender mounts. Therefore, it’s compatible with future upgrades, if you want to use it for commuting or traveling.

The bottom point is that you can get the Diamondback Haanjo 2 if you want to keep riding when you run out of paved roads and have more fun with your workouts or travels.

     

5. Tommaso Forcella

Breathtaking Italian Design

 

This bike costs slightly more than we promised, but it’s worth spending the additional $200 for this bike.

The Tommaso Forcella’s frame is constructed with 6061 hydroformed aluminum and fitted with an HCT carbon road fork.

The bike’s Claris components work very well, offering enough gearing and precision to beginner riders. It doesn’t have any unnecessary gears and the compact 50/39/30T crankset gives you all the range you’ll need with 24 speeds. A Shimano Claris 11-28T cassette rounds out the drive.

This bike comes equipped with Shimano Claris brake calipers. Even though disc brakes are becoming more and more popular on road bikes, you don’t really need them unless you intend to ride in very wet weather or do a lot of climbing and descending.

Tommaso Forcella’s upgraded deep-dish TC-30 wheels are tough, versatile, and aerodynamic. Take them (or let them take you) on all the treks that previously seemed a formidable challenge. The same goes for the Kenda tires; they’ll give you the confidence to take paths you previously considered beyond your capability.

Tommaso Forcella is the rightful favorite of many road cycling enthusiasts thanks to its remarkable design, carbon fork, and a uniform Shimano groupset.

This bike also comes with the exclusive Ultralight Sport Series handlebar, which supplies much-needed comfort – and minimal wind resistance – when going down the drops. It comes standard with a premium WTB Volt saddle – a standout among all stock saddles in this review category.

Forcella comes in six sizes from XXS (for riders 4’9″ to 5’2”) to XL (6’2″ – 6’5”). This bike requires minor assembly, like all other bikes in this under $1,000 review. All you need to do is mount the wheels, adjust the derailleurs, tighten a few bolts, and you’re good to go.

Not every entry-level road bike around $1,000 can boast the parts spec of the Forcella. With a 53cm frame, the bike weighs 22.7 pounds, which is impressive! Lastly, it’s ready to accept fenders if you want to make longer journeys or take on the elements.

All things considered, this is a great bike with a solid build that will take you where you want to go – for years to come.

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6. Salsa Journeyer Claris 700C

Best All Rounder

• Frame: Aluminum
• Fork: Aluminum
• Drivetrain: Shimano Claris 2×8
• Brakes: Tektro Mechanical disc brakes
• Tires: Teravail Washburn, 700c x 38 mm

 

If you are looking at great value-for-money road bikes, keep in mind sticking with a top-end brand is a good way to go. Salsa is one brand that you might be familiar with, that is very popular. They have a great reputation for making incredible bikes.

Salsa Journeyer Claris 700C is a great value-for-money road bike that features a lightweight 6061 aluminum frame and fork. It’s made for long days out in the saddle where you need the bike to perform but also be comfortable.

Entry-level road bikes generally come equipped with Shimano Claris shifters, derailleurs, cranks, and cassettes – as is the case with this Journeyer. It means you get 16 speeds on a 2×8 drivetrain, which is plenty for beginners.

The 700c wheelset is not extremely lightweight, but it will work nicely. The rims are often the first component riders choose to upgrade, but you can keep the grippy 700 x 38c Teravail Washburn tires.

The Salsa Journeyer Claris has several aces up its sleeve, such as the quality build and awesome design, even though it costs next to nothing considering everything you get with this bike.

The bottom line is that you should absolutely consider this bike if you are looking for an entry-level road bike. Our impression is that it’s the only bicycle in its price category that includes reliable components in such a nice package. In our opinion, the Salsa Journeyer Claris stands out as a really decent bike with a great value!

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7. Hiland Road Bike

Best for Long Miles on Mixed Terrain

MSRP: Check on Amazon

• Frame: Aluminum
• Fork: Aluminum
• Drivetrain: Shimano Tourney 3×7
• Brakes: Caliper brakes
• Tires: 700C x 25mm

 

If you love doing big miles, then you need a bike with the same affinities. For that reason, we present you the Hiland Road Bike. This is an entry-level road bicycle with a relaxed geometry that’s ideal for beginners and century rides.

Built around a durable and compliant aluminum frame and fork, the Hiland will provide you with a comfortable experience when riding gran fondos or attempting centuries.

The Hiland road bike comes equipped with drop-bars and 25mm tires, and the frame has eyelets for two water bottles and fenders, so you can use it for commuting as well.

When it comes to the components, the groupset of choice is entry-level Shimano. In total, you get 21 gears, which is more than enough for beginners, but less than ideal for experienced riders.

An adventure bike would not be complete without good brakes. This bike features Tektro alloy dual-pivot brake calipers. These could be better, but most recreational and hobby riders will find them sufficiently good.

Finally, we can wrap up this overview by mentioning the excellent 700c x 25mm tires with Presta valves that will get you wherever you need to be with maximum grip.

In short, the Hiland Road Bike is the perfect entry-level road bike for long comfort rides and big challenges.

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8. Vilano Shadow 3.0

The Most Affordable on the List

MSRP: Check on Amazon

• Frame: Aluminum
• Fork: Aluminum
• Drivetrain: Shimano Tourney 2×7
• Brakes: Caliper brakes
• Tires: 700C x 25mm

 

Vilano Shadow 3.0 is the most affordable road bike on this list. If you have a limited budget, but you still want speed and drop bars, then this is your chance to become a roadie without breaking the bank.

The stealthy black frame with white and orange details is made from aluminum, which is the most popular material in the cycling industry. It has eyelets for two water bottles and partially internally routed cables.

Vilano Shadow 3.0 is a cheap road bike that doesn’t have any significant shortcomings. The front MicroShift and rear Shimano derailleurs offer a total of 14 gears. There are both easy and hard gears, so you can ride on any type of terrain.

The tires are 700×25, which is ideal for pure road riding. This width gives you an excellent aero profile and provides plenty of grip when cornering.

The only disadvantage compared to more expensive models is that this bike has rim brakes instead of disc brakes. So if you plan to ride in wet weather often, you might not get the same amount of braking power.

Vilano Shadow 3.0 does a fantastic job for the money no matter if you are taking it on an easy-going group ride or doing timed intervals.

This bike comes almost fully assembled, you just need to attach the handlebars, the seat, the front wheel, and the pedals. The pedals come with the bike, which is a big plus.

Vilano Shadow 3.0 is available in three sizes (49cm, 53cm, 57cm) that fit a wide range of riders.

All in all, Vilano Shadow 3.0 is a cheap road bike with entry-level components, but it will be the perfect first road rig for any beginner cyclist out there. The result is a bike that is reliable, sturdy, and elegant – an amazing performer for under $1,000!

 

Don’t get me wrong; all the bikes mentioned are winners, and going with any of these would be a good move. However, a few details should be considered…

1st Choice: If you want to do some serious training, commuting, or group riding, then Tommaso Imola is hard to beat, thanks to a great set of components and comfortable geometry. The design is quite minimalistic but fast.

2nd Choice: If you are looking for electric assistance, the Ride1UP Roadster V2 is the best choice for hard training sessions and long rides.

3rd Choice: If you want to separate yourself from the crowd with an exotic-looking steed, then the Priority ACE  would be your best choice. It’s not a road bike per se, but it’s built for the road.

Adventure road bikes are becoming more and more popular among road cyclists because they allow you to ride on paved and unpaved roads — check out Diamondback Haanjo 2 to see what it’s all about.

For longer training days, the Tommaso Forcella will work nicely. Its geometry is more “relaxed” than most road machines in this category, and that’s why this bike often beats others in longer-distance riding.

If you are looking for the cheapest road bike, then Vilano Shadow 3.0 will fulfill your needs in a less esoteric package.

For those who want to go cheap and explore off-the-beaten path with an all-road model, Salsa Journeyer Claris is a great choice.

If you need a bike to complete big challenges or commute every day, there are few better choices out there than Hiland Road Bike.

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Consider also:

• Best Selling Road Bikes On Amazon.com
• Best Entry Level Road Bikes Under $500
• The Best Road Bikes