Granted you see one rolling down the street with its sleek look, dropped, curving handlebars, narrow wheels and “skinny” tires, and you think to yourself how “fast” these bikes are. It’s The racking bike after all!
Let’s be honest here! Spending up to $2000 on a road bike is a big commitment. Naturally, you shouldn’t just get inspired one sunny day and drop all that loot without proper research. In this guide, we get into the best road bikes under $2000, featured in a quick and easy list with individual reviews for each bike. We have broken everything down, each bike’s features, specs, pros, and cons. Do yourself a favor and follow through!
Quick List for the Best Road Bikes Under $2000
- Best Overall: Schwinn Fastback Road Bike
- Best Value: Diamondback Haanjo 2 Road Bike
- Best Premium: SAVADECK Phantom 2.0 Road Bike
- Runner Up 1: Tommaso Sterrata Road Bike
- Runner Up 2: Cannondale Synapse
- Honorable Mention 1: Co-op Cycles ADV 2.1
- Honorable Mention 2: Diamondback Haanjo 3
Types of Road Bikes
There are quite a few variant models of road bikes, all designed with a specific goal in mind.
- Endurance road bikes. A sportive road bike, also known as an endurance road bike, is built with maximum seat comfort in mind for long, one-day endurance rides. Although these bikes resemble race bikes in appearance, you can pedal for longer because to their design and more upright stance. They frequently feature attachments for fenders, seat stays and forks for bigger tires, and some have inlays that reduce vibration to increase comfort riding rough terrain. For powerful all-weather stopping ability and a wide gear range, they are available with disc brakes.
- Aero road bikes. By adopting more aerodynamically curved tubing for the frame, wheels, handlebars, and brakes, aero road bikes are designed to reduce wind resistance. Every component has been carefully thought out to make your ride seem as effective as a fighter aircraft in the air! Wind tunnel testing has been done on aero bikes to lower drag and improve the speed-to-effort ratio.
They are highly sought after and speedier than the usual race bike. Even though the majority of aero bikes have carbon fiber frames and wheels, a marvelous material, they might nevertheless weigh a little bit more than standard racing bikes. They aren’t necessarily the best for climbing hills.
- Cyclocross road bikes. Off-road riding is essentially cyclocross. The terrain requires crossing water, mud, sand, logs, and jumps in addition to some steep slopes. The best option is a cyclocross road bike since it has a frame that can take bigger tires with greater tire grip. They have disc brakes to slow and stop them, as well as a shorter gear range than a typical road bike.
Since cross bikes are designed for racing and may need carrying over obstacles, they feature an aggressive geometry. Overall, they are light. These bikes are generally a fantastic choice for various sorts of riding because they can handle almost everything. This is your best option if you want a bike that serves several purposes.
Granted there are a few more types of road bikes but they are highly specific and intended for competitive sports.
Our Top picks start with …
Best Overall: Schwinn Fastback Road Bike
Key Features and Specs:
- Frame Material: Aluminum
- Wheel & Tire Size: 28 in, 700c x 25c
- Weight: 21 – 23 lbs
- Gears: 14 speeds
- Brake: Caliper brakes
The Schwinn Fastback road bike line offers a great balance of price, features, and model variety. The Fastback is available in three versions: Al Claris, Fastback 2, and Tourney Al.
These are excellent bicycles for anyone who is just getting started or even in the intermediate category. These bikes weigh about 20 – 23 pounds and are ideal for city living and flat, level roads. The number of gear speeds differs between the Tourney AL, Al Claris, and Fastback 2. The Tourney AL has 14 gear speeds, Al Claris has 16, and the Fastback 2 has 18 gear speeds. Because of the lightweight, you will be able to ride faster on a paved road with 700c or 28-inch wheels and 25mm thickness of 25c.
These bicycles have a Schwinn road-tuned N-LITENED-GOLD triple-butted aluminum frame. This bike would be popular among professionals, who would appreciate its superb road handling.
Pros:
- Great bike to progress from beginner to pro
- Great price point
- Multiple models to choose from
- Lighter but durable frame
- Optimal overall performance on different terrains
Cons:
- The need for a constant gear change on bumpy roads
- The tires are a bit heavy
Best Value: Diamondback Haanjo 2 Road Bike
Key Features and Specs:
- Frame Material: Aluminum, Steel
- Wheel & Tire Size: 700c x 37c
- Weight: 26 lbs
- Gears: 16 speeds
- Brake: Mechanical Disc Brake
The Diamondback Haanjo 2 is a road bike designed to ride over smooth over bumpy terrains. It has a great value to spec ratio as far as road bikes go.
The sturdy frame has a stable geometry as you can easily tackle corners and control your descents. The smooth-rolling tires have great traction, even when you go from gravel to mud and even watery environments. The steel fork, while heavy, absorbs bumps and vibrations, with no suspension, and the handlebar matches it.
It’s a modular bike and you have room to make your own upgrades! There are attachment points for accessories everywhere on the bike, making it useful for bike packing. You can install bags on it and even attach baskets.
The Haanjo 2 has a great balance between cost and performance. It’s a bike that could handle some rough trails, yet is comfortable to go long distances with it on a regular basis.
Pros:
- Tremendous value option
- Modular design with room for personal upgrades
- Great shock and vibration dampening
- Easily tackles off-roading environments
Cons:
- A bit heavy
- Seat can be uncomfortable
- Could use a few more gear speeds
Best Premium: SAVADECK Phantom 2.0 Road Bike
Key Features and Specs:
- Frame Material: Carbon Fiber
- Wheel & Tire Size: 700c x 25c
- Weight: 17.2 lbs
- Gears: 22 speeds
- Brake: V Rim Brakes
The Savadeck Phantom 2.0 is a gorgeous looking carbon road bike. It’s made with an all-carbon frame that is up to weight standards for racing bikes. It has the best groupset that you will find on a road bike at this price.
With a wide range of gears, it is tremendous if you want to ride supper fast or want to go on inclines like it’s nothing! When it comes to staying in control, the powerful rim brakes have you covered on long descents.
The carbon frame is aerodynamically designed in a wind tunnel to make you as slippery through the air as possible. You’ll fly on the road the same way a fighter jet flies through the sky!This frame is also super stiff, providing excellent power transfer to the rear wheel and responsive handling.
Combining this frame and groupset gives you an excellent road bike suitable for fast riding and racing. All in all, this road bike is where you start to get serious, as it offers you performance and you have earned your stripes, why not take things up a notch and go pro?
Pros:
- Great aesthetic design
- Premium material construction
- Aimed for high-performance
- Glides on the road
- Ideal choice if you want to go pro
Cons:
- Obviously the price tag
- Not ideal for beginners
Runner Up 1: Tommaso Sterrata Road Bike
Key Features and Specs:
- Frame Material: Aluminum & HCT Carbon
- Wheel & Tire Size: 29 in, 700c x 40c
- Weight: +26 lbs
- Gears: 24 speeds
- Brake: Mechanical disc brakes
The Tommaso Sterrata gravel bike is the best when it comes to performance, durability, and strength, even when it comes to entry-level riders.
In order to boost comfort, it has a compact frame with both aluminum and carbon materials. This way it provides you maximum comfort and efficiency. The TC-300 rims have the equivalent strength of 28 spoke rims which makes the bike suitable for all terrains. Basically, it’s versatile, stable, and has great traction on riding surfaces.
It is also equipped with different gears which means that you can use it anywhere, basically, it will take whatever you throw at it like a champ!
All in all the Sterrata bike is performance-oriented while looking good and remaining easy to use even for newbie riders. Though you’ll need pros to put it together!
Pros:
- Performance-oriented
- Can handle any terrain
- Special material blends
- Beginner-friendly
Cons:
- Requires special assembly
Runner Up 2: Cannondale Synapse
Key Features and Specs:
- Frame Material: Carbon
- Wheel & Tire Size: 700c x 28c
- Weight: 20 lbs
- Gears: 20 speeds
- Brake: Hydraulic Disc Brake
The Cannondale Synapse is a great endurance road bike that has had a very positive reception from riders. Right off the bat, the sleek frame design with different levels of thickness makes it stand out from other road bikes, and best of all, it’s all carbon! Thanks to its proprietary S.A.V.E. frame technology you will be very comfortable riding on the Synapse. This bike is available exclusively with hydraulic disc brakes.
Riding for hours and hours is what the Cannondale Synapse does best and always has. By definition making it a great endurance road bike. Although it is clearly an endurance machine, some pros argue that it would be a total speed demon for bike racing, it makes sense considering the 700c x 28c wheel configuration. All in all, it is such a great design that the only way to do justice is to add more features to it such as accelerometers and all the fancy-schmancy stuff for data performance analysis.
Pros:
- Battle-proven design
- Ideal for long rides
- Great aesthetic appeal
Cons:
- *Cricket noise*
Honorable Mention 1: Co-op Cycles ADV 2.1
Key Features and Specs:
- Frame Material: 6061 Aluminum, Carbon
- Wheel & Tire Size: 700c x 35c
- Weight: 23.5 lbs
- Gears: 16 speeds
- Brake: Mechanical Disc Brake
The Co-op Cycles ADV are actually a lineup of gravel, adventure, touring, and bikepacking bikes that you can use for everyday commuting, gravel riding, multi-day bike travel, or fitness riding. We are specifically looking at ADV 2.1 as a great intermediate! The ADV 2.1 bike can handle off-roading terrains. It’s an affordable and capable road bike that serves as a worthy first choice for all-road cycling.
The ADV 2.1 has a lightweight aluminum frame with an even lighter carbon fork for a comfortable ride. The carbon fork will also absorb some of the vibrations for smooth riding.
It has a decent grip on tricky gravel surfaces thanks to 700c x 35c tires, which also have reflective stripes on sidewalls, so people can tell you’re near when riding at night. You can mod it for traveling by installing racks. The mechanical disc brakes offer optimal stopping power and performance. The dual piston system ensures more equal wear of the brake pads.
The drivetrain offers 16 speeds that handle gravel riding. You can easily enter and complete gravel events, but you won’t be taking the lead on flat road racing.
Pros:
- Can handle rough terrain
- Special material blend
- Tremendous value
- Intermediate road bike
Cons:
- Tad bit heavy considering the different models
- Lack of aesthetic choices
Honorable Mention 2: Diamondback Haanjo 3
Key Features and Specs:
- Frame Material: Aluminum
- Wheel & Tire Size: 700c x 37c
- Weight: 23 lbs
- Gears: 18 speeds
- Brake: Mechanical Disc Brake
For starters the Diamondback Haanjo 3 is a better version of the Haanjo 2, and a bit pricier naturally. Diamondback Bicycles Haanjo 3 is a powerful and versatile bike that will turn everyday biking into an adventure. Although it still has newbie-friendly appeal, true across all models!
It gives you speed when it’s on the road and smooth control when you’re off-road. This makes it ideal for cyclists who love a bit of attitude on a bike. It provides adventure on all kinds of terrain. The frame is built from aluminum alloy for ultimate durability as well as suitable weight. The geometry gives control, comfort, and an excellent overview when you’re out and about. The fork is also made of aluminum, and it’s lightweight and precise.
The 700c x 37c lay firmly on the ground and are tough enough to handle even the roughest terrain but won’t sacrifice speed on flat roads.
Pros:
- Great performer on off-road
- Easy to put together
- Ideal for tall riders
Cons:
- The handlebar is particularly wider
- Can be too big for some riders
- Carbon forks would be perfect for it
How to choose the best road bike under $2000
It’s only natural to become more familiar with the distinctions between road bikes. In this manner, you’ll have a deeper understanding. Ultimately, it will assist you in selecting the finest bike for your needs.
Frame Material
When it comes to road bikes under $2000 the most common frame material is aluminum, whether it is stand-alone, or paired with other types of materials. Aluminum is a great all-around frame material, lightweight, durable, and isn’t prone to rust. While steel is more robust than aluminum, it comes at a major drawback of heavier overall weight. And when entering this price range, weight and efficiency take the lead.
A great addition though, is the employment of carbon fiber as a material, while it’s somewhat of a rare sight to find an all-carbon-fiber frame at this price range, you can be sure to find elements like bike forks being made from this material. It’s lightweight, more durable than aluminum, and will withstand better to the outside elements. Also, it significantly dampens the shock and bumps of the road.
Chainring & Groupset
Most road bikes under $2000 use a 2X groupset. At the very least they have 16 gear speed which is optimal for the road. Considering the high price, most of them have between 20 and 24 speeds in order to have a finer performance on the road. These tiny increments help your pedaling by making the most work in distance and speed for the least amount of pedaling effort.
Brakes
Road bikes are all equipped with either rim or disc brakes and there are 2 types of disc brakes:
- Mechanical disc brakes use a steel cable to drive the pistons, which creates friction and slows the bike. The major benefit is that they work with regular rim shifters and are easier to maintain at home. The disadvantages of this design include that the steel cables might wear out more quickly and break. You’re looking at many replacements, which isn’t terrible because they are inexpensive.
- Hydraulic disc brakes have a fluid-filled system. The fluid rushes down to the caliper when you pull the brake lever, closing the brake pads and slowing you down. This is the most consistent form of brake, regardless of the circumstances. The major disadvantage is that they are difficult to maintain at home. These brakes need tools, are complex to use, and need some expertise on your part.
Wheels & Tyres
Road bikes come in 3 major types of wheels:
- Clinchers wheels are the most common type of road bike wheel across the board. Basically, the tire is supported by an inner tube that is either made from rubber or latex. They are used on most road bikes, but thanks to their user-friendliness, they are popular among more expensive bikes. They are relatively economical, easy to replace or even repair but can be a bit heavier.
- Tubular wheels are more the first choice of pro riders. That being said, tubular wheels are not exclusive to pros only. They’re lightweight, and more resistant to punctures and you can see how that’s attractive. Since these types of wheels allow you to inflate with lower pressures they’re difficult to repair and replace on your own, plus pricey!
- Tubeless wheels are the hottest thing right now. Tubeless-ready wheels allow you to use a tube-free tire because they use sealant instead of the inner tube. While admittedly they’re pricey and difficult to repair, they have the low-pressure inflation of tubular wheels. Say, that you are ways away in a long ride and you get a puncture, the sealant seeps out and seals the hole. Crisis averted and you can continue your journey safe.
When it comes to choosing road bike wheels, there are a few things to take into account. First, you need to decide what type of riding you’ll be doing most. If you’re mostly riding on paved roads, then clinchers or tubeless wheels will be fine. If you’re planning on doing a lot of off-road riding, then tubular might be a better choice. Next, you need to think about wheel size.
Wheel Size
- 700c wheels are the most common size on road bikes. They’re a good choice for most riders because they offer a good balance of speed, comfort, and durability. 700c wheels can be used on both road and mountain bikes and come in a wide range of widths to fit different tire sizes.
- 650c wheels are smaller than 700c wheels and are often used on road bikes for riders with smaller frames or those who want a more nimble ride. 650c wheels can also be used on some mountain bikes.
Road Bike Size
The most important aspect to consider while purchasing a road bike is the size. You can prevent bike-related injuries by getting the proper bike size; it improves riding comfort and road cycling performance.
The size of a road bike is usually measured in centimeters, such as 48 cm, 50 cm, 52 cm, and so on. For simple reference, you may look at the table to get a better understanding of what to search for, but in the end, you’ll need to consult with the bike manufacturer’s size chart.
| Your Height | Suggested Road Bike Size | |
| Feet & Inches | Centimeters | Frame Size |
| 4’10” – 5’0″ | 148 cm – 152 cm | XX-Small (47 cm – 48 cm) |
| 5’0″ – 5’3″ | 152 cm – 160 cm | X-Small (49 cm – 50 cm) |
| 5’3″ – 5’6″ | 160 cm – 168 cm | Small (51 cm – 53 cm) |
| 5’6″ – 5’9″ | 168 cm – 175 cm | Medium (54 cm – 55 cm) |
| 5’9″ – 6’0″ | 175 cm – 183 cm | Large (56 cm – 58 cm) |
| 6’0″ – 6’3″ | 183 cm – 191 cm | X-Large (58 cm – 60 cm) |
| 6’3″ – 6’6″ | 191 cm – 198 cm | XX-Large (61 cm – 63 cm) |
Frequently Asked Questions on Road Bikes
Q: Is a road bike worth it?
A: Yes, they’re totally worth it! They’re the most comfortable and pleasant way to ride on roads starting outside most people’s front doors. They have superior aerodynamics and lower rolling resistance which give you more speed and endurance than other types of bikes.
Q: Do road bikes under $2000 come with disc or rim brakes?
A: The majority of new road bikes use disc brakes that operate by pushing pads housed in a caliper against a brake rotor attached to the wheel hubs. Though it’s not uncommon to see rim brakes on a road bike.
Q: Should I spend more than $2000 on a Road Bike?
A: The amount of money that you spend on a bike will depend on many different factors. But on average, you should spend around $1000-$2000. You must consider what type of riding you’ll be doing the majority of the time, what kind of features you are looking for, and if it is your first bike or not. If you are planning to use your bike every day it is definitely worth spending the extra money upfront as you will save more in the long run. If you’re a seasoned connoisseur that seeks performance then yes it’s worth it. If it’s your first bike ever, then definitely not, it’s too big of a commitment and gamble for someone unproven.
The Finish line
We would highly recommend the Schwinn Fastback Road Bike is the best overall because it has the most optimal blend of features, specs, and price. While highly affordable, the Diamondback Haanjo 2 Road Bike is our best value option if you are working with a budget and want to get the most. But if you want to step it up, then look no further than the SAVADECK Phantom 2.0 Road Bike as it offers you premium features. Fret not because we have included other options that might be more to your speed!
We have concluded a buying guide for the best road bikes under $2000, this is so you can be better informed. You might have different needs than someone else. We have reviewed each model individually for its features, specs, pros, and cons of each one of them. This way you can quickly compare between them and choose on the spot.