Whether you choose the serenity of the outdoors and go mountain biking or love to leisurely ride around town, bicycles remain some of the best companions you can ever think of. It offers many advantages, such as easy exercise, free transportation, fresh air, and passion for a sport.
For those who are interested in cycling, but not willing to spend more than 300 bucks at this moment, I bring good news for you. There are now many affordable and well-built road bikes that cost under $300.
These are for both beginning bikers and experienced cyclists who want a cheaper road bike for everyday commuting use or leisure road riding.
We researched 10 best road bikes under 300 that are popular amongst owners and compiled a list of their features, advantages, and disadvantages to help you decide which one would be the best fit for you.
After thorough consideration, we have decided that the Schwinn Volare 1400 Road Bike is the best choice in this bunch.
It is an affordable road bike with all the style of a more expensive bike. Its paint job is beautiful, it comes in two sizes to ensure a perfect fit for anyone, and many reviewers commented on how well it rode.
The 21 gear options are a popular choice for both professionals and commuters alike.
Best Road Bikes Under $300
Footnotes: In this list, we have picked all 10 great road bikes with the price range $200 to $300. However, the price may change a bit depending on the vendor’s wishes at any time. Please make sure to check the availability, sizing options, and delivery schedules before ordering.
1. Schwinn Volare 1400 Road Bike
A well-known name in the biking world, Schwinn offers the Volare 1400, a 14-speed road bike with Shimano shifter, aluminum frame, and quick release tires.
It weighs a light 28 lbs. and, like other excellent Schwinn bikes, comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
With its alloy linear pull brakes, braking will not be an issue. It is also built for speed, given its light weight and oversized road tires.
Reviewers have commented on how easy it is to assemble, but noted that the brakes need some work – they are touchy and inconsistent. The seat included may also leave marks on your pants.
Overall, it’s a great frame for an affordable road bike, and many users happily use it for leisure riding and commuting.
Pros:
- Built for speed.
- Both tires are quick release tires.
- It is built for speed.
- The weight of 28 lbs makes the bike lightweight.
- Schwinn offers a Limited Lifetime Warranty with the purchase of their bikes.
Cons:
- Narrow size choice option.
- The brakes might need work before use.
- For convenience, the seat will have to be replaced.
Though the bike has a limited lifetime warranty and a narrow size option. Still, the Schwinn Volare 1400 is an excellent choice for both novice and experienced cyclists because of its lightweight aluminum frame, sharp appearance, and other outstanding features.
2. Vilano Tuono 2.0 Aluminum Road Bike
Whether you need a road bike for transportation or recreation, Vilano has got you covered. The Vilano Tuono 2.0 is a remarkable piece at a fantastic price.
It features a Shimano drive train that boasts an A050 SIS handlebar-mounted shifter, a lightweight 6061 aluminum frame with an integrated headset and steel fork that makes it feel lightweight, stable, and durable.
With the 700c doubled-walled CNC machined side wheelset, you will find it easy to commute and control your movements on different terrains – whether slippery smooth or rugged and rough.
The 21-speed gear allows you to change speed as you desire, which matches the braking system to promote safety no matter the rate at which you are cruising.
Its availability in small and large variants makes it suitable for different body sizes.
Having an urban comfort saddle and an easy-to-use handlebar keeps you comfortable all day no matter the distance you are riding.
It is indeed ideal for beginner bikers.
Pros:
- Presence of a triple alloy crankset of 50/40/30.
- The use of a headset to adjust the handlebar to preferred height.
- Front and rear Shimano derailleur ensures easy and smooth gear shifting.
- It has a water bottle holder and storage rack at the rear.
- The package comes with a replaceable pedal.
Cons:
- A poor quality tire that easily gets damaged on hilly terrain.
- Not easy to assembly without getting professional support.
- Poor quality control.
Even with all the fantastic features, this road bike is still affordable when compared with the best road bikes in its category.
As with other bikes of the same category, it is advisable to take it for tuning and safety checks by a professional.
3. EUROBIKE EURXC550 Road Bike
Coming with 21 speeds and two sizes, this EUROBIKE EURXC550 Road Bike is made of durable steel and weighs 31.5 lbs. It features 700c x 28mm tires, which many users said offer them a bit more traction on sand or dirt.
Its Dual Disc brake ensures it stops when you want it to stop, while the wheel’s design gives it a more stylish look than other road bikes. It comes with a free pedal and seat, too.
Reviewers mentioned that the customer service department does a wonderful job addressing missing or damaged parts and getting them to the owner right away.
Others said that the instructions for the bike are difficult to read and navigate and that they went to a bike shop to have the bike assembled.
The tube size can be hard to find, according to some users, and requires a special buy to find one that fits.
Pros:
- Steel tends to be more durable and long-lasting than aluminum.
- The wider tire is good for riding on different types of terrain.
- Double Disk brake offers a magnificent stopping force.
- Good grip 700x28c tires and light alloy rims.
- The package includes all the necessary tools, no additional tools needed.
Cons:
- The instructions for assembly are difficult to read.
- The tire tube size can be difficult to find and replace.
- Steel bikes may oxidize in wet climates, so this material may not be best in humid places.
The EUROBIKE is a great choice for a road bike that can handle a little bit of rough terrain on commutes or while riding for pleasure due to its wider tire size than the typical road bike.
Nevertheless, this can also be a challenge when it comes to repairs, as it may be hard to find a tire tube in its size.
4. Goplus Road Bike Commuter Bike
The Goplus Road Bike is an aluminum bike that comes in five fun color choices to match your preferences and personality.
It features a Shimano 21 speed shifter, high-performance 700C tires, and weighs about 32 lbs. It comes in one size (52 cm).
Its strong but lightweight aluminum frame makes it easy to increase your speed. It is easy to install and disassemble, too, with a quick-release front tire that makes storing it quick and easy.
Reviewers noted that the bike arrived with damaged parts in some circumstances, but that the seller was very responsive and eager to send the correct parts for repairs.
Whatever the case, this is one hell of bike for touring the city comfortably.
Pros:
- The quick release front tire is helpful for repairs during rides.
- Shimano A050 Thumb Shifter Included.
- AlloyCaliper Brake provides excellent stopping power.
- Weight capacity up to 440 lbs.
- Five color choices are available for your preferences.
Cons:
- Quite heavy for a road bike.
- It’s only offered in one size.
- The back tire is not quick release.
For the average cyclist, the Goplus would make a great, colorful choice for an everyday commuter bike or hobby road bike for a new rider.
It offers many of the important aspects of a road bike at an affordable price.
5. GMC Denali Road Bike
Not to be confused with the car, the GMC Denali road bike comes in four sizes to ensure you find the perfect fit your height.
Its 6061 aluminum frame is equipped with 700c x 32mm tires for a great on- or off-road ride. It comes with a bottle holder to put a suitable water bottle to prevent dehydration on your long ride. This bike is lightweight as weighs about 30 lbs only.
This bike is great for both racing and commuting. Its powerful brakes ensure you stop the moment you want it to stop, and the Vitesse racing rims are not only high-performance, but they also look great, too.
Assembly ease varied amongst reviewers, with many claiming it was simple while others said that they ended up having a bike shop do the assembly.
Others noted that the dial shifter can be hard for beginners to get used to and that the brakes may need professional adjusting before riding.
Pros:
- The bike comes in four sizes.
- It features wider tires for all types of terrain.
- A water bottle holder is included.
Cons:
- The dial shifters can have a learning curve for new riders.
- There’s no quick release for the wheels.
- The brakes may need work from the beginning.
- It’s on the heavier end for road bikes.
With four sizes to ensure a perfect fit, wider wheels for many types of terrain and dial shifters for learned shifting and control, the GMC Denali Road Bike can be great for both transportation and recreation for many years to come.
Check out this bike size chart to find the perfect bike size that suits your body frame and height!
6. Schwinn Men’s Volare 1200 Bike, 700c
Another Schwinn model, the Volare 1200 Bike, comes in one size, has 21 speeds, and features Shimano EZ Fire shifters that make riding easy, safe, and enjoyable.
Its frame is aluminum and weighs a light 26 lbs. As with all Schwinn bikes, it comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Being lightweight and fast, this bike is not only good for city riding but great as well for athletic training.
Users noted that the paint job is excellent – no stickers and that the brakes are very good for a bike of its price.
The handlebars are not height adjustable, though, and some reviewers suggested that the freewheeling design, seat, and handlebar grips may need upgrading.
Pros:
- The EZ Fire shifters are a popular choice.
- It’s lightweight at only 26 lbs.
- It has a very good paint job.
- The brakes are good for the price.
Cons:
- The handlebars are not height adjustable.
- It comes in one size only.
- The freewheel design isn’t as popular and may require repairs or upgrading.
The Volare 1200 is a road bike with a good frame that can be added to an upgraded but is also a great ride as it is.
The limited lifetime warranty that Schwinn offers is enough to make this a top contender for a bike that can take many miles of wear and tear on the road.
7. Takara Kabuto Single Speed Road Bike
One of two single-speed road bikes featured in this article, the Takara Kabuto comes in three sizes. It has a steel frame which will hold up under frequent use.
It features 700c x 32mm tires which can handle the smooth, open road and also any rugged terrain. It weighs 30 lbs. which is to be expected with the steel frame and the durability it offers.
It has both a freewheel and fixed gear capabilities, depending on your preference. It comes in three fun color combinations, too, so you can choose one that best fits your personality.
Some reviewers noted that it has 18 tooth freewheel and not the 16 tooth as stated in the description. Others suggested replacing the seat for added comfort during use.
Some of the very comfortable bike seats are listed and reviewed here, so take a peek before changing the factory-fitted seat that comes in the package.
Interested to know more, then read our full discussion of single speed bikes review in-depth.
Pros:
- It features Rear Flip Flop Hub for fixed gear or freewheel.
- There are wide tires for traction on all kinds of terrain.
- Its steel frame is durable and strong.
- It comes in three color combinations.
Cons:
- While strong, the steel will oxidize quicker than aluminum, so it may be best for dry climates.
- The stickers on the bike are hard to remove and leave lots of residues behind.
If interested in single-speed road bikes, the Takara Kabuto would be a great choice to try.
With proper maintenance and knowledge of possible improvements to add, it will last a long time and provide a great ride for any commuter or leisure rider.
8. Raleigh Bikes Rush Hour Fixed Gear City Bike
Another bike in the fixed gear bike category, the Raleigh Bikes Rush Hour City Bike is a fun bike that comes in four sizes, so you can choose one that best fits your height.
It weighs a light 24.5 lbs. and offers a more aggressive height handlebar, great for those wanting to get low and ride fast.
The frame is well-constructed and sturdy, with a good paint job consisting of multiple layers of color beneath the glossy finish.
While the seat is slightly cushioned, it would be more comfortable to upgrade it if you are planning on going on hour-long rides.
The free pedals are made of cast aluminum, so you might want to consider upgrading them, too.
While users raved about the beautiful paint job, they point out that the paint rubs off the rim when braking.
Pros:
- There are four sizes available.
- It’s lightweight at 24.5 lbs.
- It has a beautiful paint job.
- The low and aggressive handlebar placement is a good choice for those wanting more speed.
Cons:
- The brakes and seat may need replacing.
- The brakes rub the paint off the rims when in use.
Both beautiful and functional, the Raleigh Bikes Rush House Fixed Gear City Bike looks like a great bike for those wanting speed and style.
It’s ready to use after minimal assembly and can get you where you want to go or take you on fun, leisure rides for relaxation.
9. Vilano R2 Commuter Aluminum Road Bike
The Vilano R2 Commuter bike is the top choice under 300 bucks for stylish looks and design.
It features a 6061 double-butted aluminum frame for as lightweight as possible with all of the strength that comes with aluminum.
The bike has Shimano thumb shifters for 21 speeds, quick release wheels, and comes with pedals included (not always the case for road bikes).
It is available in three sizes and weighs about 27 lbs.
Reviewers liked the smoothness of the thumb shifters but had trouble with freewheel design and subsequently broken axles.
Many said that the seat and tires would need upgrading for maximum comfort and speed.
Pros:
- Available in three different sizes.
- The thumb shifters are smooth and easy to use.
- Both the back and front tires are quick release tires.
- Pedals included.
Cons:
- The freewheel design could result in bent or broken axles.
- This bike is on the heavier side.
The Vilano R2 Commuter bike lives up to its name as an excellent choice for those wanting a sturdy bike that they can ride for miles comfortably and then have peace of mind about leaving chained outside their home or office.
Many liked the thumb shifters and preferred them to other shifting mechanisms on other bikes.
Comfort, after all, is the most important factor to consider before choosing a road bike, no matter the price.
If you are looking for more info on Vilano Bikes, then here is a detailed article to help you.
10. Vilano Shadow 2.0 Road Bike
Another inexpensive Vilano road bike, the Shadow 2.0 features 14 speeds with a Shimano A070 STI Integrated Brake Lever that provides shifting and braking in one unit.
The frame is made of lightweight 6061 aluminum and comes in two sizes.
The Vilano Shadow weighs only 25 lbs.
This entry-level road bike is great for commuting, interval training, and even hill riding. It comes with free pedals, something that not all affordable road bikes provide.
It is easy to assemble, too.
Several reviewers had broken or missing parts when receiving this bike, but received great response from the Vilano customer service people.
Others noted that the seat will need to be replaced and that the stem may need lengthening or shortening based on your comfort level.
Since women love lightweight bikes, this item would be great for the bike-riding lady out there too.
Pros:
- It’s lightweight, weighing only 25 lbs.
- They have helpful customer service.
- The integrated brake lever takes practice but becomes fun to use later on.
Cons:
- The stem height is uncomfortable for some riders.
- The seat is uncomfortable and needs replacing.
While a learning curve, many cyclists find they learn to love the integrated bike lever that the Shadow 2.0 offers, making it a great choice for many riders.
Its lightweight and great customer service are perks to an already sturdy bike.
What to Look for When Buying a Road Bike Under $300
Features
When it comes to road bikes, a lightweight frame is essential. The goal is speed and ease when pedaling as opposed to the shock absorption and traction.
As there is a variety of heights and styles to choose from, make sure to choose one that best fits you.
You would also want a composite (carbon fiber) front fork for shock absorption as it will help with smoothness when you do encounter rougher road terrain.
Many road bikes also feature large, skinny tires for speed and momentum.
When it comes to handlebars, a drop or curled handlebar is preferred by most users. Some road bikes do come with a straight handlebar, but they are usually associated with mountain bikes.
Function
Road bikes are best for those interested in commuting and fitness because of their speed and lightweight.
They are intended for smooth, paved surfaces, although some bikes do offer wider wheels that can handle some light sand or dirt terrain.
These bikes can definitely be used in day-to-day life as a vehicle replacement, but cannot carry heavy loads. The rider’s backpack and the personal items in it are about all these types of bikes will be able to handle.
This is why it is important to check out some great trunk mount bike racks that can help you carry your bikes in long-distance or install a rack to load up your books and laptop as you ride your bike to college daily.
Frame Geometry
Road bikes come in different frames. The following is a brief description of each:
Sport (recreational) Geometry is the most popular setup in a road bike for part-time cyclists who want to ride up to 150 miles a week and participate in a few events a year.
These bikes feature a more upright riding position and more relaxed steering than a performance bike.
Performance (race) geometry is for the serious cyclist. They require a longer and more stretched out form for the rider, improving their speed with aerodynamics.
However, this posture could be tiring for newer riders or those using their bikes for commuting.
These bikes are usually very sensitive to steer, will feature pricier and well-made parts, and will be the most expensive of the road bikes.
The flat bar road bikes are the most popular for commuters, as the handlebar position lends itself to a more upright posture which works well for looking at the surroundings (like traffic).
These bikes will still be sensitive to steering compared to other types of bikes, but their components will be on the lower end, price-wise.
They are a great choice for those who want an easy-to-use bike without the unnecessary features of a competitive, performance-style bike.
Frame Materials
Road bikes also come in different materials, each one with its own advantages and disadvantages.
Aluminum frames are lighter than steel and less expensive than carbon fiber. They won’t oxidize like steel, so they are more suited for use in humid climates.
Aluminum isn’t necessarily a great material for shock absorption, so many aluminum bikes will have a carbon fiber front fork to absorb some of the vibrations of the road.
Carbon fiber bikes are more expensive than aluminum but will absorb more vibrations and provide a more comfortable ride.
These bikes will be pricier but worth the expense for someone who wants as a light of a bike as possible while still having a solid, comfortable ride.
Titanium offers the strength of steel but is the lightest weight material – and also the priciest. If you’re a heavy big guy who loves riding, you’ll want to consider a steel or titanium bike for maximum strength and longevity.
Wheels
Wheels will affect the weight of the bike, how well the bike accelerates and carries momentum and the traction it has over varying surfaces.
Most bikes come with their own wheelsets, but experienced cyclists will say that investing in a wheelset upgrade will improve your biking experience tremendously.
Wider tires will provide more traction when riding over rougher road terrain but will weigh more and be harder to get started and maintain momentum.
Thinner tires, on the other hand, will perform better on the open road and greatly increase speed and reduce the user’s fatigue.
Pedals
It’s not uncommon for road bikes to be sold without pedals – many manufacturers assume that experienced road bike users will have their own set of pedals that they prefer.
Here are some pedals you can buy or upgrade your bike with.
Platform bike pedals are the most common pedals associated with bikes. They offer treads for shoes to grip onto while in use.
There is no obstacle in removing the foot from these pedals, as in other types of pedals, which can be helpful for newer riders or those worried about crashing.
Pedal toe clips and straps allow the user to not only pedal down into the stroke but also pull up on the pedal. They feature a toe “cage” with a strap that goes around the ball of your foot.
Clipless bike pedals actually do “clip in” to the pedals in a similar way to skis and ski boots.
They feature all of the benefits of the pedal toe clips, with the flexibility of being able to remove your foot quicker and easier. In fact, clipless bike pedals will actually release in the event of a crash.
The 3-hole design is more popular for road bikers and weight distribution, but many new users find it helpful to start with the mountain biking style with 2-holes.
Brakes
One of the biggest helps to your road bike’s braking system is to use high-quality tires that aren’t overinflated.
Here are some kinds of brakes your bike may come with.
Caliper brakes are the most common, with the dual pivot brake being the most popular. It comprises two “arms” mounted on the central pivot mounting bolt.
V-brakes are gradually finding their way onto commuter and touring bikes after being primarily on mountain bikes for many years.
They are mounted onto bosses on the frame and offer great stopping power and some advantages for off-road use.
Cantilever brakes are each mounted to a boss on the frame, and use a center pull cable linked to a straddle cable which is connected to the two brake legs.
They are lightweight and offer more moderate braking power, which is enough for certain racing-friendly environments.
Disc brakes, on the other hand, are becoming more popular amongst road and commuter bikers. The brake disc is mounted to a specific hub and a brake caliper attaches to the fork.
These types of brakes are excellent in wet conditions, as the braking is not happening on a wet rim, but instead on a disc rotor.
In Conclusion
There is no better day than today to start getting out on the open road on two wheels, and now with the various affordable and well-made road bike options available, it’s easier than ever.
A bike can provide health, energy, an environmentally-friendly means of transportation, a community, and a hobby to be enjoyed for many years to come.
Doctors recommend riding a bike because it helps improve nutrition and your general wellbeing. These cycling nutrition tips would surprise you after you read them.
Many cyclists claim the open road can become addicting, in the best of ways.
With all of the affordable road bike options available on the market, it’s also something the whole family can afford to enjoy together.
The most important aspect of a road bike is that it has a durable and strong frame because a road bike can be personalized and upgraded to meet each user’s individual needs and wants.
There are many experienced cyclists who highly recommend the bikes in this best road bikes under 300 article.
They all concur that it’s not about having the most expensive equipment to start to enjoy biking, it’s about being willing to get out there and fall in love with the ride.
There’s a reason they say that when something comes back easily to you, it’s like “riding a bike.”
A bike is a portal to a new world for many children, and many adults are finding the same magic happens when they get back on two wheels and just start to ride.
Relative Reviews:
- Top 5 Commuter Bikes for Women Review
- See Our Top 10 Hybrid Bikes for Women!
- A Closer Look at Affordable & Stylish Gravel Bikes
Reference and Resources:
- How to Choose Road Bikes, by REI
- Road brakes buying guide, by wiggle