So, you’ve made the decision to get into the world of road cycling, yeah? Well, good for you! Cycling can bring with it so many good benefits. It’s a great way to stay fit and to meet like-minded people. It’s also a great alternative to using a gas-guzzling motor to commute to work each day.

Whatever your reason for deciding to become a cyclist, you will now need to start thinking about what bike will best suit your needs. There are loads of beginner road bikes available on the market at the moment—it’s knowing what’s going to work for you. Though mountain bikes and hybrid bikes are popular, entry-level road bikes are a better option for getting you around and a bit of research online, as well as a visit to the local bike shop is in order to brush up on your knowledge of the best bicycles at the moment.

What to look for in a beginner’s road bike

There are so many features available to enhance your experience, such as carbon forks, lightweight carbon fiber frames, disc brakes, lighting, seats, different gears and so on to ensure that each long ride is a safe and comfortable one. However, you don’t necessarily need to spend the Earth to start you off on your cycling journey, but there are a few things to bear in mind before you take the plunge with your first entry-level road bike or “beginner bicycle.” Here is what you should look out for:​

Those are the two main things to be concerned with. Basically, you want something that will keep you relatively safe and won’t break the moment you get it. Just in case you’re still a little unsure as to where to start looking for your first road bike below is a list of 5 of the most amazing road bikes for first time riders available in 2017.

1. Vilano FORZA 4.0 Aluminium Integrated Shifters Road Bike

Price range: High

This Vilano road bike is perfect for anyone new to the world of cycling. Built using a strong, lightweight aluminum frame, this model has 24 speeds to make your life easier when riding on any terrain. It’s also got Shimano STI integrated brake lever shifters making your ride as carefree as possible and its sleek black look will blend in wherever you go.

Verdict: For a first road bike, this is not a bad model. It comes 90% assembled so, even if you have no prior experience of putting bikes together, you can work this one out. Out and about it feels pretty smooth and sturdy to ride. The only real downsides are the tires are of substandard quality and the seat is pretty uncomfortable.

Overall rating: 8/10

2. Mercier Aluminium Road Bike with Shimano Shifting

Price range: Mid

This beginner road bike’s lightweight aluminum frame is perfect for maneuvering in and around traffic and other obstacles. Putting you in a more upright position than many road bikes, this model is great for anyone who’s just getting used to cycling. It’s fitted with Shimano shifters that enable a smooth gear change while in motion and aluminium brakes that are caliper-mounted to ensure even braking. There are 14 speeds in which to help you along every part of your journey and quality Shimano derailleurs to smoothen out your ride.

Verdict: I recommend this bike to anyone beginner cyclist. So many road bikes have such uncomfortable saddles, but this has one of the comfiest seats I’ve ever sat on. It feels very stable when riding and was so easy to assemble.

Overall rating: 10/10

3. Takara Kabuto Single Speed Road Bike

Price range: Low

If you’re on a bit of a budget, the Takara Kabuto road bike may be a model worth considering. It’s a great little beginner's bike and is perfect for that daily commute or leisurely ride in the countryside. One of the most prominent features of this bike is its range of vibrant colors that will make anyone stand out in the crowd. Having a frame that’s made from steel and 32 hole alloy wheels means this bike can withstand even the bumpiest of roads. And, just in case you do need them in a hurry, it’s fitted with alloy side pull brakes for fast, efficient braking.

Verdict: It’s a little heavier than a lot of road bikes, but still easy enough to maneuver around and feels pretty solid, so that’s not a big deal. The bike is very competitively priced and I love the way it looks, too. However, the brakes are not as powerful as some of the other models out there, and the seat really needs changing.

Overall rating: 8/10

4. Pure Fix Cycles Classic 16-Speed Road Bike

Price range: High

With several cool colors to choose from, including Dornbush Grey and Trentino Red, you know you’re getting quality with this beginner road bike. This Pure Fix model is made with a strong chromoly steel frame that’s well suited for anyone just starting out in cycling. Its 16-speed Shimano shifters will give you a smoother gear change while out and about while the Hutchinson Nitro II tires will keep you gliding across the road with ease. The bike even comes 90% pre-assembled so you can be on your way in minutes after it’s been delivered.

Verdict: What’s great about this bike is that it’s easily customizable. It works well as a beginners model yet can still be upgraded later on as you get better. The frame and components all feel well-made and it feels really solid when riding.

Overall rating: 10/10

5. Schwinn Men’s Phocus 1400 700C Drop Bar Road Bicycle

Price range: Mid

Another fine example of a beginner’s road bike is the Schwinn Phocus. You’ll get nothing but agility with this lightweight, aluminum frame. The bike’s fitted with high-quality Shimano shifters and high-profile alloy wheels for extra comfort while out on the road, as well as alloy caliper brakes for improved stopping ability. And, because it’s been designed with beginners in mind, you get an enjoyable yet effective ride.

Verdict: The bike itself is sturdy and responsive when out on the road. It’s really easy to assemble and it’s very good-looking. It’s basically everything you’d want in a beginner's bike. The only issue with it is the tires are really thin may want replacing quite quickly.​

Overall rating: 9/10​

For those of you that are into your cycling already, you’ll no doubt know what about the 29er. But, for those of you just starting out, you may be scratching your head at this point. A 29er mountain bike basically refers to a mountain bike that has 29” wheels. This is the largest wheel size available for standard bikes and they are great for being used in a number of situations.

What’s so good about 29ers?

1. Because of their large size, 29er wheels allow for easier riding over tough terrain. They’re also great for climbing, too, as they have improved traction due to the extra tread.
2. Its standard physics that larger wheels roll faster, so picking up speed with these wheels will not be an issue.​

Anything that’s not so good?

1. Because of their large size, 29ers are more difficult to maneuver.
2. And, unless you pay extra to have ultralight models, the larger tires will add weight to the bike, making overall acceleration slower.​

Other than that, they’re pretty good all-around mountain bikes for riders of all abilities. Keep reading to check out some of the top 5 29er mountain bikes available on the market right now:

1. Kent Thruster T-29 Men’s Mountain Bike

Price range: Low

If you want a 29er mountain bike that looks good, feels good, and won’t cost your whole month’s paycheck, look no further. The Kent Thruster T-29 has a lightweight aluminum frame and alloy rims that makes it easy to move around. It also comes with all-terrain tires that grip well in all kinds of weather. Fitted with RS25 Shimano shifters and TZ31 Shimano rear derailleurs, this bike is suitable for both beginner and intermediate cyclists. For effective stopping, the bike is fitted with a dual rim linear pull braking system. It also comes 85% assembled.

Verdict: The bike is relatively easy to put together and I found it to be pretty lightweight for a 29er. For the money you’re paying, the quality is pretty good too. The only downfall is you can’t adjust the handlebar height.

Overall rating: 10/10

2. Diamondback Overdrive 29 Hardtail Mountain Bike

Price range: High

This bike is ideal for those who are serious about cycling. Not for the faint hearted, the Overdrive has a 6061-T6 aluminum alloy frame that’s lightweight yet strong, and will support you while on even the toughest of terrains. The bike is also fitted with Tektro disc brakes to give you maximum braking capabilities. Another fantastic feature about this bike is as soon as you get it out of the box, it’s so nearly ready to go. Simply put on the seat, pedals, and front wheel and away you go.

Verdict: It has a stealth black look that just oozes quality and its sturdiness while riding cannot be faltered. My only gripe is the seat could be a little more comfortable.

Overall rating: 10/10

3. SE Bikes Big Mountain 1.0 Mountain Bike

Price range: High

A brand new model out this year, the Big Mountain gives you everything you need from a reliable mountain bike. It comes equipped with a 24-speed Shimano drivetrain and double-wall rims to help you have a smooth ride regardless of what terrain you encounter. The bike’s lightweight alloy frame also comes fitted with rack and water bottle mounts, ready for your next venture. To give you maximum stopping capabilities to help keep you safe the bike is fitted with Tektro hydraulic brakes, which are some of the best around at the moment.

Verdict: This bike is fairly easy to put together and provides a good, solid ride. However, for a mid-priced model, I do feel the quality could be a little better, particularly when it comes to the tires.

Overall rating: 8/10

4. Vilano Blackjack 3.0 29er Mountain Bike MTB

Price range: Mid

As well as looking the part, this red and black, hand-built hydroformed alloy frame will help keep your ride smooth and bump-free. Its 29” double-walled alloy wheels allow you to glide over even the toughest terrain with no trouble at all. Fitted with Shimano front and rear derailleurs, as well as a Shimano integrated shifter/brake lever, you know you’re getting nothing but quality with this bike. There are 24 speeds in which to help through traffic, up hills, or across muddy paths, and it’s got responsive, mechanical disc brakes to slow you down when you need them most.

Verdict: The Vilano Blackjack is a fantastic example of an all-round decent mountain bike. It’s one of the smoothest rides I’ve had from a 29er in all my days of cycling. It’s lightweight yet stable, made of quality materials, and looks great, too. What more could you want?

Overall rating: 10/10

5. Mongoose Impasse Dual Full Suspension Bicycle 29-Inch

Price range: Mid

Another mid-price mountain bike, the Mongoose Impasse provides you with a stress free, smooth ride on a bike that’s been designed with both comfort and performance in mind. Its Element suspension fork allows greater control while the SRAM twist sifters allow easy changing of the 21 gears. It comes with alloy disc brakes fitted to both the front and rear as well as alloy wheels with a quick release mechanism on the front. All of these features and more will ensure your ride is as comfortable and safe as it can be with this bike.

Verdict: While the bike itself seems pretty durable, I do feel the design leaves a lot to be desired. It is also very heavy and not as easy as some of the others to maneuver, so not sure how suitable it would be for a beginner.

Overall rating: 7/10​

If you’re serious about cycling then you’ll know how important it is to have a good quality road bike. Though entry-level road bikes are perfectly OK, if your bike is for racing or for endurance, getting the right bike for your needs is paramount. One thing that you’ll still want to look out for in a road bike—regardless of what it will be used for—is the weight on the bike.

Having a lightweight road bike, such as an aluminum frame or carbon frame, carbon forks, and aluminum wheels with slime tires brings a number of advantages with it. First, because it’s light, it’s relatively easy to maneuver. Having less weight to lug around means you can get more speed for less work. Finding the right road bike can be exhausting as you need to find a fine balance in between the weight of the bike and its durability. Some of the lightest bikes suffer slightly in terms of stability.

To help you in your search for your next road bike, below is a short guide as 5 of the top lightest road bikes available at the moment:

1. GMC Denali Pro Road Bike (56 cm Frame)

Price range: Low

If you’re looking for a good all-around, lightweight road bike and you are on a bit of a budget, this may be the model for you. This high-quality road bike, features a 16-speed Microshift drivetrain, 700c aluminium rims with 25” tires and dual pivot alloy brakes giving you a safe but sturdy ride. The recommended height range for this bike is 5’9” to 6’1” and is a great bike for anyone that’s just starting out in the world of cycling. It’s hand-crafted, lightweight aluminium frame means it’s easy to move around yet still responsive enough when you need it.

Bike weight: 27 lbs

Verdict: Considering this lightweight road bike is almost a quarter of the cost of the some of the top end models, it’s excellent value for money. The overall quality is not bad and offers a pretty comfortable ride. It may not be as durable and long lasting as some others available, but with that much of a difference in price you can afford to buy a few replacement parts should you ever need to.

Overall rating: 9/10

2. BEIOU 2016 700C Road Bike

Price range: High

For those of you who mean serious business this BEIOU road bike may be more up your street. It may be a little on the expensive side, but it’s also one of the lightest, most durable models available that will have you racing like a pro in no time. Weighing in at less than 20 lbs., this lightweight, stealthy-looking road bike is packed with features to make it the fine example that it is. These include a carbon fiber body frame and drop handlebar, Shimano front and rear derailleurs and brakes, 11 speeds controlled by a Shimano speed control system, and a BEIOU carbon unibody fork.

Bike weight: 18.3 lbs

Verdict: This bike looks good, feels great to ride, and is so unbelievably light. It’s great for professionals and anyone wanting to get into the world of cycling but is a little on the expensive side.

Overall rating: 9/10

3. Tommaso Imola Compact Aluminium Road Bike

Price Range: Mid

With a compact aluminium frame, this lightweight road bike is fantastic for zooming in and out of traffic on your daily commute. It’s both durable and reliable and looks great too. With its Shimano precision shifting, this bike will handle even the toughest terrain without so much as making a squeak. It comes with premium handlebars that are comfortable to grip and soft on the hands.

Bike weight: 27 lbs

Verdict: It rides really well, it’s averagely priced, and has some of the most comfortable handgrips I’ve ever held. However, to ensure you get the best ride from this bike and to protect the warranty, you will need to take it to a professional to have it assembled.

Overall rating: 8/10

4. Raleigh Bikes Grand Sport Road Bike

Price Range: Mid

Get the best of both worlds with this lightweight road bike by Raleigh. It’s got a sleek, classic look, but don’t let that fool you as this bike is a beast. Not only will it glide across the road with ease and speed but it will also tackle even the most rugged of hills. It comes fitted with Shimano Claris 16-speed shifters and a high-quality Chromoly frame to give you a stable yet lightweight ride. Stopping isn’t a problem either with this bike as it's kitted out with custom-made dual pivot brakes for maximum safety. For those of you with no prior experience to building a bike don’t let this road bike put you off. A skilled bike mechanic could probably have it assembled in around 30 minutes, whereas someone with no experience in building bikes may spend a couple of hours putting it together.

Bike weight: 23.8 lbs

Verdict: This bike is of the highest quality all around. It’s lightweight yet feels stable, it looks good, and it’s competitively priced for what you’re getting.

Overall rating: 10/10

5. Vilano Aluminium Road Bike Commuter Bike

Price range: Low

Another fantastically priced example from Vilano, this road bike is ideal for anyone just starting out in the world of cycling or are on a budget. It's a simple-looking road bike that’s equipped with 21 speeds to help with any type of terrain you may encounter on your travels. The double butted aluminum frame is super lightweight and allows for easy maneuverability while the Shimano thumb shifters ensure you have a smooth and care-free ride. Some assembly is required when you get the bike, which you can do yourself if feeling up to it, otherwise take it to your local bike shop where they’ll assemble it for you for a small fee.

Bike weight: 26.5 lbs

Verdict: The Vilano Aluminium road bike may not look anything special, but it does what it says on the box. It’s quite easy to assemble and seems pretty durable while riding. The brakes do work but could maybe do with an upgrade. All-in-all, it’s not a bad buy for the money.

Overall rating: 8/10​

The Schwinn Bicycle Company is one of the most iconic American bicycle manufacturing companies to ever grace the Earth. Founded in Chicago in 1895, it quickly became the leading manufacturer of American bicycles throughout the majority of the 20th century. And that was all thanks to German-born Ignaz Schwinn.

Schwinn was a mechanical engineer so when it came to building bicycles, he was a natural. The company’s produced various different models over the years including the famous Corvette and Sting-Ray models that were launched during the ‘50s and ‘60s. However, one type of Schwinn bicycle that’s remained popular since its release in the ‘70s is the good, old mountain bike.

Mountain bikes provide the rider with a comfortable, safe ride that’s great for almost any terrain. They’re good in rain, sand, and even snow. If you’re on the lookout for a decent bicycle, then Schwinn is one of the best places you could possibly go. Keep reading to find out what the top 5 best Schwinn Mountain Bikes of 2017 are:

1. Schwinn S29 Men’s 29” Wheel Full Suspension Mountain Bike

Price range: Mid

This mountain bike has an aluminum full suspension frame and 29” wheels giving you a much more solid ride. Performance and durability are enhanced with the S29, thanks to its top quality SR Suntour suspension fork and 3-piece crank. There are 21 speeds on this bike to choose from depending on your need. So, whether you need some extra grunt to get you up a tricky hill or a smoother ride to gain speed on your descent, you can be sure you’ll get it with this Schwinn mountain bike. It’s most suitable for riders 5’8” and above and is recommended for those aged 14 and over.

Verdict: I found the S29 to be quite a solid, good-looking mountain bike. However, it does have a few issues. The first is that at 37 lbs it’s quite heavy to maneuver and the second is that it’s not really built for off-road use. But, if you’re looking for a good on-road bike that looks cool and gives you a smooth ride, this is the bike for you.

Overall rating: 9/10

2. Schwinn Men’s High Timber 27.5” Wheel Mountain Bicycle

Price range: Low

If you’re looking for a decent all-around, budget mountain bike, the High Timber is the ride for you. Kitted out with Shimano twist shifters and front and rear alloy pull brakes you won’t be disappointed with the quality of this bike. Its 27.5” wheels are suitable for riding across all kinds of terrain while the Schwinn alloy crank offers optimal gearing for a much smoother journey. Assembly of this mountain bike isn’t particularly hard and will take around 15 minutes all together.

Verdict: For a mountain bike that’s of the lower end of the market price, it’s not too bad. Sure, the quality could be a little better, but for the price you're paying, it’s not too bad. It is fairly sturdy and robust and isn’t going to fall apart in five minutes—it’s just not as well-made as some of the company’s pricier models. It is probably more suited to a beginner at mountain biking opposed to a pro.

Overall rating: 8/10

3. Schwinn Bonafied 29” Wheel Mountain Bike

Price range: High

If you have a few extra dollars to spend, the Schwinn Bonafied is one model to seriously consider. This hardtail mountain bike has 24 speeds to give you even more control throughout your entire ride. Its double wall, high-profile rims are both lightweight and sturdy, providing you maximum durability. With 2.25 inch wide tires, this mountain bike is ideal for use on bumpy terrain. It also looks classy too with its color-matching rims and end plugs.

Verdict: This mountain bike is a very heavy bike, weighing in at 39 lbs altogether. However, it’s one of the best-made durable models out there. As with all Schwinn bikes, quality shines through and can be seen in spades in this outstanding model.

Overall rating: 10/10

4. Schwinn Traxion Mountain Bike 29” Wheels

Price range: High

Nothing will hold you back as you go hurtling through the rocky terrain with this full suspension mountain bike. The Schwinn Traxion Mountain Bike features a dual suspension, aluminum frame that offers durability all around. There is the 21-speed Shimano EZ-Fire trigger shifter and it’s fitted with Shimano alloy cranks and rear derailleur, so it oozes quality throughout. It’s got an extremely powerful Schwinn suspension fork in which to absorb some of those bumps from that tough terrain.

Verdict: What I like most about this Schwinn mountain bike is that it stands out in the crowd. It has bright, vibrant colors that look fantastic as you ride along. The frame’s durable, the brakes are good, and you get an overall good ride out of it. The only real thing that lets it down slightly is the price.

Overall rating: 9/10

5. Schwinn Protocol 1.0 Men’s Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike

Price range: Mid

For a mid-range mountain bike, the Schwinn Protocol measures up pretty well. The aluminum dual suspension frame is light and easy to move while its 24-speed Shimano EX-Fire trigger shifters allow for smooth shifting out on the trail. It’s also fitted with Promax front disc brakes and a rear alloy linear pull brake in which to keep you safe throughout your ride. This mountain bike looks the part too. With its bright red shine, you’ll be turning heads wherever you go with this beauty.

Verdict: Overall, it’s a pretty solid mountain bike that’s perfect for tackling the toughest of terrain. Assembly can be done in under 30 minutes and it rides really well. My only real issue is that the seat is really uncomfortable.

Overall rating: 8/10​