Best Road Bike Under 1000
So you are looking for the best road bike under $1000! Here are the top 5:
Specialized Allez Sport
The specialized allez sports comfortable yet fast geometry combined with its great handling make it the best bike under $1000. To get the most bang for your buck you want something comfortable enough to ride on but stiff enough to go fast.; the specialized allez sport is the best combination of these two qualities.
The A1 premium aluminum frame is even good enough quality to race on! The power transfer is amazing and the handling is responsive. If you are looking for the fastest bike of the bunch but still comfortable… the specialized allez is your best bet.
Trek Madone 1.2
If you are a brand new rider the Trek Madone 1.2 may be a better option for you. It is extremely comfortable, but more importantly it handles very well at slow speeds. The geometry is extremely relaxed positioning you more upright, great for comfort, terrible for handling at high speeds. If you are looking to really up the pace (racing for instance) then stay away from this bike as the frame is not stiff enough and steering at high speeds is sluggish.
Cannondale CAAD8 Sora 7
The cannondale CAAD8 Sora 7 is a great compromise between comfort and race geometry. This is a great all around bike under $1000.
Felt F85
The felt F85 is the most responsive bike in the under 1000 category meaning it is the stiffest and most race ready bike, if you aren’t looking to race then this bike may not be the best pick. It may be a little rough on anything but smooth pavement and make for an unenjoyable ride. What adds to the uncomfortable ride is the short head tube which may put you in an overly aggressive position.
KHS Flite 450
Looking to climb steep mountains? The KHS Flite 450 may be for you. With extremely low gears of 34:34 you can conquer nearly any steep grade. The Flite 450 also has a very wide tire 26c making it nice and smooth combined with its relaxed geometry. The less than stiff frame adds to the soft ride.