Shopping for your first road or gravel bike can be exciting but also overwhelming, given the wide variety of choices available. This guide will help you determine your needs and point you in the right direction on what bike you’re looking for.

First, consider what type of riding you'll be doing most.

For pure road riding, road bikes are designed for speed on paved surfaces, making them ideal for fitness, commuting, or long-distance rides.

For gravel riding, gravel bikes handle well on both tarmac and off-road trails. If you love the idea of exploring both paved and unpaved roads, a gravel bike offers that versatility.

Bikes are commonly made from aluminum, carbon fiber, or steel.

Aluminum frames are lightweight, affordable, and ideal for beginners.

Carbon fibre frames are lighter and offer superior ride quality, but they come at a higher price.

Steel frames are durable and comfortable but heavier.

Choose the frame material that best fits your budget and riding style.

The number of gears you need depends on your terrain.

Road bikes often come with two chainrings and a wide range of rear gears, perfect for climbing hills and riding fast on flat terrain.

Gravel bikes typically have lower gearing options for rougher trails and steeper climbs.

Look for a bike with gearing that matches the type of terrain you plan to ride.

Bikes come in a wide range of prices, so it’s important to set a realistic budget. As you get into higher price ranges, you’ll find better components, lighter materials (like carbon fiber), and more advanced features.

For road cycling:

Sub $2,000 range: Alloy frame, carbon fork, mechanical disc brakes, entry level components.

Example: CAAD Optimo ($2,000), Synapse Alloy ($1,700-3,000).

$2,500 and $3,200: Carbon frame, carbon fork, hydraulic disc brakes, mid level components.

Example: Synapse Carbon 4, Synapse Carbon 3, Synapse Carbon 2 LE, Synapse Carbon 2 RLE.

$4,000 and above: Carbon frame, carbon fork, hydraulic disc brakes, higher level components.

Example: SuperSix EVO.

For gravel cycling:

Sub $2,000: Alloy frame, carbon fork, entry level components.

Example: Topstone 4 ($1,735), Topstone 3 ($1,970).

$2,500 and above: Alloy frame, carbon fork, hydraulic disc brakes, mid level components.

Example: Topstone 2 ($2,730).

$3,500 and above: Fully carbon frame, carbon fork, hydraulic disc brakes, higher level components.

Example: Topstone Carbon 4 ($3,850), Topstone Carbon 3 L ($4,365), Topstone Carbon 2 L ($5,465), Kensuke 2.0.

Road bikes usually come with smoother, thinner tires (23-30mm), which are designed for speed and low rolling resistance. 

Gravel bikes, however, feature knobbier, wider tires (35-45mm or more) to provide better grip and comfort on uneven terrain. If versatility is important, look for a gravel bike with tires that can handle both road and off-road surfaces.

The right fit is crucial for comfort and performance. Many bike shops offer professional fitting services to ensure the bike is adjusted to your body proportions. Important measurements include your height, inseam, and reach to the handlebars. Try out a few bikes in person to get a feel for what fits best.

No matter how much research you do, nothing compares to riding a bike in person. Take a test ride to feel how the bike handles, accelerates, and brakes. You’ll get a better sense of whether the geometry and components meet your expectations.

Your budget should also include essential accessories like a helmet, bike pump, repair kit, water bottle cages, and comfortable cycling apparel. Clipless pedals and cycling shoes can also improve your efficiency, but they aren’t a necessity for beginners.

Buying your first road or gravel bike doesn’t have to be daunting. Focus on fit, budget, and the type of riding you want to do. Test ride a few options, and you’ll soon find the bike that’s perfect for your adventures.