After successfully reviewing high ends bikes( best gravel bikes under $1000 and best gravel bikes under $2000 ), lots of people have called asking for the best gravel bikes they can buy without emptying their bank accounts. After assessing their concerns, we thought it wise to help. Interestingly, there are lots of valuable entry-level gravel bikes that can fit your needs without draining your pocket. Here is the review of the 8 best gravel bicycles under 500 dollars.
This can help you make your choice depending on the features appealing to you. Keep reading to find out those high-end gravel bikes, which you can buy at affordable prices. You will know why these are products made on the list and why you must choose them.
At a glance: Best Gravel Bikes Under $500
Bike Brand |
Speed | Features | Price |
Schwinn Sporterra Editor’s Choice |
14 Speed |
|
Check Latest Price |
Raleigh Bikes | 21 Speed |
|
Check Latest Price |
HUZONG Bike
|
21 speed |
|
Check Latest Price |
Retrospec AMOK
|
8 Speed |
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Check Latest Price |
Mongoose Artery Comp |
24 speed |
|
Check Latest Price |
Mongoose Artery Expert |
27 Speed |
|
Check Latest Price |
Schwinn Vantage F3 |
21 Speed |
|
Check Latest Price |
Mongoose Elroy |
14 Speed |
|
Check On Amazon |
N.B: Price In and between $500
5 Things to consider before buying a cheap gravel bike under 500
There are some interesting things to look out for when you are looking for this kind of bike and here are some of them.
1. Frame material
You have seen the importance of framing on any bike. The material determines the weight. Many people prefer lightweight and durable materials such as aluminum, copper, carbon, and so on. Aluminum is always the best because of its absorption feature.
2. Wheel size
The wheel also determines the rim and tire. You must look for the standard size. Ensure that it is a 700c wheel, this is the standard size. Ensure that you get the type of wheel that can be strong for the place you want to ride.
3. Gear
Gear transmission is also important. This can make a great difference when it comes to teeth and the gearing system. Ensure that you choose those that easily facilitate your travel purpose.
4. Braking system
Perhaps the most important factor to consider when you are making your choice is the braking system. There are different kinds of braking systems. Each of them is great and can serve different purposes. Ensure that the braking system is one that can stop you where and when you want.
5. Handlebar shape
When you are looking for this, you have to bear your comfort as well as riding style in mind. The most commonly used gravel bikes include the flat and drop bars.
Best Gravel Bikes Under 500 Dollars
There is a lot of cheap gravel bicycle on the market, We analyzed 18 bicycles, and Here is our final list of 8 best gravel bikes under 500 in 2023.
1. Retrospec AMOK v3 8-Speed Urban Gravel Bike
Retrospec Amok is one of the most affordable speed gravel bikes on the market today. It is remarkably different, because of the extraordinary lightweight frame material. This is exactly what one should expect from an aluminum-based frame. It is indeed user-friendly; it is easy to ride in any kind of environment. You can use it off-road and on the road.
Features and Benefits
- Lightweight frame: one of the greatest attributes of this is the lightweight frame. The aluminum frame makes it durable, and it is easy to carry from one to another.
- Durable tire: It comes with the most durable tire, which you can comfortably use on any terrain. The tires can serve double functions. You can use it for an easy ride on a straight, and smooth surface. In the same way, you can use it even in challenging terrain.
- Durable fork: one of the key features of a good bike is a durable fork. The fork of this model is highly durable. It comes from the best quality of hi-tensile steel. This makes it strong. The tires run on the fullest rebounding strength. You can use this on any road without difficulties.
- The best quality pedals: most importantly the pedals are great, it resembles the popular BMX style. This is indeed innovative. You can ride it in any kind of terrain, and you are sure of a balance and resilience trip. This works with the eight-speed and integrated derailleur shifter. Because of the Shimano brand, there is no challenge with the shifting and gearing systems.
Pros
- It is the perfect choice for work and commuting
- This bike comes with an instruction guide that can assist the installation process
- It’s not expensive, and this makes it a good alternative for those on a strict budget
- It comes in various sizes and shapes; this makes it easy for novice buyers.
Cons
- The ergonomics deficiency is one of the major drawbacks of this bike
Frequently asked questions
Question-1: Can I hang the bike in my abode?
Answer: You do not need to hang the bike. Even if you do, there is nothing to worry about because it is lightweight
Question-2: I want to get this bike, but I reside in a poor terrain environment.
Answer: Yes, it is a versatile bike, as you can use it on a smooth road and off-road
Question-3: I am concerned about weight, is it easy to use?
Answer: When it comes to weight, there is nothing to worry about. It comes with an aluminum frame and this makes it lightweight.
From all indications, this bike is for your comfort and easy ride. You can rely on this because it can facilitate your movement.
2. Mongoose Artery Comp Gravel Road Bike
If you are looking for that versatile bike you can use for different kinds of purposes, you can always think of the mongoose Artery Comp gravel bike. It is a road bike, and you can use that for different kinds of purposes. As a versatile product, you can use it for sports, commuting, and in different terrains. It has other fantastic features that make it great.
Features and Benefits
- Highly versatile: perhaps the most outstanding part of this bike is its versatility. You can expect this from a hybrid bike. It works well in the road as well as off-road. You can use this in different conditions with relative ease. If you are looking for a bike for fitness purposes, this model is well suited for that.
- Aluminum frame for durability: furthermore, it features the most durable frame in that industry. This is an aluminum frame. It is very easy to ride and you can ride comfortably on any terrain.
- Effective braking system: the braking system is perhaps the most reliable in that industry. It comes with the best quality classic alloy linear-pull braking system. You can just pull the brake and it will come to a halt.
- The best quality crank: the other interesting part of the bike is the tough as well as the durable Shimano M171 28/38/48T crank system. Because of that, you are sure of having the most efficient ride. It makes pedaling easy. You are not going to encounter any difficulty when you use the bike.
Pros
- The bike is easy to assemble and you do not need to be an expert to fix the components
- The weight is good and it is meant for a long ride
- You can customize it to make it more efficient
- Most importantly, it is a hybrid bike and because of that, you can use it on different terrains.
Cons
- There is a learning curve to it, especially the gear selection process
Frequently asked questions
Question-1: What type of tires does the bike use?
Answer: The tire is great and it is the normal 700c, which is durable and good for any road
Question-2: What is the standover height of this bike?
Answer: The standover height for the large twenty inches model is 22 inches.
Question-3: Can I use it for a long ride?
Answer: Yes, it is most suitable for that kind of ride and that is because of the weight.
When it comes to quality, there are a few bike brands that can compare to this model. It can satisfy your purpose very well, it is fun and great to use.
3. Mongoose Artery Expert Gravel Bike
This is another wonderful gravel bike from Mongoose. It is good for the roads, but you can use it on other terrains as well. It is famous for its comfort and durable construction. If you want a bike that can take you to your destination with ease, then you can think of this great and wonderful product. It comes with other fantastic features.
Features and Benefits
- Aluminum frame: when you are looking for any gravel bike, the first area to attract your attention is the frame. From the design, you can see that it features the most durable frame, which is of the aluminum brand. It is rugged and suitable for all kinds of terrains.
- Comfortable ride: the other outstanding feature of the product is the Shimano Alivio 27-speed drive train. It is one of the best quality brands. This makes riding smooth and comfortable. Moreover, it is reliable. You can rely on it for your wonderful and great ride.
- Wonderful braking system: besides it comes with the classic alloy linear-pull brake. It is easy to apply that brake, and it is going to come to a halt. You are not going to find it hard to use this, because it is there for your satisfaction.
- Versatile use: furthermore, it is a versatile product and this means that you can use it in different kinds of environments. It is good for a good and smooth road, as well as rough roads.
Pros
- It is not difficult to put the parts together, and you can just stick to the instructions to do that
- It comes with a lightweight aluminum frame, making it ride to your destination with ease
- The bike runs at a very fast speed and this is due to the wonderful braking system
- This bike is trustworthy and reliable. When you are looking for the best, you can opt for this.
Cons
- It is not easy to assemble as you are made to believe.
- The price is a little bit upper than the budget.
Frequently asked questions
Question-1: I am concerned about my safety, is the tire reliable?
Answer: The tire is one of the key features that stand Mongoose bikes out. It is great and the size is 700c
Question-2: Is it easy to assemble the bike?
Answer: It all depends on your expertise. If you were used to assembling other bikes, then you can consider this model.
Question-3: Can I get help from the sellers when I order the product?
Answer: One thing you like about this product is the wonderful customer support. You can always get help when you need it.
Mongoose is always a brand to beat. This model is a great product and you can make it part of you. You derive value for your money.
4. Schwinn Vantage F3 700c Sport Bike
This bike is here to assist you to achieve your different aims of having a bike. It can serve different purposes such as sport and commuting. It is sleek and lightweight. Because of that, it is simple and very easy to use. Besides, it is highly durable and comes with every feature you want from a great bike.
Features and Benefits
- Great for every rider: from the design, you can see that the bike is great for intermediate and advanced riders. If you are a beginner, it might not be the best because it runs at the fastest speed. It is a high-performance bike.
- Great running technology: when you use the bike, you are sure of a smooth ride because of the soft tail suspension. You can reach your destination fast. Also, you are going to be very comfortable when you use the bike. It does not in any way disappoint.
- Great tires for smooth riding: it features 32c tires and this mounts on Alex DC 26 double-walled rims. When you run on a tough surface, you do not feel the impact because of the great rim. Also, the gearing system is wonderful.
- Durable construction: the other aspect of the bike worth mentioning is durable production. You can see from the design that it is highly durable and that means that it does not disappoint when you use it.
Pros
- The most interesting aspect of the bike is the durable construction
- It comes with great tires and this makes it easy to run on different surfaces
- Furthermore, you can customize the bike, especially the rack and tender
- It can run very fast and that means that it can take you to your destination fast
Cons
- There is a problem with the pedal
Frequently asked questions
Question-1: What is the size of the wheel?
Answer: The rim and wheel are the normal sizes and that is 700c
Question-2: I am looking for information about size, do they have extra-large size bikes?
Answer: There are different sizes including extra large
Question-3: Can I buy the bike for my kid?
Answer: This bike is not meant for learners. It is more useful for intermediate and advanced users. you can read our kid bike article to get the perfect bike for your kid.
In all, this bike is one hundred percent worth it. If you want the most reliable cycle, you can select this model.
5. Mongoose Men’s Elroy Adventure Bike
If you are truly in need of an adventure ride, then this Mongoose bike is definitely for you. It is for all men to ride. When it comes to an up ride there is no other bike that can compare with this wonderful product. The design is such that it can take you anywhere, and it is a home to wherever you want to go. Once you are determined for that adventure, the bike can take you to any length you want to go.
Features and Benefits
- Versatile ride: one thing great about this model is its versatile nature. Though you can always rely on this for that adventure ride, you can use it comfortably for other kinds of riding purposes. This is because of the bike geometry. The design is such that you would find fun and comfortable to use. It is indeed ahead of others in several respects.
- The effective braking system for that smooth ride: most importantly, you can take to your destination with great confidence knowing that this bike is not going to disappoint you. The braking system is perhaps the most outstanding feature of the bike. The brake lever and mechanical braking disc ensure that you will at the very point. There is no other way to have a smoother ride than this great model.
- The best rack: moreover, it comes with the best quality and most integrated bottle opener. This makes it even more fun to use a bike. The rack is such that you can comfortably take two panniers. In addition to that, there is the rear rack and this means that you can carry a lot of things with you when you ride this wonderful bike. It is indeed a bike like no other.
- Internal cable routing for bottle cage: it is obvious that the makers of the bike are ready for the adventure ride you can take with this bike. When you ride, you would not be short of water. There would always be water and the essence is that you are going to stay hydrated whenever you ride with this bike because you can easily take your water along with you.
Pros
- Very durable construction and that last longer than others
- This is a versatile bike and because of the design, you can use it for different kinds of riding purposes
- It is the best for adventure and can take you to the most difficult terrain
- It also comes with the most effective braking system.
Cons
- it comes with peripheral parts and these are junk
Frequently asked questions
Question-1: Does it come with enough teeth on its crank?
Answer: Yes, it comes with 12-32 on the rear and 48, 34 on the front
Question-2: Is the rack removable?
Answer: If you no longer need the rack you can remove them
Question-3: Can I upgrade the bike to the bigger model?
Answer: It is left to you; you can do the spacing and you can achieve the same purpose.
This is a high-end utility bike. Because of the design, you can use it for different purposes and you can use it to convey your important small luggage as well.
6. Raleigh Bikes Talus 1 MD/17
Raleigh bikes are poles ahead of others when it comes to quality. The company has over the years introduced various kinds of bikes to the market and this can serve different purposes. For whatever purpose you want, Raleigh will have a bike. If you intend to engage in difficult terrains, the company has Talus 1 MD/17 readily available for you. It is great because of its wonderful features.
Features and Benefits
- Durable construction: when it comes to durability and longevity, this model is outstanding. It comes with the best quality frame material of a high tensile steel component. This does not only make that bike durable, but the other aspect of it is that it is very comfortable.
- Great and durable fork: besides, it comes with the best quality SR sun tour fork, and this comes with 75mm. This makes travel more comfortable with this. Even if you encounter the most difficult bumps, you can come out of it easily. This is possible because of the wonderful fork.
- Fast, because of the great gearing system: Most importantly, the product can boast of EZ fire trigger shifters. This offers a 21-gearing system. It means that there are 21 gears you can choose from. You can customize your bike so that you can reach your destination without difficulties.
- Wonderful braking system: it is important that when you use this kind of product you consider the brake. One of the most distinguishing aspects of the bike is the braking system. The V brake makes it easy to stop at the spot you want. When it comes to comfort, this product is great and it is not surprising that it makes the list. What else do you want? This model is affordable.
Pros
- This bike is great for different kinds of terrains
- The bike is comfortable and durable and this is because of the steel frame component
- If you are looking for a bike that offers stability and easy handling, choose this model
- An effective gearing system means that you can select your gear for a comfortable ride
Cons
- When it comes to controlling, it can be difficult because of the bike geometry
Frequently asked questions
Question-1: Is the bike good for hills?
Answer: Yes, you can select the appropriate gear for different terrains
Question-2: Is my safety guaranteed with this bike?
Answer: It comes with the most effective V braking system and this is strong
Question-3: Is this bike durable?
Answer: It is durable as the frame features a steel component.
There is hardly any other model that can compare with this product. It is one hundred percent reliable, and you get value for your money when you order this model.
7. Takara Shiro Adventure Bike
Another great adventure bike by Takara. It comes with a great Shiro disc braking system. Because of the design, you can ride difficult terrains without difficulty. Moreover, it is such strong that you can use it for several years without difficulties. This bike is wonderful because you can use it on any kind of terrain whether it is smooth or rough. It comes with high volume 700 by 40c tires. This makes it easy to absorb any kind of shocks emanating from potholes.
Features and Benefits
- Frames: one of the major considerations in buying this kind of product includes the frame. From the design, it certainly features the most durable and tensile steel frame. This means that the bike can undertake different terrains with ease. Moreover, it is comfortable and easy to use.
- Great braking system: it comes with a great braking system. When you ride it, there is absolutely nothing to worry about, about this product, including your safety. This is because it comes with the most reliable braking system. Both the rear as well as the front braking system are wonderful and efficient.
- Moves at great speed: the bike can move at a very fast speed. Thanks to the Shimano drive train and this drives it fast. You can reach your destination fast.
- High volume tires: the tires are great enough and high in volume. Because of that, you can easily get through potholes without feeling the impact.
Pros
- The bike is great for starters, because of the user-friendly features
- It is designed with high-quality materials and this makes it durable
- The bike is also affordable
- It is very powerful and can withstand any terrain
Cons
- There is a problem repairing the bike
Frequently asked questions
Question-1: What is the weight of this bike?
Answer: The bike is lightweight and it weighs 40 lbs.
Question-2: Does it come with shifters?
Answer: Yes, it comes with shifters and handlebars
Question-3: Can I take my bottle of water along?
Answer: To show that it is meant for adventures, it comes with a water bottle holder.
It is one of the best and most affordable gravel bikes you can buy today. This comes with the most innovative features. Try this today.
8. Motobecane Gravel X1 Disc Brake Super Road Bike
Are you looking for that great bike that can dominate the gravel? Then you have seen the correct product here. It comes with everything you need. The model is super-efficient and it is very solid. It is not going to disappoint you. The braking system is such that it can stop you when and where you want it.
Features and Benefits
- Efficient braking system: one of the most interesting features of the product is the effective braking system. It can stop you when you want. The drivetrain ensures maximum power transfer and efficient movement.
- Durable frame: this model comes with the most efficient aluminum frame. It does not disappoint and it can stop where you want it to stop.
- Strong and durable tires: moreover, it uses the most efficient and durable tires. 700c tire means that it comes with volume and it can stop you where and when you want it.
- Multipurpose use: moreover, from the features, you can certainly use this one for many purposes. You can use it for a sporty ride and other purposes.
- Lightweight and easy to ride: besides, the bike is lightweight. The implication of this is that you can use it in any kind of environment without difficulties. If you are looking for the most reliable bike, this model is there for you.
Pros
- Comes with wide and great tires
- It is fast and uses 700 aero wheels
- This uses a full Shimano shift
- The disc braking system is effective
Cons
- It is not easy to fix the bike if you want to do it by yourself
Frequently asked questions
Question-1: Is it lightweight?
Answer: The bike is lightweight as the frame is an aluminum product.
Question-2: Can I use the bike for sports?
Answer: Apart from serving as a sportbike, you can use it for commuting as well.
Question-3: Can I fix the bike?
Answer: If you are not an expert in this, it is recommended that you look for experts to fix it for you.
This is the most reliable gravel bike you can buy with money. It has the most wonderful features. Choose it today.
Final words
These are the best gravel bikes you can buy for under $500. The bikes are all great and you can use them on different kinds of terrains. They can take you to your destination with ease. If you want a comfortable ride, you can always think of the model reviewed above. These are the best and they are all recommended.
Last Updated: August 9, 2023