Road bikes for returnees/beginners: Even though road cycling is one of the oldest forms of cycling, it has by no means lost any of its charm over the years and the outdoor trend in the wake of the pandemic has made road bikes very popular again. Especially the higher speeds and the large range on any trip bring many incentives with them. However, road cycling is only really fun if you have the right equipment to hand. So if you're toying with the idea of getting your first racing bike or starting with racing bikes again after a long break, we've taken a look at what different entry-level models are currently available. When we say entry-level models, we don't necessarily mean cheap or inexpensive, because many interested parties are already active or have another bike, such as a mountain bike or a gravel bike at home. In addition, as is so often the case with racing bikes: “If you buy cheap, you buy twice.” So why not go for a high-quality model right away, which can be a lot of fun even after a long time and many kilometers.
Entry-level road bikes – Cube Attain SL
If you prefer to take it slower and more comfortably at the beginning and also want to go easy on your wallet, you should take a look at the aluminum frame. These can certainly compete with the entry-level models made of carbon and sometimes only bring a little more weight and a performance that is not quite as sporty. However, the aluminum models are usually more robust and very balanced, which also speaks for everyday use. With the Cube Attain SL, the German manufacturer from the Upper Palatinate has tried to bring the best features into its 6061 aluminum frame. The double-butted tubes combine the lowest possible weight with high stability and rigidity. The slim seatstays and the full carbon fork support comfort and absorb the vibrations of the road at the same time. With a balanced seating position and just over 9 kilograms, you should get a perfect aluminum all-rounder for (re-)entering road cycling for just 1.549 euros.
https://www.velomotion.de/magazin/2021/10/test-cube-attain-sl/
Entry-level racing bikes – Storck Fascenario 3
In stark contrast to this, the manufacturer Storck, also from Germany, offers with its Fascenario 3 an extremely high-quality carbon racer, which with its sporty overall concept comes very close to the performance of professional racing bikes and is nevertheless aimed at ambitious newcomers who value style and lay quality. In our opinion, the Fascenario 3 is even more suitable for long-time road bike fans who have rediscovered their love for cycling. With less than 4000 euros you have to pay more than twice as much as for the Cube, but you also get equipment that is second to none. With a wireless-operated Sram Rival groupset, power meter crank, DT Swiss wheels and integrated carbon cockpit, you not only get a lot to look forward to, but you could also dare to go on one or the other racetrack. Nevertheless, the geometry and the frame are designed in such a way that you don't have to do without the necessary comfort and the playful handling thanks to the short rear triangle also makes going to the cafe a real fun ride.
https://www.velomotion.de/magazin/2021/11/storck-fascenario-3-test/
Entry-level road bikes – Cervelo Caledonia
But as a beginner, you don't have to do without internationally proven brands. The manufacturer Cervelo, well-known from professional sports, is also pursuing a similar concept with its Caledonia and offers beginners and experienced bikers alike a racing bike that is tailored to the individual needs of the rider and does not set the direction from the outset. So you can fully devote yourself to racing bikes and first find out where you actually want to go. In our opinion, a great approach based on the motto: "Everything can, nothing has to." After all, who knows where the journey will go. A platform was created for this purpose, which offers various adjustment and setting options and can cover a wide range of seating positions. With a balanced geometry, a good portion of comfort and a lot of smooth running, the Cervelo offers a successful starting point for all those who want to find themselves first. In addition, there are light and aerodynamically optimized tube shapes, which have been adopted from the Cervelo professional racing bikes, but which have been reinforced at the crucial points to offer additional stability. Mounting points for mudguards and a tire clearance of up to 34mm enable a wide range of uses and increase the suitability for everyday use enormously.
https://www.velomotion.de/magazin/2021/11/cervelo-caledonia-test
Entry-level road bikes – Fuji SL 2.1
The Fuji SL 2.1, which puts comfort first, goes in a completely different direction. Of course you can also be very sporty with this racing bike, but it is aimed at everyone who would like to take it easy without sacrificing an attractive look or high quality. Thanks to a relaxed geometry, smooth running and a stable structure, you not only have a comfortable feeling on the bike at all times, you also feel very safe. Especially for (re-)beginners who feel uncomfortable on the narrow tires and like to take it easy on the road, a perfect way to get used to road cycling without rushing into anything. Thanks to the high-quality carbon frame and decent equipment, you get a comfortable and high-quality overall package for a good 3000 euros, which makes leisurely trips a success
https://www.velomotion.de/magazin/2021/11/fuji-sl-2-1-test/
All tests for the models with many details can be found here Velomotion.de