Looking to purchase my first proper road bike. I came across this Canonndale R500 (with some add-ons) for $175. I’d definitely take it into a shop to get serviced but was wondering if this is a decent first road bike at this price-point?
For reference I currently ride a Trek 700 for 15-30 mile sessions but am looking for something more conducive/comfortable for longer rides.
by hen_y
2 Comments
It is pretty good for the price point but there is some compromises and details to be sure of. It is a 60cm frame that is L/XL you need to be at minimum 6′ tall to get comfortable. It has downtube shifters,. The Cannondale r500 frame even in 2025 is efficient, rigid and still relatively light but it is also stiff without much vibration absorbtion, not the most comfortable bike in that respect. It has downtube shifters which I do like but brifters are nire convenient and quick for sure. Bikes around this age and a touch newer with brifters I do see pop up under 300 if the stiffness, size or shifters are a concern.
My 1st proper bike back in 89 was the R800. Great bike, raced on it extensively, probably a 100,000 miles on it lol. So my opinion is that if the components are in good working order then ya np good bike. But be warned, it is the definition of a stiff frame.