Looking for the best women’s road bikes for beginners?
It’s only in recent years that many cycling enthusiasts have become aware that there are specific bikes for women. For a long time, most people didn’t know that there was such a thing as entry-level women’s road bikes; they assumed that all bikes were the same. In fact, manufacturers have been creating women’s bikes since the 19th century. After reviewing several bikes, below are our picks for the best entry level women’s road bikes.
From the beginning, bicycles were a man’s forte (check Bicycle History & Evolution). They were designed with men in mind, and they were mostly used by men alone. It was rather unusual to see a woman on a bicycle.
The few women who cycled were frowned upon. It was unfeminine. It was widely accepted that it would awaken women’s sexuality and make them promiscuous (the act of straddling was seen by some as provocative). Some were of the opinion that women who cycled would harm their child-bearing ability.
It was all nonsense of course. In the late 19th century industrialization forced women to find easy ways to commute. They had to go to their jobs, and many in countries like England and France took to cycling.
Bicycles helped women become independent; they were able to shed their restrictive clothing and travel further than they had before. At about this time the suffragette and feminist movements were born, and the world hasn’t looked back.
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Best Women’s Road Bikes for Beginners
Today, there are many different categories of women’s bikes. Best women’s road bikes for beginners are one of the most common.
Why do women need their own types of bikes?
The answer is quite simply that they are built differently from men. Men tend to be taller, with longer torsos and longer legs. Women also need bikes that are specifically designed for comfort with regard to their sensitive bits. You can learn more from this article on women’s bike size chart.
Best Entry Level Women’s Road Bikes Reviews
If you are new to cycling you may be wondering what beginner women’s road bike would be best. There are several that come highly recommended, and I shall be reviewing them here.
#1. Schwinn Phocus 1400 and 1600 – 4.3* rating from 245 reviews
- Aluminum frame and carbon fiber fork for quick, agile riding
- Premium 14-speed Microshift shifters and brake levers for smooth, fast gear changes
- Promax alloy caliper brakes for crisp, all-condition stopping
- 700x28c smooth rolling street tires for smooth riding
- Alloy crank provides a wide gear range and less maintenance
Budget alternative: Schwinn Volare 1400
Shwinn Phocus 1400 and 1600 are made for both men and women, but they can be classified as women’s bicycles because of their design. Schwinn has been at the forefront of creating women’s bikes for more than 100 years. Their bicycles are designed for comfort and durability.
There are some websites that point out that the Schwinn Phocus 1600 is better for women than the 1400. It’s really up to you; many women are just as comfortable on the 1400 as they are on the 1600.
Features
The features that are listed here can apply to both the Phocus 1400 and Phocus 1600; remember, the main difference between the two is size.
- Both bikes are made with an aluminum frame and carbon fiber rigid road fork.
- Shimano 14 speed derailleur with integrated lever shifting.
- High profile alloy rims with paired spokes.
- Quick-release saddle & Seat Material: Polypropylene, vinyl
- Good stopping power because of the Promax alloy caliper road brakes.
- Weight: 27 pounds (Phocus 1400) & 33 Phocus 1600
- Bicycle Chain Material: Steel
- Rim Material: Metal Alloy
- Gear Speeds: 14
- Wheel height & Size: 700c/28″ & 700
What’s to like?
- These bikes are considered among best entry-level women’s road bikes because they are lightweight and highly responsive.
- They are good for commuting and for exercise.
- Schwinn bikes are made out of superior materials that last a long time.
- The bikes come with a stylish design suitable for both men and women.
What’s not to like?
These bikes are easy to assemble, easy to ride and provide excellent value for money. The most common complaint about Schwinn Phocus 1400 and Phocus 1600 is assembly; there are some people who aren’t DIY savvy and find putting the bike together quite a hassle. If you buy a bike online it will require assembly, so keep that in mind as you shop. If you would like a bike that’s already been put together you should talk to your local bike dealer.
#2. Trek Domane AL 2 Disc – 4.8* rating from 129+ reviews)

- Great entry-level road bike at a good price
- Lifetime warranty
- Comfort and confidence due to the stable endurance geometry
- The unique IsoSpeed Carbon fork helps to abroad road vibration
Trek Domane AL 2 Disc Bike is a great entry-level road bike for women. If you are looking for a comfortable, reliable bike that doesn’t break the bank, this bike might be perfect for you. You get the quality of a Trek bike but at a reasonable price point.
The frame is made from Alpha Aluminum and has an endurance geometry that helps with stability, speed, control, handling, and responsiveness. It has a low stand-over height and an adjustable seat post to help with your comfort.
The gear range on this bike is 8 speeds and it comes with Shimano Claris derailleurs and brakes which offer great functionality and reliability. The rack-mount on Trek Domane AL 2 is an added advantage if you need to carry a light load.
Your arms won’t fatigue so much as the IsoSpeed Carbon fork which swoops forward toward the dropouts ingests the road’s vibrations
The tires are 700x28c Bontrager Hardcase Lite TLR with an anti-puncture belt to provide more protection against punctures.
Specifications/Features
Frame Fit | Endurance |
Frame | 100 Series Alpha Aluminum, tapered head tube, fender mounts, DuoTrap S compatible, flat mount disc |
Fork | Domane AL carbon, tapered alloy steerer, internal brake routing, fender mounts, flat mount disc, 12x100mm thru axle |
Rim | Bontrager Affinity Disc, Tubeless Ready, 24-hole, 21mm width, Presta valve |
Tire | Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite, wire bead, 60 tpi, 700x32c |
Max Tire size | 35c without fenders, 32c with fenders |
Shifters | Shimano Claris R2000, 8 speed |
Brakes | Tektro C550 mechanical disc brake, dual-piston, flat mount, 160mm rotor |
Weight | 23.26 lbs. Weight Capacity 275 pounds |
What to like:-
- Great entry-level road bike at a good price
- Lifetime warranty
- Comfort and confidence due to the stable endurance geometry
- The unique IsoSpeed Carbon fork helps to abroad road vibration
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#3. Giordano Aversa Women’s Road Bike
- Lightweight hand crafted 6061 aluminium frame
- Headset: 1 1/8” thread less steel
- Fork: high tensile steel
- Shifters: 14 speed Shimano Drivetrain
- Rims: highv- profile silver Vitesse alloy 700c 32 hole
- Tires: 700×25 road clincher
There is a men’s and a women’s version of this bike, so make sure you buy the right one. The Giordano Aversa is a superior women’s road bike. It is modeled after the popular men’s version and retains many of the same features but is designed specifically for the female body. Many people choose this bike because it is affordable – it retails at a much lower price than many bicycles that have similar features.
Just be careful how you assemble the bike! Most people who have a bad experience with this bike as well as the others on this list don’t seem to assemble it correctly. So take your time and make sure the assembly is done right!
Features
- Aluminum frame for maximum stability and power.
- It is light, right around 26 lbs.
- Quick gear-shifting action.
- 14 speeds for easy navigation of different types of surfaces.
- Shimano 14 Speed stem shifters
- 700c Aluminum double-wall, 40mm 32 hole 14g stainless steel spokes, alloy hubs.
- Adjustable saddle.
- Alloy Dual Pivot Brakes
What’s to like?
- It is lightweight but made from tough materials and will last a long time.
- You can use this bike in all kinds of terrain – it is good for riding in the city and on gravel and rough roads too.
- The tires are designed for maximum speeds and have enough grip for different road surfaces.
- The bike is available in different sizes for tall and short women.
- It provides excellent value for money.
What’s not to like?
The only problem with this bike, according to some, is that the saddle could do with a better design. It isn’t very comfortable for long-distance rides. It also can be difficult to assemble. So keep that in mind! You can add on assembly during your Amazon purchase if necessary.
#4. Sixthreezero EVRYjourney Women’s 3-Speed Step-Through Touring Bike
- Easily switchable 7 gears via twist grip shifters on the handlebar
- Front and rear handbrakes for more precise stopping
- Low swooping frame for easy step-thru entry and exit
- Matching fender and rear rack for optional baskets.
- Fits riders 5 feet to 6 feet 2 inches tall.
This is an excellent beginner women’s road bike. Looking at it, you may think that it doesn’t amount to much. It looks rather plain and doesn’t have fancy colors. Don’t let this deceive you. It’s one of the best road bikes for women on the market today. The Sixthreezero EVRYjourney is described as fast, smooth, comfortable, and fun. It was conceptualized and designed in someone’s garage in California and went on to become one of the leading road bikes for women.
Features
- 3-speed Shimano internal hub with easy-to-use Nexus shifter
- Front and rear brakes.
- Lightweight aluminum frame.
- Great handlebar design for maximum comfort, including leather grips.
- Tapered saddle to protect sensitive parts and allow for speed.
- Wheels have double-walled rims for smooth rides.
- Nice bike rack attached at the back.
- It can accommodate cyclists of different heights.
What’s to like?
- It is one of the most comfortable road bikes for women beginners and experienced cyclists alike.
- The lightweight frame and unique design allow for speed without compromising on comfort.
- You can use this bike on busy city streets, bike trails, and even major roads. The 7-speed gears give you lots of freedom.
- It is an excellent bike for long-distance rides with moderate hills.
- A nice bike rack means you can bring a few things along.
What’s not to like?
Most people who buy this bike give it 5 stars. You may see a few negative reviews, but this is mostly because of the DIY work involved in putting it together.
#5. Tommaso Lightweight Aluminum Fitness Commuter
This bike is built to last; it’s easy to use and you can ride for a long time in an upright position without feeling the strain on your back and shoulders. The aluminum frame and HCT Carbon Fork mean that you get a comfortable ride and also a light frame to ride up the hills. This bike has excellent shifting as well.
The bike looks awesome! Many people will probably think you spent much more on the bike than you did.
Features
- Aluminum frame.
- Lifetime Frame & Fork Warranty
- 3×9 Shimano Acera Groupset
- 11/32T cassette and 48/36/26T crankset
- Carbon Fork
What’s to like?
- The bike is available for both men and women; choose your optimal size with the aid of a bike size chart.
- It’s a reliable bike; you’ll be able to cover long distances in comfort and without much strain.
- A very well-built sturdy bike.
- A Lifetime Warranty on the Frame and Fork
- This bike is great for use in busy city traffic.
- Reliable customer service.
- Only 25 lbs.
- Adjustable speeds to customize for the riding conditions.
What’s not to like?
The most frequent complaint you will hear about this women’s road bike is the difficulty of putting it together. In order for you to not void the warranty, you have to get the bike professionally assembled before riding. So an extra expense and something to think about before purchasing!
#6. Firmstrong Urban Lady Beach Cruiser
This is the quintessential women’s bike – it looks feminine and comes in feminine colors (every color combination has some pink in it). Don’t underestimate it though; it’s one of the best entry-level women’s road bikes. It’s a single-speed bike that can be used to ride on different terrains including sandy beaches, smooth city roads and bumpy country lanes.
Features
- It’s available in a steel frame and aluminum frame.
- It has a classic cruiser frame and is easy for beginners to ride.
- There are some versions that have more than one speed.
- Dual spring comfort cruiser saddle.
- It’s lightweight.
What’s to like?
- This is an easy women’s road bike and is perfect for those who are just starting out. It doesn’t have any complicated parts – just get on and ride off.
- You can ride this bike anywhere and have fun. The tires are designed for all terrains.
- Many people love the way it looks; it has nice feminine curves and comes in 13 different colors.
- It is one of the cheapest road bikes for women. It’s excellent value for money when you take into account how well it rides and how long it lasts.
- Wide tires absorb impact and allow you to ride for longer.
- The bike comes 80% assembled.
- It comes in different sizes for women of different heights.
- It is lightweight.
What’s not to like
The Firmstrong Urban Lady Beach Cruiser gets 5/5 stars in most reviews and is loved by new and experienced riders alike. You may see a few complaints but they mostly have to do with assembly. Get an expert to put it together for you and you will have nothing negative to say about this women’s road bicycle.
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#7. Specialized Dolce

This bike is designed for women with dimensions that perfectly fit the female form. It is a good bike for beginners and experienced riders. Some people will give it a miss because of its price. True, there are other women’s bicycles with similar features that retail for less, but there are a few features that make the Specialized Dolce truly special.
Features
- It is built with Women’s Endurance Geometry ensuring maximum comfort even for long rides.
- Shimano Claris 8-speed shifters.
- Axis sport wheels for maximum stability.
- Handlebar width and crank-arm length are designed for a woman’s comfort.
- The aluminum frame makes it lightweight but durable and stable.
- FACT carbon fork for a smooth ride.
- 8-speed gears.
What’s to like?
- It is one of the most comfortable women’s bikes in the market today. It may cost more but is worth every penny.
- You can use the Specialized Dolce in different terrains without compromising comfort or performance.
- It comes 80% assembled.
- It comes with its own bike size chart.
FAQ – Best Women’s Road Bikes for Beginners
a) What is the easiest bike for a woman to ride?
There are many factors to consider when choosing the best bike for a woman, but one of the most important things to think about is what type of riding experience you are looking for. If you are a casual rider who wants a bike that will get you to work or around the neighborhood, you may want a commuter bike like sixthreezero Bike. These bikes are typically comfortable and easy to pedal.
If you are an experienced rider who wants a bike for leisurely rides, you may want to consider a road bike like the Schwinn Phocus 1400 These bikes are generally more comfortable, fast, and require more skill.
b) What are the best women’s road bikes for beginners?
- Schwinn Phocus 1400 and 1600 Drop Bar Road Bicycles for Women (4.3* rating from 245 reviews)
- Trek Domane AL 2 Disc – (4.8* rating from 129+ reviews)
- Giordano Aversa Womens Road Bike-700c
Conclusion – Best Women Bikes for Beginners
This review of best women’s road bikes for beginners doesn’t cover all bikes out there; there are other good ones that aren’t included here. However, if you buy any of the women’s road bikes that I’ve talked about in this post you’ll be assured of two things: comfort as you ride on different terrains, and durability. They all provide excellent value and last a long time.
Best review for the women’s bike. Schwinn Phocus 1400 and 1600 seems to be the best for beginners.