Overview
At Affordable Adventures, practicality is key. That’s why we’re providing you with the ultimate list of bikes worth buying in 2021 if you want to enjoy the beautiful outdoors without breaking the bank. There’s a lot of buzz out there in the cycling industry around carbon components, aero accessories, electronic shifting, hydraulic brakes, tubeless wheels, and more. While all these features have their benefits, they ultimately detract from the simplicity and rugged reliability that a lot of “entry level bikes” provide. Cycling technology has come a long way and even the most affordable models are perfectly capable for the vast majority of situations. We’ll be sticking to name brand manufacturers as much as possible to make it easier to service and find replacement parts down the road as well. Here’s our picks to fit the bill.
5. Specialized Diverge Base E5
Specialized is one of the most recognized brands in cycling for their impressive style and designs. The Diverge lineup is no different. While high end versions of this lineup come with built in suspension and other crazy off-road features, the Base E5 is a toned-down version that falls more into the 50/50 range. This is the only bike on the list with Shimano’s low end Claris groupset which is you will notice as the braking and shifting won’t feel quite as responsive. It’s still a very reliable and versatile rig that comes with 35c semi-slick tires with room for major upgrades to 42c for off-roading while also featuring sub-compact gearing for the most challenging terrain. With the Specialized Diverge Base E5, you’re getting a high quality Specialized frame with good enough components and opportunity to add upgrades over time and transform this bike into a beast.
4. Felt VR 40
Felt is a lesser known brand that has more of a footing in the aero road and triathlon realm. However, the VR (Variable Road) line is a sneaky candidate for great value and user experience. The VR 40 comes with hydraulic Tiagra components which often puts bikes at around $1,699 and above. This $1,499 VR 40 model however is a great option in the 75% road spectrum that will deliver strong versatility with 30c semi-slick tires and compact gearing. While you’ll do great on the road with the stock setup, you can easily swap in some 34c cross tires and transform this bike into an off-road machine (especially considering the enhanced braking power of the hydraulic Tiagra).
3. Cannondale Topstone 3
Cannondale is another staple bike brand that has a strong reputation for value-oriented bikes including the legendary CAAD series. The Topstone follows a similar ethos to newer CAAD models but fits more into the 75% Adventure range on the spectrum. For $1,400, you get a capable Shimano Sora groupset, reliable WTB wheels and 40c tires, and a sub-compact gearing setup that will excel in rough conditions and if you’re weighed down by extra gear. The geometry and handling are definitely geared towards off-roading, so you might find it a little sluggish to get up to high speeds and definitely a little twitchy in the handling department once you get there. However, if you’re not planning on any road races, this bike is perfectly suited for all other kinds of riding.
2. Norco Section A2
Norco is a smaller brand that definitely has its roots in the mountain biking scene, but this proud Canadian company has some great bikes in their drop-bar portfolio. The Section is their “all road” design that’s more in the 75% road genre than its rowdy cousin, the Norco Threshold which is a true gravel adventure bike. The Section provides great value with a Shimano Tiagra groupset (1 step up from the Sora line), large semi-slick road tires with room for 34c upgrades, and a compact gearing setup all for $1,699 CAD. Norco is one of the few brands that’s still stocking their Tiagra models with mechanical braking systems in 2021, which is in many ways the most affordable, and easy to maintain setup. With the Norco Section, you’ll be well equipped for fast road riding while still holding your own in mud and fine gravel.
1. Trek Domane AL 3
Trek has always been a reliable brand with a ton of options in their product lines. The Trek Domane is their “endurance” line which has undertaken a makeover in 2021 to become a true 50/50 bike that can do it all. The Domane AL 3 comes in at $1,499 CAD and equipped with Shimano Sora components (a setup that you’ll see a lot of in this article due to its incredible value), room for 40c tires (big enough for anything you’d want to ride shy of switching to a mountain bike), and a compact gearing setup that’s perfectly capable for fast descents and steep climbs 99% of the time. If you only had one bike, this would be a great candidate.
Bonus: Garneau Axis D2
This is the 6th bike on the list and comes as a bonus entry because it’s the bike I ride. Garneau is a small brand out of Quebec that honestly places more of a focus on cycling apparel and equipment than complete bikes. The D2 however, is an absolute gem with enough versatility to handle smooth tarmac up and down the California Coast, rough gravel on the Trans Canada Trail, and sloppy mud in the ravine behind my house (believe me, I’ve tried). I believe these models are around $1,499 and come with a full Tiagra groupset, 30c semi-slicks, and compact gearing. I’ve tinkered around with this bike a ton and I’ve effectively turned it into 2 bikes in one with 28c tires for road use and a spare set of 33c cross tires for when I want to enjoy some gravel or mud. This bike definitely fits into the 75% road spectrum, but it’s an absolute blast to ride and probably the best value of any bike on the list if you can still find them in 2021.
