Getting into road cycling is an exciting journey, but it all starts with one critical decision: choosing your first road bike. Without a bike, you can’t ride, and picking the right one can make or break your experience in the sport. Bikes vary immensely in style, geometry, and purpose, so finding the right fit is essential—especially if you’re transitioning from casual commuting to performance-focused cycling, as I did.

From City Commuter to Aspiring Cyclist

I started my cycling journey on a city bike, using it mainly for commuting. But over time, I wanted more than just getting from A to B—I wanted to embrace the sport of cycling. The idea of riding for fitness and adventure appealed to me, and I knew it was time to upgrade to a proper road bike.

Step One: Ask Around

The first thing I did was ask friends who were already into cycling. If you know someone who rides regularly or even casually enjoys bike tours, they can be an invaluable resource. Often, they’ll know someone who has an unused bike lying around that you can borrow or test out. This is a great way to get a feel for road bikes before committing to a purchase.

In my case, a friend let me take his Bianchi Via Nirone 7 for a spin. This bike is what’s known as an “endurance bike,” designed for longer rides with a more relaxed geometry compared to aggressive racing bikes. I didn’t even know what “geometry” meant in the context of bikes until then! Essentially, it refers to how the frame is shaped and how it positions your body while riding. Endurance bikes are more forgiving on your back and neck—ideal for beginners.

Why Endurance Bikes Are Great for Beginners

If you’re new to road cycling, I highly recommend starting with an endurance bike. These bikes strike a balance between comfort and performance. While aero bikes (designed for speed and aerodynamics) look sleek and fast, they can be tough on your body if you’re not used to the aggressive riding position. Your lower back and neck will thank you for choosing something less extreme.

For me, the Bianchi Via Nirone 7 became my dream bike—not just because of its comfort but also because of its iconic Celeste color (a turquoise shade unique to Bianchi). I was hooked.

Step Two: Visit Local Bike Shops

Once I decided on the type of bike I wanted, I started visiting local bike shops. While online shopping is convenient (and some brands like Canyon and Rose specialize in direct-to-consumer sales), there’s something invaluable about seeing and testing bikes in person—especially as a beginner. A good shop will help you find the right size, adjust components if needed, and provide ongoing support when things inevitably go wrong (and trust me, they will).

However, not all shops are beginner-friendly. Some cater exclusively to high-end customers and may make you feel out of place if you’re not ready to spend thousands of euros on your first bike. Don’t let this discourage you—there are plenty of shops that welcome newcomers with open arms. Check reviews online or ask fellow cyclists for recommendations.

Materials Matter: Aluminum vs. Carbon

One big decision when buying a road bike is choosing the frame material. Most entry-level bikes are made from aluminum because it’s lightweight, durable, and affordable. Carbon fiber frames are lighter and offer better vibration damping but come at a higher price point.

For beginners, aluminum is more than sufficient—it’s reliable and forgiving while still offering good performance. Carbon frames are great if your budget allows, but don’t feel pressured to start there. The most important thing is finding a bike that fits well and feels good to ride.

Modern Bikes vs. Vintage Charm

While vintage steel bikes have a certain aesthetic appeal (and there are some excellent refurbished options out there), modern road bikes offer significant advantages in terms of weight, gearing systems, and overall performance. If you’re serious about getting into the sport, I’d recommend going modern—you’ll appreciate the smoother shifting and lighter weight as you tackle longer rides.

Gearing Up: Don’t Overthink the Groupset

Another topic that often overwhelms beginners is the groupset (the collection of components like gears, brakes, and derailleurs). Popular brands include Shimano, SRAM, and Campagnolo. While higher-end groupsets offer smoother shifting and more gears, even entry-level options like Shimano Sora or Tiagra will perform perfectly well for most beginners.

I started with Shimano 105—a mid-range groupset—and found it more than capable for my needs at the time. These days, electronic shifting systems are becoming more common (and I now use one myself), but they’re by no means necessary when you’re starting out.

The key takeaway? Don’t let the groupset dictate your decision too much. Focus on finding a bike that fits well and inspires you to ride.

My First Big Ride: Hamburg to Lüneburg

Once I had my own road bike—a Bianchi Via Nirone 7—I set myself small goals to build confidence and fitness. My first big challenge was riding from Hamburg to Lüneburg—a distance of about 60 kilometers. At the time, this felt like an enormous feat! But within just a month of regular riding, I completed it—and was amazed at how quickly my endurance improved.

This sense of progress is one of the most rewarding aspects of cycling as a beginner. With each ride, you’ll feel stronger and more capable—and before you know it, distances that once seemed impossible will become routine.

Final Thoughts: Choose What Inspires You

At the end of the day, your first road bike should be something that excites you every time you see it. Whether it’s the color, the brand story, or simply how it feels when you ride—it should make you want to get out there and pedal.

Don’t stress too much about having the “perfect” setup right away; there’s always room to upgrade later as you grow in the sport. For now, focus on finding something that fits your needs (and budget) while sparking joy every time you hit the road.

If you have any questions about getting started with road cycling or choosing your first bike, feel free to reach out—I’m always happy to share what I’ve learned along my journey!