Raleigh: Revenio 4.0

Hitting a lower price point and falling closer to "comfort" than "speed" on the plush-bike spectrum, the Raleigh Revenio 4.0 offers great versatility.

The keys to this versatility will be obvious to experienced eyes: mounts for a rack and fenders. The Revenio is ready for long road explorations at tempo and capable of joining fast-paced group rides. But the bike is equally well suited for use as a commuter or to being loaded up for family day trips. With a range of uses that broad, durability is important, and Raleigh delivers in that department with a rigid aluminum frame and sturdy-feeling wheels from Weinmann.

The ride will be comfortable for nearly any cyclist, thanks in part to a compliant fork that helps to deliver a smooth ride over rough bumps. An upright position and a shallow-drop handlebar, which is easy to reach, mean the bike won't strain your back.

The handling and parts spec compliment the Revenio's likely uses. The bike proved very stable around turns, and a mix of Shimano Ultegra and 105 components delivers reliable performance without breaking the bank. The sensible compact crank gets you up any hill.

Though we could pick up the speed on descents, we found the 4.0 felt right at home when we pedaled along at cruising speeds.—Adam Branfman

GET IT IF: Your peloton usually includes kids, and you take frequent breaks
THROW IT IF: You want a frame worthy of upgrading later on