10 Best Endurance Road Bikes 2023: Because Comfort Matters! 

I work at an LBS and have access to the best stuff available I do not race but I still ride a 2013 titanium endurance bike because I still haven’t ridden anything that would justify spending thousands of dollars spent on something new even though I can build at cost. I truly believe if you find something that actually fits you it doesn’t matter make or carbon, aluminum or steel as long as you get along with it and it’s comfortable just RIDE IT!!!!

I've got an Endurace CF SL. It is my first serious bicycle, as I have been on a low end "hybrid" bike up until this purchase. I can say that I was able to do my first Century ride after only 6 weeks of getting used to the Endurace and taking rides gradually increasing the distance. No pains, no problems. I did have the bike professionally fitted, which took about an hour and a half. I have done a total of 4 Centuries since July, and when I am not riding 100 mi, I ride about 50 km at a time, with a lot of hills. The price is good, but you do have to set it up yourself. I looked at the Trek Domaine and a few others but they were mostly not available due to high demand, so and went with the Canyon. The Canyon had a wait, and once they become available you've got to order yours right away as the sell out in hours. I'm 68 years old, so this will probably be the last bike I own, but I am happy I can ride it all day long up and down hills and not ache at the end of the day. I can't keep up with the 20 year olds, but the Endurace is fast, even for me, and easy on these old bones.

Have a 2020 Domane SL5. Over the years I've upgraded the rims (Aeolus Pro 37 TLR), tires (Conti 5000's 28mm), carbon bar (Bontrager Pro IsoCore VR-SF), handle bar tape (Zipp Service Course), seat (Sella Italia Model X), group set (SRAM Rival eTap AXS). This thing is a beast and soooooo comfortable. Not a weight weenie or a racer so the Domane being heavier than a racing bike doesn't really bother me. Just a 59 year old guy in really good shape competing against himself lol. Ride 60-100 miles a week every season but winter. On the trainer then. IMHO you are one of the best reviewers and I really enjoy your thorough bike videos!

I ridden a Cervelo Caledonia Di2 for the last two seasons as my only bicycle, and it’s been the best bike I’ve ever ridden, and I’ve had steel, Al, Ti and other carbon bikes. It’s good on smooth and the bevy of very rough roads where I live, and I’ve done lots of way too rough gravel on it. It excels on long rides, with several 200+km rides on it thus far, including lots and lots of climbing. I’m planing on a solo 250 and 300 km ride next season, and also more trips back to the high mountains with it. It is on the heavy side, especially with the stock DT Swiss 1800 wheels. I crashed it heavily this past season and had to replace the wheels, and now I have some lighter hoops, but the bike still isn’t a feather. I love it though, and I often spend miles marveling at how comfortable bicycles have become.

I got the BMC Roadmachine one 4. It’s a bike that dosen’t excel in one thing but does best in everything. I’ts a real allrounder. The internal cables and loved the aero frame design.

After waiting a year for the Specialized Roubaix Comp, I gave up and bought the Cervelo Caledonia with the SRAM Rival AXS groupset. I have a 2010 Roubaix which I upgraded from 105 to Sram Rival AXS a year ago and wanted to stay with the brand, but I have zero regrets about the Cervelo. It is an amazing bike!

Watching some of your yt's as well as others, decided me to buy a Specialized Roubaix. I had to wait a long time but I finally got one. I must say, a good choice. I was afraid it would be slow but I'm riding faster than before and must less bumps ! I'm nog looking for every crack on the road anymore. Thx for the video.

I shopped several of these bikes recently. Ultimately went with the Giant Defy due to high value (price vs. features), looks, and the fact that it was available immediately. The Canyon Endurance was also a contender, but not a big fan of the colors.

Great selection. I just got a Defy advanced pro 2 and its a wonderful bike. Absorbs road chatter just like a cervelo R3 I once owned, but with a much more relaxed geometry. I also have a Litespeed Cherhoala as my gravel machine. Titanium is great for the right application.

7 years and 100.000km ago I bought a Canyon Endurace CF 7 SL. 2 big crashes: the bike and I survived. Bought it for same reasons in the video. Very happy, but now it will become my winter bike as I bought a Canyon Aeroad.

Great video as always!!! Could you do some videos on budget bikes? Less than £1000/£2000…. I’d like to see what’s recommended as there’s not much information out there

I just went through this exercise and landed on the Giant Defy Advanced Pro 2. Insane value. I came from a 2010 tarmac pro and the comfort is just otherworldly + its WAY WAY faster! Its a touch heavier than my old bike (mainly due to hydraulics v rim brakes)...but im 93kg so who cares!

I have a XS Wilier Triestina … rim brakes which I use in a regular basis . Carbon frame and carbon wheels with 28 mm tires . Just perfect for myself. Love it.❤

I think many are due for an update - canyon endurance, roadmachine, roubaix. Also, aren’t we expecting more c68 models? From the ones presented, the Domane looks very interesting

I would love to have seen the Argon 18 Krypton in this video. Great bike that also comes in various builds and carbon lay ups to match different price points. It's also on the more race oriented side of endurance but it's super comfortable.

Ride a 2020 Giant Defy 2 advance with 105. Incredible bike , got over 14,000 miles on it. Handle any surface. Rides fast

Roubaix hands down one of of the best endurance bike , light , super comfort and fast like racing bike

The way the oversized print is on the jumper I thought it was a reference to 'annon dal' which I can only assume is some variant on an Indian curry. That aside, bikes wise though the Strael gets my vote.

Great suggestions mentioned in this video. I absolutely love my 2018 Synapse I built up, super comfy and highly responsive. Once again awesome video thanks for posting!

Ribble R872 - great bike, and value

Hey David, great video thanks. Do you have a full review covering the BMC roadmachine 01? Cheers

I have got myself a Salsa Warroad this year. This bike is also endurance focused and rides sooooo smooth & comfy. On 34mm Schwalbe Pro Evo tires it also rolls faster than my former aluminium road bike. Perfect for ultra cycling events!

Instead of this, should've made a video with title "10 best endurance road bikes 2023 that don't cost a fortune, around €1500, AL frame, carbon fork, that you can actually buy, because they're exist in the real world."

What about Cube attain? Don't recognise 3 of your bikes listed.

Been looking for a bike that is more road then a gravel bike and feel an endurance road bike is just that, would you agree? Nice to hear someone actually talk about the features instead of me trying to look through all the brouchers on the website.

Are you able to make a video on budget endurance bikes from the market, like the Triban RC520 from Decathlon, etc.

I turned 61 and I sold my Allez pro and got a Litespeed T5. I have a bit over 1k miles on it. Comfort wise it’s quite a difference. I’m still getting used to the geometry. I’m up higher and it is twitchier.

Hi David. Very informative video as usual. The trek gets my vote especially in that colour 🚴‍♂️🚴‍♂️🚴‍♂️👍👍👍

This a great class of bike! 90% of the benefits of a gravel bike for the way most people ride them and more speed!

Giant Defy is no longer an option for 2024. 😢 They have made the geometry more aggressive making it a bike for racing, and they have routed the cables through the bloody stem which is dumb for mechanical drivetrains - wrecks shift feel and is just fashion… Such a shame, it’s been my favourite bike for years.

Can anyone offer advice for something in the all-around do-it-all long distance category in the $500 range?

That Masterworks art sponsor thing caught me out, initially. In all honesty, I thought it was the beginning of a joke. Just from a self-protection point of view David, meant in a friendly way, I'd suggest stating it's the sponsor at the beginning of their scripted part, and stating that you're not a financial adviser and can't comment on the suitability or otherwise of any investment.

Merida Scoultura Endurance 6000.This bike was my best choice. Also considered Look 765 Optimum but too pricey.

You didn’t mention the Look 765 optimum 🤔🤔

The Bianchi Infinito should be mentioned here. The countervail technology really works, it’s really like riding on silk

How long does that Specialized “future shock” thing last? Presumably it’s expensive to replace.

Tasty selection. Alloy? I've got a Mason Definition which is at the endurance end of the spectrum, and a more all around CAAD12. Each of these bikes prove that alloy done right is still a thing. Both ride far more smoothly than my carbon Reacto - but that's sort of expected.

Despite gravel bikes popularity. Everyone is so in to gravel bikes, sounds on people like that is the bike for everything. Endurance bikes has always been there. I dont care if you are on a carbon endurance from 2021. You still got 1cm room/cleareance even with 38mm tires on many endurance models. This focus on gravelbikes does look like it is a gimic like a fidget spinner. When its not popular in media people will buy other bikes?? I understand there is some need for catagorizing different bikes. But would be very nice if not. I would be so happy if this video about endurance bikes didnt have a single word about GRAVEL BIKES! Please!! :)

Hi David. Great video, thanks! Do you have any familiarity with the Orro Gold endurance ? I’m thinking of getting one but there are so few decent reviews by folks like you who know what they’re talking about !

How to remove smart sense off the Synapse if anyone interested : 1. All you have to do is remove the top cover on the top of the downtube which has the di2 wires, front light smart sense wire and brake hoses inserted. Once removed, simply unclip the smart sense wire *you may need to pull it to get access*. This wire is attached to the light permanently on the other end. I recommend just removing the 2 bolts under the stem to remove the out front mount with light and wire in situ (assuming you have the System Bar on LTD RLE GRX). So front part removed. 2. That smart sense wire in 1. above *you disconnected* was connected to another smart sense wire that runs the length of the downtube and is connected to the battery cradle at the top. Simply remove battery and cradle and unplug the long smart sense wire. You can leave it in place and don't need to take it out of the downtube. 3. There is another smart sense wire connected to the battery cradle at the bottom. Unplug this also. This wire runs through the seat tube and comes out the top where it connects with another smart sense wire that runs up the seat post and is inserted into a groove in the the side of the di2 battery cover. This then connects to your rear light. Simply remove the seat post and unplug the smart sense wire and also the di2 wire that is connected to the battery. You can either remove the long wire in the seat tube now or leave it as is and let it hang loose. It is a good idea to remove the di2 battery holder/battery. You will need to tease the smart sense wire out of the side grooves on the battery holder. 4. Remove the saddle. You will see a smart sense wire connected to the smart sense light (it is captive so can't be unplugged) that runs into the seat post through a hole in the saddle clamp. You unplugged this wire already where it goes into the seat tube. Simply undo the go pro bolt on the saddle clamp to remove the light/radar mechanism. As the di2 battery holder is removed you should be able to pull the smart sense wire through now. You can buy a battery cradle cover from Cannondale Spares btw.

I really like the Cannondale Synapse, was looking at the basic carbon one (without pointless expensive electronic tech), I’ve a Cannondale CAAD 8 now. Thing is I want the option to fit a pannier rack so I can carry a “D’” lock, some clean cloths etc, so I can go away for a weekend, now if I go off for an adventure I use my Giant Roam or Cube E-bike. The Cannondale CAAD8, as good as it is, is no good for adventures, just one day rides which is a bit boring and repetitive.

Hey David, thanks for the review. Is Orro STC Evo gold anywhere close to the bikes in this video?

I’ve had a racing bike from the mid 2000s that I’ve thought i wanted to upgrade. And getting older i assumed i should get an endurance bike. I test rode the Domane over the course of a couple days and really didn’t care for it. It felt sluggish and heavy. I returned it and am now looking toward a race bike for upgrade.

@davidarthur Hi David, great video as always. While I know you have done a previous video proporting that gearing and wheels are more important than weight when it comes to climbing. Weight is still a large deciding factor for me and many riders who are lightweight frames. Are you able to make comment on this and in future videos where you give a brief overview of the actual running gear used on the bikes tested. (e.g. ultegra running gear, dt suisse 35mm carbon wheels etc). Either in the video or the comments section. Also, the weight of the bikes tested. Some digital hand held scales cost about $40. Many of the manufacurers either do not give the weight or it is without pedals, cages etc and even then not accurate. That would give a proper context. Thanks

Sadly you've only included one steel frame. certainly weight is a drawback, but as far as endurance riding goes nothing beats steel? add thin steel forks with it... even better.

hell yeah they will be confortable after spending that much

What are your thoughts on the Pinarello Paris?

Giant Defy Vs contend AR?

I have a 2022 Roubaix that I upgraded with the Sram Rival etap. I have spent approximately 3600.00 usd. I cant see myself ever spending 10k for a SWorks.

I'd say a synapse with tiagra cannot go bigger than 700x30. The cable clamp on the derailleur would rub the tire.

I am surprise the Ribble Endurance did not make this list.

I didn't do my research and bought a Giant TCR great and fast bike. The only problem is that I'm more of an endurance rider. I haven't gone more than 30 miles yet. I hope my back doesn't make me pay later.

Vielo R+1 Alto, just taken delivery. You loved it when you tested it @davidarthur!

Hello great movie very nice motorcycle ;)

Giant Defy is a proper banger.

This bike is cool. I have a ROSE Backroad and im happy with that 😊

My only problem with Cannondale was that they pasted decals on every tube. 10 or 12 on one bike. The new design is much classier.

Are these endurance bikes able to ride tow paths/firmly decomposed granite. I’m looking for a bike to primarily use a road bike but once in a while get into rougher road/slightly off it.

Would be good to know pricing for each of these bikes.

Domane Gen4 seat post SUUUUUUCKS!!!

In which category would you put the Aethos? It’s not a race or aero bike but is it too sporty to be an endurance bike? I have found it to be comfortable even on longer runs, maybe it is an endurance bike on steroids?

thats right,, looking for a bike and end up buying a painting,,, wise up..

It's literally the same bikes every time. New year, same list. Would be nice to get some thoughts on lesser known brands.

Look Optimum + is not in the list ? i know you cant mention every model, but it should be among these sponsored brands !

I have just ordered the Bianchi 2023 via nirone 7 105, however am surprised its not reviewed anywhere as its got a lot of good tech and a good name. Is there a reason

Prices please. Very important.

Just get a gravel bike with two wheelsets.

If you're buying a TGS or C you have the honor of paying 33% to fund their ads and teams. These bikes are usually stuffed full of useless "tech" and have the most recalls. Buy a Masi or KHS or Fuji or Marin or Breezer and be happy.

You can get a complete lynskey force 22 for less than 3 grand right now.

I'm trying to decide between a Wilier Garda - Ultegra and BMC Roadmachine Five 105Di2 , all comments and views are highly appreciated!

In other words, the ten major brands are all the ten best bikes of the year.

No Wiliers?

I have a Cervelo Caledonia , great lookin bike , however I am disappointed with the cockpit .How can they start with such a beautiful and end with come cheap seat post , stem and handle bars that cause my hands to get numb .The brand is going to wrong way

I have the Synapse with GRX di2 groupset and smart sense lights and radar. Cannondale are only importing European spec smart sense into my country which means German stvzo lights with no blink mode and only last 2 hours if lucky, less with radar on. Plus the rear light is only 24 lumens. Had enough and pulled it all out. It's actually a 10-15 minute job if you look at the wiring in the Cannondale online manual and you can even buy a plate for a tenner (which should have been included with the bike) that covers the battery cradle. Looks ok if you have a dark coloured frame. Other than that a very comfortable bike.

hawt damn!!!

I have a Caledonia 5…ticks every box

Why don't you ever mention Felt bikes? They make very good bikes but you ignore them on all your videos

If only Fairlight made smaller sizes

Canyon has horrible customer service. Since you can only buy direct from the company, I don't think that's going to change soon.

Faltó las Lapierres no! 😢😭

Why are the Canyon bikes still showing their horrible cables? I understand it is more MX friendly, but with all todays tech and ability to hide the cables from the wind, I think these bikes are behind the times. Love the Trek Domane, Specialized Roubaix, and BMC!! If I have to pick one bike, I would buy the Trek. Beautiful bike.

“annondal”?! Never heard of them mate.

Masterworks... really?

I'm surprized Rubaix was mentioned instead of Aethos

If these “endurance bikes” - yet another road bike category! - are so differently designed and configured from race bikes, why are you riding them like race bikes?

Cara você esqueceu da Pinarello.

Too bad none of these bikes have a rim brake option, rather than those junk, dangerous disks......I wouldnt buy any of these anyway, garbo compared to ten years ago, heavier, 3X pricier.....No Thanks!!!