These are the best bikes if you want to take up cycling for the first time

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It’s fair to say that women’s cycling is having a bit of a moment; ever since we saw Team GB win gold in the women’s team sprint in Paris and set social media ablaze, all we’ve been able to to think about is getting back in the saddle.

And it seems we’re not alone, with Google searches for ‘cycling’ hitting an all time high in the UK following the Olympic events.

Britain’s incredible performance has also seen demand for bikes soar, according to new figures released by Halfords.

Figures from the brand show that visits to its bike website aw an increase of 12% during the Paris Olympics versus the same period prior to the games.

But if you haven’t got behind the pedals since your school days, it can be intimidating prospect — what sort of bike to go for? What’s the perfect saddle height? And what the hell is a head tube?

Luckily, help is on hand as we’ve done the research to find some of the best women’s road bikes, regardless of your skill level, budget or exercise goals. And all of them are currently on sale, making the initial investment of buying a new bike all the more affordable.

Boardman SLR Women's Road Bike (£520, down from £650)

Halfords/ Boardman

This super-lightweight bike is the perfect road companion, but don’t be fooled by its lean appearance — it’s sturdier than you might expect, with super-grippy, puncture-resistant tyres and reduced road vibration making it a reassuringly safe and breezy ride for cycling enthusiasts and novices alike.

A new and improved version of the popular Boardman SLR 8.6, it features a slick aluminium frame and a huge gearing range (perfect for hilly rides) while it’s been specially designed to reduce drag, meaning less exertion is needed to reach the same speed. Oh, and the frame comes with a lifetime guarantee as well as lifetime safety checks. I mean, what’s not to love?!

TRIBAN Women's Road Bike in White (£299.99, down from £349.99)

Decathalon

Available in white or burgundy, this particular women’s road bike has hundreds of five-star reviews, with some calling it the ‘perfect’ first bike and another saying that “this bike has been a revelation.”

One fan enthused: “I've been riding a mountain bike on forest tracks and canal paths for years, and wanted something with less resistance when cycling on the road. I took this out on a coastal ride, and found the seat comfortable, upright position perfect, gear shifts effortless, and the double brakes a fantastic design (the brakes on the top handlebars were great for steeper downhills). I went briefly on tracks with no problem, and it was so responsive on the road.”

Depending on the stock, you can also choose from four different sizes depending on your height, with the L and XL options both being great unisex options if you and your partner plan on jointly using the bike, whereas the XS and S are both brilliant for those who are more petite in stature and size.

PINNACLE Californium 1 Women's Hybrid Bike (£279, down from £500)

Evans Cycles

This PINNACLE Hybrid Bike is one of the most affordable on the market right now and we love the handy front basket, making trips to the shops or even to your local coffee shop or park with a picnic in tow all the more pleasant.

Shoppers praised how ‘lightweight’ and ‘comfortable’ it is, with one explaining: “it’s a great bike; smooth transition from on-road to off-road, gears are easy to change and it looks great.”

And they’re not the only happy customer to comment on its appearance. One even remarked: “it’s quite a looker too - passersby can’t help admiring it.” And we certainly have to agree. While the black is a fantastic option for many, we personally adore the minty green shade.

Canyon Pathlite 5 Mid-Step Bike (£649, down from £949)

Canyon

For those looking to take their bike riding to the next level, one of Canyon’s bicycles could be the logical next step for you. It is that bit pricier, even with it being on sale, but it is suitable for all manner of outdoor rides. And it has received a number of five-star reviews from shoppers.

One revealed: “A bike that adapts to any surface, very light and the best thing is the 11 gears that make it possible to do the steepest climbs with total peace of mind, it is very comfortable.”

While another affirmed: “Good bike with good price-performance ratio for beginners.”

Add in the sleek grey frame and this 11-gear bike is one of the best on the market right now.

Which one is your favourite?