Our reviewer noted that the super-tall head tube and compact top tube mean the bike sits you quite upright, so the geometry is definitely on the more relaxed side and not ideal for those looking to get into serious racing. For the rest of us though, the Triban RC 520 is still our pick of the sub-£1k bunch for its unbeatable value and familiar, cheap cycling jerseys  easy ride that will appeal to commuters and weekend warriors alike. 

The Specialized Allez is a bona fide classic, and pesky inflation means that the entry-level model is now just a quid under our magic £1,000 mark; although you can still get it cheaper if you can nab one via the deals listed here. 

The standard, rim brake-equipped Allez (not to be confused with the newer, pricier, Allez Sprint) has an aluminium frame, carbon fork, 8-speed Shimano Claris shifting and neutral handling that is not too aggressive nor slouchy either. Although we've recommended the Allez for budding racers, it does also come with mudguard mounts which makes it ideal for commuting and mucky winter rides.