A few years back, riders in the professional peloton were sticking weights on their frames to bring the bikes up to the UCI weight limit of 6.8kg (15lbs); and while the adoption of disc brakes and electronic groupsets have reduced the need for that, there are still some very light road bikes available on the market... as long as you have the funds, because shedding weight often doesn't come cheap!

The UCI's weight limit doesn't apply to you: Specialized Aethos Pro

If you want an understated Superbike: Giant TCR Advanced SL 0 Disc

You want aero and low weight: Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL7 Dura-Ace Di2

One for the rim brake fans (on a budget): Van Rysel EDR CF Ultegra

You want a reactive ride, and quick handling: Wilier Filante SLR 2021

You want possibly the 'best all-round aero road bike available': Scott Foil RC Pro 2023

If you want that 'pro' look: Merida Scultura Team 2022

If you want adjustable crank lengths: Look 785 Huez RS Disc

If you want a lightweight, yet aero machine: Canyon Ultimate CF SLX 8 Di2 2023

If you want to custom spec your own lightweight bike: Chapter2 Toa frameset

If you want minimal weight on a budget: Ribble Endurance SL R Disc - Pro

If you want a lightweight, stiff yet comfortable all-rounder: Cervelo R5 Force eTap AXS 2022

If you want a lightweight race bike for the gravel tracks: Specialized S-Works Crux 2022

If you want a metal bike with the performance and comfort of carbon: Reilly Fusion 2022
If you are a frequent reader of our bike reviews you'll know that a bike's weight isn't the be-all and end-all, often being trumped by aerodynamics or comfort in the real world.
That doesn't stop us all wanting the lightest machine we can afford though, especially if you live in a hilly area. Plus we all know that at some point someone (even a non-cyclist) is going to do the 'car park pick up test' so that they can gauge just how light a modern road bike is, and you won't want to be embarrassed.
As a general trend, bikes have got a little heavier over recent years with the inclusion of disc brakes and derailleur motors on bikes with electronic gears, but on the whole road bikes are still very light. In fact, some of the models below aren't even anywhere near top-of-the-range, but still tip the scales at less than 8kg.
As you'll see from our list, carbon fibre is king. When it comes to reducing weight other materials often struggle to compete, especially when trying to balance stiffness and longevity too.
It's worth noting that our top picks are not necessarily the lightest bikes full-stop, more a selection that are available to buy, mostly off-the-peg and, crucially, bikes that we've reviewed ourselves so we can recommend them to you. Check out our feature on how to make your bike lighter if you want to do some upgrades that will make your current bike even more featherweight, and head on down to our FAQ section below for some more info and links on how to buy or build a super lightweight custom bike!
First Published Mar 7, 2023