Material only really matters on inclination and for acceleration. The more important part is aerodynamics, but even then we’re not talking more than a few watts. A good hybrid, maybe around 700€, is more than good enough for an amateur level today. Something with Shimano 105, if you can find it, but that’s more about longevity.

When I was in highschool I cycled to school on a 100€ bike every day and when I eventually got a speedometer, I realized I was going about 35 km/h. I was a little crazy though, I would arrive at school late and drenched in sweat almost every day…