All about road bikes

The range of road bikes nowadays is striking in its variety. These are models designed specifically for high-speed driving. They are designed for a good asphalt surface. In this article, we'll take a closer look at road bikes and find out what their pros and cons are.

Modern road bikes are made not only for city riding, but also for cycling and marathons. The main distinguishing feature of such structures lies in the shape of their rudder. It forms the so-called "ram's horns". Due to the specific structure, the user has the ability to freely change the grip.

Modern road bikes are designed with a low, stretched ride. Thus better aerodynamics is provided... There is also a transmission with high gear ratios.

The wheel diameter of modern road bikes reaches 28 inches. There are no shock-absorbing suspensions in the design, since they have an impressive weight. Most road bikes are lightweight. The lightest specimens weigh only 3-5 kg. Low weight is achieved through the use of advanced technologies and materials such as carbon, titanium, aluminum or magnesium.

The design of road bicycles is distinguished by the following main features and characteristics:

• ultra-light frame;
• large wheel diameter;
• smooth tires of low thickness;
• high rigidity front fork;
• well-developed transmission;
• lightweight brakes.

The frame of the road bike is responsible for 2 main indicators - high strength characteristics and lightness of the structure. Thanks to these properties, the dynamics of movement of the device, as well as a long service life, are ensured. Today, carbon fiber frames are considered to be one of the most reliable and durable, but such elements make the bike more expensive. Models with aluminum frames are cheaper.

Modern road bikes use rigid forks because these bikes are designed to ride on flat roads. A suspension fork in such a device would take on the role of a brake - the "iron horse" would constantly swing in an upright position and slightly accelerate.

Road bikes are manufactured with lightweight caliper brakes with high modulation. If we compare them with other types of brakes, they have the most modest mass, which is very important for easy acceleration and vehicle speed.

New models do not have pedals. This factor often causes confusion and misunderstanding among buyers, especially if this type of bike is being selected for the first time.

Road bikes are in great demand. However, you should decide to buy such a vehicle, having familiarized yourself with all its strengths and weaknesses. Let's start with the good ones - consider the merits of such bicycles.

• They are characterized by narrow wheels and road tires.
• As mentioned above, road bikes are equipped with a special steering wheel, called "ram's horns", with which the user can easily change the grip if desired. But this does not mean that absolutely all road bikes are equipped with such a detail. Some models also have standard straight handlebars (like on mountain bikes).
• These bicycles are lightweight. They have a lightweight frame and wheels. All road bike components are lightweight.
• A road bike can be considered multi-tasking. It is suitable not only for those people who just love to ride, but also for athletes.
• It will be possible to choose the optimal model for any user. Women's and men's designs, for example, have impressive differences in parameters.
• On such a bicycle, a person can go much faster and cover quite serious distances. Other types of bicycles are inferior to road bikes in this respect.
• The pluses include a wide range of road bikes. Consumers have a chic choice.

Let's dwell on the disadvantages of road bikes.

• There is no rear or front suspension in the design of these devices, which many users attribute to significant disadvantages.
• Rough and uneven roads are absolutely unsuitable for these bicycles. This factor is important to consider when operating them.
• The lion's share of modern road bikes are not equipped with special rack mounts. (such elements are usually found in the design of hiking and mountain models). Of course, this does not mean that you will not be able to ride to work on such an "iron horse", you just have to stock up on a bag or a backpack.

The choice of the optimal road bike model should be based on its size. Models are on sale with frames of the following dimensions:

• 49-51 cm - ideal parameters for a cyclist whose height is 157-163 cm;
• 51-54 cm - for a user with a height of 163-170 cm;
• 55-57 cm - for a person with a height of 170-178 cm;
• 57-59 cm - for a cyclist with a height of 178-183 cm;
• 58-60 cm - for height 183-190 cm;
• 61-63 cm - for height 190-198 cm.

The more impressive the frame of a road bike is, the more weight of the cyclist it can handle without problems. For the largest models, thick-walled pipes are used. Those bikes that have a more modest size differ in weight by about 150-200 g from models designed for a larger size.

The weight of a road bike's structure also depends a lot on the material from which the frame is made. The most difficult options are those in which the frame part is made of steel.

Road bikes come in several varieties. Each version of such a transport has its own design features. Let's get to know them better.

One of the more popular road bike options. Otherwise, it is called group or lightweight. It is a traditional model designed specifically for cycling on tarmac roads. The main goal of the designers here was to lighten the mass of the structure. That's why in classic bicycles, frames are assembled from thin tubes.

Such models of road bicycles are made for racing, and in fact the competitions are held for about 90-200 km along a winding track with descents and ascents. For this, these models provide a fit that brings only comfort during long-term use. She is short and aggressive. The wheelbase is short here, due to which cornering is easier and more agile.

Modern aerobikes are designed to meet the challenges of classic road bike models. However, these models significantly reduce air resistance when driving at high speed. The frame of these bikes is usually heavier and more expensive than other bikes. Landing here is even more aggressive, because it is poorly suited for very long trips over long distances.

Bicycles of this type are distinguished by a frame for a more comfortable ride and the possibility of installing wider wheels. The weight of the structure is greater here, the aerodynamic drag becomes more impressive. It is not the best choice when it comes to high speed racing bike. As an exception, only those cases when the race runs on a track with paving stones can serve.

A relatively new subspecies of road bicycles, which has gained great popularity. There are comfortable endurance frame, wide tires, disc brakes. The warmer model can be safely driven on asphalt, dirt and gravel roads. Since the class of bicycles in question is new, manufacturers often resort to various experiments and release original copies, for example, with a suspension fork.

This is a special sports discipline, which consists in driving on sand, mud and even snow in a not very long ring track. Cyclocross tires differ from standard road bikes with a thicker rubber - 32-42 mm. Here a deep tread, a high carriage assembly takes place. The comfort level of such bicycles is not the highest, so they can be considered highly specialized.

Road bikes of this type are produced specifically for cycling. The design of track models is simple and straightforward, so they have proven themselves well as city bicycles.

The main distinguishing feature of track road bikes is the fixed gear - there are no speed switches. There are brakes in these models (as opposed to the popular belief about their absence), but you have to brake not manually, but only by slowing down the movement of the pedals.

Highly specialized road bike models, made for individual races with a separate start. Also suitable for triathlon. However, this professional bike is not intended for group trips, as its level of maneuverability is poor.

This type of road bike is equipped with a soft and comfortable frame made of steel or titanium. In terms of appearance, this technique can strongly resemble a vintage bicycle from the 70s.

Touring is a road bike that is designed for leisurely rides, but long trips or even several days. The wheelbase is lengthened here, which provides the device with high stability. It assumes a vertical fit, which is as comfortable as possible for the cyclist.

With a chic assortment, today's consumers have the opportunity to choose the perfect road bike for every taste, color and budget. It is recommended to give preference exclusively branded models, since such devices are usually of impeccable quality... Let's review the most popular manufacturers of reliable and durable road bikes.

Top manufacturers open a brand from Taiwan, producing quality bicycles in a huge range. Giant offers a choice of models with a frame made of steel, aluminum or carbon. The manufacturer's assortment includes not only bicycles of different types, but also accessories and components for them.

A well-known brand that boasts the richest assortment of bicycles of various modifications. Branded products meet all requirements and standards. There are both classic and professional Scott road bikes on sale. Models are equipped with both disc and rim brakes. The frames are available in aluminum or carbon.

A well-known and popular brand offering high-quality bicycles of various modifications to consumers' choice. The road bikes of this company are famous for their comfort, high stability, maneuverability and durability.

A large European brand that produces not only bicycles, but also sportswear and bicycle accessories. Author's assortment includes both adults and children, as well as folding bike models... The brand produces urban, tourist, mountain bicycles. Author road bikes are made with a lightweight aluminum frame.

Italian road bikes of this brand are famous not only for the highest quality, but also for the signature color. Over time, the colors of bicycle designs changed each other, but only slightly. For a long time, the green shade remained predominant, but modern consumers have the opportunity to choose a model and more interesting colors. The assortment of the company includes both expensive and budget examples of road bikes.

Choosing a quality and reliable road bike is not so difficult. The main thing is to build on a number of basic criteria.

• Rostovka (model size). This is one of the most important parameters that must be taken into account when choosing a road bike. There are special calculators that allow you to correlate the size of the bike frame with the height of the cyclist. Often, dimensional parameters are indicated on the official websites of certain brands.Before buying a bike, it is advisable to try it out - take a little ride to see if it suits you. You can also stand above the frame so that it sits between your legs. Ideal distance from groin to frame is 10 cm and minimum is 6 cm.
• The material from which the frame is made. The quality of cycling will depend on the frame part, as well as its reliability. On sale there are road bikes with frames made of aluminum, steel or carbon. It should be borne in mind that steel options are heavy, aluminum ones are lighter. Carbon frames are also considered light, but in some models their weight exceeds steel copies. Each model must be carefully studied and examined in order not to make a mistake with the choice.
• Frame design features... Produce road bikes for single or group start races. The split models are not as maneuverable, heavy and very rigid. Novice cyclists are advised to select road bikes for a group start. With these models, it is easier to get used to the fit.
• Saddle and handlebars... Before buying your chosen road bike, be sure to make sure you are comfortable with the saddle and handlebars. Management of the "iron horse" should be as comfortable and convenient as possible. This is especially true for models purchased for long distances and long trips.
• Power sensors. It is worth paying attention to these elements of the bike. There are 3 types of sensors: PowerTrap, which is embedded in the hub, Look Kleo + Polar, located in the pedals, and CRM, which is located in the pedal hub and is not tied to one specific wheel in the structure. The most expensive are the PowerMeter sensors, which add a couple of thousand dollars to the price of the bike.
• The system of stars. The chain in the construction of the road bike is put on the front system, where there are different-sized stars. Small, 2-star systems of 50 or 24 teeth are perfect for beginners. With them it is easier to overcome slopes and ascents. There is a double and standard system of 39 and 53 teeth. The latter options are suitable for experienced riders, as they allow them to develop impressive speed.
• Manufacturer. It is recommended to select only branded bicycles. In the modern market, there are many large well-known companies that produce high-quality and durable products that you can trust.
• Trade point. If you want to find a really high-quality and reliable bike, you should go to a store with an impeccable reputation for it. You can visit a mono-brand outlet, if there is one in the city. It is not recommended to purchase such equipment from street shops or from dubious vendors. Such products are unlikely to last long, and there will be no guarantee for them.

The following video will tell you about the mistakes beginners make when riding a road bike.