Speed ​​bikes: model types, brand overview and tips for choosing

Special models of bicycles allow you to move on asphalt roads at high speed. It is easy to guess that they were named high-speed ones. Riding on such vehicles at the same time maintains excellent physical shape and allows you to enjoy the speed. Of course, excessive maneuverability and high speed require you to be prepared.

For high-speed bike models, the main characteristic is, of course, speed. To make it as high as possible, a high-speed bike is fraught with some peculiarities in its design. The frame is primarily equipped with a rigid fork and is most often made from oval steel tubes. It is this shape that makes the transport more stable when driving at high speed. As for the brakes, they can be tick-borne. However, sometimes a disc brake is installed on one wheel, and a normal brake on the other. This allows you to brake smoothly and at the right time.

The high-speed bike looks pretty impressive, but in fact it is very light. This is achieved by making the frame from alloys with aluminum, carbon fiber and other materials. The wheels are narrow and always tightly pumped. The steering wheel should have a special shape in the form of twisted ram horns.

Landing on such a bike should be extremely low for safety and speed.... An adult on high-speed models on flat roads with good asphalt surfaces can reach speeds of 70–80 km / h. It should be borne in mind that tracks with holes or irregularities will interfere with the growth of speed. The description of the high-speed bike says that they are not equipped with racks and mounts for them, as well as fenders. It is better not to choose this option if you want to get out on bike trips over rough terrain.

Records were recorded when on high-speed bicycle models it was possible to develop a speed of 236 km / h and even 268 km / h. However, it should be borne in mind that to achieve such indicators, special flat tracks were chosen, and an air bell or a car moved in front of the cyclists. This was necessary so that the transport would not be thrown back by the air stream. On normal flat trails, the maximum speed recorded on a bike is 145 km / h.

High-speed cycling models have a number of advantages, among which the following are worth highlighting.

• Climbs are easy to climb with a low gear.
• With a headwind, less energy is expended.
• On flat areas, you can accelerate strongly.
• The vehicle can be adjusted very precisely for certain travel conditions. However, this is possible if a large number of transmissions are envisaged.
• Less fatigue due to simplified speed selection.
• Powerful braking system.
• Light weight.

Of course, with all the many advantages, high-speed bikes have some disadvantages:

• high price;
• it is constantly necessary to service the transmission, since the chain and stars wear out quickly;
• when replacing the chain, you often have to put new stars;
• not suitable for all types of trails.

The main difference between a high-speed bike and other types is its increased aerodynamics. The high average speed on smooth roads with good coverage is ensured by the light weight and narrow tires. Also, among the differences, a steering wheel is noticeable. High-speed bikes belong to sports models.

From an ordinary urban person, first of all, optimal comfort is required when moving short distances around the city. Moreover, it is desirable in any weather and in any outfit... Ease of maintenance and a small number of speeds are also significant differences from the high-speed one. These types of bicycles differ in fit and handlebars. So, a city bike with a straight steering wheel requires a vertical landing on a wide saddle.

The presence of front and rear fenders, as well as a trunk are designed to provide additional comfort when traveling to work or when walking in the park. It is worth noting that among the city-type bicycles there are various models for both children and adults.

Mountain bike transport differs from high-speed transport primarily in its immense popularity. This is due to the fact that he easily overcomes any route, including off-road. You can identify a mountain bike by a massive, reliable frame, wheels with wide tires and "toothy" treads, a fork with shock absorbers, disc or rim brakes.

Bicycles can vary in many ways. The variety of options available is overwhelming. For example, cycling, depending on the type of transmission, is:

• with planetary sleeve;
• with a single speed system;
• with a double speed system.

Depending on which roads these or those models are intended for, they are divided into off-road, sports, for asphalt. Among those that are intended for mountain roads, or rather, complete off-road, they distinguish mountain, double-suspension and fatbikes. All of them differ in power and enviable cross-country ability. Often in these bikes you can find 21 speeds. These options are perfect for tourists and off-road thrill-seekers.

Among the sports can be distinguished road, cyclocross, trial, BMX, track and dressing. The city road allows you to develop a rather big speed at times, which makes it possible to use it in cycling. You can also race on cyclocross, but only in places without roads. Their super-strong frame, "toothy" tires and special fit are perfect for this.

Trial and BMX models were created exclusively for various tricks. These are one of the few bicycles that may have no seats at all. Low frames and small wheels (18 or 20 inches) make them very recognizable.

Track is one of the most expensive, as it is considered professional. Often such models can be seen on alloy wheels, which contributes to the increase in speed. These bicycles can be safely called the lightest. Of the features, it is also worth emphasizing the absence of a transmission and brakes. The wheels spin while the pedals are spinning, due to a special connection between them.

Among the asphalt options are distinguished city ​​bike, cross hybrid, touring and foldable. All these models are small in size, comfortable speeds, equipped with a trunk and everything you need to travel around the city. Moreover, folding is most often small, which makes it convenient to store. Also, in all the variety of two-wheeled vehicles, it is worth paying attention to models such as cargo, bike trailers, electric bicycles, tandems, unicycles, choppers, cruisers.

Among the many manufacturers of high-speed bikes, it is worth highlighting a few. For example, Forward is known for its high quality, which is confirmed even by the reviews of professionals. In their bike models, special praise was given to reliable brakes, suspension, high-quality materials, durable wheels that overcome any weather conditions. Also worth noting is the stylish design and adequate cost. Of the shortcomings, the most often noted is the not very comfortable steering wheel with sliding handles.

Stinger has focused on a variety of models to suit both beginners and experienced professionals.... The company entered the Russian market in 2002. Currently, the model range includes more than 50 units of bicycle bikes. Particular emphasis is placed on mountain, BMX, full suspension, urban, womens and teenagers. The company skillfully combines good quality with affordable prices.

Stern can be considered a young bicycle manufacturer, which became famous in Russia only in 2012. The main direction of the company is the creation of bicycle transport for walking along city streets and forest paths. Not suitable for those who are able to travel hundreds of kilometers per month. Another advantage of the products of this brand is inexpensive repairs. For example, a new carriage will cost only 500 rubles.

BMW is known for its flamboyant and extravagant bikes that are suitable for extreme riding and professional stunts.... Recently, models with cast aluminum wheels have been especially popular. These bikes have excellent aerodynamic properties. Of course, high quality and originality cost a lot of money.

There are a huge number of high-speed bike models in stores, so it will be easy and difficult to choose at the same time. Many types of bicycles can be classified as high-speed, including hybrids, MTB, road, road.

Before choosing, you should think in advance what the bike will be used for, that is what roads they will drive on. For example, classic two-wheelers are suitable for moving along city streets, it is possible with a planetary hub. But for tourists and lovers of mountain peaks, it is better to choose options among fat bikes or two-suspension with large wheels.

Price also plays an important role when choosing a bike. If you want to spend as little as possible on vehicle maintenance or repairs, you will have to pay as much as possible. In the event that the bike is needed for infrequent walks, then you can stop at economical models. It will not be superfluous to familiarize yourself with well-known brands in advance in order to avoid fakes. Cycling should be comfortable. To do this, you need to pay attention to the frame, in particular, its shape, size, weight, color. Someone will like the bright version in yellow or lilac, while others will prefer white or pink. It is worth noting that distinguish between male and female versions of the frame.

It is advisable to choose the speeds for yourself so that you can fairly evenly distribute forces on any road. It is very important to take into account your height, otherwise the landing will be incorrect, and fatigue will begin to appear too quickly. It is better to find special tables that indicate how to choose a frame for a specific height. Of course, you also need to pay attention to how the bike feels when you sit on it.

The degree of professionalism in cycling should also be considered. For beginners, it is better to stop at the category of cycling models for amateurs. While experienced craftsmen can pick up interesting sports options. In the latter case, you should be prepared for considerable prices.

Among all the parameters, sympathy is the final one. Even the coolest bike will not please if you don't like its appearance or is uncomfortable while riding. Experts recommend before making a purchase, drive or at least sit on several models.

Choosing the right bike transport, you want it to last as long as possible. To do this, it is necessary to regularly inspect it and keep it clean. However, you still need to learn how to use the speed model correctly. For proper operation of the sprockets and chain it is important to switch when the load is at its lowest. For example, do not change the speed in the middle of a climb so as not to overload the derailleur.

Failure to follow basic rules may result in an open circuit or damage to the transmission. It is best to switch a little earlier, while there should not be too much skew of the chain. Of course, when the bike is 3-speed, then everything is simple and clear with the shifting. For models with 6 or more speeds, it is worth learning, for example, by looking at special tables with a prescribed set of suitable gears.

It is important that the cadence is not maximum, but optimal, approximately 60-100 rotations per minute. When going uphill for a long time, a lot of effort is expended for driving, and this is dangerous to health. To avoid this, it is enough to turn on a low speed and the pedals will spin more easily, and the load on the back and joints will decrease. On a flat road or on a downhill, on the contrary, go to the highest speed, so that when you press the pedal, an effort is created.

The chain must be lubricated periodically. However, even in this case, it can switch with some difficulty. The reasons must be sought in the stretched cable, which is pulled up by the lever on the switch. Sometimes interference occurs due to excessive contamination of the cable jacket, which is eliminated by its complete replacement.

For information on how to properly switch speeds on a bike so that there are no problems, see the next video.