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Research >> Road Bike
Related: $500 $3000 Airless Tires Reviews Mountain Bike Tires Michelin Aero Bars Tri-Bike Brands Carbon Fiber Frame

Road Bike

What is a road bike?

Road bikes are also called as “road bicycles” or “racers”. It is designed to be used on smooth tarmac roads. Its distinct features include skinny tires and lightweight frames. Road bikes are created to maximize speed and efficiency when commuting, touring and road racing. Its dropped handlebars and overall geometry allow cyclists to be on a forward-leaning riding position. 

The basic look of the road bike hasn’t changed a lot over the past 50 years. However, the road bikes currently available in the market already possess modern technology. Today, road bikes already have electronic drivetrains and carbon fiber frames. Its overall shape and looks have not changed so much but its details have huge significant differences to what it has years ago. Although the speed of the road bike largely depends on the cyclist's performance, the components that make up the bike can also be a huge factor. 

What factors affect the speed of a road bike?

Pedaling strength. The pedaling strength is one crucial factor that affects the speed of a road bike. Cyclists are aware of the fact that increased effort exerted when pedaling would mean increased speed as well. Pedaling strength is also one factor that the cyclist has more control over. 

Weight. This would mean the weight of the bike and the weight of the cyclist using it. A cyclist who weighs 198 pounds who is able to generate power for as much as 225 watts will be able to pedal faster. However, a cyclist who only weighs 132 pounds and who also generates power of 225 watts can still go faster. This is because the lighter the cyclist’s weight is, the less energy it takes for him to be able to move forward. The different components installed in a bike also affects its overall weight. Moreover, the addition of one water bottle can also impact its weight thereby also affecting its wattage output and its ability to generate speed. 
In other words, a heavy cyclist would be disadvantaged especially if he does not observe proper posture. 

Resistance. There are three factors that may influence resistance. These are wind speed, the cyclist’ weight and air density. Cyclists refer to resistance as the “penalizing factor” which can be difficult to overcome. However, a good attitude while riding on a bike must be observed in order to easily cope with such resistance. An aggressive cycling attitude may only make maximum speed more difficult to achieve. A balance between comfort and aerodynamics must be observed. 
Cyclists with lighter body weight, coupled with good power-to-weight ratio are expected to have more advantages especially when going through uneven terrain. Cyclists who are not heavy and do not possess much power may also gain some advantage if better positioning in the saddle is observed. Good positioning in the saddle allows maximum performance regardless of the type of terrain the bike will be used on.

What is the difference between a road bike and a mountain bike?

All types of bicycles can be used on any types of road surfaces. A road bike is the type that is specifically meant to be used on smooth roads. Most models of road bikes have skinny tires that are not wider than 32mm. A road bike can either have a very light tread or none at all. On the contrary, mountain bikes have wider tires, with treads designed to be more aggressive to allow better grip on dirt or gravel.

Although road bikes may also be used on surfaces that have gravel or dirt but the overall ride would most likely be too harsh. A mountain bike is designed for off-road use. Thus, it is much easier to control when riding on roads that are very problematic for road bikes. With mountain bikes, gravel, rocks, sand or loose dirt won’t be much of an issue. 

What are the different types of road bikes?

E-Road Bike

E-road bikes possess electric motor which can produce a minimum of 200 power watts per hour. The electric motor helps power up the pedals that gives the bike a boost when climbing on a mountain or riding on rough roads.  This e-road bike is also beneficial for older people and those with physical disabilities.

Aero Road Bike

Aero road bikes have frames built with aerodynamically designed tubings that reduce wind resistance. Its handlebars, wheels and other components are all built to decrease wind resistance. Aero bikes went through wind tunnel testing to ensure added potential speed without the need to exert more effort on the part of the cyclist. Aero bikes may look a lot like the typical road bike but they certainly work faster. 


Hybrid Bikes

A hybrid bike is a mix of a typical road bike and a mountain bike, making it suitable for different types of terrain. Others refer to “hybrid bikes” as “cross bikes”. It has a flat handlebar just like what a mountain bike has. Its tires have larger volumes which help ensure more comfort to the cyclist. Hybrid bikes also possess a versatile type of gearing with wide-ranging cassettes and triple chain sets. It is thicker than a typical road bike to ensure greater stability. A hybrid bike is thinner and much lighter than a mountain bike. 


Sportive Bikes

Sportive bikes are intended for long distance riding. It has wider tires that provide better grip and greater comfort especially to cyclists who do not possess the flexibility of a professional racer. Its frame has more vertical compliance which means added comfort to cyclists going through extreme terrains.

Racing Bike

A racing bike has the agility and speed that ensures great advantage during miles of road racing. It has skinny tires and lightweight wheels that reduce rolling resistance. It has a very narrow seat along with a very aggressive setup and overall geometry. Racing bikes are best suited for cyclists who are into serious racing. 

What is the best frame material for a road bike?

Road bikes can be made from different types of frame materials. To know which one should be chosen, it is best to know first the different types of frame materials. 
The frame material of a road bike may come in different types. It could be made from carbon fiber, steel or aluminum. There are also frame materials that are made from titanium. Others are made from a combination of any of these materials. Each material has its own characteristics that may impact the overall cost and weight of the bike, its comfort level and performance. 

Carbon Fiber

Carbon fiber is now the most common type of frame material being used in many road bikes. Before, people shun away from carbon fiber because of its high cost. However, in these modern days the cost of a road bike made from carbon fiber has significantly decreased. Some bikes may also come with stem, wheelset, seat post, fork and groupset that is made from carbon material as well. Carbon fiber not only has a longer shelf life. It is also less likely to fatigue over a period of time, unlike any other frame materials. However, not all carbon fiber frame materials are created equal. They may vary depending in several factors such as in the way they were layered. How the carbon fiber is used and manufactured greatly affects the level of comfort and stiffness. One disadvantage of a carbon fiber frame material is the risk of its cracking when under too much pressure. And, once its integrity weakens it will start to become too fragile and no longer safe to use. 


Aluminum

Aluminum also makes a stiff yet light frame material for road bikes. Its cost is also lower compared to carbon fiber. Many road bikes with aluminum frame material will also have carbon fiber as its fork in order to reduce vibration and improve its comfort level. With proper treatment and regular maintenance, aluminum frame material may last for years. Generally, an aluminum frame material offers cost effective solution for cyclists looking to have road bikes that are affordable yet can be relied upon in terms of performance. 

Titanium

Having a road bike with titanium frame material is no doubt a pricey option because of its high durability. It doesn't corrode like steel does. But, titanium is difficult to work with. It cannot be easily molded like aluminum and carbon fiber. However, titanium is known to be highly resilient to pressure and stress. Cyclists who are looking to invest in a road bike that could last a lifetime must opt for one that has titanium frame material. 

Steel

Steel is commonly used in custom-made road bikes. Before carbon fiber and aluminum became popular, steel used to be the preference of most professional and recreational bike users. Its major disadvantage is its tendency to “rust” over a period of time. Manufacturers these days make use of steel that has ultra-high strength which provide great performance without compromising weight. 

Is it important to buy a road bike with suspension?

The answer to this question would depend on the condition of the road that the cyclist frequently goes to. A nicely paved road does not warrant suspension for road bikes at all.

Comfort is the main reason why suspension has to be installed in a bike because it absorbs shocks. However, one disadvantage about having suspension is the fact that it swallows the cyclist’s energy. This is usually felt when the cyclist would stand up in order to push the pedals harder. Some of the energy exerted in pedaling harder in order to move forward faster is being used up by the bike from bouncing up and down. Some people find this effect annoying. For some, a good seat, coupled with a well-adjusted handle bar may serve as a better alternative to a suspension. 

Besides, one of the biggest impacts suspension can have on bikes is the repair and maintenance costs. 

What is a chainless road bike?

A chainless bike is a perfect option for cyclists who want to be spared from the stress and embarrassment of experiencing gear slips and skips. This chainless bike is now dubbed as “the world’s most efficient”. Its efficiency is mainly due to the amount of friction reduced for as much as fifty percent as it does away with derailleurs, pulleys and chain. Leaving only very few points of contact, friction is reduced while efficiency is increased. 

A typical road bike generates more friction each time the chain slides through the crankset. A chainless bike limits the point of contact for only up to two. Therefore, less friction is generated for each pedaling and more power is directly routed towards making the bike move forward. In other words, more speed is generated while less effort is exerted on the part of the cyclist. 

What is a clipless road bike pedal?

A clipless pedal refers to a special type of pedal, paired with cleats. These cleats will be bolted to the cycling shoes while the clipless pedals are attached to the bike. In order to make this possible, a clipless cycling shoes must also be used. Once the shoes are locked in, the feet will now be connected to the pedals. The clipless pedal system ensures that the feet won’t come off the pedals not until the cyclist releases his shoes when dismounting. To detach one’s shoes from the pedals, the cyclist only has to swing his heels out. Then, the shoes will automatically be released. This “clipless” system allows the cyclist's feet to be locked into the pedals and this leads to more power in each pedal stroke. This is so helpful especially when accelerating, climbing and when riding off road.

Are clipless road bike pedals dangerous?

When using clipless pedals, the feet have to get used to rotating laterally whenever it needs to be detached. This may take some getting used to it since the legs and feet are already used to lifting up and then back while using road bikes that have straps or clips. Clipless pedals offer more safety and security for road bike users. It makes it easier for cyclists to move laterally whenever they need to. For example, while commuting the cyclist suddenly encounters someone opening a car door in a very rapid manner. Since the clipless pedals allow the frame to move laterally, one can easily avoid being hit by the car door.

A clipless pedal also makes “bunny-hopping” so much easier because the feet are already attached to the pedals. So, if there is a need to avoid an obstacle on the road, one can do so with more speed and flexibility. 

What do I need to carry in my road bike saddle bag?

Tire levers, patch kit, spare tubes, chain breaker, multi tool and presta to schrader valve adapter are some of the indispensable items in a saddle bag. Some people also put personal items such as wallet and IDs but it is best to put these in the backpack rather than in the saddle bag. Having some zip ties and a nail clipper in the saddle bag will also prove to be very helpful. A zip tie can be used as temporary solution when something “unfixable” occurs. A nail clipper can be used to remove tiny debris that are sticking out which are difficult to remove with fingernails.

What is meant by “one-dollar bill trick” to fix road bike tire punctures?

A one-dollar bill is very useful especially if the side wall of a clincher tire has a cut. Pumping up this cut tire may lead the tube to bulge out and then burst into pieces. But, if a one-dollar bill is inserted between the tire and the tube, the tire can be pumped safely. A one-dollar bill trick is good to use in the absence of an old tire patch. 

How do I avoid having cat 5 tattoos while riding my road bike?

Cat 5 Tattoos are common among newbie road bikers. This manifests as greasy chain marks on the biker’s inner calf. These chain marks are a sign of poor cycling posture. To avoid this, one must observe proper posture and proper spinning of the heels while clipping out of the pedals. It is also important to always clean the chain every after using the bike. A shiny looking chain can also get dirty if the chainrings and cogset have grime so it is a must to clean these as well. This way, even if the cyclist’s inner calves accidentally touch the chains while riding, it won’t have greasy marks. 

How do I choose the best road bike shoes?

Road bike shoes have distinct designs. Look for a shoe that has a smooth outsole with fine ventilation and very stiff shoe sole. Its cleat should be peeking from the sole. The shoe pedal design has normally three holes. Be sure the shoes can support the clipless pedal system of the road bike. If the pedal has three holes then the road bike shoe should have a 3 hole-cleat system for compatibility. If the road bike does not have a clipless pedal system, a simpler shoe design can be preferred. 

Where are road bikes best suited?

Road bikes are built for speed and best suited for smooth pavement like tarmac roads and paved streets. Many people also use road bikes for daily commute. Road bikes are also designed for on-road racing because of its thin, smooth tires and drop handlebars. 

Which one is better - road bikes with a drop bar or flat bar?

Road bikes are designed to be used on smooth pavements for long-distance racing. When road racing, using the right handlebar is important. Knowing the pros and cons of having a drop handlebar or flat handlebar will help in choosing which one is better. 

Flat bar gives an upright position and is more comfortable for beginners for it requires less flexibility. It is also good for riding with a backpack.

Drop bar is designed to be aerodynamic to go faster for the same amount of effort. It does require more flexibility to help lower one’s center of gravity. 

Riding position allows leg power. Overall, a flat bar is better for a beginner, while a drop bar is better for professionals.

What are the things to consider when buying road bike tires?

Choosing a new tire for road bike should not be difficult. The way a cyclist rides and the kind of bike he has will greatly influence what type of tire would best give an impressive accomplishment. Here are the things to consider when buying a road bike.

Size and Width. The standard road bike tires measure 700 x 23. This means 700 in diameter and a thinness of 23mm wide common for high-speed racing tires. Nowadays, Pro Tour teams are using a 25mm tire and wider rubber for racing. Wider tires allow a cyclist to actively look for other routes off the beaten smooth road.

Weight. The weight of the tires depends on the weight of the person using the bike. Knowing your size means knowing what weight your tire should be.

Durability. Considering the durability of the tire is a huge factor. Getting a tire that will last for long will prove to be not just a money-saver but a life-saver as well.

Tread type. A smooth tread is commonly being used by racers or cyclists for it is good in paved road and racing.

What are road bike safety apparels?

Headlight - a headlight helps illuminate the path or the trail where the cyclist will be heading. It broadens one’s field of vision. A headlight also scatters light thereby increasing visibility. 

Tail light - Road biking at night, pre-dawn or during twilight warrants the need for tail light since bikers need to be seen on the road. Tail lights may come in different types. Some tail lights can be installed on the seat post. Others can also be placed at the back of the helmet. There are also tail lights that can be attached to the messenger bag or backpack. 

Grip light - When road biking at night, having headlights and tail lights would not be enough. These tools help ensure that one can be seen at the front and at the back. However, a problem may occur if sudden encounters strike from the sides. This is when grip lights attached at the end of the handle bars will prove to be very helpful.

Reflective vest - A reflective vest is one very important safety wardrobe when biking at night. Choose the one that is highly adjustable to make sure it fits with the jacket or pants. 

Commuter bike jacket - This kind of jacket not only has reflective patches for improved visibility at night. Its fabric also stretches for ease of movement. A commuter bike jacket also protects the cyclist from drizzles or when snow flurries start to fall. 

Reflective pants - These pants are meant to suit a biker’s lifestyle. It not only ensures visibility. It won’t make a biker look like a fashion outcast since it can also look good when worn at the office or any places outdoors. 

Short cycling pad - Wearing a cycling pad protects the lower sensitive part of the body from getting injured.

Knee and elbow pads - These will protect the knee and elbow from getting injured in case an accident happens. 

How do we choose the best road bike helmet?

Helmets are made to protect bikers or cyclists from getting head injuries. Best helmets are expensive but one can save much money than a cheap helmet for it lasts longer. Buy a helmet that is comfortable and fits the size of your head. It has to have the right aerodynamics to ensure the flow of air around it. It has to be of good quality which means the materials used to manufacture it must help ensure safety and durability. 

How do I choose the best road bike saddles?

Saddle differs between riders. A comfortable saddle can make a difference between a good and a bad ride. An uncomfortable bike saddle can make cycling a painful experience, and can even cause injuries. Choosing the best saddle actually depends on the width of a biker’s sit-bone. A sit-bone is the part of the body that bears the seated weight. Choose a saddle that is compatible with the sit-bone. Then set it to the desired length in which the cyclist will still be able to step its foot on the ground for quick and easy dismounting.

What are the important things to keep in mind when buying used road bikes?

Most people who have no knowledge about road bikes and purchased it anyway, usually end up regretting. These are some essential things to keep in mind when buying a used road bike. 

Knowing your size. The size of the cyclist is the most important aspect when buying a road bike. It may be brand new or second hand. A road bike has a corresponding weight that suits every biker. Buying a road bike that doesn't have the correct weight will make one wonder why it feels uncomfortable when being used. 

Rusty brake cables. A rusty brake cable is not a good sign. It can break anytime and may cause an accident.

Detached spokes. If the used road bike has detached spokes it can lead to trouble. Spokes are a very crucial aspect of bike safety. It intensifies the strength of a rim and helps bear the weight of the biker on the wheel. It also carries leg power from the center to the wheel.

Ripped saddle. A ripped saddle can cause knee discomfort, especially to women. 

Worn-out tire thread. Worn-out tire thread can cause other parts of the bicycle to not function well. 

Sagging chain. A sagging chain could break any time. If the chain breaks then it will be too difficult to pedal the bike.

Worn-out brake pads. It is very important to check the bicycle brakes. If it has a loose brake then, you will lose out of control with your road bicycle and can lead into an accident. So, don’t forget to check if the brake pads function well. The last thing to do before buying a used road bike is to request for a road test. Nothing can help one make the right decision better than testing the product before finally purchasing it.

Do I need reflectors for my road bike when trailing the mountains?

When trailing the mountains, bikers may encounter other vehicles and even ten wheelers transporting overwhelming logs. Installing a few reflectors in the bicycle is a lot of help for a cyclist to be seen by these passing vehicles particularly during the evening. A bicycle reflector makes use of the principle of retroflection that allows a pedestrian or vehicle drivers to be alerted of the presence of a road bike on the same path. This helps ensure that bikers are seen by others even when the road becomes dark. This means safety which is so crucial especially that in the mountains emergency responders are far away and cannot be easily called upon during accidents. 

How do I sit properly on a road bike?

Try not to give anybody a chance to say that cycling ought to be awkward. Without a doubt, the legs and lungs may later start to hurt after several minutes or hours of pedaling. But, the biker’s butt and back should not feel any pain. Make sure the saddle height is set in a way that the knee remains straight and comfortable even when the feet is stepping forcefully on the pedal. The butt must be seated on the widest area of the bike saddle. The hands must be comfortably reaching out to the handlebars. The biker should not feel that his hands are being stretched while gripping the handlebars. 

How do I choose the right road bike outfits?

Wearing bicycle specific outfit would give so much comfort to bikers all throughout the ride. Regardless of whether the cyclist is out and about to hit the trail or driving to and from work. These road bike outfits enable a cyclist to perform better and ride longer. 

Bicycle jerseys. A bicycle jersey or other form-fitting material reduces difficulty when riding. The specialized textures improve execution by absorbing sweat to keep the cyclist feel drier even when perspiration continues.

Bike Shorts. These vary from road shorts primarily in terms of its added stretch. It should have a cushioned groin liner to lessen friction and wick dampness. If possible, try on a few shorts to figure out what padding style best accommodates the body shape of the biker. 

Leg warmers, Bike Tights or Knickers. When biking at places with cooler temperatures, bikers may settle for cycling tights, which cover the whole legs. They may also prefer knickers which wraps the knee and above. Tights and knickers mostly include built-in chamois. Tights often incorporate climate safe front boards. It should also be designed to ensure comfort when bikers have to go on dull, winter rides. For layering purposes, some tights and knickers come without a chamois liner so they will fit over some cycling shorts without much difficulty. Leg warmers are convenient cycling embellishment that can be utilized on the fly to make some cycling shorts into tights or pants. 

What are the things to consider when road biking as a beginner?

A beginner in road bike cycling may find the experience exciting, tiring and uncomfortable. Choosing the perfect bike is of utmost importance. 

Gear up for safety. Finding the ideal bicycle is just 50 per cent of the preparation process. The helmet must be worn all throughout the ride. Its quality must meet safety standards. 

Ride solo or with groups. Spending more time in the saddle will help beginners familiarize with the riding style that best suits them. Perhaps a beginner would prefer riding in a group. Others opt to go on solo adventures. 

Be realistic. Try not to hope to mystically turn into a morning individual just because of the presence of a new bicycle. Avoid unrealistic plans such as riding 100 miles too early. It is best to start slow and gradually progress. 

Stay safe. Being safe not only involves wearing a helmet. Staying safe also means following the traffic rules. Strive to look on all sides - front, back right and left side to avoid any accident. Being alert and mindful of the surroundings would greatly spare the biker from accidents.   

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