Thirty to forty years ago, road bikes seemed the same – thin wheels, distinctive handlebar “horns,” thin frame tubes. Now there are a lot of models for different kinds of cycling and triathlon, and they look completely different. A road bike for mountain riding will be very different from a triathlon or sectional bike. The requirements for frame geometry, equipment, and overall bike weight will be different. Therefore, to buy a road bike, you, first of all, need to decide on the purposes where you will use it. In this article we’ll tell you about the features of road cycling, which sport bikes are suitable for what tasks, what to pay attention to a beginner when buying your first bike and when to transplant to a faster bike.
Road Bicycle Types
These bikes have the lowest weight among road bikes. The frame is not the stiffest to cushion highway bumps in mountainous terrain. Mountain road bikes are equipped with low-profile wheels, as aerodynamics are not as important compared to the weight of the equipment.
Aerobike road bike
Resembles a spaceship, the most “fashionable” and modern. Features a flat frame and high-profile wheels. Such a high-speed bike is used for flat racing, where the cyclist works at a speed of 35 km / h. Bicycles Aerobike group are heavier than mountain bikes, but they have good aerodynamics. The frames are rigid, but not the lightest. Suitable for trained athletes and experienced amateurs. High-profile wheels, aero wheels, rim brakes are expensive “dodgers” that improve aerodynamics. The aggressive aerodynamic fit of the Aerobike will probably not suit amateurs, as it will be uncomfortable.
Endurance road bike.
Not as aerodynamic as the Aero, not as lightweight as for group racing in the mountains, but very comfortable. With a rigid frame, manufacturers can add a shock-absorbing seatpost and handlebar. Such a bike is designed for long races and training.
Time trial bikes for time trial races and triathlons
A split start race bike is designed for races of 15 to 55 minutes. The goal of these bikes is to provide maximum aerodynamics, speed, even at the expense of the comfort of the cyclist. No unnecessary details. Such bikes are suitable for professional athletes.
Triathlon bike
Reminds of a racing bolide. High-profile wheels, seat tube stands more vertically than in other types of bicycles, aerodynamic landing, recumbent. For triathlon competitions, there are places to store your camera, food (gels, bars), and water.
How to choose a bike type
If you are just starting out in cycling or triathlon, want just a road bike, but to be comfortable and versatile, then start with a mountain road bike. In a mountain bike, the fit is initially set up for maximum pedaling efficiency so that all the muscles work. In training, this bike is good for building the right muscles. It is also suitable for the first triathlon and cycling competitions. If your riding level does not allow for speeds above 35-40 km/h, then all the aerodynamic improvements will not work. Therefore it is not necessary to look in the direction of expensive and too technological machines. In addition, a good specialist will be able to expose you to a triathlon landing on a road bike.
If you have experience and good fitness, you perform in competitions and are ready to buy a second (third…) bike, then you need to choose a bike with good dodger, aerodynamic characteristics, which will help you to improve your results.
At the same time, you need to remember that the best in aerodynamic characteristics Time Trial may not be suitable for you to participate in a triathlon. As we said above, split start races last no more than an hour. The bike is designed in such a way that, to the detriment of comfort, the best possible aerodynamics are achieved. In a triathlon, on the other hand, you spend 2-3-4 hours in the saddle, so you can’t sacrifice fit.
If you plan to ride a group race, you won’t be allowed to use a split bike because it would compromise the safety of the peloton.
There are many subtleties in cycling. Both the beginner and the well-trained athlete find it difficult to navigate all the little details. That’s why we advise you to contact MySportExpert, where experts will help you buy your first road bike or pick up a bike for other tasks.