Road Bikes

If you are reading this article because you want to purchase a new road bicycle, or you're just doing a research on the subject for no apparent reason, then you should know that there are three things that you need to know about road bikes: frame materials, frame geometry and components...First things first. There are four materials that most bike manufacturers use nowadays: aluminum, steel, carbon fiber, and titanium. Each material has different properties which are carried off and affect the ride of the bike. [...]

Cyclists who participate in time trials seriously and often will want a time-trial-specific bike.  Time trial (TT) bikes are designed for one thing only, and that is riding very, very fast over non-technical terrain.  Time trials typically feature either flat or rolling courses - unlike road races, which often have steep hills, technical switchbacks and sharp corners.  TT bikes are as aerodynamic as possible, putting the racer into a very low and powerful position - not the most comfortable for long distances, but extremely efficient. [...]

In the USA, the biggest road bike brands are Trek, Specialized, Giant and Cannondale.  All offer bikes from entry-level to race-level and everything inbetween.  They don't offer custom bikes, but Trek bikes can be ordered in custom colors.  The big manufacturers offer a lot of value for the price.  They are able to spec bikes with a variety of components suited to the rider's needs and budget, and have great warranties and customer service.

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Road bikes saw a huge surge in popularity when Lance Armstrong was dominating the Tour de France.  Lightweight frames and components make for a very fast ride.   On any summer weekend in an area where road biking is popular, expect to see hundreds of riders strung out along the road in a parade of colorful jerseys...

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Built for pure, aerodynamic efficiency more than long-ride comfort, these are the speed demons of the road bike world.  TT (time trial) and Tri (triathlon) are closely related – but not exactly the same. [...]

Touring bikes are a sub-classification of road bikes.  These are the “long-haul truckers” of the road world.  Touring bikes can cross the continent, over rough roads and inhospitable conditions, with little complaint.

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Although most road bikes have carbon forks, frame materials differ.  Bike frames are typically made of aluminum at less than $1500; between $1500 and $2200 the frames begin to show some carbon, particularly in the chainstays and seatstays ...

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