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Selected road bicycles Online

While most people use bicycles as a mode of transportation or for recreational activities, some find joy in the more competitive field of road bicycles.

If you are looking for road bicycles, you will soon find out that the selection is as diverse as the races. However, despite the diversity, two of the important features that are shared by all road bicycles are exceptionally lightweight frames and the aerodynamics for the speed required to cover the distance.

It all depends on the type of road biking you are planning to do: Some bikes feature thin tires and are specifically built for speed. There are also hybrid varieties often used in cyclocross racing, designed to handle all types of road conditions. Added to the mix is the mountain bikes that are built for irregular terrain, offering ease in climbing and descending.

Types of Road Bicycles

If you are planning to engage in road racing, your choice will greatly take into account your racing style. Take a look at these road bikes:

Road Bicycles	Triathlon Bicycles	Hybrid Bicycles
City Bikes	Cruiders Bicycles	Fixed-Gear Bicycles

Road

Two of the most important features of this type of road bicycle are aerodynamic and lightweight. Road bicycles will naturally prefer to ride on bikes that are exceptionally fast, durable, and comfortable. These types of bicycles typically feature thin tires, which offer very little resistance while rolling. In addition, it is also designed with low handlebars to allow riders to deal with lesser wind resistance. Another important feature of road bicycles is the multi-gear mechanism for different types of riding conditions that may be encountered while on the road. It is important that drivers can maneuver well on steep hills as well as flat terrains.

Cyclo-Cross

This type of road racing bicycle combines the best qualities of both the road racing bicycle and the mountain bike, making it versatile enough to take on smooth and rough terrains, which is quite typical when engaging in cyclocross racing.

The bicycles built for this type of competition feature an aerodynamic design complete with low handlebars. It also carries the critical qualities of an off-road racing bicycle. In general, cyclocross racing bikes are equipped with larger tires, which combine the best in traction and speed. Also, you will find that the cantilever of these kinds of road bicycles is positioned higher in the tire to avoid contact with debris and mud that are typical in off-road tracks.

Track

Featuring narrow tires, low handlebars, and aerodynamic build, track bikes are often confused with road bicycles. The wheels of track bikes are considerably stiffer, which presents a precious attribute when it comes to reaching maximum acceleration in track racing sprints. Track bikes do not have brakes, which means riders are required to decrease speed to complete stops gradually.

Key Features

When shopping for road bicycles there are some key features you need to take into consideration:

Frame And Fork

Over the years, there have been a significant number of design innovations in bicycle frames. Among the popular ones include titanium, aluminum, steel, and carbon fiber. The material used for the construction of the frame and fork of the bikes is of primary importance. Still, even if two bikes are made of the same materials, their performance and riding quality can greatly differ due to other factors, such as tube shapes, assembly, geometry, and material manipulation. For this reason, beyond the choice of frame material, it is highly recommended to conduct a test ride. An important tip to keep in mind: when checking out bike frames is to look for a tubing decal, which a found on the down tube or the seat tube.

• Steel - This one is considered the traditional material used for constructing road bicycles. There are many steel tubing available along with varied methods used when it comes to constructing steel - all designed to adapt to the needs and requirements of cyclists. Steel is known to offer exceptional ride quality and can be easily repaired. It is also shown to be highly durable and affordable compared to its contemporaries. High-quality steel frames can integrate exceptional design, better tuning alloys, and superior assembly. In the market, the popular quality steel for bike frames is the American SAE 4130 steel otherwise referred to as chrome molybdenum."
• Aluminum - This bike frame material was first introduced back in 1895, although it was widely used only during the '80s. Today, aluminum is the most popular bike frame material used, available in many variances in terms of quality and assembly. You have probably heard talks about how aluminum frames have more jarring rides compared to other frame materials. This used to be a case years ago, but this is no longer a problem today with the availability of aluminum alloys, along with improved construction and tubing enhancements. The aluminum forks are known to be stiff and light, and they can be shaped aerodynamically.
• Titanium - Titanium is known to be the longest-lasting material and also happens to be the lightest as well as the most expensive one. It rivals aluminum in terms of weight and is significantly more comfortable compared to steel. Since titanium frames are more expensive to produce, it goes without saying that it is considerably more expensive compared to steel and aluminum. There are two different types of aluminum in the market today, the 3Al/2.5V and 6Al/4V. The numbers/designations refer to aluminum (Al) and Vanadium (V) - which are two alloys used in titanium. 6Al/4V are more expensive but also considerably lighter, harder, and stronger. On the other hand, titanium forks are quite rare and are extremely expensive. This is mainly due to the additional cost of construction and materials used.
• Carbon Fiber - Among the different bike frame and fork materials, carbon fiber is the most unique one, as it is not a metal. Production of carbon fiber starts with a fabric that is then impregnated with glue, or what is called resin. The resulting material can be designed into tubes or can be shaped into models using pressure and heat, which turns it into a solid structure. Frames made of carbon fiber are extremely stiff, light, and very durable. The greatest advantage of using carbon fiber is its malleability, allowing manufacturers to manipulate it in hundreds of different ways, thereby allowing them to fine-tune the construction to come up with the best possible ride quality and optimum performance.

Wheels

Wheels have evolved throughout the years, thanks to innovative engineering. Wheels for road bicycles are more aesthetically appealing, durable, light, and more aerodynamic - features that are significantly important in a competitive sport like road racing. When the wheel weight is significantly reduced, it results in a dramatic improvement in the ability of the bike to climb and accelerate, thereby improving overall handling.

Box-Section Versus Aero-Section Rims

Today there are two types of wheels for road bicycles: the conventional box-section rims, which are square or rectangular, and the aero-section rums, which are shaped triangularly.

The box-section rim is known to be considerably lighter, comfortable, and can accelerate quickly. On the other hand, the aero-shaped rims are known to be stronger, stiffer, and have lesser wind drag. When choosing between the two, it is highly recommended that you test-drive different rim types to get a better feel. Overall comfort, as well as your weight, plays an important factor in your choice. For example, if you are a 140-pound rider who loves to engage in leisurely rides on rough pavements, you may prefer the box-section rim for added comfort. Now, if you are a 200-pound rider mostly cycling on smooth surfaces, you may be better off with aero-section rims for speed and stiffness.

Tires

Bike manufacturers have introduced a wide variety of tires for road bicycles. Typically these tires can be used for 1000 to 2000 miles, depending on the riding style, weight, and location of the tire, whether it is installed on the back or front part.

When it comes to choosing types, you may want to pay careful attention to the bead type, found in the edges of the tire. The beads are responsible for gripping the rim to hold the tire. The less expensive tires typically feature wire beads, which are known to add weight. The more advanced variety is the Kevlar beads, which are popular for people who prefer lighter bikes and livelier handling. While tires with Kevlar beads are known to cost more, they will prove to be well worth the extra expense.

Guide to Tire Sizes

• 700 x 20c - ideal for thin and lighter bicycle riders
• 700 x 23c - ideal for normal racing and training
• 700 x 25c - offers thicker and longer wear with better shock absorption
• 700 x 28c - thick and longest lasting, typically used for touring and commuting

Tubular Or Tubeless Tires

Tubular tires, which are also known as 'sew-up, is a common tire used for professional road racing mainly due to its round profile. It is also known to deliver a smoother ride compared to standard tires and is widely favored by people who spend days or extended hours cycling.

A tubular casing, sewn together at its bottom section supports the round profile of the tire. Inside, there is a tube, which means repairing a flat tire will require more work. However, aside from delivering a smoother ride, tubular wheels are also known to be slightly lighter compared to the standard models. Tubulars are no longer a common tire due to the known hassles of fixing flat tires. However, for bike racers, you may want to consider choosing a tubular tire.

The newest innovation in tires is the tubeless variety. Just like the ones in cars and motorcycles, the tires run without any tube, thereby eliminating pinch flats and improving the ride quality. Tubeless tires require a special rim along with a special Presta valve installed in the rim.

Component Groups

More popularly referred to as 'groups,' the top companies are known to manufacture a full line of road racing bicycle components including Campagnolo, Shimano, and SRAM. These manufacturers offer a wide variety of components to suit different rider levels - from novices to pro racers. The component groups consist of the following:

• Hubs
• Brakes
• Chains
• Cassette
• Bracket
• Shifters
• Headset
• Crank
• Derailleurs

Bike manufacturers usually make their component groups. You need to remember that most road bicycles come fully equipped with wheelsets, which means you need to include hubs so you may want to get hubs from the same manufacturer.

Electronic Shifting

The electronic shifting technology is widely known as the most recent advancement in the field of drive train technology. This one was initially introduced and mass-marketed by Shimano, and it uses lightning-fast electrical impulses to change gears, making it faster and more reliable.

Selected Road Bicycles Brands

Diamondback 2012 Podium 7 Road Racing Bicycle

This one is the more expensive road bicycle that comes with Diamondback's patented AMMP Technology, perfect for elite racers. It features the DBR AMMP SL Carbon Technology, Monocoque Competition Road Frame complete with internal cable routing, Specific Modulus, taper headtube, and Carbon dropouts - truly superior in every way. Other important features include:

• AMMPSL Carbon Monocoque Competition Road Frame
• Easton EC90 SL Clincher Carbon Wheel Set
• Campagnolo Super Record Derailleur's and 11-Spd Ultra Shift, Ergo Power Shifters
• AMMP CFT Carbon Podium Fork w/ Carbon Taper Steerer Tube
• Campagnolo Super Record 11 Racing Double Crankset

Litespeed C1/Shimano Dura-Ace 7900 Complete Bike

Another exceptional racing bike, this one sets the trend with its carbon frame, which uses the latest innovation to produce aerodynamic and rigid carbon shapes - all without increasing the weight. This one came 4 years in the making and is truly a product of extensive design study and continuous innovation. Other important features include:

• Carbon fiber frame material
• Carbon fiber steer tube type
• Fulcrum Racing 5 wheelset
• Shimano Ultegra Di2 Front and Rear Derailleur
• Shimano Ultegra Di2 shifters

GMC Denali Pro Road Racing Bicycle

If you are looking for a good quality road racing bike without spending a fortune, the GMC Denali Pro Road racing bicycle presents an ideal choice. Featuring high quality, handcrafted lightweight frame made with aluminum, you can look forward to a stiff and responsive ride. This 16-speed drive train comes equipped with integrated shift levers that allow you to brake and shift all without the need to move your hand from the handlebar. Important features include the following:

• 16-speed microshift drive train
• 22-inch aluminum frame
• Dual pivot brake system
• Aluminum rims with stainless spokes
• 700c x 25 tires

Vilano FORZA 4.0 Aluminum Road Bike

If you are looking for an exceptional road companion that is known to deliver exceptional performance, this one may just be the perfect choice. Featuring an integrated brake level, the bike is built with a lightweight 6061 aluminum frame. It also comes with a 24-speed designed to handle any type of road situation. Other important features include:

• Front Derailleur: Microshift FDR338-B 3-Speed
• Rear Derailleur: Shimano 2300 8 Speed
• Crankset: Alloy 170mm (50,52,54cm) 175mm (56,58cm) 54/39/30T/li
• Chain: KMC 8 Speed
• Stem: Forged Alloy 1 1/8" 105mm +-10°
• Brakes: Promax
• Handlebar: Alloy 6061 Bore: 26.0mm Width: 42cm

Where to Buy Road Bicycles?

If you are interested in buying road bicycles, you can always buy them at your local bicycle store. However, there is another alternative: you can buy mountain bikes at one of these trusted online stores:

Road Bicycles Online

	NOS 2000 (SIZE 56cm) COLNAGO C40 GOLD ROAD BIKE - CAMPAGNOLO RECORD - NEW IN BOX (New - 25000 CAD)
	Moots CRD Road Bike, New 2023 (New - 15999 USD)
	Enve Composites Melee SES Dura Ace Di2 Carbon Disc Road Bike - 56cm - NEW (New - 13699.99 USD)
	Cannondale LAB71 SuperSix Evo 12-Speed Road Bike (New - 13349 USD)

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