From MensJournal.com
Whether you’re an experienced cyclist looking for your next race bike or you’re just getting started, these are the road bikes to know this year.
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If you want to ride on pavement, whether that’s roads or bike paths, a road bike is the most efficient tool for the job. Within the realm of pavement pedaling, road bikes are ideal for a broad spectrum of pursuits, from getting fit to winning races.
Road bikes come with carbon fiber, aluminum, titanium, or steel frames and forks, and they’re usually spec’d with stable and speedy 700C wheels with relatively skinny tires. That wheel and tire combo offers reduced rolling resistance and less drag than the chunkier tires found on mountain bikes and some gravel
Gearing: If your last road bike was an old ten-speed, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the range of gearing available on modern road bikes. While some have a single chainring and others have two, today’s models typically deliver a wider spread of gearing options for powering up hills and hitting top speed on flat pavement.
Geometry: If you’re a racer, you’ll want a bike that’s aerodynamic, which means it has the lowest possible wind resistance. It’s also good to opt for a frame with more aggressive geometry: When you’re riding, your torso will be close to the bike’s top tube. Although the bike can feel less stable when you’re descending or cornering, it’ll help you shave seconds off your time.
Planning on touring or doing long-distance rides? Opt for a bike with more relaxed geometry for a more comfortable body positioning and less fatigue after long hours in the saddle. You’ll also want to make sure it has the fittings for racks, bags, and bottles.
Image courtesy of Cannondale.com
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