Understanding Road Bikes: The Basics

Road bikes are just one of the many different types and styles of bicycles that are available. They are an incredibly common option and have many uses and benefits. If you are considering investing in a road bike or wanting to know some more information about them, here are just a couple of the basics of road bikes.

Characteristics

In general, road bikes are lightweight, with the frames usually made from aluminium or carbon. They have thin tyres that don’t need to be as robust as those on mountain bikes. Most features of a road bike are designed with aerodynamics in mind. They are designed for flat surfaces and to be able to cover large distances in a short amount of time with less effort. Road bikes can have multi-position handlebars called drop handlebars. They allow you to change your hand position depending on whether you are ascending, descending, or cruising.

Uses

Road bikes are, as the name suggests, are made to be used on roads. There is not just one type of road bike, however. Different styles are used for different types of road cycling. They are used for road racing, touring, and endurance. There are plenty of different styles and brands to choose from, such as Marin road bikes. Check them out at Cycle Solutions in order to find your perfect road bike.

• Touring is the act of riding your bike for long periods of time for pleasure, autonomy, or adventure, as opposed to competition, commuting, or exercise. This time period can be anything from days to years and can cover travel around and through different areas and countries.
• Endurance cycling is cycling for 60 miles or more, and the road bikes used for endurance cycling and racing are also known as sportive bikes.
• Road Racing bikes need to be fast and aerodynamic whilst allowing you to handle climbs and flat stretches.

Other Types of Bikes

If road bikes don’t sound like the style of bike for you, there are plenty of other options to choose from. Mountain bikes are incredibly durable and are designed to handle rough and uneven terrain. They have robust tyres and suspension, as well as accessories you can add on such as mud guards to help prevent mud from going into your eyes.

Hybrid bikes may be a good option for those who want a bike that can work on slightly uneven ground or paving. They are a combination of road and mountain bikes and are good for commuting, leisure, and recreational cycling. They offer an upright seating position which can be very comfortable, as well as being relatively lightweight.

If you are pushed for space, folding bikes could be your perfect option. They are also very popular with commuters who take multiple modes of transport, as they fold up and can be carried on trains or buses. Folding bikes are really useful if you don’t have space to store a bike at home or work, or you are concerned about the security of your bike.