What types of road bike are there?
The variety of road bike types is great, that's already taken in advance. Different demands, terrains and goals require different designs. Which types of road bikes there are now and what there is to consider in the individual designs, we explain to you in this ultimate buycycle road bike guide.
Once upon a time there was a road bike...
By definition, a road bicycle is a very light bicycle designed, built for racing. It is intended for use as sports equipment and for road cycling and is therefore characterized by a lightweight design and the reduction to the components that are essential for riding. If you really want to participate in competitions with it, since the year 2000, according to the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), it has a minimum weight of 6.8 kg. You can recognize road bikes by their narrow rims and tires and the narrow handlebars (the UCI regulations allow a maximum of 50 cm). Mostly, these are handlebars or horn handlebars, which allow different grip positions. So far so good.
Starting from the so-called classic road bike, however, other types of road bikes have emerged over time that look similar at first glance, but on closer inspection show clear differences. The special properties are based on clearly defined requirements, based on which individual aspects (aerodynamics, weight, durability, etc.) have been optimized.
We generally distinguish between road bikes for flat routes, for mountain and hilly landscapes, for long distances and the so-called all-rounders. We will introduce you to the individual types in the following.
1. The mountain goat.
Road bikes for mountain and hilly terrain or actual bicycle racing are initially characterized by a low weight. The frame is thereby often made of carbon fibers alternatively also from titanium. In addition, these road bikes allow a very agile steering and control, which facilitates jetting in curves, especially in steep descents. The body posture while driving can be adjusted via various settings (saddle position, stem length, spacer, etc.) vary, although this is generally designed more for long rides and is therefore somewhat more comfortable than on sports road bikes. Important is still the size of the chainring, which can affect the cadence on steep climbs. Here applies on the mountain often "less is more". Some compromises are made in the aerodynamics, also the durability of the bike is conditioned by the materials used.
Conclusion: unbeatable on the mountain and a generally good all-rounder.
2. Time trial and aero bikes.
For long plains, time trial races or a triathlon, the time trial bike is suitable. Weight and comfort are deliberately thrown overboard here, what counts here is only to offer the wind as small an attack surface as possible to save energy and achieve maximum aerodynamics. Thicker frames paired with an integration of the individual components and rims are crucial. So you will hardly see any cables or protruding brake pads on an aero bike. In addition, the tube cross-sections often match the shape of the tires to save additional millimeters that could be exposed to the wind. Thus, the aero wheel is designed and built for a clearly defined purpose, so it is considered an absolute specialist. For a mountain ride, we would therefore rather not recommend it. Who wants to advance as quickly as possible on the flat is well served.
Conclusion: Unbeatable on the flat, but comfort is written in small letters. But that's not the point.
3. Endurance road bikes.
"I'm off then" is something we would probably say on an endurance road bike. The balanced geometry including longer wheelbase, high head tube and resulting upright seating position give us an above-average comfortable driving experience. In addition, a high stability and robustness are provided. Drives with compact transmission, wider tires and various damping mechanisms make riding a pleasure. The frequently installed disc brakes increase safety and protect the arm muscles. This equipment thus allows the covering of long distances, among other things in the course of multi-day tours and on different terrain. Naturally, the air resistance is somewhat higher than on an aerobike or a classic road bike. In addition, the somewhat higher weight plays a role in long uphill climbs, although this can be counteracted a bit by selecting the individual components.
Verdict: An ideal companion for long-distance enthusiasts with low racing ambitions.
4. Gravel bikes.
Gravel, forest and meadows are best conquered with a Gravel bike. For some years now, more and more passionate road cyclists have been switching to the "off-road alternative", because the gravel bike is an all-rounder and all-roader, which sets no terrain-related limits to the driving fun. These road bikes are characterized by resistant and flexible frames, achieve greater ground clearance via raised bottom brackets and can cope with wider tires with tread on any surface. In combination with lighter suspension, gravel bikes therefore allow both on-road and off-road riding. This flexibility naturally leads to poorer performance on the straight road, although there is still a clear difference to a mountain bike. Those who do not want to do without their road bike but still like to ride off the beaten track will find a more than acceptable compromise here.
Conclusion: For connoisseurs: inside all types of routes in search of their One-For-All.
5. Our recommendation.
Ultimately, every road bike is fun in its own way, as long as you use it properly. Whether on the mountain, on the time trial course or now also in the forest, the variety of road bike types has something to offer for everyone. For the indecisive, endurance bikes in particular are a good solution, as they offer many features, high comfort and good safety, without falling off on the mountain or on the flat.
No matter what your passion, however, for the ultimate two-wheeled winching experience, you should look to buycycle for your new road bike of the hearts! We have certainly what for you on offer and take your previous bike also happy to accept!