Racing road bikes or group racing road bikes are the most popular type of road bike. They are designed for speed walking, fitness, training, brevets (marathons) or for participation in road competitions. These bicycles are presented at several levels - from entry-level to top-end, so that every person, be it an athlete or an amateur active recreation, was able to find a bike that suited my capabilities and needs. Amateur-level racing road bikes are equipped with shorter frames for a comfortable fit and clinchers with a width of 25 to 28 mm, these bikes are suitable for both beginner amateurs and cycling veterans who, due to age, find it difficult to ride road bikes with a long, stretched seat. Advanced and top-end racing road bikes have similar racing geometry and can be used for both fitness and competition. Currently, racing road bikes are starting to become widespread among the top models. disc brakes and electronic transmission.
(ArticleToC: enabled=yes)
According to research, more than a million bicycles are used in the world. Among this number, racing bikes are the most popular. Racing models are distinguished by their low weight (up to 9 kilograms) and their focus on driving on special tracks and highways.
Racing bicycles are divided into three groups:
- Track;
- Road;
- Cross.
Consider each type in more detail.
Racing (road) bicycles
A racing bike is equipped with brakes, has a speed switch and continues to move until it comes to a complete stop after you stop pedaling.
Its distance between the wheels has been increased. For ease of assembly without tools, parts are secured using an eccentric system. The wheels have a minimal set of spokes. On a racing bike large number gears - twenty or more. Some are switched using the front lever. For reliable fixation of the foot in the pedals and circular pedaling, the structures are equipped with contact pedals. Controls mounted on the handlebar control the front and rear brakes. The package includes a bicycle saddle, a pump and a water container.
Cross bikes
Motocross bikes differ from the previous type in that they have an increased weight frame, durable wheels, and a tilted handlebar and saddle. Racing designs are oriented towards cross-country distances.
Track models
These are highly specialized racing bicycles designed exclusively for riding on sports tracks. In addition to being lighter than others, racing bikes have the highest frame angle. These racing models have one fixed gear, so there is no ability to change gears. The bike does not have brakes, so in order to stop, it travels several extra laps, gradually slowing down. You won’t be able to ride a racing bike if you don’t turn the pedals, because the wheels and pedals are rigidly fixed with a chain. To maintain speed in a race, you need to maintain an appropriate cadence.
A typical track bike is configured to maintain a cadence of up to 120 rpm.
The size of the wheels, made of ultra-light materials, is 40 millimeters wide and reaches 28 inches in diameter. These two components help reduce the acceleration time to a minimum.
The load on the wheels during a race is high, which is why increased demands are placed on the quality of the fastening. Since replacement is rare, durable nuts are used instead of quick-release clamps. The racing bike also has no spokes - instead, a solid carbon layer is used.
The shape of the saddle and low seating ensure a comfortable position: you can ride a mountain bike for a long time. Wheels of different diameters add convenience. The curved steering wheel resembles the shape of a ram's horns. In addition, the bike has enviable aerodynamic properties and downforce. To increase inertia, the number of components must be washed to a minimum, and to avoid injuries from falls, a special fastening is used - toe clips, which are straps with which the foot is attached to the pedals.
A rigidly fixed foot does not slip, therefore, there is no drop in speed. This type of racing bike is not available in stores because they are produced for major competitions (to order).
Track bikes are divided into three categories:
- For leadership races;
- Tempo;
- Sprinting.
The frame assembly of the first group has fundamental differences: the diameter of the front wheel of the bike is reduced, the fork is slightly bent back, the monotubes have a different design, and the saddle is positioned in a non-standard manner.
It is difficult for the untrained eye to find differences between the last two, except for the conspicuous unusual position of the steering wheel and saddle. In reality, there are more differences. They concern the dimensions of some parts, the dynamic characteristics of the frame, the base distance
About Look
The history of the company began in France in 1951. At first, the company specialized in the production of equipment for skiers, in which it succeeded. But fame came to her after the development and presentation of the first frame made of carbon fiber. Since then, its popularity has been counted in another area - cycling. Today the company's activity is the production of accessories and spare parts for racing bicycles using high-strength materials and innovative technologies. Unique design and elegance of lines are the main differences between racing bicycles of the famous brand.
The company Look is well known and sporting achievements: on bicycles with components This company has won major competitions more than once (1985 and 1986).
The widespread introduction of the company's developments into the design of mountain bikes dates back to the beginning of the 21st century, when it produced frames, pedals and other accessories.
Bicycle frames for mountain bikes (track)
Let's take the L96 Speed track bike as an example. Its design is borrowed from the legendary Model 496. The new design improves aerodynamics, reduces overall weight, increases power, but retains the fantastic strength and efficiency that once brought success to the prototype known as the Model 496. The use of carbon materials helped achieve this goal.
The racing bike fork is designed in such a way that it gives the best compromise between flex, handling and stiffness while keeping the weight unchanged and below the limit.
The design of the steering wheel aims to improve aerodynamic properties. Adding convenience is the seat mounting design, which allows you to adjust the parameters.
KEO Classic Pedals
The surface of the pedals is rough with numerous indentations, which prevents the feet from slipping and ensures a reliable supporting surface. Optimal tension is achieved thanks to an adjustable spring. The highly reliable design can withstand up to 90 kilograms of pedal center load and 100 rpm for up to 2 million cycles. It is important that the clips are compatible with any shoe.
Accessories for racing bicycles
Nozzle For sports shoes of the racing model of the bicycle, KEO Grip has protection that ensures complete safety while riding. It is compatible with various types of shoes.
Asterisks. Speed losses are minimal, thanks to the rigid design. Due to the use of a special method of processing teeth, the quality of gear shifting has improved. They are produced for various diameters and speeds.
Connecting rods the lightest on the bicycle market. Their weight is 320 grams. However, this did not affect the rigidity in any way. Easy to install and replace the connecting rod thanks to the customizable spindle carriage shape. The cranks are compatible with all types of modern pedals.
Steering wheel streamlined, enhancing aerodynamics, UCI 3:1 compliant.
Video: Beijing 2008. Cycling track
How are racing bikes different from regular ones? Professional racing bike combines the best features of the most comfortable bike for disciplines such as road racing, triathlon, track competitions, and cyclocross. These include the following characteristics: good inertia, low weight, aerodynamics, specific athlete's position to achieve the greatest pedaling efficiency.
Types of racing bikes
All racing bikes for roads do not have shock absorption, because it sways when riding and dampens vibrations. They also have narrow and big wheels size 700c. The front wheel is most often spoked radially. This type of knitting is not used on rear wheel, as it may not support the athlete’s weight. We will consider the remaining features below.
Highway
These bikes are used for riding on smooth roads. Unlike some types of city road bikes (fixed bikes), they have a freewheel and a multi-speed transmission.
Road racing is a very dynamic sport. Cyclists on road racing bikes reach incredible speeds. These bikes are never fitted with disc brakes. This is explained by the fact that if you fall, you can seriously injure yourself and others with the brake disc.
Lightness is the main attribute of a racing bike. That's why the best racers ride high-quality carbon frames and top-of-the-line body kits. For greater stability and aerodynamics, the frame is lengthened.
The “ram” steering wheel allows you to change your position while driving: you can grab the steering wheel from above, and after gaining speed, grab the lower part of the steering wheel
How to increase the efficiency of a cyclist's pedaling? To do this, install . They are needed to secure your foot to the pedal, due to which you can not only press on the pedal from above, but also pull it from below with your other foot. As a result, two legs will work simultaneously, and not alternately.
Previously, this function was performed by toe clips - special straps that hold the leg. They are cheaper than contacts, but hold the foot much worse. Toe clips are also more difficult to “unfasten” in case of an unforeseen situation. Their positive feature is that there is no need to buy special shoes. Clipless pedals require shoes with cleats.
Excellent aerodynamics are provided by the special geometry of the bike, narrow wheels and “ram” handlebars. The athlete stretches along the long frame and creates minimal wind resistance. The wheels are usually 28-inch tubular, very rolling. They do not have an aggressive tread as they are designed for smooth roads. The tires only have drainage grooves.
Sometimes carbon fiber rims are installed on a road bike. This makes the bike even lighter and creates even less wind resistance.
A common occurrence for road bikes is the presence of a mount for a bottle (or even more than one) and a pump, but there is no possibility of adding a rack. On a speed competition bike, the ability to carry cargo is of no use.
These bicycles are highly specialized, because you can’t ride them on dirt, you can’t jump off a curb, and so on. A road bike is needed for fast riding only on paved roads.
Cyclocross (CX)
The frame of such a bike is more durable than a road bike. It is not suitable for asphalt, but for natural forest paths. The frame is designed slightly differently from a road bike. Firstly, the saddle position is not as high above the handlebars as on a road racing bike. The landing is completely different, because here you no longer just have to rush forward rapidly, but also think through the trajectory of movement in order to successfully pass all the natural obstacles along the way. A sports cyclocross bike is designed for the fact that the cyclist will have to carry it on himself from time to time: go through sticky mud, water, etc. This bike is comfortable to put on your shoulder.
Cyclocross can be considered a hybrid of road and mountain bike
Off-road also requires more grippy brakes and studded tires. Therefore, CX bikes are equipped with hydraulic calipers with brake discs. The tires are wider than road bikes and also have the tread of mountain bikes. Thanks to these tires, you can ride a cyclocross bike in winter.
The CX bike can be equipped with a rack and bottle holders, so the bike can be used as a touring bike.
The ground clearance is increased so as not to touch the ground with the carriage, especially when turning.
Gear ratio designed in such a way that you can drive in lower gears. Obviously, you won't get as fast off-road as you would on the highway, so the chainring on a cyclocross bike is slightly smaller than on a road bike.
Cables and hydraulic lines are located above the top tube of the frame, dirt and moisture do not clog in them, so the brakes and transmission work well even in harsh conditions.
Most often used in CX contact pedals for MTB (mountain cycling). They are less reliable, but they are easier to quilt.
In general, a cyclocross bike is perfect for a person who wants everything at once. It is good to ride both on roads and on dirt, as well as go on long bike rides and participate in competitions. You can ride it at any time of the year.
Track
A track bike is not designed for anything other than riding on a special track. Bicycle hubs are designed to prevent free play. Spin the pedals and the bike moves; stop pedaling and it slows down. This is why track bikes don’t have brakes, because you can brake with pedals.
From track bikes, the fashion has gone to fixed-gear city bikes.
The wheels are made lighter by installing high profile rims or installing carbon wheels. They are very good indoors, but dangerous outdoors: the discs have excessive windage, and the wind can blow the bike sideways. The consequences for the athlete can be fatal. On a closed track, the rims perform excellently: they not only make the bike lighter, but also give the bike good aerodynamics.
There are track bikes for racing:
- sprint,
- tempo,
- leadership.
Sprint and tempo bikes are practically the same. Only the wheelbase lengths, landing and some other characteristics of the frame geometry are slightly different.
Leader bikes are significantly different from other track bikes. Chasing the leader involves riding a special bike behind a motorcycle, increasing speed and braking when necessary. The leader bike looks rather strange: the fork is bent back, not forward, like all other bikes, and front wheel reduced.
At the back of the motorcycle there is a motion limiter, indicating the area of the “air bag” in which the cyclist needs to ride
The aerodynamic properties of the bike are very important here, because if anything goes wrong, the bike will leave the zone where there is no headwind, and this can affect the outcome of the race. A professional trail bike cannot be used in the city or even in other track cycling disciplines. This bike is so highly specialized!
Bicycles for the Tour de France
The most popular road race in the world is the Tour de France. She gathers thousands of fans from all over the world. This race was first held in 1903 and has been attracting athletes who want to take part in such a large-scale event for more than a hundred years.
Competitors amaze spectators with their amazingly cool bikes. Let's look at some of them.
Scott Addict R2 TT: Scott Plasma 3
This bike features a frame-integrated seatpost, extra pads for comfort on long rides, and carbon rims.
The rear brake mount is located on the chainstay. The best solution was to install the most high-tech equipment from Shimano, including transmission, brakes, and rim. The Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 electronic system shifts gears smoothly and precisely.
Tubular tires from the equally famous manufacturer Continental fit perfectly into the image of the bike.
This bike is not the pinnacle of engineering, but it deserves admiring glances. It is equipped with linkages from Sram, FSA, Lightweight, Continental. Sram Red is a professional shift quality. Carbon parts - handlebars and high-profile rims - make this bike ultra-light.
It is used by athletes from the Milram team.
The weight of this frame from Lapierre is only 850 g. Including a rigid Easton EC90 carbon fork, innovative Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 transmission, Ritchey stem and handlebars and other bicycle components, the bike weighs 6.5 kg.
Look 595 Origin and 595 Ultra
Look is a leading manufacturer of road bikes. The Campagnolo Super Record 2x11 chainring allows for smooth acceleration without hurting your knees. Zipp rims, the front wheel is radially spoked, which improves not only the ride quality of the bike, but also appearance.
The white wrap looks great on the Full Speed Ahead steering wheel. The Fi"zi:k saddle is designed specifically for marathons such as the Tour de France.
Pinarello is pure Italian. This is a unique frame with a reduced wheelbase, which results in a slightly curved seat tube. The bicycle is equipped with sun loungers. Campagnolo Super Record 11 produced all the drivetrain and brake components for this bike. The wheels are made from Easton and Continental.
A professional bike is always a specialized bike that cannot be used for other purposes and in other conditions. If you are not going to work hard at cycling and prepare for competitions, then you don’t need an expensive racing bike. It’s better to buy yourself a more versatile bike for the city and not too extreme off-road riding.
Task 1 of 15
1 .
Are the Rules broken in the situations depicted?
Right
f) tow bicycles;
Wrong
6. Requirements for cyclists
6.6. A cyclist is prohibited from:
d) while driving, hold on to another vehicle;
f) tow bicycles;
Task 2 of 15
2 .
Which cyclist doesn't break the rules?
Right
6. Requirements for cyclists
6.6. A cyclist is prohibited from:
Wrong
6. Requirements for cyclists
6.6. A cyclist is prohibited from:
b) move on highways and roads for cars, as well as on the roadway if there is a bicycle path nearby;
Task 3 of 15
3 .
Who should give way?
Right
6. Requirements for cyclists
Wrong
6. Requirements for cyclists
6.5. If a bicycle lane crosses a road outside an intersection, cyclists must give way to others vehicles, moving along the road.
Task 4 of 15
4 .
What loads is a cyclist allowed to carry?
Right
6. Requirements for cyclists
22. Cargo transportation
Wrong
6. Requirements for cyclists
6.4. A cyclist may only carry such loads that do not interfere with the operation of the bicycle and do not create obstacles for other participants. traffic.
22. Cargo transportation
22.3. Transportation of cargo is permitted provided that it:
b) does not interfere with the stability of the vehicle and does not make it difficult to control;
Task 5 of 15
5 .
Which cyclists violate the Rules when transporting passengers?
Right
6. Requirements for cyclists
6.6. A cyclist is prohibited from:
Wrong
6. Requirements for cyclists
6.6. A cyclist is prohibited from:
e) carry passengers on a bicycle (except for children under 7 years old, transported on an additional seat equipped with securely fastened footrests);
Task 6 of 15
6 .
In what order will vehicles pass through the intersection?
Right
16. Driving through intersections
Wrong
16. Driving through intersections
16.11. At an intersection of unequal roads, the driver of a vehicle moving on a secondary road must give way to vehicles approaching this intersection of carriageways along the main road, regardless of the direction of their further movement.
16.12. At the intersection of equivalent roads, the driver of a non-rail vehicle is obliged to give way to vehicles approaching from the right.
Tram drivers should follow this rule among themselves. At any uncontrolled intersection, a tram, regardless of the direction of its further movement, has an advantage over non-rail vehicles approaching it along an equivalent road.16.14. If the main road at an intersection changes direction, drivers of vehicles moving along it must follow the rules for driving through intersections of equivalent roads.
This rule should be followed among themselves and by drivers driving on secondary roads.Task 7 of 15
7 .
Riding bicycles on sidewalks and pedestrian paths:
Right
6. Requirements for cyclists
6.6. A cyclist is prohibited from:
Wrong
6. Requirements for cyclists
6.6. A cyclist is prohibited from:
c) move on sidewalks and pedestrian paths(except for children under 7 years old on children's bicycles under adult supervision);
Task 8 of 15
8 .
Who has the right of way when crossing a bike path?
Right
6. Requirements for cyclists
6.5. If a bicycle lane crosses a road outside an intersection, cyclists must give way to other vehicles traveling on the road.
Wrong
6. Requirements for cyclists
6.5. If a bicycle lane crosses a road outside an intersection, cyclists must give way to other vehicles traveling on the road.
Task 9 of 15
9 .
What distance should be between groups of cyclists moving in a column?
Right
6. Requirements for cyclists
Wrong
6. Requirements for cyclists
6.3. Cyclists traveling in groups must ride one after another so as not to interfere with other road users. A column of cyclists moving along the roadway must be divided into groups (up to 10 cyclists per group) with a movement distance between groups of 80-100 m.
Task 10 of 15
10 .
Vehicles will pass through the intersection in the following order
Right
16. Driving through intersections
16.11. At an intersection of unequal roads, the driver of a vehicle moving on a secondary road must give way to vehicles approaching this intersection of carriageways along the main road, regardless of the direction of their further movement.
Wrong
16. Driving through intersections
16.11. At an intersection of unequal roads, the driver of a vehicle moving on a secondary road must give way to vehicles approaching this intersection of carriageways along the main road, regardless of the direction of their further movement.
16.13. Before turning left and making a U-turn, the driver of a non-rail vehicle must give way to a tram in the same direction, as well as to vehicles moving on an equivalent road in the opposite direction straight or to the right.
Task 11 of 15
11 .
A cyclist passes an intersection:
Right
16. Driving through intersections
Wrong
8. Traffic regulation
8.3. Traffic controller signals take precedence over traffic light signals and road sign requirements and are mandatory. Traffic lights other than flashing yellow have priority over road signs priority. Drivers and pedestrians must comply with the additional requirements of the traffic controller, even if they contradict traffic lights, road signs and markings.
16. Driving through intersections
16.6. When turning left or turning around when the main traffic light is green, the driver of a non-rail vehicle is obliged to give way to a tram in the same direction, as well as to vehicles moving straight in the opposite direction or turning right. Tram drivers should follow this rule among themselves.
Task 12 of 15
12 .
Flashing red signals of this traffic light:
Right
8. Traffic regulation
Wrong
8. Traffic regulation
8.7.6. To regulate traffic at railway crossings, traffic lights with two red signals or one white-lunar and two red ones are used, having the following meanings:
a) flashing red signals prohibit the movement of vehicles through the crossing;
b) a flashing white-lunar signal indicates that the alarm system is working and does not prohibit vehicle movement.
At railway crossings, simultaneously with the prohibitory traffic light signal, an audible signal may be turned on, additionally informing road users that movement through the crossing is prohibited.
Task 13 of 15
13 .
The driver of which vehicle will cross the intersection second?
Right
16. Driving through intersections
16.11. At an intersection of unequal roads, the driver of a vehicle moving on a secondary road must give way to vehicles approaching this intersection of carriageways along the main road, regardless of the direction of their further movement.
16.14. If the main road at an intersection changes direction, drivers of vehicles moving along it must follow the rules for driving through intersections of equivalent roads.
This rule should be followed among themselves and by drivers driving on secondary roads.
Wrong
16. Driving through intersections
16.11. At an intersection of unequal roads, the driver of a vehicle moving on a secondary road must give way to vehicles approaching this intersection of carriageways along the main road, regardless of the direction of their further movement.
16.14. If the main road at an intersection changes direction, drivers of vehicles moving along it must follow the rules for driving through intersections of equivalent roads.
This rule should be followed among themselves and by drivers driving on secondary roads.
16 Driving through intersections
Wrong
8. Traffic regulation
8.7.3. Traffic light signals have the following meanings:
A signal in the form of an arrow that allows a left turn also allows a U-turn if it is not prohibited by road signs.
A signal in the form of a green arrow(s) in the additional section(s), switched on together with the green traffic light signal, informs the driver that he has priority in the direction(s) of movement indicated by the arrow(s) over vehicles moving from other directions;
f) a red signal, including a flashing one, or two red flashing signals prohibit movement.
A signal in the form of a green arrow(s) in the additional section(s), together with a yellow or red traffic light signal, informs the driver that movement is permitted in the indicated direction, subject to the unhindered passage of vehicles moving from other directions.
A green arrow on a sign installed at the level of a red traffic light with a vertical signal arrangement allows movement in the indicated direction when the red traffic light is on from the rightmost lane (or the leftmost lane on one-way roads) provided that priority is given in traffic to its other participants moving from other directions to a traffic light signal allowing movement;
16 Driving through intersections
16.9. While driving in the direction of the arrow turned on in the additional section simultaneously with a yellow or red traffic light, the driver must give way to vehicles moving from other directions.
When driving in the direction of the green arrow on the table installed at the level of the red traffic light with vertical signals, the driver must take the extreme right (left) lane and give way to vehicles and pedestrians moving from other directions.
Let's be clear: we're talking about bikes designed for racing here. This means low ram handlebars, a long top tube of the frame and an elongated riding position with a flat back. Combined with typical racing bike geometry - a 73-74° seat angle, short chainstays - these are bikes that feel fast, have quick but predictable steering response, and are comfortable all day long if you're fit enough. to stay in the saddle for that long.
Here I will talk about the ride and handling. Other characteristics on any elite racing bike vary. Not everyone manages to stay in the position of leaning towards the handlebars due to the long stem; Due to the low handlebars, the cyclist puts his entire weight on the front wheel, which provides good grip and control.
A good road bike must have a high-quality gear system - 53/39 front chainrings and a rear cassette with 11-23 chainrings. However, there is nothing wrong with using a compact 50/34 or larger chainring wide range. Even some professionals use such parts, and the kit latest version Shimano pro-grade Dura-Ace includes an 11-30 cassette.
However, some things are vital. Racing bikes either have very light wheels or, better yet, aerodynamic rims. Lightweight wheels add a bit of speed on a mountain road, simply due to the overall light weight, but aero wheels always add speed, which significantly outweighs their disadvantage excess weight.
A light and stiff frame is also a must, so it could be aluminum, carbon fiber, titanium or one of the steel alloys like Reynolds 931 or Columbus Spirit. If weight is a concern to you - and if you're considering buying a racing bike, it probably is - then carbon fiber should be your choice because... even the best metal frames are a couple hundred grams heavier. But metals still have their merits. For very tall cyclists, an aluminum frame may be a good choice - it's stiff but still lightweight, and the performance of steel and titanium also has plenty of fans.
Typically racing bikes use clamps. rim brakes, but now there are other options. Shimano's Direct Mount brakes are pincer brakes with a tighter setup that are usually tucked under the chainstays for a cleaner look.
But in recent years, disc brakes have become a breakthrough in braking systems. If you're going to be doing mainstream racing, you'll want to stick with rim brakes, but outside of racing you can really benefit from discs, which provide better braking while still saving the rims.
What are racing bikes suitable for?
In short: for fast driving. Including racing, of course, but to enjoy a racing bike, you don't have to race, you can simply add the whistling speed of a fast-moving bike to the sounds of nature.
These bikes are suitable for any type of trip where speed is important, especially if you need to cover a fair distance. Carrying options are mostly limited to a backpack, but if you're careful in your selection, you'll be able to find a bike that will pull 25mm tires and the low-profile fenders of Crud Road Racers or SKS Raceblade Longs, so you'll at least keep your butt dry, as well as You'll be able to spend a few minutes longer in bed.
And if we talk about trips for several days? With the right bags and perhaps some changes to the chainring system to compensate for the extra weight, you can be a great cyclist. However, racing bikes almost never come with rack mounts, and it can be said that it is not a good idea to try to make one yourself on a lightweight frame. Then you'll be putting weight on it that it wasn't designed for, and the short chainstays on a road bike will prevent you from pedaling if you attach a rack with any cargo to the frame.
During events such as the transcontinental race, cyclists carry minimal luggage, sometimes adding only a frame or handlebar bag. This is very convenient if you are staying in a hotel or sleeping on a bus, and placing the bag in line with your body does not greatly affect the aerodynamics.
Five great racing bikes
The choice is huge, as is the variety of prices. To get a little understanding of what it costs, below is an example of five excellent bicycles, the price of which is more reminiscent of car prices.
B’Twin Ultra 700 AF – 900 €
More often than not, when we review the characteristics of bikes, we highlight areas that need improvement or where they would be useful, but this is not the case with the B"Twin's Ultra 700 AF. This is one of best options for this money in terms of price-quality ratio.
We don't mean to say that there's nothing to improve on the Ultra. With a rigid triple aluminum frame, it's easy to fit some bling without overshadowing the main components.
In this case, with regard to the Ultra, it cannot be said that the price is not justified. It's not easy to find a Shimano 105 11-speed bike at this price, and even though the B"Twin has trimmed the cost slightly with the RS500 compact (50/34) gearing, it's still a very special bike. The shifting is a little less crisp. without the 105 series of 5800 chains, but you'll hardly notice it.
Specialized Tarmac Sport – €1,345
We loved this bike's Ultegra-equipped big brother. However, the younger one is very attractive and well equipped and offers a very fast and exciting ride, which is quite suitable for novice riders.
Like the previous generation of Tarmacs, it's easy to live with. There are no surprises in the handling, it is very predictable and fits very easily into your home decor. This is a bike that can be used both for a whole day's ride in complete comfort and for diving into winding and narrow chains of forest paths; for commuting and work travel; and finally, for a stroll on a lazy Sunday morning to a coffee shop. Ride and relax!
Boardman Road Pro Carbon SLR – €2,160
If you want to achieve good results show it off on Strava or just want a fast, comfortable, easy ride, the Boardman Road Pro Carbon SLR should be at the top of your list. With features like a full carbon frameset, SRAM Force components, Mavic Ksyrium wheels and a weight of just 7kg, the SLR is a real contender, even given the price - and it can challenge even direct sales specialists.
The Road Pro is worth a closer look. Silver paint with a mirror effect makes it stand out from others, especially in the sun; you will definitely be noticed.
However, beauty is not only about appearance. In a tough cycling world where bikes start to go through all sorts of rough patches, Boardman knows exactly what's what, and a good race bike is just begging for the ability to overcome challenges. He enjoys both driving on asphalt, going down a hill along the very edge of a narrow path, and competing for speed uphill.
Cannondale CAAD12 Disc Dura-Ace – €2,550
There are few brands that are as synonymous with aluminum as Cannondale, with its legendary CAAD series - "Cannondale advanced aluminum design". The American company has made a name for itself with aluminum frames, and although they have invested heavily in carbon fiber in recent years, their dedication to aluminum remains at a level that few have maintained.
The new CAAD12 is a very polished bike with a level of comfort that will make you wonder why you would buy anything else at all and, of course, why aluminum was a popular material for such a short time, only during the development of advanced technology in racing bikes in the 90s. It's so light it dwarfs many of the carbon road bikes we've tested over the years. This is nothing short of a miracle.
The Shimano Dura-Ace shifting system and hydraulic disc brakes are the expensive icing on a wonderful cake. The brakes give a feeling of solidity and enormous power, even with just one finger on the brake lever, and the subtle modulation ensures that the wheel does not lock up. The star system is just a song; When mechanical shifting is so easy to use, you wonder why you wanted an electronic Di2.
Trek Madone 9.9 – 10,200 €
The Trek Madone 9 series characterizes the latest technology The ride feels fast and comfortable, but as is often the case with innovative engineering, nothing good comes cheap. However, this bike is exceptional.
In short, the Madone 9 is an aerodynamic race bike that delivers comfort thanks to Trek's IsoSpeed decoupling, which significantly smooths out bumps and buffeting. The effect is subtle but very noticeable.
The combination of IsoSpeed and aerodynamic frame profiles gives the Madone 9 a funky feeling of soft seating and super-speed. He picks up speed quickly and holds it beautifully.
The climbs on this bike are wonderful. It's punchy on short, steep climbs, nimble when you lift off the saddle, and feels comfortable when you keep your hands on the Madone XXX's handlebars for a long ride.
