Road Bikes

Make sure you buy the correct size road bike. Choosing the wrong size can lead to uncomfortable riding and can even lead to injuries such as strains as well as muscle sores. For an in-depth look at road bike sizing, check out our Ultimate Road Bike Size Guide blog.

For those getting into road riding, an entry level road bike costing less than £1000 would suffice. For many riders, a mid-range bike can offer a great mix of high performance at a relatively affordable price point. Mid-range bikes are a key market for the bike industry, meeting the mass market demand has led to some great bikes to be had in the mid-price sector. There is generally a bigger jump in performance from entry-level to mid-range, than from mid-range to top end bikes.

If you would like to ride on tarmac but also venture onto trails, tracks, canal tow-paths and green lanes, then a gravel bike could be the answer. The only downside to gravel bikes is a slight reduction in on road performance. This difference could be even less, if you have a spare set of wheels with road tyres fitted, these can be easily swapped and can provide the best of both worlds. If you are keen to ride roads and the prospect of getting dirty doesn’t appeal, just go for a road sportive / endurance bike.

A good entry level road bike is likely to feature an aluminium frameset, components from a known groupset manufacturer and branded wheels & tyres.

Mid-range road bikes feature a carbon or aluminium frameset, a mid-range groupset (for example Shimano 105 / Ultegra, Campagnolo Potenza / Chorus, Sram Rival /Force)

High-end road bikes feature a premium carbon frame, a top tier groupset and a high quality wheelset. Finishing kit components, (bars, stem, seatpost, saddle etc) will be branded and hi spec.

Checking online reviews can reveal what owners think of their bike far more accurately than manufacturers marketing words. A broad cross section of reviews should provide a general consensus of opinion.