15 best road bikes
A road bike is a tough, sports car designed for high-speed rides on asphalt surfaces. Professional models in their price can surpass domestic cars in cost, so it is not surprising that the purchase of such bicycles is much more demanding on details and components. The cost is due to the desire to lighten the bike as much as possible. A Kevlar rim, a bike frame made of carbon, aluminum or titanium alloys are all very expensive. Even the professional road car seatpost and cranks are made from state-of-the-art materials. The lower the weight, the higher the quality of the equipment, the better the result will be shown in the race by a professional or a beginner - an amateur. Modern technologies have allowed developers to achieve amazing results - there are full-fledged models with a total weight of less than 3.5 kg! But taking part in cycling competitions on such ultra-light (and expensive) bikes is prohibited by the international cycling union UCI. To participate in official races, the weight of the bike must not be less than 15 pounds (6.8 kg.).
A cyclocross cross-country bike (cyclocross) has the same Maes curve sports handlebar, but slightly differs from the road bike in the following features:
- thick rubber with deep tread;
- stronger frame geometry;
- disc brakes or rim, V-brakes are installed.
Bicycles in this category are designed for heavy loads and are able to withstand alternating acceleration and hard braking.
The demand of ordinary consumers for a high-speed bike has led to the creation of road hybrids. They took the best from mountain and road models. They have a wider front fork, good tread tires, powerful brakes. What distinguishes them from cyclocross models is the transmission equipment of the amateur class and the steering wheel, which, as a rule, is straight. If the device does not have pedals at the time of purchase, and they need to be purchased additionally, this means that this is a real road bike.
It turns out that in terms of their technical characteristics and design features, road bikes can be divided into three categories, the best models of which are presented in our review rating.
The best hybrid road bikes
Models in this category are practical and are an excellent choice for those who just plan to drive a lot or participate in amateur cross-country racing.
5 TREK Verve 2 (2019)
It opens the TOP-5 of the best road hybrids TREK Verve 2. Its position in the rating is more than justified, since the ratio of quality and price of this model is one of the most attractive. The front fork has no shock absorbers, but this does not affect ride comfort at all. The 28-inch wheel diameter and Bontrager H5 tires perform well both on the highway and on dirt roads. The aluminum frame, despite its light weight (12.59 kg), is highly reliable.
Judging by the reviews, the TREK Verve 2 attachment demonstrates optimal performance in different modes. Shimano derailleurs (Altus and Tourney) allow you to select the optimal speed mode (24 gears available) with minimal loads. In addition, Tektro alloy linear-pull rim brakes are efficient and predictable enough to make the TREK Verve 2 one of the safest and most reliable road bikes available.
4 Welt Horizon (2019)
This year the Austrian Welt has continued to release the popular urban road hybrid model. Horizon has many advantages, including an attractive cost, to be considered one of the top ranked participants. The equipment and the quality of the linkage are selected in such a way that it provides good dynamics in city traffic.Despite the rigid fork (without a shock absorber), the bike behaves with dignity on the ground - park paths and forest paths on the Welt Horizon are quite comfortable to ride.
Particularly noteworthy are the wheels of the road hybrid. Based on the reviews, the double rim and semi-slick tires (wheel diameter - 27.5 inches) provide excellent rolling. By adjusting the tire pressure, you can achieve the best comfort conditions on roads with any surface. The Shimano MT-200 disc brakes are hydraulically actuated with high performance and predictability.
3 Giant Rapid 3
The amateur powertrain and the Tektro HDC-M285 sports hydraulic braking systems are ideal for city streets as well as for amateur racing. Thanks to the aluminum alloy frame, this modern and stylish model weighs only 10.9 kg. The straight steering wheel and semi-sporty fit, along with the comfortable Contact (Neutral) seat, ensure a comfortable ride over long distances.
The main element of this road bike - the frame - is especially outstanding for the new model. In a futuristic style, the frame design combines the flow of geometric shapes: a round seat tube smoothly merges into rectangular, with rounded corners, rays going to the front axle of a bicycle with a rigid fork. The great performance and attractive look of the bike will definitely boost the owner's rating.
2 Silverback Scento Path (2019)
The second place in this category of the rating belongs to the bicycle of the German brand Silverback. At the heart of this road hybrid is a lightweight aluminum frame that is as strong as steel. Designed for asphalt roads, the Scento Path performs well on dirt roads and uncomplicated rough terrain. Thanks to the spring-oil shock absorber of the front fork (its travel is 100 mm), the bike perfectly works out the unevenness of the surface, creating the most comfortable conditions for its rider.
In the reviews of the owners who gave their preference in favor of this new model, there is not even a shadow of doubt about the correct choice. The best performance is the braking system of a bicycle. Disc Promax Mechanical Disc Brakes. work clearly and efficiently, providing the owner with opportunities for active maneuvering. The reliability of the Shimano Altus derailleur is also noted (the bicycle drive system has 24 gears). 28-inch wheels, a comfortable saddle and straight handlebars complete the positive image of this model - the quality of assemblies and workmanship does not cause complaints even from the most demanding buyers.
1 Cube Hyde (2018)
The very fact that this road hybrid was designed and built in Bavaria suggests the reliability and quality we all know as “German”. Thought out to the smallest detail, the Cube Hyde is completely assembled in Germany. The only part ordered by the company to be made in China is the bike frame. But it is also processed and painted (according to the technology of the popular Bavarian automobile plant) already in the homeland of the brand.
Large wheels (29 inches) accelerate the model with lightning speed and keep dynamics well. Rear and front brakes are hydraulic Shimano disc type. The entire transmission (27 speeds) is installed from the same brand, including cassettes and walking carriages. The model is fresh, and there are no reviews on its operation yet. All that is known is the high quality and reliability of the Cube from previous modern models, and the endurance of Shimano equipment is familiar to all cyclists.
Best cyclocross bikes
Designed for cyclocross, these bikes are designed to be durable enough to tackle difficult dirt trails at high speeds. The models selected below are the best in their class.
5 Format 2322 (2019)
The road bike for cyclocross, assembled by a domestic manufacturer, can be safely considered one of the best models for beginner cyclists.In addition to a significant advantage in price (in comparison with the participants in our rating), Format 2322 will delight its owner with the quality of the equipment. The bike is equipped with a Tektro braking system (non-professional, but quite reliable and efficient), Shimano Claris derailleurs and an 8-star Format CS-M3008 cassette.
In addition to a simple yet reliable drivetrain, the road bike comes with 28-inch Weinmann Impulse TL rims. Equipped with Kenda Small Block Eight tires (Chinese budget segment), the bike delivers reliable traction, both on the highway and on the dirt road. In the reviews of owners who have chosen the Format 2322 bike for themselves, its capabilities are positively assessed. To the aforementioned advantages, it is worth adding a fairly light aluminum frame (9.9 kg) with a rigid high quality carbon fork. All this allows you to engage in sports skating and even take part in professional cyclocross races. The above advantages are quite a worthy reason to take a place among the best models in our rating.
4 Specialized CruX E5 Sport (2019)
The aluminum alloy frame makes this cyclocross bike one of the lightest in its class. It is, of course, heavier than the ultralight carbon fiber, but in terms of strength it is in no way inferior to it. The 28-inch Axis sport wheels are fitted with Tracer Sport tires to maximize the rider's effort.
The bike is equipped with a semi-professional SRAM Apex drivetrain and an 11-star SunRace CSRS3 cassette, which provides high performance and reliability in all modes of operation. Disc hydraulic systems of the same brand are equally effective. According to the reviews, the Specialized CruX E5 Sport model is excellent for taking part in professional sports races. The key difference from similar models from other brands is the impeccable build quality, as well as the best balance of characteristics that allow you to maximize the capabilities of the cyclist.
3 Scott Addict CX 20 Disc (2018)
Compared to other cyclocross models, the Scott Addict stands out with a frame made of carbon fiber using the advanced IMP SL Carbon technology. The design of the bike has a CX racing geometry, a rigid front fork (also made of carbon fiber) and a reliable steering column with an integrated cartridge. Thanks to these features, in terms of stiffness and shock resistance, the bike is in the list of the best bikes in this category.
High quality braking is provided by the hydraulic braking system Shimano BR-RS505, installed on both axles. The shifters and switches (also semi-professional grade) are precise and reliable in operation. The integrated bottom bracket is of a sporty class and can withstand heavy loads. Tuned and properly adjusted, the Scott Addict CX 20 Disc road bike can do only one thing - lead its rider to victory.
2 Merida Cyclo Cross 100 (2018)
This year's novelty features a state-of-the-art 11-speed Sunrace CSMS8 semi-pro transmission. The absence of a second drive sprocket at the front significantly increases the reliability of the chain drive. In addition, wide sprocket teeth alternate with narrow ones, which allows the chain to be held in extreme overloads and to resist the build-up of dirt that inevitably accompanies cyclocross racing.
Owners have a positive opinion of SRAM Apex mechanical disc brakes with 160mm diameter disc brakes. This bike has a good rating and is ideal for both training rides and competition. Owners who use this cyclocross road bike for amateur purposes note the high reliability, elegant design, and the affordable cost of a sports model.
1 Giant TCX SLR 2 (2018)
The manufacturer Giant this year has released an updated model for the cyclocross TCX SLR 2. First of all, the changes concerned the braking system.The mechanical brakes have been completely replaced with better and more reliable Giant Conduct sports-grade hydraulic systems. Shimano 105 dual control derailleurs and shifters have proven themselves to be reliable. The rigid frame aluminum alloy and the same double rims ensured light weight and stability under heavy pedaling.
Reviews from the owners of this road bike highly appreciate the reliability of the device. The integrated sports bottom bracket and the semi-professional 11-star cassettes are designed to withstand any rider's demands. The excellent quality of the equipment and the high customer rating allow us to confidently consider this model the leader in the category.
The best professional road bikes
In this category, the best models are presented both for high-speed driving on highways and for participating in races on circuit race tracks. A special distinguishing feature that unites bicycles of this class is light weight and equipment of the highest quality.
5 Merida Reacto 500 (2019)
Without the Merida Reacto 500 road bike popular on the domestic market, our rating would not be completely objective. The high level of demand determines the widest representation - there are 6 standard model sizes on sale, designed for cyclists of different heights and builds. The rigid fork and aluminum alloy frame allowed the bike to weigh just 9.24kg.
Shimano's sophisticated Ultegra derailleurs and the same brand's 11-star semi-pro cassette are responsive and reliable under any load. The bike is equipped with proprietary Expert CW rims, designed to operate a high-level caliper brake system. Maxxis Dolomites (700cx25) tires are perfect for both training rides and serious cycling (they have an inner protective layer against punctures Silkworm). The lack of feedback on build quality and the proven endurance of a road bike is the best estimate of this model's capabilities.
4 Silverback Strela Sport (2018)
The road bike is assembled on an aluminum frame with a carbon unsprung fork, and is a relatively inexpensive but effective sports equipment that will appeal to both professional cyclists and ordinary amateurs. The efficient braking system is provided by the Shimano Sora BR-R3000, and the 18-speed drivetrain with Shimano Sora derailleurs and a 9-star cassette will ensure the rider's power is transferred evenly, regardless of the terrain.
In the reviews of the owners, there are no complaints about the reliability of the components of this model. Everything is consistent with the price tag, and even budget Chinese Kenda tires installed on a double rim did not cause any particular complaints - they are one of the toughest, and behave quite predictably on asphalt surfaces. Despite the affordable price tag, the build quality is more than satisfactory, which explains the stable demand for the Silverback Strela Sport and the presence of this bike in the leading positions in the ranking of the best road bikes.
3 Scott Plasma 20 (2018)
A global road bike manufacturer that uses modern technology to design its models, is capable of creating real works of art. These include the Scott Plasma 20, a novelty on the professional bike market. The carbon frame has not only light weight and enviable strength - tests have shown a low coefficient of drag.
State-of-the-art professional-grade equipment, combined with the excellent Continental Ultra Sport tires, allow for excellent results and significantly increase the rider's chances of winning. When using the bike for recreational purposes, the owner cannot avoid the close attention of others to his futuristic bike.
2 Giant Defy Advanced 2 (2018)
The innovative carbon fiber frame design allows this bike, despite the traditional rigidity of road bikes, to absorb shock and vibration from uneven road surfaces. The secret of the technology lies in the special focus and alternation of carbon fibers. The high-performance Giant Conduct hydraulic brakes and proven Shimano 105 shifting systems add to the control confidence.
Released this year, the model, in addition to all its technical excellence, features tubeless high-end Giant Gavia AC tires. They are mounted on a sturdy double rim with a 28 '' diameter. Excellent balance and light weight have a positive effect on the dynamics of intense acceleration, allowing the pilot to sharply increase speed and go into the lead.
1 Author Aura XR 4 (2019)
The Czech road bike is equipped with the best professional Shimano equipment designed for sports loads. The durable 28-inch Ritchey Cross Shield Kevlar tires, with the strongest Kevlar cord and Jalco rims, perform superbly over long distances without causing any trouble for the rider. Rever MCX2 mechanical disc brakes (diameter 160 mm) are effective and reliable.
In the reviews, the owners who preferred the Author Aura XR 4 note the high quality of the body kit, the lightness of the rigid aluminum alloy frame (the weight of the bike is 10.4 kg), the reliability of the bottom bracket assembly, and the precise response of the sports transmission when shifting gears. There are 20 gears in total, which allow you to optimally distribute the load, in accordance with the terrain. The absence of negative evaluations of the operation, the popularity of the bicycle brand on the international market, as well as the balanced cost have become the reason for the reasonable leadership of this model in this rating category.
