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Bike Master | Biking Tribe - Part 6

All posts by Bike Master

Best Specialized Road Bikes in 2018

GMC Denali Road Bike

A road bike is typically used for paved roads. It is not designed necessarily for courses with less than stellar conditions. Uneven terrain and rough paths are not typically traveled on with road bikes.

These bikes are used on tarmac or smooth sidewalks and are quite exceptional for competitive cycling. They are designed to travel at high speeds and can take riders great distances as long as their limbs allow them to do so.

However, despite the limiting nature of traditional road bikes, there are road bikes that are specially designed. Some of these road bikes offer enhanced features such as disc brakes, carbon fiber frames and carbon forks, hybrid components, and other characteristics that riders find appealing. These enhanced features provide cyclists an enriched experience. Below is a list of the best specialized road bikes in 2018.

AFTERPARTZ NV-5 G3/ HS1 Bike Disc Brake Kit Front and Rear

Road Bike with Disc Brakes

When road bikes were first manufactured, these were designed with rim brakes. As technology improves, the design and performance of these bikes have also done the same. These types of brakes did not provide immediate stopping. The technology used, opted for pads that relied on applying friction to the rim of the rotating wheel. This form of technology did not provide a complete stop. Instead, it delivered a much slower or gradual cessation leaving cyclists to apply pressure to their brakes sooner in the hope of stopping in time. Another disadvantage of these restraints was their tendency to wear down quickly. As this occurred, it became more of a problem to stop.

Today, the market is seeing an increase in road bikes that are being made with disc brakes as they impart improved technology and faster stopping. TommasoSentiero Tourney Adventure Road Bike with Disc Brakes for 2018 is an ultimate example of this advancement. It reveals the same performance and speed as an adventure bike due to its 3×7 Shimano Tourney Groupset that features 30/39/50T Claris crankset and 12x28T Tourney cassette. However, TektroLyra disc brakes deliver a more improved stopping power, especially during harsh and extreme weather conditions.

Along with its robust disc brakes, this road bike is built with steel for superior durability and strength. It also offers Tommaso TC-20D rims and stability of 28 spoke rim which is equipped to handle a variety of road conditions.

2018 Tommaso Sentiero Tourney Adventure Road Bike with Disc Brakes

Adventure Touring Road Bike 

Adventure touring road bikes are made for individuals that seek versatility because they are so adaptable. For this very reason, many individuals love this type of bicycle.

They are perfect for various terrain including forest pathways and gravel. These bikes also perform well on smooth sidewalks. Adventure touring road bikes operate efficiently and they are optimized to deliver exceptional power. Regardless of where you wish to travel with them, they deliver every time.

What makes them specialized is their relaxed configuration. Adventure touring bikes offer a shorter reach and their wide tires accompanied by solid wheels illustrates their ability to manage long rides and rigorous roads. Also, they provide their riders with racks so that they can bring items along for their journey.

Mongoose Men’s Elroy Adventure Bike 700C Wheel Bicycle identifies as an adventure touring bicycle as it is in accordance with the geometry of an adventure bicycle. It features an alloy frame and steel forks, which provide excellent strength and durability.

Its design is comprised of a 2×7 drivetrain with Shimano Tourney derailleurs, an integrated Micro shift shifters/brake lever combo. It also features mechanical disc brakes, which are adequate in maintaining a relaxed and safe ride.

For the comfort of its riders, there is a frame bag that has been incorporated into the design. This bike provides an extensive front rack for panniers and mud racks as well. It also features a bottle opener. This bicycle enables its riders to pack suitably and securely for their voyage. Cable routing for three single water bottle cage mounts along with two additional on the steel forks ensure cyclists remain hydrated and equipped for the road.

This adventure or touring bicycle is ideal for individuals that enjoy getting out and exploring what is available to them on different terrain. It provides the best cycling experience and assures that they will be prepared for a smooth and efficient ride.

Hybrid Mountain Bike 

A hybrid mountain bike incorporates a bicycle that is ideal for everyday riding but is also able to tackle almost any kind of terrain. To put it plainly, it is a mix of a road and mountain bike, and it is preferred among riders for its commuting purposes. It is a very flexible bicycle, and it is a favorite for this reason.

ORKAN 27.5″ Mountain Bike Hybrid Bike is the quintessential illustration of this type of bicycle. It is made with a steel frame and reliable suspension forks and weighs only 35 lbs. These fantastic features guarantee that riders are cushioned from bumps and vibrations in the road. Such an element offers cyclists a smooth and secure ride.

It also provides an eye-catching design. This hybrid bicycle also extends 21 speeds along with a Shimano rear derailleur shift for switching gears effortlessly. It delivers an adjustable seat that riders can easily maneuver to suit their frames. Overall, the features exhibited by this hybrid mountain bike demonstrate the flexibility and versatility of crossbreed bicycles.

Afterword

Specialized road bikes provide versatility and they are loved for the additional benefits they afford. They offer cyclists improved rides founded on durability, adaptability, and advanced features. These bikes ensure that riders who traditionally enjoy commuting on standard roads can seek adventure whenever. They are not limited to the typical characteristics that road bikes frequently provide.

The bicycles mentioned in this article are top-rated bikes that answer to the requirements of each specific road bike category distinctly. They offer characteristics that are unique and fundamental to its designated rider.

Should you be looking for a road bike that is specially designed, consider the ones mentioned above. With the excellent features that each one offers, you are likely to find one that is suitable for your lifestyle and needs.

Mongoose Men’s Elroy Adventure Bike 700C Wheel Bicycle, Blue
ORKAN 27.5″ MTB Shimano Hybrid 21 Speed Mountain Bike Mountain Bike Grey & Orange
Basecamp Specialized Bike Helmet with Detachable Magnetic Visor Sunglasses Goggles

Best Road Bike Disc Brakes for the Money in 2018

Riding a bike is exhilarating and anyone that has ridden a bike will agree. It allows you to explore different trails and observe scenic views. It also allows you to get fit and engage in exciting speeds, especially if you are the type that loves the excitement and adventure that riding a bicycle can bring.

However, regardless of the reason why you enjoy using a bicycle, you certainly want to ensure that your bike keeps you safe and secure. Brakes are essential for this as, without proper restraints, individuals are susceptible to serious harm. The worst thing is to be speeding and then attempting to stop only to have your brakes fail. Brakes are, of course, essential components of any bicycle.

Whether you ride mountain bikes, have just purchased an entry-level road bike, or you are a professional with a top-end carbon fiber frame, have the lightest rims, and the latest carbon forks, maintaining brakes and ensuring that they are always in excellent condition, is crucial. Therefore, investing in the best brakes is fundamental to the performance of your bicycle and your safety. After all, while engaging in speed or any activity on your bike, you want to ensure that you have the right brakes to support you.

There are many different types of brakes available for road bikes, such as rim brakes and Shimano disc brakes. In this review, however, we will focus on disc brakes. To help you select the best road bike brakes for your money, here is a list of the top brakes. They are listed below for your review. 

AFTERPARTZ NV-5 G3/ HS1 Bike Disc Brake Kit Front and Rear 160 mm Caliper Rotor

AFTERPARTZ NV-5 G3/ HS1 Bike Disc Brake Kit Front and Rear 160 mm Caliper Rotor is a great purchase. It is a mechanical disc brake kit that has been inspected, reviewed, and certified by the Technical Inspection Association. This disc brake has a Germany TüV certificate, which is a clear indication of its superior quality.

It comprised 12Cr13 martensitic stainless steel. It offers 160 mm 6 bolt Standard 44 mm & 22 mm pitch-row disc, which makes the brakes level, exceptionally smooth and even. It has a cold-forged double bent lever blade, and an 85 mm front and 145 mm rear brake stainless steel PTFE coated cable.

This disc brake has been so meticulously designed to offer cyclists complete control and consistency with each ride. With these brakes, you can be confident that when the need arises, you will stop on time.

Another advantage of these brakes is that they are effortless to install and equally the same to adjust. You do not have to be an expert to install these brakes. However, they do come with instructions. Be mindful though that these brakes are made to fit original BB5 BB7 Disc Brake Pads. So before considering, verify its compatibility.

There are two options when purchasing: with a handle or without a handle. Both come with a one-piece front 160 mm caliper adapter with pad, a one-piece rear 160 mm caliper adapter with pad, two-disc brake rotors (front and rear), and one set of brake rotor bolts. Two-disc brake calipers accompany the “with handle” option with levers, and a 1.5 m brake cable.

BlueSunshine Front and Back Disk Brake Kit

BlueSunshine Front and Back Disk Brake Kit, offers quality brakes for a great value. These brakes are protected in black and white high-temperature paint. Although intended for shielding the brakes, they do make them look quite exquisite.

The friction coefficient of this brake pad exceeds the normal range of 0.35 to 0.42 and reigns in at 0.45 offering extreme precision stopping and power. This number is reassurance for a lot of cyclists as it indicates its responsiveness. Also, its 3D full-angle clip mount guarantees that the brake block position remains firmly in its place.

Another advantage of these brakes that cannot be dismissed is its ability to quickly eject dirt or debris that seeks to impede its performance. For this reason, the brake maintains a low indecipherable sound in comparison to the harsh tone that other brakes seem to release.

This brake is durable, cool-resistant and delivers impressive performance during severe weather conditions. BlueSunshine Front and Back Disk Brake Kit is resistant to water and dust due to its fully sealed clip.

Additionally, it offers red aluminum condition screws, universal gasket, and double-sided adjustment. All of these elements contribute to this brakes excellent performance and easy installation.

Surepromise Mechanical Disc Brake MTB Bike Cycling Bicycle Front Rear Caliper 160mm Rotors

Surepromise Mechanical Disc Brake MTB Bike Cycling Bicycle Front Rear Caliper 160 mm Rotors is a top-rated disc brake for road bikes. It offers dual pad adjusters with floating pad holders and a metal and ceramic pad compound. These pads are becoming increasingly popular in the bicycle market. They are recognized for eliminating that harsh brake sound, instead offering softer stops with immediate stopping power.

These brakes are made of warp-resistant stainless steel and aluminum alloy material. These materials make this brake exceptionally durable, rustproof, and anti-corrosive. They are available in two options: front caliper and rotor set and rear caliper and rotor set.

Before making a purchase, individuals are encouraged to review and inspect the original specifications of their recent brake disc to ensure that this brake fits their bike accordingly.

Which Brakes Should Be Purchased?

Like anything else, you must ensure that, before brakes are purchased, you need to take the time to review its specifications. Only by doing so will you know exactly which item is ideal. With brakes, the same approach should apply.

Although the brakes mentioned offer outstanding advantages and great performance, you must ensure that they are compatible with your specific road bike. If not, you risk purchasing one that is not suitable for your bicycle.

Generally, though, brakes are offered in different diameters such as 45 mm, 160 mm, 180 mm and so on. If the rotor is larger, you receive more braking power and heat is distributed more efficiently.

However, rely on the brake requirements of your bicycle to guide you with your decision. Once this is confirmed, be sure to choose brakes that are durable and offer extreme performance and stopping power. You want brakes that last long and certainly want them to respond without hesitation. The brakes listed in this review offer these important requirements.

BlueSunshine Cycling Bicycle Bike Brake Disc Stainless Steel Rotors 160mm
unshine BB5 Front and Back Disk Brake Kit
PAMASE Bike Disc Brake Pads for SRAM Avid
160mm Floating Disc Brake Rotor 6 Bolts CYSKY Stainless Steel Bike Disc Brake

Best Gravel Bikes 2017 and 2018: Recommendations from an Expert

2018 Gravity FSX 1.0 Dual Full Suspension Mountain Bike with Disc Brakes

A gravel bike is virtually an adventure bike that is built for a variety of surfaces. Unlike some road bikes that are designed for riding on the sidewalk or road, gravel bikes are more versatile. They are made for exploration and people who find pleasure in discovering new places.

This type of bicycle is quick on the road and can undertake a number of routes and surfaces such as gravel, farm tracks, tarmac, and other surfaces that many other bicycles are incapable of handling. Pretty much wherever you wish to venture with your bicycle, a gravel bike can get you there.

Commuters and adventurers of all sorts will find pleasure in using a gravel bike. They quickly adapt to different surfaces and offer supreme comfort especially in different weather conditions.

If you are looking for a gravel bike to buy, consider these top picks mentioned below. Their features and principal characteristics are reviewed to aid with your purchase.

Diamondback Bicycles’ Haanjo Tero All-Road Bike

Diamondback Bicycles’ Haanjo Tero All-Road Bike is a cross between a road bike and a mountain bike. It is described as lightweight due to its fully-butted aluminum frame, but it delivers undisputable strength, steadiness, durability, and comfort that cannot be ignored by its riders. The benefit of this bicycle is that it quickly adjusts to various surfaces whether smooth or rigorous.

Haanjo Tero offers mechanical disc brakes, operated by a cable pull system, which provides excellent grip and ensures a sure stop. Together, these features offer riders more assurance while out on the road.

It also boasts Shimano 2×8 speed shifter set with 16 speeds. This ensures that riders continue to excel while advancing different hills and gradients. For individuals that are real road warriors and enjoy cycling instinctively through various trails and heights, this feature serves as a great benefit.

Additionally, it offers Kenda Flintridge 700x40c tires. These set of tires are widely set.  They provide more speed, a smoother ride and better control on the road; all aspects that are ideal for a bike that adapts well to different terrains.

Tommaso Sentiero Compact Gravel Road Bike

Tommaso Sentiero Compact Gravel Road Bike is a bike that has been optimized to provide its riders with the ultimate flexibility. It has been made of hydroformed aluminum. A material formulated by Tommaso Bikes with their meticulous geometry system. It offers guaranteed durability that will survive the test of time and various road conditions.

It provides accuracy and smoothness while shifting due to its full Shimano drivetrain.

This bicycle’s gearing, due to Sentiero’s 12-25T Claris cassette and Claris 30/39/50T crankset enables riders to access various courses that other comparable bikes cannot undertake. Additionally, its Corsa TC-20D wheelset provides accessibility to various grounds including gravel.

Its 32c all-terrain tires ensure exceptional handling of the road regardless of the weather conditions. Tommaso Sentiero Compact Gravel Road Bike steel fork offers additional stability and its avid BB5 disc brakes contribute to its reliability and accuracy for stopping.

Raleigh Bikes’ Willard 2 All-Road Bike

Raleigh Bikes’ Willard 2 All-Road Bike is a well-constructed bicycle and can adapt quickly to different roads such as gravel or dirt. It offers exceptional manageability and control regardless of road conditions. Also, the bike’s carbon forks along with its alloy-tapered steerer delivers excellent performance and comfort for its rider.

Its 40c tire fitment is broad and robust, so individuals have very little to be concerned with while on their course. Due to its AL-6061 Alloy Gravel frame, elastomers, and Seatpost, it reduces vibrations, shock, and enables individuals to engage in rough riding with comfort.

Its mechanical disc brakes make it incredibly responsive to stopping. Willard 2’s SRAM 1X drivetrain with 11-42t wide range cassette, provides various gears that enable you to ride comfortably. So, if you are riding up a steep hill or battling the wind, you can alter the speed to suit these conditions.

These Gravel Bikes Vary in Size & Must be Assembled

Should you decide to order any of these bicycles, be aware of what size you are seeking. They are offered in various sizes. The purpose of this is to guarantee a pleasurable ride regardless of your height. If it is too large or small, you will not be comfortable during your journey. So, be sure to choose the right size so that you may genuinely take advantage of its benefits.

To do so, you can speak directly with the suppliers of these bicycles. They can provide the most assistance. Alternatively, you can follow this bike fit guide to gain a better understanding of which bicycle size is ideal based on your height and inseam.

It must also be mentioned that all of the gravel bikes in this review arrive unassembled. Be prepared to do so some building as they require a certain degree of assembly. They are delivered in pieces, and if you are not familiar with bikes, they must be taken back to your local bike shop for completion. In fact, it is recommended that you do so to ensure that all parts are correctly aligned and damage is avoided.

Raleigh Bikes Stuntman All Road Bike, Brown, 54cm/Medium
2018 Gravity FSX 1.0 Dual Full Suspension Mountain Bike with Disc Brakes

How to Choose the Best Gravel Bike?

All of the bikes listed offer various advantageous and unique benefits. Pay close attention to the qualities they offer. A substantial feature that they all afford is their precision power stopping capabilities. This characteristic is extremely beneficial for gravel bikes, which are designed for speed and agility, so you certainly want a bicycle that can stop on command.

Tires are also important factors and it is important to be mindful of the advantages that gravel bikes provide. Some gravel bikes offer tires that are a tad wider than others as they add more traction. Overall, wider tires are better as they tend to roll more efficiently than those that are narrower. Be considerate of this when choosing your gravel bike and select a bike that provides a larger width. You’ll enjoy a better ride.

GMC Denali Road Bike, Black/Green, 22.5-Inch/Medium
Raleigh Bikes Willard 2 All Road Bike, Grey, 58 cm/Large
Tommaso Sentiero Gravel Disc Road Bike – Matte Black/Red – XL

Best Raleigh Road Bike Options in 2018

​Road bikes will always be fashionable because they offer the most a host of great features. They are intended for individuals who are not seeking adventure necessarily but prefer to have a bicycle solely for commuting or for exercise on the road. Usually, this is the motive behind the bike’s construction.

However, despite being designed for commuting, road bike manufacturers are creating bikes that are becoming more particular in what they offer their riders. With this improvement, road bikes are evolving into more versatile machines. This flexibility is providing consumers with more options and the ability to choose a bicycle that fits their exacting needs.

Raleigh Bikes Cadent 2 Fitness Hybrid Bike 19″ Frame

Raleigh is a leading bicycle manufacturer that offers a variety of bicycles. These include road bikes, mountain bikes, and many other specialized bikes. This article focuses on the best road bicycles provided by Raleigh. Should you be seeking a Raleigh road bike, this review provides detailed information about them.

Raleigh Cadent 2 Urban Fitness Bike

Raleigh Cadent 2 Urban Fitness Bike is marketed as a bicycle that is fit for people looking to ride around town, travel to work, and also engage in fitness activities. It is constructed of lightweight aluminum, which offers excellent stability and agility.

This bicycle’s frame is optimized to ensure that riders are positioned upright, which is appropriate for keeping cyclists aligned with the road. It offers them better visibility and responds positively to the geometry of the rider’s body. This addition eliminates the stress that can be caused to the neck and lumbar area of the back. 

TektroNovela mechanical disc brakes are used to guarantee a sure stop. They are easy to maintain and ensure that, regardless of weather conditions, the bicycle stops completely. Riders can cycle confidently and do not have to worry about their safety. Also, should cyclists wish to switch brakes, Shimano components guarantee quick shifting and prepare them for better riding on rocky terrain.

This bicycle makes a great purchase. It is a fantastic looking bike with many great features. There is no doubt that anyone who purchases this bike will not be disappointed in either its appearance or the advantages it offers its riders.

Raleigh Cadent 2 Urban Fitness Bike, 17″ /MD Frame, Blue, 17″ / Medium

Raleigh Bike Merit 1 Endurance Road Bike

Raleigh Bike Merit 1 Endurance Road Bike is a superb companion that is perfect for a first-time buyer looking to purchase a road bike. It is customized to fit someone who requires a basic bicycle for simple tasks. These activities include commuting to work, riding around the city or participating in organized ride groups with friends. Whatever your reason is, Raleigh Bike Merit 1 Endurance Road Bike ensures that riders are provided with superb comfort. It operates efficiently and is constructed of an aluminum frame a

nd alloy SPF forks, which offer stability and speed. It is also lightweight, weighing in at just under 23 lbs. Additionally, it offers riders total control due to the Shimano Claris 8 speed STI shifters which are available with 16 speeds. With this feature, riders do not have to be concerned with rocky or rigorous terrain, steep hills, or any inconsistencies in the road. Cyclists can switch the gears effortlessly to offer efficient management of the road. Also, Raleigh’s 100 Series Road, 31.8 Short Drop Handlebars contribute to improved control.

Wider tires, such as the KendaKwick Roller Sport 700X28c and the option for 30c, enables riders to maintain stability during their ride. This advantage offers cyclists wheels that roll quickly and pick up speed without hesitation.

The additional option for wider tires is an excellent benefit for riders and provides them with a feature that supersedes its value as a conventional road bike. Overall, this is an outstanding bike, and for its cost, cyclists can expect to receive a stylish bike with enhanced options.

Raleigh Bikes Merit 1 Endurance Road Bike, Silver, 54cm/Medium

Raleigh Bikes Clubman Road Bike

Raleigh Bikes Clubman Road Bike offers an appeal that speaks the same language as bikes dating back to the 1960s. However, it’s timely yet classic random styling does not withhold in terms of speed or durability. It is composed of a durable steel frame that isn’t similar to others mentioned previously. Despite this, it is still a great performing road bike.

To maintain its clean and retro appeal, aluminum front and rear fenders have been created to match the frame and overall appearance of the bicycle. Raleigh’s Clubman Road Bike is certainly an eye-catcher, and its one-of-a-kind color exudes exclusivity. There is no denying that it is a unique gem.

This bicycle faultlessly infuses a retro appeal with modern offerings. It provides Shimano Sora 2x9 speed and STI shifters that offer 18 gears for the convenience of its riders. This feature allows riders to access different speeds as needed, enabling cyclists to maintain a smooth and consistent ride.

Also, to contribute to a successful commute, Tektro Cable Actuated Mechanical Disc Brakes ensure that each rider is offered excellent protection. Therefore, if you are riding in wet or dry conditions, you do not have to worry about not stopping successfully. Overall, commuters can enjoy a safe ride in style.

Whether you are old-school or truly enjoy purchasing classic items, this bicycle is for you. Its clean and retro design, along with its up-to-date features offers something for everyone.

Afterword

The bicycles mentioned in this article are the best Raleigh bicycles based on customer reviews and ratings.  Raleigh’s road bikes offer a variety of features that cyclists can appreciate and this is what contributes to their distinctiveness on the bike market.

Cyclists of all levels, especially those who seek simplicity, will find Raleigh’s bikes to be ideal. Whether you are in need of a bicycle for simplistic adventures around town, wish to engage with friends, or want to get out there cycling to stay fit, Raleigh’s road bikes respond to your needs. They are crafted cleverly and give cyclists what they are seeking and more.

If you decide to choose from any of the bicycles listed, you will not be disappointed. They offer top features and an appeal that is certain to suit anyone seeking a quality road bike.

2018 Gravity FSX 1.0 Dual Full Suspension Mountain Bike with Disc Brakes
Raleigh Bikes Cadent 2 Fitness Hybrid Bike 17″ Frame, Green, 17″/Medium
Raleigh Bikes Redux 2 City Bike 19″ Frame/ Yellow, 19″/Large
Raleigh 2018 Amelia 1 Women’s Adventure Road Bike Blue (50CM)
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