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Beginner Road Bike
As a new biker it would be more advisable for you to get an entry level bike. There are many types of bikes to choose from and all you have to do is know what you want and make sure you know the right specifications before you start shopping.
Road bikes can range from $250 to $3000 or more, but if you are not yet sure of what kind of bike you really like, and if this is the kind of activity you can’t really commit to, then it might be best to choose a cheaper bike, most especially if you are on a budget.
Road bikes are designed for fitness enthusiasts and competitors as its features are made for fast riding onpavement. It has a wide range of shift gear options that make it possible to climb steep terrain and has brake sets equipped to reduce shock as well as ensure a smooth transition from fast speeds to a complete halt. They are made of lightweight materials, usually aluminum or carbon to ensure durability, efficiency, and comfortable biking.
How To Get The Best Beginner Road Bike
When looking for a road bike you must first do your research and check for bike prices and tested brands by looking up their specifications and reading reviews. The best reviews are those from people who bought their bike and give their time to sharing their stories online.
With online reviews you can check pros and cons of the beginner or entry road bikes to the requirements on your list. A good source to check reviews is on product websites and clips on YouTube.
It would also be good practice to check the bikes at sports stores near you and see what best suits your preferences. You can also check specifications and compare them with other bikes with the help of a sales representative who can also answer any questions you might have.
Another good way to check the best beginner road bike is to ask people you know who have used road bikes for a long time. The best way to understand a road bike is also through true stories and valid experiences.
And when you feel that you have researched enough, scout for that beginner bike and make sure to follow these general guidelines:
- Fit: Bikes have a variety of frames that correlate with body proportions. So if you are ordering online check the bike buying guide as to what bike will best suit your height and weight.
- Feel: Make sure that you get the bike that will make you feel comfortable; Check the saddle structure, the distance of the saddle to the headset, and the placement of its accessories for more confident riding.
- Look: Though this is not that important, but for you to enjoy a good ride and crave for more, it is important that you also like how your bike looks. Make it your own and make it your partner to whatever goal you have.
Specifications To Watch Out For
In choosing the best beginner road bike you should be able to check the following features carefully:
Frame And Fork Material
One key component to consider is frame and fork material, as this has a significant impact on the way the bike rides. Most entry level bikes come with an alloy frame, however, if your budget allows it is worth looking for a model with a carbon fork.
The more carbon the better as the high-tech aerospace material is light, strong, and also offers beneficial ride characteristics such as vibration dampening.
Groupset
For safety purposes, pay attention to the groupset model, which is like the bike’s transmission and brakes. Road bikes will have groupsets from manufacturers such as Shimano, Sram or Campagnolo. Each has various ranges of price, quality, weight, and performance.
Bike size and fit
It’s important to get a bike that fits you properly. Each brand usually has their bike buying guide depending on how many sizes they are offering, so make sure that the bike you are getting fits well with your height and weight.
Wheels
The next important area of your new bicycle is the wheels and tires. The wheels heavily influence how the bike rides, feels, and responds. Lighter wheels with less rotating mass are slightly quicker to spin up, but real speed comes from deep-section aerodynamic rims. Lighter and faster tires feel more responsive.
Brakes
Now you have a choice for brakes: Either a mountain bike style disc brakes or traditional rim brakes. Rim brakes are still lighter and more aerodynamic, but the difference is dropping. Disc brakes provide better power and modulation, are less affected by bad weather, and carry on working even if you ding a rim.
Chainsets
The chainset (where the pedals attach to) comes with chainrings of various sizes. On an entry-level bike, you’ll usually find a compact double chainset, with 50 and 34-tooth chainrings to give low ratios that make getting up hills easier.
