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Road Bikes Reviews | Biking Tribe - Part 2

Category Archives for Road Bikes Reviews

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)

Pink Beach Cruiser: Our Favorites for the 2018 Beach Season

Casual biking has been growing tremendously recently, and one of the best side effects of this growth is that there are a lot of choices available when picking out your new ride. In many ways, biking is as much about style as transportation, so many find it to be important that they have a bike that represents them and is a joy to ride and display. In this article, we have put together something special for those who know exactly what they want: a pink beach cruiser. These pink beach cruiser bikes are both gorgeous and comfortable to ride up and down the drag whenever the mood strikes. Beach season is coming up, so it is time to get yourself a new bike and get it ready to show off. These are our favorite men’s and women's beach cruiser bikes for this year.

Schwinn Ladies Perla 7-Speed Cruiser Bicycle 26" Wheels

A classic Schwinn always makes a statement and this Ladies Perla is no exception. It has a curvy and flirtatious look that is finished off with an all-over light pink color scheme. The step-through frame is both attractive and practical for mounting and dismounting with ease. The 7-speed twist shifters use a Schwinn rear derailleur to ensure smooth shifting. It also includes alloy linear pull brakes for reliable and secure stopping. The saddle is padded and mounted on springs to add comfort to the ride, and full wrap fenders prevent splash back from wet surfaces, both keeping you dry and adding style. This particular bike comes in a coral option as well for those who like their pink a bit bolder.

Kent Susan G Komen 7-Speed Beach Cruiser Bike

Though one might ride a pink bike because it is attractive, it is nice to be able to use it to promote a good cause as well. Kent has made this 7-speed beach cruiser specifically to promote breast cancer awareness. They donate a portion of the proceeds to the Susan G. Komen foundation to fight breast cancer. This bike by Kent features a Tig welded frame and fork made from steel that can withstand plenty of daily usage. There are both front and rear hand brakes so you can use whichever you are more comfortable with. It can be put together in less than an hour and rides well for many miles with all the stock parts. The wraparound chain guard and full fenders make great functional accents, but what is really impressive is the detailing and design all over the frame. This is quite the beautiful bike for a very reasonable price.

26'' Huffy Deluxe Single-Speed Women's Cruiser Bike

Those who prefer a single speed bike can enjoy the all-pink color scheme as well. Huffy’s deluxe single speed cruiser not only features a bright coral pink frame but also pink tires, pedals, and even a matching pink basket that can be mounted in front. The swept-back handlebars with two-toned grips paired with the padded pink seat provide a great deal of comfort. Aside from the basket, there are several other useful accessories included with this model, such as a pink cup holder and a reflector for safety on the rear fender. Huffy is well-known to make great products that ride well and last a long time, so you do not need to worry about sacrificing quality for aesthetics with this cruiser. With the front basket and rear rack, it is also very functional for commuting to work, school, or even on a shopping trip. If standing out is what you want to do, this is the bike for you.

Sixthreezero Women's 26-Inch Beach Cruiser Bicycle

Perhaps you are looking for a bike that shows off your pink personality but is not so in-your-face about it. If that is the case then consider this beach cruiser by sixthreezero. The frame and chainguard are a nice coral, but there are other colors throughout to keep the coloring from being over the top. The rims are a nice light blue and the seat and handlebar grips are a classic dark brown. To tie it all together the fenders are decorated in a paisley pattern that incorporates all the colors. As for functionality, the paisley coral option comes in a 1-speed and 3-speed configuration, making it best suited for casual use or light commuting. There are no hand brakes, instead coaster braking is what you will use on this machine by simply backpedaling when you want to slow down. The 3-speed option is built with the reliable Shimano internal hub and a Nexus shifter, both solid products. This is definitely a bike that will last you many summers and never go out of fashion.

Firmstrong Bella Women's Beach Cruiser Bicycle

Firmstrong bikes are getting quite the solid reputation for being well made and durable. This Bella bike comes in an attractive pink that covers the frame, fenders, rims, and chainguard for a seamless pink color scheme. The black accents of the tires, pedals, seat, and grips do well to highlight your color choice in a classic way. This particular color combination comes in 24” 1-speed, 26” 1-speed, and 26” 3-speed configurations, which are all perfect for beach cruising. The oversized seat propped on double coil springs and wide tires absorb all manner of bumps and shocks in the road to make for a smooth and comfortable ride. As with the Sixthreezero bike, the Firmstrong Bella uses rear coaster brakes in its single and 3-speed models. The thick top cruiser frame is a bit heavier than a classic cruiser frame, which makes it better able to stand up to heavier loads and usage.

It is never to early to start getting ready for beach season. Hopefully, we have given you some good ideas and guidance as you try to decide what ride you are going to be cruising around on this year. One thing is for sure, though, you will definitely look good while doing it!

Best Fixie Wheels for Your Fixed Gear Bike: 2018 Reviews

Like with mountain bikes, the fixie community has grown tremendously over the past few years. Before it took off those of us who wanted a good set of front and rear wheels would usually have to build them ourselves if we wanted to avoid paying a large amount of money. While there is a sense of pride that comes with doing the research to find the best hubs, spokes, and rims and them building your own custom set-up, the growth of fixie biking means that there are now a lot of great and affordable fixed gear wheelsets to be found online. Fixies are already fairly simple machines but taking this extra step out of the assembly process means it is that much easier and quicker to get going on your new bike.

The composition of fixie wheels tends to be fairly standard. They are usually 700C in size and made up of the fixed rear hub, lock ring, cogs, and spokes. Most wheelsets feature flip-flop hubs which have a fixed gear on one side and a freewheel gear on the other, to allow for coasting. The primary difference in wheelsets tends to be material and design, both for aesthetics and functionality.

Retrospec Bicycles Mantra Fixed-Gear/Single-Speed Wheelset with 700x25C Kenda Kwest Tires

For the beginner fixed gear biker, this wheelset is a decent introductory option, both in price and quality. Unlike many sets, this one includes tires, which are made by Kenda Kwest and well suited to urban street environments. They install quickly and include a flip-flop hub so you can ride fixed or free depending on preference. These also come in a multitude of colors to match whatever frame and aesthetic you may be going for.

Vuelta ZeroLite Track Comp 700C Wheel Set

Vuelta is a respected brand in wheels and the ZeroLite Track Comp 700C wheelset is no exception to their high-quality standards. At weights of 1007 g for the front wheel and 1144 g for the back, this is alight set that will barely add any noticeable difference to your frame. This set will help reduce effort expenditure and increase speed when paired with the right tires. The rims are 30 mm with a medium depth v and aluminum alloy pinned clincher rims with CNC sides. The hub is flip-flop with a one-speed freewheel that can be easily adjusted. This handmade set holds up very well and is a great option for the average fixie rider.

Pure Fix 650C 45 mm Micro Wheelset

Pure Cycles make a lot of fixie bikes and components. Most fixies use 700C wheels but if your frame is smaller due to personal size or retrofitting then you may need smaller wheels, such as this 650C set. When going outside of standard sizing it is important to stick with a trusted brand such as Pure Cycles to ensure the same great performance. The almost-standard flip-flop hub is also found in this wheelset, with a pre-attached 16T fixed and 16T freewheel cogs. The rims are super deep and made of double-walled aluminum, with a single accent spoke color to add some style. This particular set comes in three colors (black, orange, and white), which will work with most bike color schemes. If using on a bike frame that is not specifically made for 650C you may have some trouble running brakes, so be sure to check the compatibility first.

Solomone Cavalli SC Fixed Gear 700c Tri Spoke 5-Spoke Rim Fixie Bicycle Wheel Set

If style is your first priority and weight is not a concern, consider the five or 3-spoke wheelsets from Solomone Cavalli. These are sure to get you noticed wherever you go due to the minimal spoke design. Since a few spokes are replacing 20+ these wheels are a bit heavier than the standard alternatives but once you get them rolling the momentum cannot be beaten. These are 700C and made of a magnesium alloy. The flip-flop hub only comes with a fixed gear, but a freewheel cog can be purchased separately and added onto the threaded other side of the hub. The front and back wheels are sold both separately and as a set, and the three-spoke design also comes in white. Reviewers who have purchased this set consistently compliment the smooth ride and durability.

State Bicycle Co Lo Pro Classic Fixed Gear + Freewheel Wheelset

Sometimes, flashiness is not desired. Performance does not always have to be packaged with an attention-grabbing exterior, and if that sounds appealing to you, then check out State Bicycle’s low profile wheelset. The lightweight aluminum alloy wheels are both classic and understated, allowing your choice of frame to really pop. As with most fixie wheelsets this comes with a flip-flop hub with both the fixed and freewheel cogs included. Though this is a more pricey option, State Bicycle Co. is a well trusted brand that is known to make products that last for many miles over varied terrain. This is actually one of the most sought-after products made by State Bicycle Co., so anyone who purchases and uses this set can rest assured that it has been well tested all over.

The wheels you choose to use on your fixed gear bike can make a big difference in how they work and ride. It is important to get a wheelset that not only fits your aesthetics but also the functionality you are going for. Most wheelsets are sold without tires, but these can be easily purchased and installed once you know what wheels you need and what the application will be. There are even colored tire options if that is something you are interested in. No matter which design you choose, be sure to purchase your wheelset from a trusted manufacturer. If you have any trouble with installation or even picking a set your local bike shop can be a great help. You might also consider one of the many online forums or a local meet-up group for advice as well, but we think the sets we’ve highlighted here are a great place to start.