If you love riding, you’ll know how essential it is to get the right bike. Considering the variety available in markets these days, the correct selection is of paramount importance. The bike must suit the experience you are after. For races, you need a performance-oriented bike. However, if you are looking for a more comfortable experience, you’ll have to narrow your choices down to the sportive category.
Also called endurance bikes, sportive bikes differ from their performance-driven brethren in various ways. First off, they are softer even though they are actually based on race-oriented bikes. Various tweaks are made such as relaxed handling and modified frames that can smooth out the ride. Wider tires increase the stability. The higher position of the handlebar reduces the stress on the neck and back.
One of the major features is the use of disc brakes unlike race bikes. This kind of brakes offers more stopping power. Discs also perform better in all weather conditions while requiring less maintenance.
In short, these are the bikes you need for riding longer distances or for events where comfort takes priority. Of course, there are plenty of choices in this category. Here are the top choices available in 2019.
Specialized Roubaix Sport
When you have a bike named after an infamous challenge, you will expect quality. The Roubaix Sport, named after the Paris to Roubaix route, does not disappoint. It comes with the Future Shock, a new cartridge from the marque. This provides a massive 20mm of bar and stem movement. While the headset and frame look bulky, the bike does not feel rather heavy. The fact is that these sizeable components are only to hold the suspension system.
It is easy to notice the difference in comfort when riding the bike. The handlebars as well as the stem easily absorb the roughness of roads. The seat post reduces the pain of long journeys considerably as well. The DT R470 set of wheels ensures the speediness of the bike which is great for performance.
The features may seem rather less considering the price point. However, it makes up for it in other ways.Overall, this is the bike to choose if you need comfort.
BMC Teammachine SLR03 One
Being one of the oldest names in biking, BMC has years of data gathered from their professional riders. They have used that data to create a bike that has incredible performance while offering comfort at the same time. You get the benefits of carbon fiber such as lightness, excellent power transfer and speed. Most importantly, you have a relaxed ride simultaneously.
As such, the SLR03 One is a fantastic choice for amateurs. If you want to take it to the next level, this bike will get you the speed to dominate local sportives. You’ll love it even if you are a hobbyist.
For those aspiring to go pro, there are certainly more expensive options from BMC. Nonetheless, this SLR03 One gives a feel of the professional life without draining your wallet.
Canyon Roadlite CF 8.0
At first, you may be taken aback by the use of flat pedals and a flat bar in this bike. However, don’t let it fool you. The bike is extremely capable. The Fizik saddle, the frame and the riding position are all designed to provide you heightened levels of comfort and awareness. At the same time, when you need it to, it will accelerate rapidly like any other road bike.
The bike certainly offers a well-calculated geometry. You will also get components from the Shimano Ultegra line, disc brakes and a carbon frame. The wheelset is the E 1800 from DT Swiss, which offers speed but also high durability.
Overall, it is a bike that is perfect for the urban or even city commute. Of course, if you head out on the weekends for a ride, that’s going to be fine as well.
Orro Terra C 105 Hydro 2019
If you want a bike that is fast on roads but is confident for hard trails like gravel, this is the one you need. The strong handling allows you to conquer gravel and other difficult terrain with ease. However, you’ll need the right set of tires for the same. The versatility of the bike is ensured with the rack mounts and mudguard that come with it.
In short, whether it’s a commute or an adventure, turn to this bike for comfort. However, the bike veers towards the endurance end since it lacks support for fat tires. As such, this is a bike for your daily commute and the occasional track and trail.
It is not easy choosing the best road bike. After all, there are many aspects to consider. However, these bikes are a good way to get started.
