By Sunil Tanna

Road bikes (sometimes known in the UK and some other countries as “racing bikes”) are lightweight bikes designed for speedy on relatively smooth terrain. These bikes are equipped with narrow wheels and tires pumped to high pressure, and shaped (including drop handlebars) such that the rider sits in an aerodynamic, stretched-out position. Furthermore the brake-levers and gear shifters are often positioned such that you can reach them without taking your hands off the handlebars, and hence make speedy gear changes.

Although riding one of these bikes, especially at speed, can be a lot of fun, road bikes are not usually the best choice for urban commuting. The bikes do tend to be relatively delicate, the range of gear ratios may not be sufficient if there are steep hills in your area, and the the brakes may not be good enough for emergency stops.

Another thing to bear in mind is that road bikes don’t usually have mudguards, or even the capacity to attach them – as a result, you can’t simply hop on your bike in your work clothes and expect the mudguards to protect them. Furthermore, road bikes made not have braze-ons for a carry rack, and even if you can attach a rack directly to the frame, you do need to remember that road bikes are not designed to carry heavy loads.

In short, if you’re looking for a sturdy durable bike, then a road bike may not be the best choice for you, and perhaps you ought to consider a mountain bike or a hybrid bike. On the other hand, if you think you’ll enjoy zipping through country lanes at speed, then a road bike is the ideal choice.

–About–

By Sunil Tanna -  First published at http://www.guide2cycling.com/p1_articles_kit_road_bikes.php For more about cycling, please visit http://www.guide2cycling.com/

Source: Cool Biking Zone – Your source for great cycling, sports and fitness articles!

More from Cool Biking Zone

• Road Bike Customization
• Custom Road Bikes For You
• Comfort Bikes Facts

Cool Biking Zone Recommends

• Choosing the Right Room on Cruise Ships
• Gay and Lesbian – Going on Your First Cruise?
• Family Cruise Deals – The Perfect Gateway | Cool Travel Zone

Similar Articles

1. Custom Road Bikes For You
2. Riding Road Bikes Expertly Takes a Lot of Practice
3. Dirt Bikes – The Smart On Road Vehicle
4. Pocket Bikes – Get Ready To Witness The Mini Magic On Road
5. Folding Bikes Are Amazing Road Elements