Road Bikes
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Road bicycles, also known as racing bicycles, are designed for road
cycling. As such, the most important elements of a road bike are
its weight and aerodynamic riding position. Road bikes combine
drop handlebars and optional handlebar extensions known as aerobars
with a raised seat for maximum aerodynamic efficiency. Often
the frames on these bicycles are very specialized for road racing,
bicycle touring, triathlons,
time trials, or track races by using different geometries and aerodynamic
tubing. The wheels are relatively close together for nimble handling
and the gears, up to thirty combinations, are closely spaced for pedaling
at optimum cadence.
Road bike frames may be constructed in traditional manners using chromoly
steel, and lugs may be tig-welded or brazed. More exotic materials
are also used extensively. Aluminum alloys are common, as are
titanium and carbon fiber. Each material provides a different ride
characteristic. Chromoly steel has a lively spring to it, while
aluminum is stiff and efficient. Carbon fiber provides the builder
a wide range of options, but typically these bikes are light, stiff, and
absorb road vibration.
Wheel rims are most commonly made of aluminum alloy, but they can also be constructed of carbon fiber which reduces weight; road bike wheels may include aerodynamic spokes, or they may be constructed as one piece. Tires are thin, smooth, and inflated to a PSI of about 120, but certain tires have a maximum capacity of 210 PSI.
Road bike components are collectively referred to as the groupset. The two major groupset manufacturers for road bikes are Shimano and Campagnolo. Other companies that manufacture individual bicycle components but not whole groupsets include Full Speed Ahead (FSA) and SRAM. These groupsets include a set of integrated brake/shift levers, brake calipers, derailleurs, crankset, bottom bracket, headset, and hubs, if a prebuilt wheelset is not included.
Racing bikes are less durable and more expensive than mountain bikes, but are much lighter and much more efficient for use on smooth roads due to aerodynamics and low tire friction.