Yes, the road bike is made for eating up miles, but what questions should you ask yourself to choose the model that suits you?

1. Do I really need a road bike?

Unlike a hybrid bike , the road bike is designed with a sporty objective: it is made for riding fast and for a long time. All its characteristics are therefore geared towards this desire for efficiency: narrow tires, aerodynamic position, sporty geometry. Responsive, nimble, and fast, it is the ultimate machine for embarking on a Gran Fondo or attempting an Everesting .

2. What material should I choose?

Bikes are pretty much all made of steel , aluminum , or carbon .

• Steel is a material that has proven its worth. Relatively heavy (but resistant), flexible, and comfortable, steel does, however, have the unfortunate drawback of rusting.
• Aluminum, on the other hand, has the advantage of being light and affordable. Unlike carbon, aluminum bikes allow for pannier transport. It is a durable material that does not rust. However, as it is very rigid, it is often less suitable for long distances.
• Finally, carbon. Lighter, and also more expensive, it combines comfort and performance. You will therefore find it on almost all competition bikes.

3. What kind of cyclist am I and where will I ride?

Beginner, occasional rider, or sport cyclist? Touring cyclist ? On a race track? In the mountains or on flat terrain? Depending on the category you fall into, you can determine which bike suits you best.

If you don't have performance goals, choose a robust, versatile, and comfortable bike.

If you are the sport cycling type who enjoys long rides, opt for a comfortable, light, and rigid bike.

If performance is what drives you, go all out for a rigid bike with an aggressive geometry. And you'll be ready for your first competitions!

Ladies: know that there are also road bike models for women . Their short frame and narrow handlebars, among other features, make them machines adapted to your morphology. For example, Specialized offers a whole range of women's bikes.

4. What components will my road bike consist of?

Electronic or mechanical transmission, disc brakes or traditional brakes... The drivetrain will play a very important role in the behavior of your bike. Also, don't skimp on the quality of your wheels. The quality of the bearings is paramount. Ideally, choose light but strong wheels.

Finally, pay particular attention to the contact points: saddle , pedals , handlebars must be selected carefully, as they will have a significant influence on the comfort of your machine.

5. What is my budget?

There is something for everyone and for all budgets. A "rule of thumb" to help you: it is considered that you can allocate $1 for every kilometer ridden in the year. Thus, a sport cyclist who rides 5,000 kilometers per year should invest approximately $5,000 in their bicycle.