Triathlon and road bikes are designed for riding on the road: they offer a perfect balance of lightness, stiffness, aerodynamics and efficiency, allowing cyclists to ride both fast and for a long time.
Road bikes adapt to different terrains and gradients. They are designed to deliver fast, efficient riding on the road thanks to their lightness and aerodynamics. On a road bike, cyclists can cover long distances at high speed while minimising muscle fatigue.
What makes triathlon and road bikes special?
Triathlon and road bikes are characterised by:
Lightweight frames: Triathlon and road bikes are generally made from lightweight materials such as aluminium, carbon or titanium to make acceleration and handling easier.
A riding position that serves aerodynamics: Road bikes generally feature a low handlebar and a high saddle, resulting in a forward-leaning posture that limits air resistance and improves the rider's speed. Road bikes have a geometry specifically optimised to offer good wind resistance. On your road bike you will be able to go faster without extra effort.
Slim wheels: Road bikes are generally fitted with slim, lightweight wheels with narrow tyres inflated to a high pressure to minimise rolling resistance and, once again, maximise speed. Among the best-known road bike wheel brands are Mavic, Zipp and Fulcrum.
High-performance brakes: disc brakes are increasingly common on road bikes. Some are fitted with rim brakes, but most of the time these are the top-of-the-range versions of this type of brake. Braking power is an important criterion in road cycling given the speeds that can be reached. Shimano, SRAM and Campagnolo make very good brakes suited to this discipline.
Don't neglect the quality of your drivetrain!
The drivetrains on road bikes are often top-of-the-range with many gears, allowing the rider to maintain an optimal pedalling rhythm in all circumstances. Gear changes on a road bike need to be fast and precise, which is why road bikes are fitted with drivetrain systems that let you keep your rhythm without distraction. Choose a good groupset to get the most out of your road bike. Shimano, SRAM and Campagnolo offer a wide range of high-performance groupsets for every budget.
Fit your triathlon and road bike with a good saddle!
If you ride a road bike, you are going to spend a lot of time on it, and the quality of your saddle, and having a saddle suited to your riding style and position, is essential. The saddle is a key component for the cyclist's comfort and performance. Selle Italia, Fizik, Specialized and Brooks offer some very good models.
Don't wait any longer to fall for your next triathlon bike and road bike! All second-hand and new road bikes are on Troc Vélo.