What To Look For
Racing bikes, sometimes known as road bikes, are built for speed. They are made of very stiff but lightweight materials, such as carbon fiber, so most of the energy exerted by the rider is transferred to the bicycle. There are also sub-classifications of racing bikes, including ones designed for time trials, which place the rider in a more aerodynamic position, and ones for track racing, which only have one gear.
When buying a race bike, there are many things to consider:
The closer the rear wheel is to the seat tube, the more efficient the bike will be--because it makes the frame stiffer. Bicycles built for speed will have the rear wheel closest to the seat tube of the frame, and also will be the most expensive.
Wheels often have fewer spokes on high end race bikes..
Racing bikes are built very well, and can last for years. If racing is something you are seriously considering, buy the best bike you can afford. It is a worthwhile investment.
Common Pitfalls
One of the most common mistakes beginners to racing bikes make is getting the wrong frame size. Generally speaking, you should have an inch of clearance between yourself and the top tube of the frame when you stand flat-footed. Choosing the wrong width on the handlebars can restrict your breathing while racing and ultimately slow you down.
Where To Buy
Most bicycle shops carry a wide array of racing bikes. General sporting goods stores have a selection of intermediate road bikes that will appeal to the general cyclist. Racing bikes can also be bought online.
Cost
Racing bikes have a wide variety of price points. Some bikes can be found for $1,000 or less. Top end race bicycles can cost as much as $10,000 or more.
Comparison Shopping
Popular racing bike brands in 2009 include Cannondale, Carrera, Felt, Giant, Moser, Specialized and Trek. Giant's TCR Advanced SL retails for $11,000. The Trek Madone 6.9 goes for $8,299; the Specialized Tarmac SL3 Di2 is $9,900. Giant's Trinity Advanced, built for time trials, retails for $12,000. Good mid-range racing bikes are the Tarmac Pro SL Dura Ace ($5,000) and the Felt F1 SL ($6,999). On the low end, the Felt F5 Team ($2,299) offers good performance, while the Tarmac Elite ($2,200) is another good racing bike. Giant's Defy series is aimed at the more recreational-oriented road biker, and starts at $1,350.
Those looking at the ultimate level of performance often buy the frame of the bicycle first and then customize the wheels, gears and handlebars.
