Ranking of the best road and track bikes in 2024

From the variety of available types of bicycles, it is very difficult to make a choice in favor of a particular brand or manufacturer. This article will focus on how to choose road and track bikes. Also, a rating of the best models has been compiled, we are considering categories. With this in mind, any buyer will be able to choose a suitable design for himself.

Road bikes: general idea, selection rules

Purpose: high-speed driving.

For what roads: asphalt, flat.

Where used: bike races, marathons.

Distinctive features:

• Steering in the form of "ram's horns";
• Low, stretch fit;
• Gears with high switching properties;
• Rigid yet lightweight frame
• Narrow tires with increased pressure up to 8 atmospheric units;
• The standard wheel diameter is 28 inches.

What are: amateur and professional types.

Amateur - bicycles with an initial level of training. Mainly used for recreational riding or cycling at high speeds. Suitable for overcoming long distances.

Professional bikes are classified into several types:

• Universal;
• For cyclocross;
• Triathlon;
• Track.

Proper Fit Tips

There are several rules for how a person should sit on a road bike:

Tip 1. The ratio of the angle of inclination of the body to the arms should be equal to 90 degrees. The hands are positioned so that fingers can easily reach the gearshift and brake.

Tip 2. What to look for when taking the right position on the bike? The rider should be able to see in the center or 75 percent of the extension of the torso behind the front hub. If all the requirements are met, then the bike is for you, otherwise it does not fit a person.

Tip 3. The width of the shoulders and handlebars must maintain a certain symmetry.

Advice 4. Saddle adjustment is carried out using a straightened leg, located on the pedal parallel to the ground.

Tip 5. The saddle of the bike should be parallel to the asphalt. With minor inconveniences, it can be tilted slightly.

Tip 6. During movement, breathing should be even, and the body should not bend much in the lower back. Thus, excessive stress on the spine is prevented.

Tip 7. The smallest distance between the thigh and the elbow should fall within the range of 1-2 cm.

Table "Numerical system for selecting a bike for driving on the highway"

Cyclist height (see)	Frame (centimeters)
155-162	47-51
163-170	52-54
171-178	55-57
179-186	58-59
187-194	60-61
195-203	62-63
203 and higher	63 and more

Track bikes: general idea, selection rules

Purpose: riding on a cycle track.

For what: long journeys along the highway; trips on city roads; figure skating; Express delivery.

Distinctive features:

• Short wheelbase
• Increased frame rigidity;
• Tires - single tube tires;
• High position of the carriage assembly;
• Rear stays of the horizontal cutout frame;
• The presence of one gear (deaf or fixed);
• No traditional braking system.

Types of track bikes:

• Leadership - backward-curved fork, reduced front wheel;
• Sprint;
• Tempo.

The other two categories differ in the position of the saddle, the handlebars and the parameters of some parts.

Comparative analysis of road and track bikes

The two types of structures are very similar to each other, one obvious difference between them is:

Name	Highway	Track
Wheel diameter	big	reduced
Number of gears	several	alone
Switches	Front / rear	absent
Brake system	tick-borne	not provided
Pedal travel	free	free wheeling, relative to the wheel, no

Track bike selection criteria

Structures of this kind are selected according to the type of frame material and frame parameters in relation to a person's height. In terms of numbers, the selection tips and table for road models may well work for track bikes. Which bike is better to buy based on the alloy?

The main types of material include:

1. Made of steel - heavy construction, very durable and susceptible to corrosion, however, it can be easily repaired using a welding machine for this process. The most budgetary options.
2. Aluminum alloy is a relatively lightweight model, not as strong as steel, but resistant to corrosion. As for the repair, you can weld it up, but it will take a lot of time. Average cost.
3. Carbon is a very light alloy for a bicycle, durable, but with its own drawback: it is not resistant to impacts against sharp objects, it is afraid of moisture getting inside the frame. Not repairable. In terms of price, it's expensive.

Manufacturer list

• FORWARD company

Russian manufacturer of high-tech bicycles, accessories and spare parts for them. The main users of the products are the countries: Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan. Mountain and city bikes are produced, mainly for children, teenagers and adults. New models are added to the collection every year.

• Stark company

Another supplier from the Russian Federation, ranked 1st in the performance of comfortable and high-quality bicycles. The entire assortment is distinguished by affordable prices and a wide range for selection.

• Merida company

Taiwanese manufacturer, one of the largest in its country. It manufactures products from road bikes to mountain bikes. The company has a line of premium models "Ninety-Six".

• Cervelo

The Canadian manufacturer is one of the world's largest dealers in the production of bicycles for trial racing and triathlon. It makes a frame from an aluminum alloy that rivals carbon fiber models in quality.

• Fuji Bikes Company

A Japanese manufacturer that has gained success in the bicycle market for its innovative design and research process. The main purpose of bikes is professional riding.

• Look company

A French manufacturer using innovative technology to create its high quality products. The corporation is always looking for fresh ideas to improve the ride and technical performance of bicycles.She is not afraid to turn unexpected decisions into reality.

• Specialized company

American manufacturer ranked 4th among the leaders in the production of bicycles in the United States. In production, many different types of two-wheel units are created, one of which is the road view. The manufacturer works on innovation and keeps pace with the times.

Rating of quality road bikes

Consider the most popular models, taking into account the reasonable prices for the goods, the novelty and the rating of the company. In this regard, the review provides the top of the best designs from various manufacturers.

The review was made up of bicycles that became the best in the category:

• Choice of buyers;
• Last season model;
• New this year;
• One of the expensive bikes;
• The bike is from the middle price category.

FORWARD Impulse 1.0

Last year's model is considered popular and in demand, according to buyers. The bike is universal, for any adult, has a stylish design. Equipped with chain drive, aluminum frame, rigid fork and semi-integrated threadless steering column. Double-rim design and classic pedal type has a non-integrated carriage.

Specifications:

Name	Description
Wheel diameter	28 inch
Steering column dimensions	11/8’’
Brake system	walking, tick
Cassette	12-28T
Number of speeds	14 pcs.
Frame	21.25 inches
Cassette level and switch	elementary
Number of stars	7/2
Number of teeth	52-42
By price	28600 rubles

• Unisex;
• No noun;
• Excellent roll forward;
• Bouncy design;
• Low weight;
• Convenient;
• Sturdy frame;
• Road geometry;
• Rubber;
• Adequate price.

• Sometimes you need to replace the pedals;
• Chipped paint under the chain (there were cases).

Stark Peloton 700.1

The bike is female, available in 4 colors: white, red, black and gray. Last year's model still tops the list of the best road units. Frame and rim material - aluminum alloy. The design features a rigid fork, double-walled rim, chain drive, semi-integrated threadless column design and classic pedal travel.

Specifications:

Name	Description
A type	rigid
Rim diameter	28 inch
Speeds	14
Frame size (inches):	18, 20, 22
Brakes	tick-borne
Switch	elementary
Carriage	not integrated
Shaft seat	square
Number of stars	7/2
Shifters	Dual Control
Depreciation	is absent
average price	28730 rubles

• High performance;
• Versatility;
• Significant level of resistance to deformation;
• Road vibrations are not felt;
• Maneuverable;
• Comfortable.

• Not identified.

"Merida Reacto Disc YC Edition"

This year's novelty from the company "Merida" is intended for the female half. The bike has a stylish design and additional functionality, in comparison with the previous models from manufacturers "Stark" and "Forward". So, there were: the ability to mount a disc brake; disc hydraulic brake; the volume of the speed limit has increased. In addition, many elements of the bike are made of different materials.

Specifications:

Name	Description
type of drive	chain
Construction material:	frame - carbon fiber, rim - carbon fiber, bead cord - kevlar, saddle frame - chrome-molybdenum alloy
Possible speed	acceleration to 22
Wheels	28 inches
Rim	Vision 55DB SC
Fork	spring
Stars	11/2
Number of teeth	52-36
Type of cassettes	semi-professional
Carriage	integrated
Brake system	disc hydraulic, professional
Frame parameters (inches):	18,50; 19,68; 20,47; 21,25; 22,04; 23,22
How much is	226,200 rubles

• Stylish;
• Lasting;
• Driving properties;
• Slotted comfort saddle;
• Frame size range;
• Professional;
• Novelty.

• Dear;
• Narrow specialization: not for everyone.

"Cervelo S5 DA"

Universal model with chain drive and carbon frame. Equipped with "Cervelo S5" shock-absorbing rigid fork.The bike was created for sporting achievements, for a professional level of training.

Specifications:

Name	Description
Wheel diameter	28 inch
Possible frame sizes (inches - unit):	18,89; 20,07; 21,25; 22,04; 22,83; 24,02
High-speed gear	22
Of stars	11/2
Number of teeth	52-36
Brake type	rim
Steering column	FSA IS2 11/8 '' - 13/8 "
Shifters	Shimano Dura-Ace ST-R9100
Carriages	BBB Bottomfit BBO-72, PF30 Threaded
By cost	318750 rubles

• Adjusting the length of the fork spring;
• Build quality;
• Accelerates quickly;
• Functional;
• Appearance.

• Price.

"Fuji Bikes Sportif 2.1"

The model with a hand brake is included in the average list for its cost. An adult bike in black and white suits any gender. It is equipped with a chain drive, an integrated threadless column and a rigid fork. The frame and rim material is aluminum alloy, the seat frame is steel.

Specifications:

Name	Description
Steering	11/8 inches
Possible frames (inches):	18,11; 19,29; 20,47; 21,25; 22,04; 22,83; 24,01
Weight	10 kg 350 g
Wheel	28-inch
Brakes	tick-borne, sports
Speed ​​switch	18 gears
Carriages	walking
Cassettes and shifters	sports
Number of stars	9/2
Number of teeth	50-34
Pedal stroke	with toe clips
Price	52,000 rubles

• Hard;
• Reliable;
• For all;
• Easy;
• Geometry;
• Good to move around the city;
• Ergonomic.

• A simple body kit.

Rating of quality track bikes

Some manufacturers remain the same as for road models. A detailed description is given to new companies and their products.

The best bikes were selected by category:

• Leader of the last season;
• New;
• Inexpensive models in the price segment;
• An expensive bike.

Look 875 MADISON

Last season's model for a male audience. The frame is made of carbon fiber, according to the latest innovations. Suitable for: professional riders and novice riders. The uniqueness of the bike is the 100% carbon fiber fork. Available colors: yellow, red, blue and gray.

Specifications:

Name	Description
Wheel diameter	28 inch
Weight	7 kg 340 g
Material:	rim - aluminum, frame - carbon
Speed	alone
Brake	foot
Connecting rods	17 cm
Dimensions	XS, S, M, L, XL
Chain	KMC K710, 1/2 "to 1/8"
The cost	approximately 195,000 rubles

• Stylish appearance;
• High quality material;
• Premium model;
• Aerodynamic ultra wagon;
• Lightweight;
• Reversible wheel;
• New track geometry.

• Dear.

Merida Reacto Track 500

This season's model, with a striking design, with chain drive and no brakes. It is considered universal and can be used on the highway. The entire construction is aluminum, and the bead cord is made of Kevlar.

Specifications:

Name	Description
Rim diameter	28”
Net weight	7 kg 540 g
Possible frames (inches):	18,50; 19,68; 20,47; 21,25; 22,04; 23,22
Fork travel	hard
Column	threadless
Carriage	not integrated
Of stars	1/1
Number of teeth	46
Cassette	Joytech Singlespeed, 15T
Price	43420 rubles

• Stylish;
• The presence of a double rim;
• Bright appearance;
• Small mass;
• Lasting;
• Accelerates quickly.

• Not identified.

Fuji Bikes Track

One of the inexpensive track bikes. Aluminum construction with chain drive and steel saddle frame for adults. The bicycle fork is rigid, the column is non-integrated, threadless. Double-rim design with caliper brake for walking version, pedals with toe clips.

Specifications:

Name	Description
Wheel	28-inch
Weight	9 kg 820 g
Steering column size	11/8 inches
Frame (inches):	19,29; 20,47; 21,25; 22,04; 22,83; 24,01
Tire	700x25, 60TPI
Rim name	Vera Corsa DPM27
Carriage	FSA Sealed Cartridge Bearing, not integrated
Speeds and stars	one by one
Cassette	16T
Zubiev	46
average price	26,000 rubles

• For a 17.0 "frame, wheel diameter: 27.5";
• Build quality;
• Manufacturing of parts;
• Hard;
• Design;
• Inexpensive;
• It weighs a little.

• Not identified.

"Specialized Langster"

Design Feature: Made of unique tubing that contributes to the stiffness and fast ride that can be demonstrated on cycle tracks or city streets. A1 Premium aluminum alloy was used to create the model. The bike is equipped with: carbon fork, double rim, steel saddle frame and a square fit.

Specifications:

Name	Description
Wheel diameter	28 inch
Drive unit	chain
Dimensions (inches):	19,29; 20,47; 21,25; 22,04; 22,83; 24,01
Tires	700x25 mm, 60TPI
Speed	alone
Of stars	1/1
Number of teeth	48
Cassette	Track Cog, 17T
Carriage	not integrated, Shimano
average cost	78,000 rubles

• Good handling;
• Strength;
• Endurance of tires;
• Fast acceleration;
• All adults;
• The ability to drive around the city;
• Stylish design solution;
• Through slots on the saddle.

• Cost of goods.

Output

Having thoroughly studied the theoretical data on road and track bikes, we can conclude that, at first glance, the representatives of these types of bikes are no different in their form. However, if you study the technical characteristics of each model, then the difference will immediately become noticeable.

Road bikes are the most popular in comparison to track bikes due to their flotation. But it is worth noting that some specimens of the second group are considered universal and adapted to driving on the highway.

An important point when choosing is the appointment. Road-type designs have a wide range of uses, which is not the case with a track bike.

Road bikes are considered versatile bikes as they can be used by hobbyists, athletes, beginners and even teenagers for everyday city riding, competition or travel. Therefore, road bikes are often equated with tourist bikes. In track structures, the direct purpose is sports driving. In this regard, they are developed strictly for professionals or novice athletes.

How do you select any type of bike? Calculations are made: the height of a person to the size of the frame of the product. For convenience and speed of the process, the finished results are included in the table (it is posted at the beginning of the article).

When asked which brand is the best bike? You can't answer right away. It is necessary to study the technical properties of the model. The main criterion for choosing is the material of the frame. Definitely, carbon fiber products are considered the most reliable and durable. Although aluminum is a common material. The popularity of models from this type of alloy is due to the ease of construction and average cost. The advantages of other alloys can be viewed in the table above.

For convenience, the best manufacturers were selected with their copies from the product range. Most of the companies specialize in almost all types of bikes. But those who have a narrow specialty expose bicycles at rather expensive price tags.

The most important criterion when choosing a bike is safety.

Council. For those who choose a road bike (amateur), it is worth studying customer reviews. As a rule, it is in the comments of real people that you can see all the defects of the future two-wheeled transport. Thanks to this, the client will be able to immediately check all the elements of the bike for flaws.