Ranking the best road and track bikes in 2022

Of all the variety of available types of bicycles, it is very difficult to make a choice in favor of a particular brand or manufacturer. The article will focus on how to choose road and track bikes. A rating of the best models has also been compiled, we consider the categories. With this in mind, any buyer will be able to choose a suitable design for themselves.

Road bikes: general idea, selection rules

Purpose: high-speed driving.

For what kind of roads: paved, smooth.

Where they are used: cycling races, marathons.

Distinctive features:

• Steering in the form of "ram's horns";
• Low, stretched fit;
• Transmissions with high shifting 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. It is mainly used for recreational riding or cycling at high speeds. Suitable for long distances.

Professional bikes are classified into several types:

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

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 hands should be 90 degrees. The hands are positioned so that the 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 see at the center or 75 percent of the torso over the front hub. If all the requirements are met, then the bike is for you, otherwise it is not suitable for a person.

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

Tip 4.Adjustment of the saddle is carried out with the help of 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 inconvenience, it can be slightly tilted.

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

Tip 7. The smallest distance between the hip and the elbow should be in the range of 1-2 cm.

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

The height of the cyclist (cm.)	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 above	63 and more

Track bikes: general idea, selection rules

Purpose: Cycling.

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 location of the carriage assembly;
• Rear stays frame horizontal cut;
• The presence of one gear (deaf or fixed);
• Lack of traditional braking system.

Types of track bikes:

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

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

Comparative analysis of road and track bikes

The two types of structures are very similar to each other, but there are clear differences between them:

Name	Highway	track
Wheel diameter	big	reduced
Number of gears	several	one
Switches	front/rear	missing
Brake system	tick-borne	not provided
Pedal travel	free	free play, relative to the wheel, no

Criteria for choosing a track bike

Such structures are selected according to the type of frame material and frame parameters relative to human growth. In terms of numbers, the selection tips and table for road bikes may well fit for track bikes as well. Which is better to buy a bike based on their alloy?

The main types of material include:

1. Made of steel - heavy construction, very durable and prone to corrosion, however, easily repairable, using a welding machine for this process. The most budget options.
2. Aluminum alloy is a relatively light model, not as strong as steel, but resistant to corrosion. As for the repair, you can weld it, 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 on sharp objects, it is afraid of moisture that has got inside the frame. Not repairable. In terms of price, it's expensive.

List of manufacturers

• FORWARD Co.

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

• Stark Co.

Another supplier from the Russian Federation, which occupies the 1st place in terms of the performance of comfortable and high-quality bicycles. The entire range is characterized by affordable prices and a wide range to choose from.

• Merida Co.

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

• Cervelo Co.

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

• Fuji bike 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 that uses innovative technology to create its high quality products. The corporation is always looking for fresh ideas to improve the ride quality 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. The production creates many different types of two-wheeled units, 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 reasonable prices for goods, novelty and the company's rating. In this regard, the review provided the top best designs from various manufacturers.

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

• Choice of buyers;
• Model of last season;
• New this year;
• One of the expensive bikes;
• Bicycle from the middle price category.

FORWARD Impulse 1.0

The model of last year 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 headset. The double rim design and classic type pedal has a non-integrated bottom bracket.

Characteristics:

Name	Description
Wheel diameter	28 inches
Steering column dimensions	11/8’’
Brake system	walking, tick
Cassettes	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 rolling;
• Cheerful design;
• Light weight;
• Comfortable;
• Strong frame;
• Road geometry;
• Rubber;
• Adequate price.

• Sometimes the pedals need to be replaced;
• Chips of paint under the chain (there were cases).

Stark Peloton 700.1

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

Characteristics:

Name	Description
Type of	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	missing
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"

The novelty of this year from the company "Merida" is intended for the female half. The bike has a stylish design and additional functionality, in comparison with previous models from Stark and Forward manufacturers. So, there appeared: the possibility of attaching a disc brake; disc hydraulic brake; the speed limit has increased. In addition, many elements of the bike are made of other materials.

Characteristics:

Name	Description
type of drive	chain
Construction material:	frame - carbon fiber, rim - carbon, bead cord - kevlar, saddle frame - chrome molybdenum alloy
Possible speed	acceleration to 22
wheels	at 28 inches
Rim	Vision 55DB SC
Fork	spring
Stars	11/2
Number of teeth	52-36
Cassette type	semi-professional
Carriage	integrated
Brake system	disc hydraulic, professional
Frame parameters (inches):	18,50; 19,68; 20,47; 21,25; 22,04; 23,22
What is the price	226200 rubles

• Stylish;
• Lasting;
• running properties;
• Comfort saddle with through cuts;
• Frame size range;
• Professional;
• Novelty.

• Expensive;
• Narrow specialization: not for everyone.

Cervelo S5DA

Universal model with chain drive and carbon frame. Equipped with Cervelo S5 suspension fork. The bike was created for sports achievements, for a professional level of training.

Characteristics:

Name	Description
Wheel diameter	28 inches
Possible frame sizes (inches - unit):	18,89; 20,07; 21,25; 22,04; 22,83; 24,02
high speed gear	22
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

• Fork spring travel adjustment;
• Build quality;
• Accelerates quickly;
• Functional;
• Appearance.

• Price.

Fuji Bikes Sportif 2.1

A model with a handbrake is included in the average list for its cost. The adult bike in black and white is suitable for any gender. It is equipped with a chain drive, an integrated threadless column and a rigid fork. The material of the frame and rims is aluminum alloy, the saddle frame is made of steel.

Characteristics:

Name	Description
Steering	11/8"
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	pincer, sports
speed switch	for 18 gears
Carriages	pleasure
Cassettes and shifters	sports
Number of stars	9/2
Number of teeth	50-34
Pedal travel	with toe clips
Price	52000 rubles

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

• 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:

• Last season's leader;
• New;
• Inexpensive models in the price segment;
• 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. Who it's for: Professional riders and beginner riders. The uniqueness of the bike is a 100% carbon fiber fork. Available colors: yellow, red, blue and grey.

Characteristics:

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

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

• Expensive.

Merida Reacto Track 500

This season's model, striking design with chain drive and no brakes. Considered universal, can be used on the highway. The whole structure is aluminum, and the bead cord is made of Kevlar.

Characteristics:

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
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. Chain-driven aluminum construction with steel frame adult saddle. The bicycle fork is rigid, the column is non-integrated, threadless.Double rim construction with touring version caliper brake, pedals with toe clips.

Characteristics:

Name	Description
Wheel	28 inch
The weight	9 kg 820 g
Steering column size	11/8"
Frame (in inches):	19,29; 20,47; 21,25; 22,04; 22,83; 24,01
Tire	700x25, 60TPI
Rims name	Vera Corsa DPM27
Carriage	FSA Sealed Cartridge Bearing, not integrated
speeds and stars	one by one
Cassettes	16T
Zubiev	46
average price	26000 rubles

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

• Not identified.

"Specialized Langster"

Design Feature: Constructed with unique tubes that result in a stiff 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 square seat.

Characteristics:

Name	Description
Wheel diameter	28 inches
Drive unit	chain
Dimensions (inches):	19,29; 20,47; 21,25; 22,04; 22,83; 24,01
Tires	700x25mm, 60TPI
Speed	one
Stars	1/1
Number of teeth	48
Cassettes	Track Cog, 17T
Carriage	not integrated, Shimano
average cost	78000 rubles

• Good handling;
• Strength;
• Tire endurance;
• Fast acceleration;
• All adults;
• The ability to travel around the city;
• Stylish design solution;
• Through holes in the saddle.

• Cost of goods.

Conclusion

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

Road bikes are more popular than track bikes because of their off-road capability. 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 in the choice is the appointment. Road-type structures have a wide range of applications, which cannot be said about a bike for a cycle track.

Road bikes are considered versatile bikes, as they can be used by amateurs, 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 riding. In this regard, they are developed strictly for professionals or beginner athletes.

How are bicycles of any type selected? Calculations are made: the height of a person to the size of the frame of the goods. For the convenience and speed of the process, the finished results are included in the table (it is located at the beginning of the article).

To the question, which company 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 products are considered the most reliable and durable. Although the most common material is aluminum.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 with their specimens from the product range were selected. Most of the companies specialize in almost all types of bikes. But those who have a narrow specialty put up bicycles at fairly expensive price tags.

The most important criterion when choosing a bike is safety.

Advice. 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 immediately be able to check all the elements of the bike for flaws.