Friday, 22 July 2016

Best road bikes under £2,500

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This sort of price range used to be the sole preserve of the dedicated race bike. But with prices for such bikes soaring, not to mention the rise of sportives and similar (and apparently) non-competitive cycling events, the profile of this section of the market has changed.

Race bikes still feature, but the best ones in this category tend to be the all-rounders that can take a decent stab at everything. Think lightweight frames that offer all-day comfort for those sportive riders chasing fast times – bikes that aim for the sweetspot between stiffness, comfort and weight.

More specialist models, such as featherweight climbing machines or aero-optimised rigs feature, but the compromises made to bring them into this price range will usually be bigger than the small advantages their specialisation can bestow.

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Also, bear in mind that the type of riding the term ‘all-rounder’ encompasses is widening with the emergence of gravel/enduroad bikes. And for this price you can expect to find bikes carrying a lot of worthwhile kit, including thru-axles and quality hydraulic disc brakes.

If you’re spending this sort of money you’re unlikely to be disappointed with your purchase

But whichever bike you choose, the good news is that if you’re spending this sort of money you’re unlikely to be disappointed with your purchase. Wander into the territory that lies beyond £2,000 and everything you find is going to be a seriously nice piece of kit. You could certainly spend a lot more on a bike, but after £2K the margins for improvement get smaller while the prices get a lot bigger.

Cervelo R2 105

  • Truly great frame
  • Superb road feel
  • Shimano 105 and FSA components

Cannondale CAAD12 Disc Ultegra

  • Classy looks and comfortable ride
  • Shimano Ultegra drivetrain and hydraulic brakes
  • Instant response to pedalling and steering inputs

BMC Gran Fondo GF01 Disc 105

  • 25mm-wide tyres
  • Great platform for upgrades
  • Superb ride feel – comfortable and responsive

Lapierre Xelius SL600

  • Pro-ridden, lightweight frame with head-turning looks
  • Springy rear end
  • Smart component selection that includes Zipp, Fizik and Mavic parts

Wilier Triestina GTR SL

  • Not a game-changer but a very nice bike nevertheless
  • Proven component spec
  • Impressive ride, especially over rough roads

Raleigh Roker Pro

  • Lively, comfortable ride
  • Great tyre and wheel combination
  • Outstanding brakes

GT Grade Carbon 105

  • Fast on the road and fun when you venture off it
  • Great components
  • Flared bars allow maximum control

Look 765 Ultegra Di2

  • Flax fibres sandwiched between the layers of carbon
  • Rides with the feel of a high-quality steel frame
  • A dedicated endurance machine that cruises with composure

Lapierre Aircode SL 600 FDJ CP

  • Rock-solid frame stiffness suitable for sprinting
  • 25mm-wide Mavic tyres and carbon seatpost help to soften the ride
  • Long, low riding position

Genesis Datum 20

  • Great brake performance
  • On-road performance to match its off-road capability
  • Big clearances for wide tyres

You can read more at BikeRadar.com



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