When it comes to cycling, a bike road frame often provides the foundation for the perfect ride. Used for both the racing cyclist and the casual rider, a bike road frame is the heart and soul of the bike, allowing the bike to come to life beneath you. As such, it’s essential that bike owners know how to pick the right bike road frame for their body type, skill level and anticipated use of the bike.
The first principle when looking for a bike road frame is to determine what size to buy. To do this, riders must first measure their own frame. To do this, stand against a wall without shoes and measure the length from the floor to the fullest part of the torso – that is, the area below the crotch. This measurement should be used as a guide when shopping for the bike road frame, with the frame size correlating roughly to the leg measurement and the torso measurement.
Next, consider the material of the bike road frame. While the traditional choice is steel, riders should also consider the benefits that other materials bring. Aluminum’s lighter weight makes it easier to speed along the trails, and just as importantly, maneuver quicker. However, aluminum frames are often slightly harsher than steel frames, providing a less forgiving ride. Carbon fiber frames, on the other hand, provide ultimate weight savings, allowing for greater acceleration, superior agility and higher climbing speeds. They also absorb more shock than their traditional counterparts, thus providing a smoother ride.
Beyond material choice, buyers should also consider the frame design and tubing quality. Tubing quality is important, as thicker tubes offer greater stiffness and stability. With regards to the frame design, the choices include a cruiser frame, a conventional frame and a compact frame, with additional choices depending on the use of the bike.Cruiser frames typically offer the lowest top tube with a relaxed seat-tube angle, allowing riders to stretch out and enjoy leisurely cruises. Conventional frames are the most common on the market, offering riders a higher top tube with a moderate seat-tube angle, permitting most riders to ride in an upright position.
Finally, pay attention to the cost. Thankfully, there are a variety of bike road frames on the market that are tailored to a range of budgets. For the casual rider, a well-constructed aluminum or steel frame that has tasteful tubing qualities should provide years of service and make a great companion. Riders who want to move faster should consider a more high-end carbon fiber frame, as this will provide the highest performance but also the highest cost.
In the end, making the right choice of a bike road frame depends on rider preference and budget. There is no right frame for everyone, so take the time to research different brands and styles, as well as your desired use for the bike. By knowing your needs, you’ll be able to find the perfect heart for your ride.