Road Bike Frequently Asked Questions

Is road biking easier than mountain biking?

On road, yes! Road bikes are designed to ride both fast and ride easily on tarmac and pavement - they cannot be ridden effectively off road. Some riders find the aggressive riding position of speed focussed road bikes uncomfortable, compared to the more upright riding position of a mountain bike - but a road bike with a more relaxed geometry will fix this.

Is 15mph fast on a road bike?

Most riders can ride up to 20mph, but not maintain that pace. New cyclists will typically struggle to maintain around 10mph, but as fitness and experience increases - 15mph is achievable.

Why are road bikes so fast?

Race and speed focussed road bikes are fast for a number of reasons - they use highly efficient tyres which are designed for optimal speed on tarmac. The frames of these bikes also provide the right amount of flex for a rider, and the aerodynamic design and geometry lessens wind resistance for maximum speed. Bikes with drop handlebars also allow the rider to tuck into a more aerodynamic riding position.

Do you burn more calories mountain biking or road biking?

Unfortunately, or fortunately for you reading this - mountain biking burns more calories per mile because of riding across rough terrain and obstacles. However! The amount of calories burned during a workout depends on the duration, so if you head out for longer on a road bike, you will typically burn more calories than a shorter mountain bike ride.

Should I buy a road bike or mountain bike?

Both! Mountain bikes and road bikes are incredibly different - so in an ideal world - you would buy both! If you are looking at a bike for general use though, and are looking to ride on the roads - you will be best served by a road bike. It can be tricky to find decent areas to mountain bike across, whereas a road bike can be used on the local road network.

Is a road bike good for long rides?

Yes! A road bike is an excellent choice for longer rides - there are many touring/adventure specific bikes which can be fitted with luggage and panniers, as well as bottle cages and holders. The riding position of these bikes is more comfortable than a standard road bike, and the geometry of these bikes is designed for all day comfort in the saddle. These bikes are perfect for challenges such as coast to coast.

Are road bikes good for a commute?

Whilst most road bikes are not specifically designed for a commute, they can make great bikes for commuting - in both city areas and rural areas alike. The usually smooth terrain of a commute lends itself to the road bike's natural environment. For those looking for the ideal commuter bike, a hybrid bike or a gravel bike may be a better option.

Can you use a road bike for everyday use?

A road bike is designed for tarmac use only, meaning that it’s not designed to be used on rough tracks and off road terrain, so if all of your riding is restricted to tarmac, then a road bike will be absolutely fine for everyday use. Road bikes are versatile machines, they can be used for everything from commuting to racing to touring. If you are looking for a road bike for everyday use, then choosing one with a more upright seating position and geometry will be the best choice, these road bikes are commonly labelled as endurance bikes.

How long will a carbon fibre road bike last?

Although carbon fibre bike frames are not as tough as alloy bike frames, carbon frames can in theory last forever - carbon bike frames can break in an impact, but they can be repaired, unlike alloy frames.

Why do road bikes not need suspension?

Road Bikes do not need suspension, and a suspension fork and rear shock would be a waste on smooth tarmac roads, where a road bike is ridden. There has been increases in comfort levels on many road bikes, with suspension designs in seatposts and the increase of the use of carbon fibre frames and forks - which soak up a lot of the uneven and rough terrain of a road.

Does Scott make road Bikes?

Scott designs and manufactures a massive range of road bikes - some of the most popular models include the Scott Addict, Scott Foil and the Scott Speedster.

Can you tour on a road bike?

Many road bikes are suitable for use as touring bikes. The best touring road bikes will have an endurance geometry and will be able to carry luggage and a couple of water bottles. Road bikes are good for touring, as they are efficient - meaning that they can cover a decent distance quickly.

Are alloy road bikes good?

Aluminium/alloy road bike frames offer a decent level of balance, strength and stiffness - as well as low weight. Alloy road bike frames are also very tough, meaning that they can take a bit of punishment, better than other frame materials - such as carbon. Alloy bike frames are usually towards the lower end of the budget range, meaning they represent excellent value for money for those looking for an entry level or mid-range road bike.

Is Carbon Better than Alloy for a road bike?

The price of carbon road bikes has been decreasing in recent years, as the technology and material becomes more established. The benefits of carbon road bikes vs other frame materials are clear, the material has a damping effect on the ride - meaning carbon bikes are more comfortable. Carbon bikes, thanks to their manufacturing process are also incredibly stiff, meaning greater efficiency without a sacrifice of comfort.

Are Carbon road bike wheels worth it?

A carbon wheelset is a great choice for road cyclists looking to upgrade their road bike. Carbon fibre wheelsets are faster, lighter, better handling and more comfortable than aluminium wheels. There are no disadvantages to choosing a carbon wheelset.