Position

Triathlon bikes tend to have an ‘aggressive’ low profile. The first triathlon bikes used a 650c front wheel and 700c back wheel. This helped front end to be lower. Nowadays 650c wheels have fallen out of fashion, but a low front end is achieved by a steep seat tube and short stem.

In the late 1980s, triathlon bikes helped to push the boundaries of cycling. A key development was the Scott tribar developed in 1989. This was incorporated by Quintana Roo to build one of first triathlon specific time trial bikes.

Tips on Triathlon Bikes

• See tips on improving aerodynamics - many of these are cheap
• Disc wheels for time trials – A disc wheel is one best ways to make faster.
• Skin suits
• Wind tunnel testing
• Training for time trials

Quintana Roo Superform

A little bit of triathlon history – a Quintana Roo Superform, with 80 degree seat tube and Scott tri bars.

Quintana Roo Kilo Carbon

The modern development of the Quintana Roo. The Kilo is a  full carbon fibre bike at a very reasonable price of £1,200. With SRAM Rival groupset, this makes a very good entry level triathlon bike, which will be competitive in the amateur scene.

• Wheels: Shimano R500Tyres:
• Tyres: Continental Ultra Sport
• Groupset: SRAM rival
• Frame: Carbon
• Brakes: Tektro R312
• Handlebars:Premetec
• TT bar Straight gauge OSAero Bars:Profile ZBS

Overall, this is an excellent entry level triathlon bike. The wheels and tyres are an obvious target for upgrading. But, with strong carbon frame and fork and SRAM groupset, this is a good value way to get a decent bike. The aero seat post is also a nice touch. Looks pretty smart in the black and white combination.

Quintana Roo  bikes at Evans Cycles

Trek SPD Concept

Trek SPD Concept 7.2

Trek are a relative newcomer to the triathlon market. But, they have used their expertise to develop a triathlon specific bike. Some models use the 200 Series Aluminium frame, higher end models use carbon fibre. But, both are moulded with same aero technology.

THe Trek SPD 2.5 uses a 200 Series aluminium frame, which is light and developed to maximise aerodynamics. The shape of the frame ( Kammtail Virtual Foil KVF) is developed with wind tunnel technology and Trek make strong claims about its performance in comparison to other bikes. There are nice touches such as hidden front and rear brakes and internal frame routing. It is fast and there are several different models to choose from. The Trek Project One allows you to customise different parts of the bike, which is nice.

Trek Concept triathlon bikes at Evans Cycles

Triathlon Bike Under £1,000

If you can cope with a triathlon bike slightly resembling a tiger, the Fuji Aloha gives a good entry level triathlon bike for under £1,000

• Frame: A6 SL Alloy, Custom-Butted with Aero Shaped Down Tube & Seat Tube
• Fork: Fuji aero carbon
• Groupset: Mixtures of Shimano Tiagra and Shimano 105.
• Weight: Approx. 9.3kg / 20.5lbs
• Fuji Aloha at Evans Cycles

Custome Triathlon Bikes

Fastest Ever Triathlon Bike?

Related

• Time trial Bikes
• Time Trial Bikes at Wiggle
• Time Trial Bikes at Evans Cycles

For £500, you can get a pretty decent commuting bike. Personally, I wouldn’t be keen to spend much more than £500 for a commuting bike. If you lock the bike up in town, there is an increased chance of theft, so with just a £500 you get more peace of mind than you would if you had spent over a £1,000

There is a great choice of commuting bikes for under £500. I would separate the choices into:

1. Classic / Retro Style Bikes – Look cool, great joy to have. Slow. heavier. Bit more expensive. Not great quality at less than £500.
2. Hybrid Bikes – best value. Most practical, most widely bought.
3. Mountain Bikes – Good for rough terrain like canal paths. Wider tyres are slower.
4. Road Bikes – Faster, but less stable than hybrid bikes. Useful for longer commutes.
5. Single Speed Bikes – Easy to maintain. Look cool. More expensive (not many under £500). Not good if you have lots of hills!

1. Classic Commuting Bikes

Dawes Diploma

If you are looking for a classic, stylish bike, consider a Dawes Diploma It looks like an old fashioned classic bike. It may not be fastest bike from A to B, but, it does the business and looks pretty cool too. One limitation is the 3 speed Sturmey archer, but, unless you live on a hilly route 3 speed should be sufficient.

For real style, why not have a look at the classic Dutch Gazelle. It has a real continental flavour and stands out with distinctive design and colour. But, difficult to source in the UK, more likely to find on ebay second hand.

• Pros of Classic Bikes – look good, fits in with ‘cycle chic’ appearance. Steady to ride
• Cons of classic bikes – are slower to ride, heavier. not great for long distances or up steep hills. More attractive to thieves than your common MTB.

Hybrid Bike

If you are more practically minded, you might like to buy a hybrid bike. This is a cross between a road bike and mountain bike. It also includes the ‘classic / Dutch style.’. It comes with road size wheels, but a thicker tread than ordinary racing bike wheels. In a sense hybrid bikes are simpler, cheaper versions of mountain bikes. They are fine for commuting, offering good stability and practicality. They can be easily adapted for panniers and mudguards. There is a great choice of hybrid bikes under £500. If you are willing to spend £300 you can bikes such as the Dawes Discovery. Hybrid bikes from under £150 will be made of cheap steel and will typically be quite heavy with more unreliable components.

Giant Escape

The Giant Escape is a popular commuting bike, coming in both men’s and ladies and different models. There are quite a few choices for less than £500. For £499, you can get the very good Giant Escape 1

Giant Escape 1

• Frame: ALUXX Aluminium
• Fork: Carbon composite, aluminium steerer
• Stem and seatpost: Giant Sport aluminium ahead
• Saddle: Giant Pure Sport
• groupset – Shimano acera and Alivio
• Brakes: Tektro linear pull
• Brake Levers: Tektro
• Giant Escape at wiggle cycles

• It’s amazing to get this quality aluminium frame, carbon fork and good quality Shimano equipment. A really good value hybrid bike

Pinnacle Neon Two

At £450, the Pinnacle Neon Two offers excellent features for a sub £500 bike. It is made by Evans cycles and so helps to offer low price. Not too flashy but gets you round town with a nice compromise of 24 gears, disc brakes and aluminium frame. See: Review of Pinnacle Neon Two

More hybrid bike recommendations

Cannondale Bad Boy

The Cannondale Bad Boy is a pretty sturdy hybrid bike – closer to the MTB spectrum than the road bike. It comes in a distinctive matt blank finish and has pretty sturdy Schwalbe Kojak Bad Boy Edition 559 x 50 tyres.
Hybrid bikes are mass produced and so give very good value. It depends how far you have to commute. The longer the commute, the more sporty you will want to buy. If you are commuting a couple of miles, a classic Dutch style bike will be great because speed isn’t so important.

Fold Up

In the foldup category, have a look at these foldup bikes. Foldup bikes are great for anyone who has to commute part of the way on the train. Look for bikes which are not too heavy and easy to dismantle and put up. Brompton are the best known type of foldups and they have options for under £500.Dahon are also a very good brand and the Dahon Vitesse is sold for £350 and is said to have a folding time of 15 seconds.

Hybrid Bikes at Evans

Mountain Bikes

Another option is a mountain bike. Under £500 the mountain bikes are more geared towards road use anyway. The Specialised hardrock Disc gives you disc brakes on an MTB for under £400. It is good value commuting bike; the wide wheels will slow you down, but great for snow or difficult conditions.

Single Speed

Increasingly popular is the single speed commuting bike. Single speed offer great simplicity and ease of maintenance. Even on hilly routes, some people just like riding single speed or fixed. The increased simplicity doesn’t mean cheaper. They are not mass produced so there are not the same economies of scale. The Charge Plug range offers cheapest introduction single speed. The Specialized Langster comes in at around £500. The Steel version comes in track frame and track handlebars which I didn’t particularly enjoy for commuting it was too aggressive riding position. However, the aluminium version is based on a more classic road bike.

Single speed Bikes

Bikes Just Over £500

If you’re looking for a commuting bike with real style and elegance, check out this review of the Viva Urban de Luxe. It’s rrp was £699, but if you’re lucky you may catch it on offer for £499. 7 speed hub geared bike (easy to change, but a little heavier). This is a commuting bike for someone wanting a little style and good looks

Commuting Bikes Under £300 / 200

To get a commuting bike under £200 means you are getting some inferior components. The bike is likely to rust and break down more frequently. The tyres will be thin and more prone to punctures. If you can spend more than £200 do! But, if saving money is a real priority, I’ve reviewed these two cheap bikes.

Ammaco Dresden

£179. Plenty of gears on a cheap aluminium frame. But, tyres are weak and gears prone to becoming unresponsive. Will not last too long without needing to go back to shop. Review: of Ammaco Dresden

Raleigh Oxford

Another popular bike here in Oxford. You see quite a few with substantial amounts of rust. Pretty slow to cycle, not the best experience. Surprised Raleigh put its name to it. Review: Raleigh Oxford

Ridgeback Motion

Frame:6061 Heat treated Aluminium
Fork:Hi Ten SteelGears:
Shifters: Shimano EZFire, Front Mech: Shimano TX51, Rear Mech: Shimano TX55, Chainset: Shimano FC-M2171, Chainrings 48/38/28, Cassette: Shimano 14-28 tooth, 7-speed

At £269, this is a real step up from the Ammaco, the 6061 aluminimum frame is always good value, and the lower end Shimano is adequate for light commuting. This is a good entry level commuting bike, without being too flimsy.

Rigdgeback Motion at Evans (both female and male versions)

My Commuting Bike

My commuting bike is a trek road bike. I bought second hand for £300. Brand new it would have cost £450. It is quite a practical commuting bike as it is relatively fast and has pannier rack, mudguards, lights. It’s only limitation is when we get a dusting of snow, the thin wheels are pretty thin for the the weather conditions.

 
Related Articles

• Tips for commuting by bike
• Hybrid Commuting bikes
• Best puncture proof bikes – one of the best upgrades for a commuting bike

When Choosing a time trial bike, the key criteria is the aerodynamics. It is wind resistance that makes the biggest difference in a time trial bike. Losing weight is good, but, especially for flat time trials, weight is much less important than aerodynamics. Therefore a beginner to time trials should not feel obliged to fork out several thousands of pounds. You will notice the biggest difference by getting a low pro frame and tribars which bring the arms closer in.

Tips for Getting Most Out of Time Trial Bikes

• Wind Tunnel Testing – finding best position on your time trial bike can save even more aerodrag and time
• How To Improve Aerodynamics – Some of best value ways to save aerodrag and get better aerodynamics
• Train on your time trial bike. Don’t just use your road bike for training and race on a time trial bike. You need to get used to the position of the time trial bike as you use different muscles.
• Weight isn’t everything. The biggest difference in time trials comes from reducing wind resistance. Don’t feel you have to save up a fortune to make a big difference. The time difference between a £6,000 TT bike and a £1,200 TT bike can be quite minimal. If you can reduce weight without compromising stiffness and power transfer – that is a definite help, especially for any hilly TT. But, get the low position first!

Felt Time Trial Bikes

The Felt S22

Felt is a relatively new bike company, being founded in 1990. They were one of first companies to target the specific triathlon market and have a range of TT bikes from basic aluminium low pro to top of the range Carbon fibre costing over £6,000

Felt S22 – £1,200 Aluminium frame and carbon forks. SRAM apex.

With internal cable routing and aero seat post, this is a relatively low priced triathlon / time trial bike. The wheels offer scope for a later upgrade. It will appear to a novice time triallist who doesn’t want to break the bank.

The Felt B12 is almost double the price at £2,499, but offers a considerable upgrade. It includes Shimano Dura Ace gear shifters and FSA bottom bracket. It has the£Felt TT/Tri UHC Performance MMC which is the same as the Felt DA2 at £6,000. This is particularly a good bike.

Felt Time Trial Bikes at Wiggle

Trek Equinox 9.9 TT Bike

Trek Equinox in action

I’ve ridden this for a couple of seasons and am happy with the feeling. It is very fast and excellent on descents. There is no lateral movement. In some hilly TT’s I’m descending on this at 50mph, but it feels very steady.

Trek Equinox TT bike Review

Best Time Trial Bike Under £1,000

Focus Izalco

• New Focus Trial alloy frame
• groupset SRAM Rival/SRAM TT Carbon
• Wheelset Easton Vista 622-13

Fuji Aloha 2.0

• Fuji A2-SL Aluminium custom butted and aero shaped, Integrated Head Tube, Double water bottle mountsFork:FC-770 Fuji Bonded Aero Carbon
• Gears included a mixture from Shimano Dura Ace TT Bar End Type levers, Shimano Tiagra front and Shimano 105 rear derailleur, Fuji Custom chainset, 34/50 tooth chainrings, Shimano Tiagra 11/25 tooth cassette, 9-speed.
• The Fuji Aloha 1.0 is a real entry level TT bike. You will really struggle to find anything cheaper. But, it does the job of getting that super fast aero position. Probably a better investment than spending loads of money on trying to upgrade a road bike.

Alternative Time Trial Bikes under £1,000

Chris Boardman AiRTT / Time Trial Bikes

AiR/TT 9.4

After working with British Cycling on marginal gains, Chris Boardman has lent his name and experience to a range of bikes primarily sold through Halfords. The time trial series offer very high spec for good value. The Time trial bikes are based on

• Frame AiR/TT Aerodynamic ultralight UD carbon fibre monocoque, BB30, tapered steerer, internal cable routing
• FORK:£AiR/TT Aerodynamic ultralight UD full carbon, integrated brake
• Frame only 1,250grams – light by standards of time trial bikes

The 9.4 Comes with SRAM red, but still only costs £3,999

Air/TT 9.0

For an entry level time trial bike, the Air/TT 9.0 is based on same award winning frame for £1,999. The Mavic Aksium wheels are not deep section – so something you can upgrade on later. Gears are SRAM rival. At £2,000 it might seem quite an investment, but you are getting a top of the range frame which will be hard to improve upon, even years later.

Unlike the road series bikes which are sold at Halfords, the Time trial bikes are only available from a few select independent bike stores
Boardman bikes.com

Custom Build Time Trial Bikes

I had a time trial frame custom built by Steve Goff. It cost about £600 for a lightweight Columbus Sl Steel frame. The advantage of a custom built is that you get it built exactly to your specification and help to get the best overall position on a bike. It is this position which is more important than upgrading accessories

How Much To Spend on A Time Trial Bike?

For £2,500 you can get a really good bike. Beyond that, and the gains are perceptible but increasingly marginal. Even at just over £1,000 you can get a pretty good bike.

If you limit is £2,000 I think the Chris Boardman AirTT £9.0 will give a pretty good result.

• Time Trial Bikes at Wiggle
• Time Trial Bikes at Evans Cycles
• Time trial races in the UK
• Training for a 10 mile Time trial

At this price, there isn’t a huge range of choice with many entry level bikes starting at just over £500. I’ve included some of these because you can often see them on discount from their RRP bringing them under £500. Of these road bikes mentioned here, the Raleigh Airlite 100, Pinnacle One and Trek 1.1 are really good value road bikes and can be bought for less than £500.

I have had two trek 1000 (the first one was stolen) and overall I am quite happy with it.

Trek 1.1

At a RRP of £549, it is just above the target of £500. But, I will include it because it is pretty close; and if you search you might be able to pick up a new model with 10% discount. Some people have complained about the wheels going out of true quite easily, but, I have not experienced this since owning one for a couple of year years. The trek 1.1 comes with an 100 Series Alpha Aluminium fully butted frame and with Seven different H2 sizes and carbon fork. A carbon fork is a very nice upgrade helping to reduce the weight and increase comfort when riding. The Trek 1.1, makes an excellent choice for a good commuting bike (I have fitted both panniers and mudguards) or an entry level racing bike. For just over £500 it offers good value if unexceptional performance.

Specifications for Trek 1.1

• Seven different H2 sizes to choose from there’s a bike for everyone. Equipped with Shimano 8-speed shifting.
• Frame:100 Series Alpha Aluminium
• Fork:AluminiumFront Derailleur:
• Groupset: mainly Shimano 2300, STI
• Gears: 50/34 (compact)
• Brakes : Alloy dual-pivot brakes
• Trek 1.1 at Evans Cycles

Pinnacle Dolomite One Road Bike

Another bike with RRP at just over £500. But, again you may find with 15-20% off.

It looks good with integrated headset and neat clean rides. The 7005 aluminium frame and carbon fork provides a good ride – a good combination for this prive. Perhaps aimed at the sportive market and those looking for an entry level bike. It comes in lighter than some of its competitors at 10Kg. The brand is less well known, and this helps it to be really competitive in terms of components and feature.

• Frame: 7005 Double-butted Aluminium
• Fork: Kinesis carbon blade, steel steerer
• Groupset: Shimano 2300 16 gears
• Kenda Kwick Roller Sport 700 x 26c
• Weight: 10kg
• Pinnacle road bikes at Evans cycles

 Raleigh Airlite 100

Raleigh are making a comeback into the road bike market, they have restarted sponsoring a road team and are promoting a range of road bikes. The Airlite road bike is rrp £499, though you may pick up a discount. The aluminium semi-compact frame gives a solid ride and equipped with Shimano 2300 gives good performance for an introductory road bike.

• Frame: Airlite AL6061 semi-compact frame with Mudguard clearance
• Fork: EVO Alloy blades and steerer. 45MM rake, Mdgd clearance & eyelet
• Bars: RSP semi compact alloy
• Weight 10.7Kg for 55cm model.
• Gears: Shimano 2300
• Tyres” Michelin Dynamic

Cheapest Decent Road Bike

Dawes Giro 200 – £299

Chris Boardman Bikes

The cheapest Chris Boardman road bike is RRP £649 (Boardman Race with Aluminium frame and Sora) so is out of budget for this price range. But, they are very good value bikes, if you can stretch a little. Chris Boardman Bike reviews

Buying Second Hand

To buy a road bike under £500 does limit your choice. One option may be to look into the second hand market. This may enable you to pick up a carbon frame. If you are lucky you could get a £1,000 bike for half price second hand. Make sure it’s not stolen, see tips on buying second hand

Road Bikes Under £500

• Road Bikes at Evans cycles
• Road Bikes around £1,000 at Wiggle

Related

• Complete Listing of Road Bikes at Wiggle
• Advice on buying first road bike
• Focus Road Bikes Review

• Wires can scrap away at the paint on the bike.
• Wires can make it awkward if you need to make adjustments to handlebars e.t.c
• They are more prone to breaking.
• Extra wires can add small aerodynamic drag to bike.

Earlier wireless models used to be really bulky and big, but in past few years, improved models have reduced size and improved performance. I use a Cateye Strada and new model is big improvement over earlier ones.

Models of Wireless Cycle Computer

Cateye Strada Wireless Cycle Computer

The 8 function cycle computer includes these functions
# Current speed
# Maximum speed
# Average speed
# Total distance (odometer)
# Trip distance
# Auto start/stop
# Trip time (elapsed time)
# 12/24 hour clock

Cateye Strada wireless at £44.99

The Wireless Cateye Strada has recently been increased in price quite a bit. However, the latest model is really quite a big improvement on previous model. Cateye have made a computer that is genuinely waterproof (they keep buttons underneath computer in a clever design). Also, the sleek and slender design of both computer and magnet detector make it more visually appealing and more aerodynamic. I have been very pleased with my Cateye Strada (especially as you can choose colours to fit your own road bike) It is very reliable and have not had any problems over past 18 months of using it.

Polar CS100 Wireless Heart Rate and Cycle Computer

The Polar computer combines its heart rate monitor technology with traditional cycle computer. Enabling you to combine the heart rate monitor and computer in one, saves space on your handlebars and integrates the two functions.

I tested this over a period of a few weeks, and enjoyed using. It has an impressive range of stats from cadence, to heart rate, speed, distance. Just about anything you can need. It was a shame I had to give back at end of testing period. You can see a more detailed review of CS100 at Polar CS100 Review

Polar Heart Rate Monitor at £63.99

Ciclosport CM 8.2

offers 32 functions with just 3 buttons

Topeak 150 Wireless Computer wireless heart rate monitor at £31.99

Knog Nerd 9 or 12 Function Wireless computer

Knog Nerd 9
The Knog Nerd 9 is not the best value cycle computer – it costs £48. But, it is usually the easiest to set up. (However, I did have difficulty on a road bike with unusual shaped forks) It really is ‘wireless’ because it’s innovative design means that you don’t need any wires, ties or screwdrivers to fix. It is so easy to set up you can easily transfer between bikes.£ It also looks great and comes in range of three different bright colours. See full review of Knog Nerd 9 -  The Knog Nerd 12 includes a few extra functions – (automatic scanning of all displays, relative speed gauge) and is a little more expensive.

• Knog 12 function at Wiggle

 Cateye Velo Wireless

The Cateye Velo comes with basic functions at a good value price of £26.99. It is one of the cheapest wireless computers. Like other wireless models it is a bit on the bulky side. Though there is also the Cateye Velo Micro, who are willing to pay an extra £9 for smaller model. It does everything you want from a computer, distance, time, average speed, auto stop start. Cateye Velo wireless £26.99

Related

• Best value cycling computers
• Cycle Computers at Wiggle
• Computers at Chain Reaction Cycles

MDT Disc wheel. Cost £500. Quite light. Good Value

Buying a disc wheel is one of the best ways to improve the aerodynamic performance of your time trial bike. They are expensive – you can easily pay £500 (and much more). But, they do make a difference. Also, the faster you go, the more aerodynamic drag they save. Disc wheels work by smoothing the passage of side wind. Less wind turbulence means less drag and faster times.

A flat carbon disc wheel has an aero drag of 97grams. This compares to an aero drag of 154grams for a standard 18 spoke wheel (source: bsn)

The weight of a disc wheel is not as important as the aerodynamic aid. Even on the hilliest of time trial courses, you will go quicker on a solid disc wheel. Chris Boardman used a disc wheel for winning the national hill climb championship. I don’t advise this, but aerodynamics are much more important than weight. Also if you are going to be doing a lot of hilly time trials, look to buy a light weight carbon disc – some of them are surprisingly light.

Zipp Disc Wheels

• Zipp 900 Rear Tubular will cost over £1,400 but is one of the top disc wheels for aerodynamic performance.
• Available in clincher and with power tab
• Weight: 936g (with cassette hub). This makes it one of lightest disc wheels, which is a real advantage for any hill time trials.
• Dimpled surface, adaptable for track. One of fastest disc wheels on market.

• Slightly heavier at 1009 grams
• The Zipp Sub 9 combines rim technology of Zipp 1080 and Zipp 808 to try and improve aerodynamics
• Zipp claim ’80g of forward lift at certain wind angles’

Zipp Disc Wheels at Wiggle

Mavic Comete Disc Wheel

One of the best disc wheel on the market. The Mavic comete is not completely flat, but lenticular shape. It weighs 1,285grams (tubular or clincher)

Fast Forward Disc Wheel

For those on a tighter budget, the Fast Forward disc wheel offers great value. At under £750 it is£ more affordable than the Zipp 900, but has excellent design and aerodynamics. However, it is a little heavier. Weight Clincher: 1445 grams. Weight Tubular: 1195 gram. This is fine if you are doing flattish time trials. But, if you are doing many hill time trials, you might like to save the extra 200 grams.However, this weight is not so critical (for world Hour Record O.Sojenska actually chose a heavier rear discwheel for a ‘flywheel effect’ The Fast Forward disc is stiff and rigid. It comes with cork brake pads for the carbon rim.

Fast Forward Disc Wheel at Wiggle

When Should You Ride A Disc Wheel and When Should You Ride a Deep Section Wheel?

Using disc wheel in Circuit of the Dales (over 1,000 metres of climbing 50 miles)

• Generally, a disc wheel is going to be quicker – even on hilly time trial courses. I have known riders use discwheels in certain hill climbs (like constant gradient of 3%)
• The aero benefits of a disc wheel offset the slight increase in weight.
• At certain wind speeds, disc wheels make controlling the bike more difficult (and less safe). This loss of control may lead to more cautious riding and so the disc wheel is a disadvantage. You have to get to know what kind of wind speeds are acceptable. But, be wary of gusts than can occur when you go from sheltered to exposed.
• Another disadvantage of a disc is that it reduces the cornering performance when riding. For criteriums, disc wheels would be a disadvantage (even if they were allowed). The extra weight makes it harder to accelerate out of corners and it is less responsive when cornering. HOwever, in most time trials, it is unlikely to be so technical this becomes an issue.
• Generally, I will always try and ride the disc in a hilly time trial, unless I feel the wind is high.

Other ways to Improve Aerodynamics

If you want to improve aerodynamics, there are also cheaper ways than a disc wheel. Even a simple aero bottle can make a big difference to aerodynamic drag. See: Improving aerodynamics

Making Your Own Disc Wheel

Some try to make their own disc wheel and save a lot of money.

Related

• Training for a 10 mile time trial
• Improving Times for 10 Mile TT
• Position on a time trial bike

• Safe – protected from cars
• Allow you to do interval sessions uninterrupted by traffic lights e.t.c.
• Make it easier to measure performance (you can isolate more factors like wind)

What to Look for in a Turbo Trainer

• Matches your existing road bike set up and feel
• Relatively quiet
• Easy to assemble, carry to race and put bike in.
• Reliable
• Variable resistance settings so you can train for high cadence / low cadence.

Some of the Best Turbo Trainers

Lemond Revolution Turbo Trainer

• This is most innovative turbo trainer since it was invented. Rather than putting wheel on a roller, you simply remove your back wheel and put your chain onto a cassette which is hooked up to a turbo resistance and lock in rear dropouts. This enables you to replicate the feel of riding a road bike exactly.
• There is a progressive resistance, the faster you pedal the more resistance comes so there is a natural change, not the jerky feel you get with many turbos
• The frame is very stable and so is best turbo for sprinting and out of the saddle work – useful for warm ups.
• Fits all road bikes, though you need an adapter for Campagnolo.

• Is heavy and bulkier at 32lbs (14KGs) – it doesn’t fold up so small as other turbos
• It is quiet expensive, unless you use it a lot.
• It is noisier than other turbos. There are several places (e.g. early morning warm ups) where you couldn’t use this.
• You can’t use your hub based power meter or speedometer. (You can buy their power meter computer)

Elite Chrono Fluid Turbo Trainer

Cycle Ops Rollers

Rollers offer a slightly different experience to a turbo, you don’t have to make any modifications, just get on bike (and with a little help to retain balance as you get going) start pedalling. These aluminium Cycle Ops Rollers are is £175.

• Rollers help improve bike handling
• Give more realistic feel
• Are relatively quiet

Downside

• bigger and heavier to carry around
• Can be difficult to get started and stop – you may need something to give balance
• At low speed and low cadence harder to maintain balance – not great for low rev power training sessions.
• Cycle Ops Rollers at Wiggle

Cheapest Turbo Trainers

Elite Volare

You don’t have to spend over £100 on a turbo. A basic turbo can do the job for less than £100

This Elite Volare is a basic aluminium frame with mag resistance. I’ve used a similar version to this for quite a few years. It suits my needs and does everything I want to. Personally, I’d rather save my money on turbos and spend on lightweight tubulars. But, then I don’t spend all winter training on one.

Elite Volare £89.99 at Evans Cycles

Conclusion

Make sure you know what you want from a turbo

• Does it need to be quiet? – get a mag flywheel like Elite Chrono
• Does it need to be portable – Elite Volare basic aluminium
• Do you need to spend a lot of money? – not necessarily you can get one for less than £100
• Variable resistance is definitely helpful

Related

• Tips for turbo trainers
• Turbo Tyre
• Quietest turbo trainers
• 5 Best Turbo Trainers at Treds

For £1,000 there is a quite a range of good quality bikes to choose from. Though, if you only have £500, you will still be able to get a good aluminium frame based road bike.

Carbon Fibre v Aluminium

A good quality carbon fibre frame is definitely something to aim for. It can give a more comfortable ride and offer greater power transfer. However, carbon fibre isn’t everything. For many years, I rode aluminium frame bikes and they will also give very good performance in sportives.

What to Look for in a Sportive Bike

• Make sure it is comfortable and good fit. This is most important.
• Get the best frame you can, you can always upgrade later. Though some whole bikes offer such good value, it is good to get as much as you can when you first buy.
• Leave enough for necessary accessories, like, clipless pedals, best tyres for road bikes, and computers.

Entry Level Sportif Bikes.

For £400 to £500 you can get a good solid road bike which will be fine for even the longest of cyclo sportive challenges. Typically for £500 you will get a lightweight aluminium frame with basic groupset such as Shimano Tiagra.

• Advice on buying first road bike

Sportif Bikes under £1,000

For £1,000, you will be able to save 1 or 2 Kg off the weight of the bike and get a carbon fibre fork and more efficient groupset. There is a reasonable improvement in performance which will be noted by a keen cyclist. For a £1,000 there is a really good selection of road bikes that will be ideal for cyclo-sportives.

See: best road bikes under £1,000

Best Sportif Bikes

If money is no option, why not get a top of the range road bike, which would not be out of place in the Tour de France. You will be able to enjoy a full carbon fibre frameset with top of the range groupset and a weight pretty close to UCI minimum of 6.5Kg.

Reviews of Sportif Bikes

Chris Boardman Team Carbon – £1,399

This offers a full carbon fibre bike and fork, with Shimano 105. It is really excellent value for what you get, and I enjoyed riding it. It looks good and in a way punches above its weight. I enjoyed the test ride. -

See:  Team CBoardman Carbon Review

C.Boardman Road Bikes at Halfords

Ribble Sportive

Ribble Cycles is a mail order specialist in Preston. They have a habit of being able to put together bikes for exceptional value. The Ribble Sportive Bianco has the highest levels of spec at £1,000 for any sportive bike. The Carbon frame weighs only 960grams. It is made from high quality carbon fibre T700/T800 carbon. The frame and fork look good and give a fast ride.

Despite carbon frame, Ribble also put on a Shimano 105 groupset and ITM wheels. At £1,000 it is really quite an impressive ride. Cycling Weekly gave it 10/10 and nearly won bike of the year in 2010. The whole bike weighs only 7.8 KG which is a similar weight to many higher spec road bikes.

The frame geometry is close to a road race bike, with just a longer head tube to increase comfort on longer rides.

I’ve bought a few Ribble bikes and they have a tradition of being very competitive. Their size enables economies of scale and their carbon fibre sportive frames are really excellent to ride. Another nice feature of Ribble is the bike builder. This means you can choose a frame and then choose all the different components you want to put on it. This means you can really tailor the bike to your specifications and budget (and also get to choose colour).
Ribble Cycles

Trek Road Bikes

Trek offer quite a range of entry level road bikes from the Trek 1.1 to Trek 2.2 These make excellent sportive bikes. The Trek 1.1 and 1.2 come with an aluminium frame and start at £700 for a Trek 1.1 with Shimano Sora groupset.

The Trek 2.2 and 2.3 are also a higher quality aluminium frame.

To get a Trek with Carbon fibre frame you will need to spend more than other makes. The Trek 3.5 comes with 300 Series OCLV Carbon and costs £1,800

Trek Road bikes at Evans Cycles (though not available mailorder, you can pick up from store)

Sportive v Road Bikes

Many riders in cyclo sportives will be riding just road bikes. However, particular sportive bikes have a slightly different frame design to give greater comfort over long distance riding. To give a more comfortable ride the frame geometry tends to have a longer top tube and a shorter head tube. This gives a bit more upright position, it is less aerodynamic but more comfortable and less stressful on the back.

• Best Road Bikes
• Road Bikes at Evans Cycles

More on Cyclo Sportives

• Training for Cyclo Sportives

• Selle Italia CX Zero I bought this a while back because it was advertised at 81grams. However, when I put on my electronic scales it came in at 111 grams (advertised weight 81 grams) – £325. I sent it back because I wanted to get something lighter.

• Tune Speed Needle Alcantara (87grams claimed) Tune Speed Euro 199

Selle Italia SLR C64

AX Lightness Saddle

• AX Lightness – Sprint 69 grams (link)

The Phoenix saddle at 47 grams is lightest I can find

• Road use only
• Weight: From 47 grams depending on rider weight etc.
• Length: 260 mm
• Width: 125 mm
• Height: 61 mm
• Seat: 100% Carbon and Kevlar Pre-preg Rowings
• Rails: 100% Carbon composite
• Adjustment range: 75mm
• Special features: 1 piece composite monocoque.

Price: £300.00

Lightest Comfortable Saddle

• Commuting relatively short distances and getting round town.
• Light touring e.g. for the non serious cycle tourer, but who wants to enjoy cycling for a small amount
• Cycling on canal paths

The main attraction of a hybrid bike is that they offer good comfort and all round performance for a low price. They tend to have thinner wheels than mountain bikes, meaning that they are quicker on roads – where hybrid bikes are mainly used. Hybrid bikes usually come with upto 27 gears offering a wide range of choice. In practise most people wouldn’t use such a wide range of gears, you would probably be fine with less. However, hybrid bikes try to offer the best compromise between fast road bikes and the greater comfort and stability of a MTB. The best hybrid bike depends on your specific purpose.

1. Some off Road use – consider GT Transeo with suspension and Mountain bike style tyres
2. Enjoyable Ride -£ Consider Dawes Diploma or Pashley Sovereign. Slow and heavy but great fun and stately to ride. Bit more expensive but more class and distinction.
3. Simplicity – consider a single speed such as Charge Plug / Charge Sink
4. Best value all Round – hard to beat the big brand names like Trek FX hybrids.

Best Hybrid Bikes

Viva Bellissimo 7

stylish hybrid

The Viva Bellissimo 7 is more geared towards the chic end of the hybrid market. It comes with a 7 speed hub gear. This is a little heavier than standard dereailleur and sprockets. However, it looks really classy and the classic steel frame is great fun to ride. If you prefer you can also get the Viva Bellissimo in single speed.

• Review of Viva Bellissimo£|£Viva Bikes£at Evans Cycles

Viva Urban

The Viva Urban is a classy 7 speed hub geared bike. This will suit someone looking for a stylish bike which is aesthetically pleasing. It is also low maintenance and easy to ride. You pay more for the style factor. But, it is a good combination of style and practicality. If you’re willing to save up for your dream hybrid, this could be a good choice.

• Review: Viva Urban deluxe

GT Transeo

GT Transeo is geared more towards the MTB spectrum of hybrid bikes. It comes with chunky 700*40c tyres and tough reinforced aluminium frame. All models have 24 gears and ability to switch suspension mech on and off. There are many different varieties of GT Transeo. At the top of the range a GT Transeo 1.0 costs £800 and comes with disc brakes. For half the price, you can get a GT Transeo 4.0 for £400 which comes with V Brakes and Shimano Acera. This is a great hybrid if you are looking for greater flexibility in going off road.

• See review: GT Transeo 3.0 V Brake

Giant Roam 4

The Giant Roam 4 is a classic good value hybrid bike. Giant have a very good reputation and have produced a hybrid bike at £349. This feels like a ‘middle of the road’ hybrid bike. With 40mm tyres it is very stable and comfortable to ride. It’s not the quickest hybrid bike, but it gives a real feeling of solidity. £349 is a good price for a hybrid bike. With lower end Shimano gears, it’s fine for offering any gear choice you may need. Will last longer than some cheap hybrids.

• Frame: ALUXX aluminium.£Fork: Suntour SR NEX 4110
• Shimano EF51 21 speed
• Tyres: Kenda Kwick 700x40mm
• Giant Roam 4 at Wiggle

Pashley Sovereign

This is not the cheapest hybrid, also it is not the fastest hybrid. However, it is a wonderful bike. I would recommend for those looking for the real bike experience. It is a little on the heavy side, and you won’t be racing away from the traffic lights. But, it will last for years and it looks like a work of art.

• See review: Pashley Sovereign

Specialised Sirius

Specialized Sirrus

£349. The specialised Sirius offers quite a lot for less than £350. The ride is good. I like the straight steel forks which give a more comfortable ride over bumpy/pothole roads. At 12Kg, it’s not the lightest machine on the road, but at this price you can’t expect everything. There are some good features such as the Specialised all condition tyres (excellent for commuting and puncture protection) The triple chainring on the front gives a wide range of 21 gears. This is a bike that will be able to do most things from simple commute to steady weekend ride. The straight handlebars give a comfortable ride. If you were wanting to race away, you might miss the drop handlebars but it is still reasonably fast for a commuting bike. It is not the most exciting looking bike. Basically black with upwardly sloping top tube. But, it’s also not so flash you have to worry about spending £100 on locks when you leave it in town.

• Specialized Sirius at Evans Cycles

Trek FX Hybrid Bike

Trek offer quite a wide range of hybrid bikes with a close range of models. The Trek 7.0 retails at just over £300. It includes the combination of FX Alpha white Aluminium frame and a straight steel fork.£ This is an excellent all rounder offering good value for money and gives everything most commuters would be looking for in a relatively short commute or a bit of leisure riding. Comes with upright riding position and 700cc wheels, so is quite speedy for a hybrid bike. Comes in a stylish metallic black finish. However, it does end up looking like the Specialised Sirius and many other Hybrid bikes on the market.

There are several upgrades available, for example, the Trek 7.1 at an extra £100 Trek 7.3 Disc retails at just over £500

For every version, there is a also a women’s version of bikes. The economies of scale Trek have enable them to offer one of most comprehensive range of hybrid bikes, and this makes it attractive. Remember it is much cheaper to get the best components on a bike when buying rather than upgrading at a later stage.

• Trek FX Hybrid Bikes at Evans Cycles

Dawes Diploma

Dawes Diploma

Similar price to the Dawes Harlem but more stylish evoking a classic appeal. In both men and female models. Dawes Diploma

The Dawes Diploma is a hybrid bike more towards the classic ‘retro’ style. This is a beautiful and stylish bike to ride around town. It is a built for a comfortable relaxed ride. The higher handlebars make it easy to handle.£ It feels considerably heavier than a lighter hybrid bike. It weighs at over 17kg. However, it comes with more extras such as mudguard and chain guard.

Note: the Dawes Diploma comes in either men or female version. The women’s version (featured above) has step through top tube for ease of using skirt. The men’s version has flat top tube. Dawes Diploma at Evans Cycles

Bootleg Hoy Hoy Rats

- Over £500. Based on Columbus tubing and Shimano bar sifters groupset. This is a more sporty hybrid bike, built for a quick commute. Bootleg Hoy Hoy Rats

Best Value Hybrid Bikes under £400

Giant Escape N7

The Giant Escape N7 is around £330. The Giant is a solid Aluminium frame, with 7 gears mounted on the handlebars. It’s tyres are chosen for the road, but handlebars are straight like a mountain bike. Giant Escape N7 -

Focus Marakas

- Under £250. The Focus Marakas is built around a 6061 Aluminium frame with front suspension forks for more comfortable ride. Only £220 at Wiggle This is very good value for a decent aluminium frame bike. At this price, there is really no excuse for not getting a bike. A few weeks and you will have saved petrol and parking money. It is interesting how they can get the bike so cheap given the quality of a 6061 aluminium frme.

Best Hybrid Bikes Under £200

For under £200, you will struggle to get much choice. Your best bet may be to look at the second hand market. Also, if you visit a discount cycle shop like Cycle King, you will find a couple of Ammaco bikes for under £150. They are reasonable, but as you can imagine the components are cheap. You are more likely to puncture and spend more time on maintenance, especially the brakes. They are big sellers, and I see many around Oxford. But, you get what you pay for.

See Review of Ammaco Dresden (around £150 from Cycle King)

Hybrid Bikes

• Hybrid Bikes at Wiggle
• Hyrbid Bike at Evans

Conclusion

Hybrid Bikes are the most popular form of bikes. They are adaptable and easy to ride. Their popularity also means they are relatively cheaper because firms can benefit from economies of scale. For example, if you went for a single speed bike, you would end up paying more for less. (though single speeds will suit some types of cyclists)

But, within Hybrid Bikes there are quite a few ranges. You will want to choose which is more important looks v comfort v speed. For example, the most utilitarian hybrid bike would be the Specialised Sirius or Trek FX series – these are closer to standard road bikes.

A Dawes Diploma, Viva Bellissimo and Pashley offer a more stylish and elegant bike that is slower to cycle.

Also your local bike shop will have its own selection of hybrid bikes, it is worth visiting and testing out the bikes in person. You will save a little buying on internet, and the bikes arrive very quickly from Evans. However, buying locally gives advantage of personal contact and a reference point to return bike for quick check-up.

Related Bicycles

• Best Commuting Bike
• Single Speed Bikes
• Hybrid Commuting Bikes