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When Greg LeMond won the Tour de France in 1986 on his Look KG86, the prospect of a carbon road bike amazed the biking community. Sure, the bike industry has been toying with the idea since the 70s, but it was manufacturing giant Look that pioneered a functional version of the material. Together with TVT, Look engineered a composite of Kevlar and carbon fiber layers.
Since then, Look has been optimizing the composition of the carbon component of the frames to cater to different biking styles. Many bike manufacturers took notice of this new technology and followed suit. Naturally, carbon fiber quickly became the leading material for bike frames and proves to be extremely useful in this day and age – not only in carbon road bikes and other transportation vehicles but also in large-scale industries like aerospace.
Carbon road bikes come in many variations, so the price range is also wide. You can have a decent carbon bike for as low as 700 USD; if you can afford to spend more, there are high-end bikes that reach the 10,000 USD ceiling. Fortunately, Amazon has a catalog of budget-friendly bikes that are packed with many pleasant surprises. Here we have gathered some of our favorites:
Check out: Best Road Bike for Women
The Best Carbon Road Bikes [year]
Despite Savadeck being a less-known brand, their products deliver excellent quality and performance and consistently garner good reviews. Savadeck offers the Ready Bike program, in which the carbon road bikes are pre-assembled in the factory before being shipped out, contrary to other bike manufacturers that require you to assemble the bike on your own. Once you receive the package, only the front wheel, seat post, and pedals need to be installed.
Savadeck uses quality materials from distinguished manufacturers like Shimano, Campagnolo, Toray, Michelin, Chosen, and Fizik.
SAVADECK WarWinds 3.0
The WarWinds 3.0 weighs 21.6 lbs (9.8 kg), which is a bit heavier than most carbon fiber bikes, but it feels light and easygoing anyway. This is one of Savadeck’s more basic carbon fiber bikes, but it still has a lot going for it. It has the signature aerodynamic design of the brand and the attention to detail manifests in the geometry, and even in the polishing.
Carbon road bike features:
- carbon fiber frame, fork, handlebar, wheelset and seat post
- SHIMANO speed control (9 speeds)
- Internal cable routing
- 40mm alloy bearing Wheelset
- Michelin pro sports tires
SAVA HERD6.0 Carbon Road Bike
The secret to the optimized functionality of Herd 6.0 lies in the Shimano 105 group set that smoothens out road impact, as well as the tapered head tube that improves torsion. Aerodynamic contouring allows the rider to go fast and smooth. The saddle and handlebars are oriented to give the rider extra comfort.
Carbon road bike features:
- Carbon fiber frame, fork, handlebar, wheelset and seat post
- SHIMANO 105 group set
- Internal cable routing
- 50mm carbon fiber bearing wheelset
- Michelin Pro sports tires
SAVADECK Phantom 2.0
The Phantom weighs around a pound less than the SAVA HERD6.0 at 8 kg (17.6 lbs) and packs almost the same essential specs. It is said to be a powerful, even aggressive, bike that has the signature aesthetic and unassuming value of the Savadeck bikes. As with other Savadeck bikes, this one is designed to be aerodynamic.
Carbon road bike features:
- Carbon fiber frame, fork, handlebar, wheelset and seat post
- Group set from Shimano Ultegra 8000
- Internal cable routing
- Tapered head tube
- 50/88mm carbon fiber bearing wheelset
- Michelin pro sports tires
SAVADECK WindWar 5.0
As one of the less expensive Savadeck models, the WindWar 5.0 really surprises you. Basically, it has almost the same specs as other Savadeck bikes, save for the wheelset, which is provided by Oval Concepts. It is on the heavy side, though, weighing 20.1 lbs or 9.1 kg.
Carbon road bike features:
- Carbon fiber frame, fork, handlebar, wheelset and seat post
- Group set from Shimano 105
- Internal cable routing
- Tapered head tube
- 40mm Oval Concepts bearing wheelset
- Michelin pro sports tires
Kestrel Talon Tri 105 LE Aero Carbon Tri Bike
The Kestrel Talon Tri 105 LE Aero Carbon Tri Bike was first launched in 2007, making it one of the first aero carbon road bikes in the market. Known for its versatility, this carbon road bike allows the rider to choose from two riding positions — road position or triathlon-style position.
The Kestrel Talon Tri 105 LE Aero Carbon Tri Bike is designed to maximize control and comfort.
Carbon Road Bike features:
- low center of gravity design and stiffer main triangle
- sleek design
- reinforced bottom bracket and chain stays
- internal cable routing
- proprietary forks and dropouts
- sculpted H-shape seat stay
Diamondback Haanjo 5C Carbon Road Bike
The Diamondback Haanjo 5C Carbon Road Bike features a carbon frame with lightweight, comfortable, rugged, and endurance-first geometry. This carbon road bike is designed with a full-monologue carbon fork for smooth and precise control on the road. This bike rolls on 27.5” HED Tomcat wheels that can tackle any terrain you choose.
Carbon Road Bike Features:
- Monologue carbon fork with thru axles in both front and rear
- Top of the line tires
- TRP Spire C mechanical brakes that provides awesome stopping power
- Shimano 3×9 drivetrain
Diamondback Haanjo 7C Carbon Road Bike
The Diamondback Haanjo 7C Carbon Road Bike sports a handmade carbon frame that’s rugged and lightweight. It also comes with full carbon fiber fork for precise handling even on rough and technical terrains. This road bike comes with Shimano hydraulic disc brakes that provide unmatched stopping power.
Carbon Road Bike Features:
- Shimano Ultegra 2×11 drivetrain
- Shimano hydraulic disc brakes
- HED Tomcat tubeless ready wheels
- Rack mounts
Eurobike Carbon Frame Road Bike
The Eurobike Carbon Frame Road Bike is made from high quality T700 carbon all throughout (frame, fork, and seat post). This road bike is designed for 700C wheels while shifting is facilitated by the 18 Speed Shimano SORA R3000.
Carbon Road Bike Features:
- All carbon fiber construction
- 700C wheels
- 350lbs maximum weight
HeartsBio Carbon Frame Road Bike
The HeartsBio Carbon Frame Road Bike boasts an all carbon construction. This amazing bike features an ergonomic saddle and a Shimano 18 speed SORA derailleur system. Designed locally in California, this carbon road bike is a definite must have!
Carbon Road Bike Features:
- Toray T700 carbon fiber construction
- Shimano 18 speed gear system
- Lifetime warranty
Diamondback 29er Carbon Road Bike
The Diamondback 29er Carbon Road Bike features a lightweight carbon fiber frame that is comfortable, offers precise control, and fast. It also boasts the Rockshox Recon Gold RL fork that has 100mm of travel and lockout control. Shifting is handled by the 11 speed SRAM NX single ring drivetrain.
Carbon road bike features:
- Lightweight carbon construction
- 11 speed SRAM NX single ring drivetrain
- Shimano M315 hydraulic disc brakes
- Big 29” wheels
Steppenwolf Tundra Carbon Road Bike
The Steppenwolf Tundra Carbon Road Bike boasts a high-performance all carbon composite frame construction. Lightweight and fast, this carbon road bike sports the RockShox SID RLT fork that comes with a 100mm travel and top of the line 29” wheels. Powering the Steppenwolf Tundra Carbon Road Bike is an SRAM drivetrain.
Carbon Road Bike Features:
- Avid X0 180/160mm brakes
- FAS Afterburner Flat 685mm handlebars
- SDG circuit MTN saddle
- FSA Afterburner seatpost
Savadeck Herd 9.0 Carbon Road Bike
The Savadeck Herd 9.0 Carbon Road Bike is made from high quality Japanese carbon fiber all throughout (frame, seat post, fork, and handle bar). This super light carbon road bike weight 18.1 lbs.
Featuring an advanced rear triangle and tapered head design, this carbon road bike is stiff and easy to control. Powering the Savadeck Herd 9.0 Carbon Road Bike is the Campagnolo centaur 22-speed derailleur, brake, and transmission system. This bike rolls on Continental 25C ultra sport tires.
Carbon Road Bike Features:
- Easy to assemble.
- Fi’zi:k saddle
- Low resistance, hard-wearing, and anti-gill wheels
- modern design
- Toray T800 carbon fiber construction
How to Choose the Best Road Bike
If you are looking for a bike that offers the best speed, efficiency, and agility, then look no further than road bikes. These bicycles are great for people who want to improve their fitness levels too. So, what makes a road bike different than other bikes? Compared to mountain bikes and commuting bikes, road bikes have:
- Lighter frame
- Lightweight components
- Narrow wheels and tires
- Curled or dropped handlebars (although some models with flat handlebars exist)
- No suspension systems at the front and back
- Carbon fiber front fork
Road bikes are specifically designed for event riders, racers, and fitness enthusiasts. These bikes are built to run smoothly on paved roads. Don’t use them on rough terrains.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Road Bike
There are a lot of road bikes on the market. Here the factors you need to consider to choose the best one for you.
The Shape of the Bike Frame
At first look, road bike frames look the same. But there are actually some differences that you need to be aware of. Below are the common frame geometries for road bikes:
Recreational or sport geometry – this shape is perfect for those planning to ride between 20 to 100 miles per week. In this frame geometry, the rider sits in a more upright position with the steering being more relaxed and chill.
Race or performance geometry – this frame configuration is the choice of competitive riders. The rider rides in a stretched out position for better aerodynamics and more responsive steering. Obviously, performance road bikes come with a more durable frame, high-end components, and lighter wheels than recreational road bikes.
Flat bar geometry – this frame is akin to sports geometry. The only difference is that you ride in a more upright position. Flat bar road bikes are perfect for daily commuting and occasional events.
Materials Used on the Bike Frame
When it comes to materials used in road bike frames, you only have two choices:
Aluminum – the most bike frame material. Aluminum provides a smooth ride without breaking the bank. Road bikes made from aluminum usually come with a carbon fiber front fork to help dampen the vibrations and absorb shock.
Carbon Fiber – provides a better and smoother riding experience than aluminum bike frames. Carbon fiber is hard to manufacture, hence the hefty price tag.
Choose the Right Crankset and Gearing Systems
The crankset refers to the components that the pedals turn to power the chain that rotates the rear wheel. A road bike can come in either double or compact crankset or triple crankset.
From its name, a compact or double crankset comes with two chainrings at the front. These are paired with a 10-speed cassette at the back — giving you a total of 20 gears to choose from. A compact crankset has the same number of chainrings and gears but with fewer teeth. As a result, you only have a lower range of gears to work with.
A triple crankset, on the other hand, comes with three chainrings at the front. These are paired with a 9-speed cassette at the back — giving you 27 gears. This type of configuration is the most common among standard and entry-level road bikes.
Here’s the rule of the thumb:
if you are an experienced cyclist and you prefer riding on flat ground, go for double cranksets. If you are new to road biking or if you plan to ride uphill terrains, choose the triple crankset.
Choosing the Wheels
One of the most important parts of a road bike is the wheel. It affects the weight of your bike, how fast it accelerates, how well it maintains momentum, and how good it handles the wheels. If you are into competitive road biking, then you can upgrade your stock wheels to lighter and faster variants. Recreational riders can care less about wheel upgrades.
Get the Right Brakes and Gear Shifters
Brakes and gear shifters in road bikes are often integrated into the road bike. The operation and mechanism will depend on the brand and model your choose. When it comes to Shimano components, the brake lever also acts as one of the gear shifters. For SRAM components, the gear shifter is usually the smaller lever located behind the brake lever. It works separately from the braking system of your bike.
Road bikes can either come with rim brakes that work by clamping the wheel rims or disc brakes that hold onto the disc rotors attacked to the hubs of your bike. Experts consider disc brakes to be more superior and consistent when it comes to braking — especially under wet conditions.
What You Need to Know About the Pedals
Do you know that when it comes to higher-end road bike models, the pedals are usually not included in the package? Quite odd, huh? This is because bike manufacturers assume that competitive road cyclists already have a favorite pedal system to use.
Basic road bikes, on the other hand, usually come with platform pedals with built-in toe cages. However, if you want to pedal better and ride more efficiently, go for clipless bike pedals. And make sure you have the right biking shoes to match it!
Learn How to Use the Handlebar
Road bikes come with dropped or curled handlebars. And these beauties offer a number of positions that you can take advantage of. If you are cruising or climbing, it’s best to place your hands on the top side of the stem. This position provides the best leverage and brake levers are more accessible when cruising.
If you are descending a hill and need better control, place your hands on the drops or the lower parts of the handlebar.
Road Bike Saddles
The bike saddle is a major factor when it comes to the comfort of your ride. Most road bikes come with narrow and lightly padded saddles. At first look, these saddles may look uncomfortable but they are actually good at what they do. And that is protecting and supporting you where it matters most. Road bike saddles don’t compress soft tissues and nerves allowing you to ride comfortably for long periods.
Essential tips: Frequently Asked Questions About Carbon Road Bikes
1. Hang on, what’s in a “carbon fiber”?
Before being constructed into the composite form, carbon fibers are actually just a polymer called polyacrylanitrile (PAN), which is subjected to high temperatures, producing a set of extremely thin fibers. They are sold or distributed as sheets, either woven in multiple directions or positioned in one direction (aptly termed “unidirectional”).
Around the world, only six companies produce the bulk of this material. These raw fibers are then molded into different shapes with the resin (or Kevlar, among other types). Another way to process carbon fiber frames is to put together some tubes and bond them with lugs.
2. What qualities signify good carbon quality?
Typically, a carbon fiber frame is lightweight, durable, stiff, and moldable. To understand better the comparison of carbon bikes, we need to familiarize ourselves with a couple of terms:
Modulus – a measure of the ability of a material to resist elastic deformation. A high modulus indicates a stiff material, while a low modulus indicates a ductile material.
Tensile strength – gives an idea about the durability of a material. The higher the tensile strength, the more durable the product.
3. How do I choose the right carbon fiber composite?
Manufacturing companies usually have a grading system for their carbon fibers, basing on the two measures above. The Japan Carbon Fiber Manufacturers Association (JCMA) grades carbon fibers according to increasing modulus as “low”, “standard”, “intermediate”, “high”, and “ultrahigh”.
4. Are carbon fiber frames ‘all-carbon’?
Since carbon is stiff, brittleness is often a problem. There are many compromises to be made in the design of a frame: high-modulus materials are placed in the sides of the down tube and medium-modulus materials in the head tube. Good carbon engineering produces lightweight frames with good torsion and bottom bracket shells. Of course, it is also important to consider cost-effectiveness as well.
Carbon road bike are awesome rides for road biking! Make sure to grab yours now!
Happy biking!
