An endurance road bike is made for comfort, efficiency, and performance over long rides or races (such as Gran Fondo events). Like most traditional road bikes, an endurance bike will have drop handlebars that provide multiple positions for your hands to increase comfort over long distances. These bikes also tend to have geometry and technologies that provide increased compliance to absorb road vibrations from bumpy “b roads” and impacts from the occasional pothole. Because endurance road bikes are made to go the distance, they can easily be loaded with bags, racks and fenders for multi-day rides in all weather conditions. But don’t be fooled by the word “comfort,” these bikes are made to go fast and perform at the highest levels! Lightweight frames and efficient gearing for hilly terrain make endurance road bikes a great option for all-around road riding and racing.

Aero road bikes are made for one thing: flat out speed. Meticulously tested for the lowest amount of drag in the wind tunnel, these bikes perform best in high-speed road races on flatter courses, in sprint finishes, sprint and olympic-distance triathlons, and criterium races. You can typically spot an aero road bike by the shape of the frame. Round tubing is replaced by flatter, angular or oblong shapes. Whew, an aero road bike just looks fast!

Wait, I thought you could race an endurance road bike and an aero road bike? Yes, you can! Those bikes are the best option for certain types of road races. If you’re looking for the best all around road racing bike, this is your category. With compact frame geometry for more compliance than an aero road bike, but more aero features and lighter weight than an endurance road bike, race bikes are what you see most often in events like the Tour de France Femmes. Are these bikes only for racing? Of course not! Although often called, "race bikes", they are for anyone who wants a lightweight, snappy bike that is super-efficient on climbs.

Triathlon-specific bikes are most often used for 70.3 and full Ironman-distance events, or anywhere drafting is not allowed. That means, you aren’t allowed to sit in the slipstream of another rider, you have to produce all of your own power – so, aerodynamics and efficiency are paramount. Triathlon bikes have extremely aerodynamic tubing and specialized aerodynamic handlebars for ideal body position. These bikes are also engineered with geometry to harness certain muscle groups while giving others a rest, because when a triathlete finishes racing her bike, she still has to run!

What if speed and performance is not at the top of your road bike “must have” list. Instead, you’re looking for a bike that will be reliable and practical. Maybe you want a bike that will help you tackle your fitness goals…but you want to steer clear of drop handlebars. Or you need a bike with more upright positioning that’s easier to ride in clothes you’re wearing to work or to meet up with friends. Hybrid, commuter, and fitness bikes typically have flat handlebars, more relaxed geometry, and they can be extremely versatile – think options for fenders, racks, water bottle cages, etc. You may notice these bikes have tires with a little more tread, which provides added traction if your commute takes you off road through sand or gravel.

A cruiser-style bike maximizes comfort, stability, and style over speed. Even more upright than a hybrid or fitness bike, these bikes can get you from “A” to “B”. Wider tires provide greater stability on rough roads, gravel, or sand, making cruisers your go-to bikes for a ride to the beach. With fun accessories like baskets, racks, and fenders, you can load up these bikes with anything you need for a Sunday cruise.

An E-bike is any bike that provides an added boost to your pedal stroke with the help of a motor, battery, and control unit. E-road bikes are pedal-assist bikes that are made to perform best on roads and other paved surfaces. Within the E-road bike category, you can find options to best suit the terrain and your riding goals – just like regular bikes, but supercharged!