Should I Buy A Carbon Fiber Road Bike?

Choosing a bike comes with many different factors to consider. Everyone has his or her own preferences, but as a general rule carbon fiber make for a great road bike. Why? Simply put, carbon fiber is lightweight, strong and fast. Some bikes are heavy and bulky while others are light but also provide the durability of the heavier bikes. One particular type of material that serves this purpose are the carbon fiber road bikes. They are light, strong, and durable, the real question becomes, should you spend the extra money for the carbon fiber?

When buying a performance road bike you can end up comparing a lot of different components, but one thing that they all boil down to is comfort. Is that an oversimplification? Probably, but I guess it depends on what type of rider you are; are you riding for competition or fun? Many people find that carbon fiber absorbs vibration a little better providing a smoother ride. Frankly, you can expect a pretty long life out of steel, aluminum and carbon fiber, and when comparing bikes I’ll spend a few hundred extra on whichever one feels better.

Many people are concerned about bike weight, and sure, a carbon fiber frame is not nearly as heavy as some of the steel or metal framed bikes, but the weight difference is only going to affect your performance when you are racing.

There are many different types of the carbon fiber bikes. They are available in many different sizes and colors. The specifications of the bikes will vary as will the name brand. While they may be more expensive than a basic steel frame bike, they are also more durable and will last a lot longer.

Shopping for a good bike can be a confusing process. While the many different brands are available on the market, those shopping for them do not always understand the difference. Anymore, you can quickly compare multiple bikes and brands quickly and easily online, just like on this site. Each product listing will provide you with actual specifications of every bicycle that is offered by retailers. One thing that I’ve found is that when you’re comparing entry level carbon fiber models with higher level aluminum or steel, check the components and overall bike weight before you purchase. What you may find is that the overall bike weight may actually be lower with a higher level aluminum bike because the components are lighter. Components make a big difference, but if you’re spitting hairs on price and components on the bikes your comparing — go with the comfort level they provide. As a rule of thumb regarding road bikes components, go with this: Shimano 105 (low high end level), Ultegra (medium high end level), Dura Ace (top of the line). SRAM Apex (low high end level), Rival (medium high end level), Force (high- high end level), Red (top of the line).

The simple truth is; don't buy a bike if the capabilities of it will not meet your immediate needs. Metal bikes use to be the ride of choice but with every year that passes, carbon fiber is becoming the winner as far as durability, comfort and weight. When comparing bikes - make sure that you are comparing models within the same price level and then make your selection based on comfort and I’m sure you’ll be happy with your selection.

Here are a couple of good carbon fiber bikes for you to compare:

Norco Valence C4 http://www.bikeattack.com/norco-bicycles-valence-c4-2014/

Bianchi Impulso 105 http://www.bikeattack.com/bianchi-impulso-105-2014/

Bianchi Intenso 105 http://www.bikeattack.com/bianchi-intenso-105-2014/

Bianchi Intenso Veloce http://www.bikeattack.com/bianchi-intenso-veloce-2014/

Litespeed M1 http://www.bikeattack.com/litespeed-m1-105-2014/