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Let’s See DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CYCLOCROSS-BIKES AND ROAD-BIKESIntroduction
Many people may not know the difference between a road bike and a cyclocross bikes. After all, isn’t a bike just a bike? Yes, but there are variations among the bikes and as such, some can be referred to as road bikes while others cyclocross bikes. Basically, the classification and variation is on the basis of where the bikes can be used; whether on road and off road or both. Road bikes These are the most common bikes that can be seen on the roads. Their performance is specifically customized for paved roads. They are made to have lighter weight in most of the categories which includes: the shorter wheelbase, bottom bracket, and steep head tube angles. The variations among them are the geometric features that enable the bike to respond to the rider’s controls and inputs faster and to reduce the center of gravity which is very essential when turning around corners. Most of the wheels for the road bikes are about 700-c and even smaller wheels can be used for very small frames. The range of the tyre sizes is between 20mm to 25 mm width and most have an average size of 23mm. It is the reason for the high dominance of 700 x 23 sizes. The main component for the road bikes is aluminum for lower economic end types of bikes but those made of carbon fiber are used for the expensive high end bikes. The gear systems are high and narrow for these special types of bikes. They are developed to carry the rider and water bottle. They however can be drilled to enable the rider fit a rack that can be used to carry a less some light weight luggage but this are often for the less expensive side. The road bikes are considered the most commuters friendly since it has the required speed, weight and aesthetic beauty associated with them. Cyclocross On the other hand, a cyclocross bike is resigned to serve you both on the road and off the road. The most unique aspect of cyclocross is that it was also designed for racing. It was developed as a discipline for racers to be engaged on during the off racing seasons. The nature of the versatility of the bikes has made the bike very popular among racers and most especially those that have special interest in touring. They are heavy when compared to the road bike. The base of the wheel is lesser than that of the road bike, the lower bracket height and head tube angle are on either sides of the bike, they however vary depending on the manufacturer. The wheel size is 700c and tires are between 30-40 mm width. They also have smaller knobs that will be able to grip loose surfaces. The frame components vary just like on the road bikes, aluminum and steel is common for lower end bikes while carbon fibers are prevalent for the high end bikes. The gearing system comes with a close ratio double crank set; however, this can be replaced with a wider cassette. They may also have drillings for water bottles cages and some may not have any due to the challenge of shouldering the bike in case of obstacles. They are also the best when used as touring bikes. They can also be very useful as commuters since they come with the versatility and durability needed for an all time and purpose bike. Conclusion The variation between the two are therefore glaring, but the main variation is that one bests serves you on the road while the other works best on road and off road. Other variations exist and are noticeable when looking at one against the other. |