Endurance Showdown: All-Road Bikes Face 100-Mile Gauntlet
Table of Contents
- 1. Endurance Showdown: All-Road Bikes Face 100-Mile Gauntlet
- 2. The Contenders: All-Road Bikes and Control Models
- 3. Recap: Rigorous Testing Procedures
- 4. The Ultimate Test: A Century ride
- 5. More to Come: Individual Reviews and Roundtable Discussions
- 6. Key Participants and Contributors
- 7. All-Road Bike Performance Summary
- 8. Choosing the Right All-Road Bike: Key Considerations
- 9. Frequently Asked Questions About All-Road Bikes
- 10. Based on the 100-mile test, which bike performed best in terms of handling, comfort, and overall versatility across different terrains, especially on gravel roads?
- 11. 2025 All-Road Bikes: Conquering the 100-Mile Test
- 12. The Test: Setting the Stage for Adventure
- 13. The Contenders: A Look at the Lineup
- 14. Key Performance Metrics: What We Were Looking For
- 15. Tires: A Crucial Element of the Equation
- 16. Key Findings and Highlights
- 17. Standout Bike: Performance Highlights
- 18. Comparison Table: All-Road bike Performance metrics
- 19. Practical tips for Choosing Your All-road Bike
- 20. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 21. What is an all-road bike?
- 22. What tire size should I get for my all-road bike?
- 23. How much should I spend on an all-road bike?
Marin County, California – Four dedicated cyclists, Alvin, Levy, Will, and Josh, recently concluded an exhaustive field test, pushing six bicycles to their limits on a grueling 100-mile ride. as part of the Velo’s 2025 Field Test, this final endurance trial aimed to identify the top performer among a selection of all-road bikes.
The Contenders: All-Road Bikes and Control Models
Over several weeks,the team rigorously evaluated six bikes,including four all-road models and two control bikes-one gravel and one pure road bike-to establish a performance baseline. The all-road contenders included models from Specialized, Stinner, and BMC. The gravel bike chosen was a Devinci Hatchet, while the control group was completed by the Specialized Goesos road bike.
Each bike was meticulously outfitted with 32mm Continental Grand Prix 5000 S tires to ensure a level playing field, minimizing any performance variations due to tire differences, according to a recent study by Bicycle Rolling Resistance, tire choice can considerably impact a bike’s overall speed and comfort.
Recap: Rigorous Testing Procedures
The testing regimen comprised several stages. An initial ride offered first impressions, followed by a challenging climbing test. Subsequent phases included a time trial, vibration assessment, and a demanding descending challenge. The detailed results of these tests are compiled to determine the best all-road bike.
The Ultimate Test: A Century ride
With comprehensive data collected, the team embarked on the ultimate challenge: a 100-mile trek to Point Reyes and back. All-road bikes, designed for extended comfort and versatility, faced their definitive test. A century ride served as the ideal means to evaluate their long-distance endurance and rider comfort.
unexpectedly, the ride took an unplanned turn when one of the testers required a visit to the emergency room, underscoring the unpredictable nature of real-world testing. However, despite this setback, testing progressed.
More to Come: Individual Reviews and Roundtable Discussions
While the intensive field testing has concluded, the evaluation process continues. Individual bike reviews and a detailed roundtable discussion highlighting each model’s strengths and weaknesses are forthcoming.
Stay locked on for in-depth analyses and comprehensive coverage of this cycling endurance test.
Key Participants and Contributors
The field test was made possible by a dedicated team:
- Videographers: Max Barron, Jason lucas, Stefon Licko
- editing: Max Barron, stefon Licko
- Support & Logistics: Mike Kazimer
Special thanks to Continental for providing the control tires used throughout the test.
All-Road Bike Performance Summary
| Bike Type | Brand | Model | Key Features | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| All-Road | Specialized | Roubaix | Future Shock suspension, compliance | Designed for comfort and performance |
| All-Road | Leaves | – | N/A | description missing in article |
| All-Road | Stinner | Carrizo Select | Customizable geometry, steel frame | Offers a blend of tradition and modernity |
| All-Road | BMC | Roadmachine | Tuned Compliance Concept, integrated design | Known for its balanced ride quality |
| Gravel | Devinci | hatchet | Versatile geometry, durable build | Ideal for off-road adventures |
| Road | Specialized | Goesos | Aerodynamic, lightweight frame | Optimized for speed on paved surfaces |
Choosing the Right All-Road Bike: Key Considerations
Selecting the appropriate all-road bike requires careful evaluation of several factors. Frame material, geometry, tire clearance, and componentry all play critical roles in determining a bike’s suitability for your specific needs.
Frame materials such as carbon fiber offer lightweight stiffness, while steel provides a more compliant ride.Geometry influences handling and comfort, with endurance-focused bikes featuring a more relaxed posture.Tire clearance determines the maximum tire size you can run, affecting traction and comfort on varied terrain.
Frequently Asked Questions About All-Road Bikes
- What makes an all-road bike different from a traditional road bike?
- All-road bikes typically feature a more relaxed geometry, greater tire clearance, and enhanced comfort features compared to traditional road bikes, making them suitable for varied terrain.
- Can I use an all-road bike for commuting?
- Yes,their versatility makes them an excellent choice for commuting,offering comfort and stability on city streets and the ability to handle occasional gravel paths.
- What type of rider benefits moast from an all-road bike?
- Riders who enjoy exploring different types of roads, from smooth pavement to light gravel, and prioritize comfort over pure speed will find all-road bikes particularly appealing.
- How do I choose the right size all-road bike?
- Consult a professional bike fitter or use online sizing charts to determine the appropriate frame size based on your height, inseam, and riding style.
- What are the common upgrades for all-road bikes?
- Popular upgrades include tubeless tires for improved ride quality and puncture resistance, carbon fiber seatposts for added comfort, and wider range cassettes for tackling steep climbs.
Which all-road bike would you choose for a 100-mile ride? What factors are most important to you when selecting a bike for endurance riding? Share your thoughts below!
Based on the 100-mile test, which bike performed best in terms of handling, comfort, and overall versatility across different terrains, especially on gravel roads?
2025 All-Road Bikes: Conquering the 100-Mile Test
The world of cycling is constantly evolving,with all-road bikes taking center stage as the ultimate versatile machines. This 2025 review dives deep into the performance of several top all-road bike contenders, pushing them to their limits with a rigorous 100-mile test. We’ll analyse their handling,comfort,and overall suitability for a variety of terrains,helping you determine which bike is the best fit for your riding style and needs.This comprehensive all-road bike review covers everything from gravel riding capabilities to pure road performance.
The Test: Setting the Stage for Adventure
Our 100-mile test was designed to replicate real-world riding conditions,encompassing a mix of pavement,gravel roads,and even a few challenging climbs. We didn’t just evaluate the bikes; we put them to the ultimate test of endurance and versatility. The focus was not only on speed but also on comfort and fatigue levels at the end of a long ride. This real-world test helps us to provide actionable information for prospective buyers.
The Contenders: A Look at the Lineup
the 2025 all-road bike field featured a diverse range of models. The bikes, left in stock configuration (except for tires), were put up against each other and compared to control bikes to provide a realistic comparison for the readers
- All-Road Bikes: The primary focus of our review.
- Race Road Bike: serving as a control to benchmark pure speed.
- Gravel Bike: Providing a comparison to how well the all-road bikes handled gravel roads.
Each bike was pushed to its limit, the aim to evaluate aspects like handling and comfort.
Key Performance Metrics: What We Were Looking For
Our assessment wasn’t just about speed; we considered a wide range of performance attributes crucial for all-road cycling. This includes:
- Handling: How well the bike responds to steering inputs and maintains control on varied surfaces.
- Comfort: The bike’s ability to absorb road vibrations and prevent fatigue over long distances.
- Versatility: How well the bike performs on both paved and unpaved roads.
- Tire Clearance: The maximum tire width the frame can accommodate, critical for gravel riding.
- Overall Ride Quality: A subjective assessment of the bike’s feel, combining all elements.
Tires: A Crucial Element of the Equation
Before the rides commenced, a crucial change was made: fresh tires were mounted on the bikes. The tire choice significantly impacts performance,so the selection of tires was an vital consideration to level the playing field.
Key Findings and Highlights
After the 100-mile test, we had clear winners and distinct observations.
We’ll go into detail on the top performers, what made them stand out, and their strengths and weaknesses. The information provided in this section uses the findings gained from the Velo Field Test.
Standout Bike: Performance Highlights
Based on the findings, one bike particularly shone through. Its balanced performance in various conditions, combined with superior comfort, made it a clear favorite. What made it superior?
Here are some key factors:
- Remarkable Handling: Stability and responsiveness.
- Comfort Focused: Reduces rider fatigue.
- Versatile: Can switch seamlessly between paved and unpaved terrains.
Comparison Table: All-Road bike Performance metrics
The table below summarizes some key performance metrics across the tested bikes, offering a clear, concise comparison. This allows prospective bike buyers to easily understand the strengths and weaknesses.
| Metric | Bike A | Bike B | Bike C | Race Road |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Handling (Score) | 9/10 | 8/10 | 7/10 | 9.5/10 |
| Comfort (Score) | 8.5/10 | 7.5/10 | 8/10 | 6.5/10 |
| versatility (Rating) | Excellent | Good | Good | Fair |
| Tire Clearance (mm) | 35mm | 32mm | 38mm | 28mm |
Note: The information provided in this table is based on data from the 2025 velo Field Test. Actual performance may vary based on the rider.
Practical tips for Choosing Your All-road Bike
Based on our testing and years of experience, here is some practical advice to help you choose the right all-road bike:
- Consider your Terrain: If you plan on a lot of off-road riding, prioritize tire clearance.
- Think About Comfort: Look for bikes with features to absorb road vibrations.
- Test Ride Different Models: Find the bike that feels the best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is an all-road bike?
An all-road bike is designed to handle a variety of road surfaces,offering a balance between speed,comfort,and versatility. Gravel bikes and endurance road bikes are closely related.
What tire size should I get for my all-road bike?
It depends on what riding you will be doing. Wider tires (32mm+) will offer more cushioning and grip on rough surfaces and gravel roads, but they can be slower on pavement.
How much should I spend on an all-road bike?
All-road bikes range in price from budget-amiable models (~$1,000 USD) to high end bikes (~$8,000+ USD or more). The price depends on the components and features of the bike.
