Cycling is one of the most common activities in the world; people cycle to commute, for exercise or simply for pleasure. However, professional cycling is a world apart from regular cycling. It’s one of the most intense sports in the world, with riders racing against time and each other. Accordingly, the bikes used in professional cycling differ greatly from regular ones.

While the structure might look the same, two big tires and a seat, it’s way more technical than that. For decades, cycling companies have been trying to find better technology and advancements to increase the speed and safety used in professional bicycles.

Racing bikes prioritize speed over comfort

The drop handlers in a racing bicycle are located lower than a normal cycle to aid a more aerodynamic posture while riding. The front and back wheels are placed closer to each other to ensure quick handling.

A racing bicycle’s most important characteristic is its weight and stiffness. This helps in determining the bicycle’s efficiency and the power at which the rider’s pedal strokes get transferred to the drive-train and then to the wheels. Hence, the possibility of increased speed.

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Starting with the weight, the lighter the cycle, the better the quality. Racing bicycles are always light to help the riders have constant momentum. Quality bikes are made with special lightweight material such as carbon fibre.

The second difference would be in the components. The quality of chains, gears, shifters, cables, etc changes the game for riders. Better quality components are used in bicycles so that they run smoothly, are more reliable, and last longer.

Role of Aerodynamics in cycling

Aerodynamics play a crucial role in designing bicycles. The aim is to reduce the limiting effect of air as much as possible and ensure that a cyclist can cut through the resistance easily. The shape of the wheels and frames influences how easily the cycle can move against the air at extreme speeds. The wheels are thinner and wider, while the standard is fixed at 700C diameters.

The anatomy of a racing bicycle involves paddle, seat post, top tube, seat tube, down tube, fork, head tube, handlebar, brake levers, gear shifters, chain, collectively known as the group set. This group set plays an important role in determining the quality of the bicycle.

The rules for bicycle design are governed by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI). There are different bicycles for every racing event, which are also known as a road bike or ten-speed. For the velodrome (oval indoor tracks) the track bicycles are used. Whereas for off-road racing, mountain bicycles.

Designing and building professional cycles is an extremely meticulous process with great attention to detail. Thus, the effort and skill involved is reflected in the prices of these bikes as well.

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