Road bike selection guide – how to choose the right road bike

A road bike is the ideal choice if you like to ride fast and comfortably on flat asphalt roads. It is light, fast, aerodynamic, and designed to make every ride smooth so you can enjoy high speed and comfort. This guide will help both beginners and experienced cyclists. We will briefly explain how to choose the right road bike. We will also compare different categories of road bikes and explain how they differ.

What are the main types of road bikes?

Road bikes come in different types – choose one based on the type of riding you enjoy and your goals:

Performance Road – Sporty, lightweight, and fast bikes designed for maximum riding efficiency. From Trek, these would be the Trek Madone and Trek Emonda models.
Electric Road – Road bikes with electric assist systems allow you to cover long distances and mountains without much effort.
Triathlon – Aerodynamic bicycles designed specifically for triathlon competitions, which help maintain the position typical for racing.

Which road bike frame should you choose? Aluminum or carbon fiber?

The frame material affects the weight, comfort, and price of the bicycle:

Aluminum – lightweight and durable, a good choice for beginners or those who want a sturdy bike at an affordable price.
Carbon fiber – an extremely lightweight and "responsive" frame that dampens vibrations and provides more comfort. These bikes are usually more expensive, but worth the investment if you are looking for top-of-the-line quality.
Trek bikes feature Trek's patented OCLV carbon fiber, which comes in a variety of grades, from the most advanced OCLV 900 series to the budget-friendly OCLV 500 series.
Trek carbon fiber frames come with a lifetime warranty.

How to choose the right frame size?

The size of the frame is the key to comfort and safety. It is selected according to your height, and each model has its own recommendations. Keep in mind that it is best not only to choose according to the tables, but also, if possible, to try it out – it is important that you feel good and comfortable. Usually, the frame size according to height will be specified in the bicycle description. If you are unsure about your choice, you can always contact our professionals who will help you choose.

Which road bike manufacturers do we recommend?

Our range includes only the best brands, valued by both professionals and enthusiasts:

Trek – technology leaders with numerous solutions from aviation that will make your journey even more comfortable and efficient.
Superior - A rapidly growing manufacturer in the European market, distinguished by its excellent price-quality ratio
KTM - An Austrian manufacturer, better known as a motorcycle manufacturer, but a rapidly growing brand in the bicycle market, currently offering excellent technology at an affordable price.

What are the most popular road bike models at Trek Store?

Trek Domane – A versatile comfort leader for long journeys with the option of fitting 38 mm tires.
Trek Emonda – minimalist design racing classic, light and lively
Trek Madone - A lightweight, aerodynamic, and fast road bike.

Can't find the model you want in stock?

Don't worry if you can't find the bike you want in the store right now – we can order most models directly from the manufacturer or from our warehouse in Latvia. Delivery usually takes from a few days to a few weeks, and our team is always ready to help you and keep you informed about the progress of your order.

In summary

A road bike is an investment in speed, comfort, and quality. Each model we offer is designed to allow you to enjoy every ride and achieve your goals, from your first kilometers to serious races. If you need help choosing, visit the Trek Store – our specialists are always ready to advise and help you find the bike that's right for you.

Trek Domane, Emonda ir Madone - Which one is right for you?

Madone – for those looking for a racing road bike with a carbon fiber frame.

Emonda – for those looking for a lightweight, simple aluminum road bike.

Domane – for those who want a comfortable and versatile road bike with the ability to ride on gravel roads.

Common mistakes when choosing a road bike

We most often notice these mistakes made by customers when choosing a road bike.

1. Wrong size

You can replace various bicycle components, but replacing the frame is expensive. You will definitely not get used to a bicycle that is too big or too small, because it is like wearing shoes that are the wrong size. Don't be tempted by a low price, especially for a large bicycle, if you are short.

2. Not knowing what type of bicycle you need

Just because your neighbor says that a road bike is perfect for them doesn't necessarily mean that it will be right for you too. Consider where you plan to ride. If you ride on gravel and forest trails every day, a road bike is probably not the right choice for you.

3. Failure to test a bicycle

Most bicycles look nice and comfortable, but the geometry of a road bike differs from other bikes. Be sure to try it out to see if the size is right for you and if it's fun to ride.

FAQ (frequently asked questions) when choosing a road bike

What size road bike frame is suitable for me?

You will find a size chart for each bike. Alternatively, the description for each bike size will indicate the size range that is suitable for you. Different bike models have different size charts. You will find the Trek Madone size chart below.

Size	Rider Height	Inseam
XS (47cm)	143 - 158 cm 4'8" - 5'2"	67 - 74 cm 26" - 29"
S (50cm)	158 - 162 cm 5'2" - 5'4"	74 - 76 cm 29" - 30"
M (52-54cm)	162 - 173 cm 5'4" - 5'8"	76 - 81 cm 30" - 32"
ML (56cm)	173 - 179 cm 5'8" - 5'10"	81 - 84 cm 32" - 33"
L (58cm)	179 - 188 cm 5'10" - 6'2"	84 - 88 cm 33" - 35"
XL (60-62cm)	188 - 213 cm 6'2" - 7'0"	88 - 100 cm 35" - 39"

Size

Rider Height

Inseam

XS (47cm)

143 - 158 cm

4'8" - 5'2"

67 - 74 cm

26" - 29"

S (50cm)

158 - 162 cm

5'2" - 5'4"

74 - 76 cm

29" - 30"

M (52-54cm)

162 - 173 cm

5'4" - 5'8"

76 - 81 cm

30" - 32"

ML (56cm)

173 - 179 cm

5'8" - 5'10"

81 - 84 cm

32" - 33"

L (58cm)

179 - 188 cm

5'10" - 6'2"

84 - 88 cm

33" - 35"

XL (60-62cm)

188 - 213 cm

6'2" - 7'0"

88 - 100 cm

35" - 39"

Is a road bike suitable for gravel roads?

Yes, but it will not be comfortable to ride long distances on gravel roads. Due to the narrow bicycle tires, sand may be a little more difficult to ride on. We recommend choosing Trek Domane models, as they can accommodate wide 38 mm tires, making them ideal for riding on gravel roads.

How much does a decent road bike cost?

The perception of a good bicycle varies. It depends on your needs. If your goal is to race and train a lot, then we recommend at least a 105 mechanical gear system so that the bicycle components can withstand the strain. Typically, such bicycles cost over €2,000.

What is the difference between endurance and race road bikes?

can endurance bike has a more upright, less aggressive riding position. A race road bike has a more aggressive, lower riding position.