Expert: Paul Plak Date: 6/24/2008 Subject: Which road bike to buy?
Question I am in the UK and I want to buy a road bike that can be used off-road as well. I won't do much off-road, but the bike should be able to give me enough comfort which I go on a slightly rough terrain. I am planning to buy the bike from on of these models here: http://www.5339.co.uk/road-bikes/
What do you suggest I should go for?
Answer I'm sorry, but buying a bicycle really is an individual decision. So I suggest you look around on the Internet and in bicycle shops, as you're probably already doing. Select a shop where you feel confident in the reseller's capacities to understand your needs. Discuss the choice with him.
Personally, I have used a touring road bicycle, and even a Brompton folding bicycle, on some unpaved tracks. When not too muddy or soft ground, a stable road bicycle will cope with such conditions. However I do not advise doing real off-track or rough track work on such a bicycle.
You should also consider having some bigger tyres, that is about 1/2 inch wider than road tires. It will make off-road much easier, and will not severely alter roadriding.
Doing the opposite choice of buying a terrain bicycle and doing much road riding with it is not a good idea, if off-road is not your main goal.
