Question Hi, I am new to bicycling, and im intrested in purchasing a new road
bike. I would mainly be using it for a form of fitness. I was just
wondering if i would be able to ride a road bike on paved paths,
or if i would be limited to only roads? Also, i have looked into
cyclocross bikes. Would this be a better option for me if i was
intrested in riding on paved paths?
Thanks,
Mike
Answer I think you are misunderstanding the definitions. A Road bike is considered a racing bike. A road bike will have narrow tires, generally 700cx23c. It will also have compartively low gearing with a rear cluster running from 11-12 to 23-25. These bikes are suitable for any sort of paved surface. They are also more suitable for longer distances at higher speeds.
An offshoot of the road bike is the touring bike. Designed with a longer wheelbase, especially in the rear to hold panniers without interfering with pedaling, these bikes will have a wider tire, around 700cx38c. The gearing will be lower, typically with front triples and large rear cogs in the 30s. Again suitable for any paved surface but also for packed dirt.
Then you have you hybrids, These generally have upright handlebars, wide tires (26x2+") and some form of suspension. The gearing is also lower, more like a touring bike. These are suitable for short city type riding and mild off road.
Finally you have the mountain bikes with knobby treaded tires, front and rear suspension, etc.
