I love the classic road bike. What do I mean by “classic”?

I use the term “classic” to distinguish it from a pure racing machine.  Racing bikes have all but completely hi-jacked the road bike category even though most people are (trying) to use them for recreational rides, brevets,  light touring, randonneuring and such. Speed and light weight is desired but not at the cost of comfort, handling, durability and a little touch of practicality.

For more pics of this brand spanking new “classic” Titanium road bike:

check our Flickr stream.

The difference between a racing weapon and a classic road companion is subtle but very important. The best part is that these changes have very little effect on the weight or speed of the bike but allow for a much more enjoyable experience.

Changes usually include:

Normal reach brakes. Short reach brakes found on most race bikes allow for only 23-25mm tires and no fenders without a lot of fuss, scissor use and resulting noise. The extra 10mm clearance has little or no effect on the performance of a classic road bike but opens up a whole new world of possibilities such as tires up to 32mm and full fenders. Still want to race, or do that fast group ride with your 21-23 mm treads? No problem.  No one will even know you just went touring last week. Shimano makes a great set of Ultegra level dual pivot road brakes that work virtually the same as their shorter version.

More upright position. Most of the race bikes I see have the stem turned up and a huge stack of spacers to get the rider into a more comfortable position especially for long rides. Why not make the bike that way in the first place.  At naked bikes we always build to the individual. We will never shame you into a ridiculous racing position if it isn’t efficient and comfortable. If you really do feel at home with your nose a few inches above the front wheel, great, we can do that too. God knows I spent half my riding career sniffing my front tire!

Braze-ons. If you buy a lifetime bike like a naked road bike, chances are it will evolve as you do. You may swear up and down that your new steed will never see rain nor rack nor tour, but chances are you will love riding so much that it will be pressed into all kinds of service down the road. Adding 5-10 grams of metal so you can easily run fenders and a rear rack is the simplest thing you can do for yourself .

Does it look like a racing bike? Absolutely.

Does it ride like a racing bike? sure, but better.

Is it as light as a racing bike? Sometimes lighter.

Can I race on it? Of course, especially long distance when comfort beats stiffness every time.

Can I do a light tour on it? Grab a sleeping bag or a credit card and get going……