This is an introductory article for road bike beginners, not a typical buyer's guide.

I hope you'll read it casually, as if a friend were giving you advice.

In particular, I've tried to give you an overview of the important components (derailleurs, brakes, etc.).

Let's get started.

Introduction to Road Bikes

If you've decided to buy a road bike, why is that?

① A friend rides a road bike, and seeing them made you want to ride one too.

② You're interested in bikes and wanted to upgrade from a hybrid bike.

③ You saw something in a magazine (or video) and became rapidly interested.

④ You wanted to travel medium distances by bike.

⑤ You thought of a road bike as an easy sport for your health.

Indeed, "easy sport" seems to be a common keyword.

Think about it.

Tennis and golf require you to learn the basics from scratch.

However, if you can already ride a bicycle, a road bike is relatively easy to master.

Jogging is also easy, but the big difference with a road bike is the intervention of the bicycle itself. This means that it's not just about "doing a sport," but also about cherishing the equipment.

Why Road Bikes Are Suitable for Cycling

Why a road bike and not a "mamachari" (city bike)?

I'm sure you understand.

Because road bikes are the most comfortable and efficient way to ride on paved roads.

50km on a mamachari is an unthinkable distance, but on a road bike, it's a distance you can ride the day you buy it.

Next, we'll move on to the topic of what kind of road bike you should buy.

What is the best choice for road bike beginners?

You haven't yet established your ideal road bike image.

In that case, choosing an expensive bike from the start might be a bit risky.

In other words, it's a safe bet to choose an "entry-class" bike that has sufficient performance for your needs.

Let's talk specifics. I have two suggestions.

① 150,000 to 200,000 yen class

The safest choice is to select a bike in the 150,000 to 200,000 yen range equipped with a mid-range component set like Shimano 105 (derailleurs, brakes, etc.). The frame material is mainly aluminum, but if it boasts carbon, it's definitely a model with excellent cost performance.

If you choose a bike in this class, you won't regret it later. You'll likely be able to ride it for a very long time if you want to.

However, if investing that much in your first bike seems a bit steep, there's another option.

② 80,000 to 100,000 yen class

The components on models in this class are Shimano Claris.

Yes, as you might guess, components occupy a very important position for a bike. The components used indicate the bike's "grade."

These still offer sufficient performance and quality, but when riding long distances, you might find that the 8-speed gearing, compared to the 10-12 speed of higher-end classes, sometimes leaves you wanting more at certain speeds. The shifting feel also has a slight difference in smoothness compared to higher-end models.

Nevertheless, it's perfectly adequate for getting to know the world of road bikes, and even if you eventually buy a higher-end model, this one will remain a valuable and casual ride for everyday use.

Furthermore, there's the option of a more casual hybrid bike, but generally, they are not designed for long distances as much as road bikes. However, for rides of about 20km or 30km, they are perfectly fine. With a hybrid bike, you can find a satisfying model for around 50,000 yen.

About Road Bike Components

Components are the general term for the mechanical parts, such as the derailleurs and brakes.

The main manufacturers are Shimano, SRAM, and Campagnolo.

Each company offers many models, allowing you to choose based on your desired level and price.

Here, I'll talk about Shimano, which is the most common. There are six grades.

① DURA-ACE

Shimano's flagship model. 11-speed, full set costs approximately 200,000 to 380,000 yen.

② ULTEGRA

Well-regarded as a high-end model. 11-speed, approximately 110,000 to 200,000 yen.

③ 105

Shimano's representative component group, most widely used. 11-speed, approximately 70,000 yen.

④ Tiagra

For mid-range, 10-speed, approximately 60,000 yen.

⑤ SORA

For entry-class, 9-speed, approximately 40,000 yen.

⑥ Claris

For entry-class, used on models under 100,000 yen. 8-speed, approximately 30,000 yen.

Shimano meets the diverse demands of users with this range. You'll notice that components make up a very large proportion of the total price.

Now, let's look more closely at the 150,000 to 200,000 yen class road bikes, which are the main focus.

Road Bikes in the 150,000 to 200,000 yen Class

As an example, I'll explain using our ICAN road bike.

This is the Taurus model, priced at 167,300 yen including tax. Its weight is also an impressive 7.85kg.

The components are, as expected, a full set of Shimano 105. Shimano 105, while a mid-range component group from Shimano, boasts 11 rear speeds and is comparable to higher-end models, making it an excellent component that you won't outgrow in the future.

Frames are generally made of aluminum, carbon, or chromoly. Aluminum offers excellent stiffness and is used in the majority of models in this class. In contrast, ICAN's Taurus uses carbon, which is a luxury for this class (and it has an aero shape!).

Carbon has many advantages, such as lightness and a supple ride feel. Entry-level carbon frames are usually designed with ease of riding and durability as top priorities, so you'll get a model without any quirks.

There are two types of brakes: traditional rim brakes (caliper brakes) and disc brakes, which currently divide the market. Disc brakes are characterized by their excellent stopping power regardless of weather, but they can also be delicate. The Taurus deliberately uses easier-to-handle rim brakes.

For wheels in this class, almost without exception, they will come with aluminum ones. They are a bit heavier than aftermarket wheels sold individually and are the top candidate for future upgrades.

Nevertheless, these wheels are durable, highly precise, and by no means inconvenient for beginners.

As for tires, be sure to check the size. Currently, widths of 25-28mm are mainstream, and the old idea that thinner meant higher performance is a thing of the past. A typical 25mm width is indicated as 700x25C.

Design and coloring might be the most concerning aspects.

Once you've confirmed the main specifications, modern road bikes are so high-quality that it's often said you can choose based on design alone.

To judge design, including coloring, you need to look at many bikes (catalogs and books are useful).

Although they may look similar at first glance, there are subtle differences in geometry (dimensions of each part) and how strength and rigidity are achieved. As you look more, you'll be able to judge good balance and coolness.

Don't just buy it impulsively; don't miss out on the fun of deliberating and choosing your own bike.

Size is also an important point. Each manufacturer provides a chart of appropriate sizes, which you can use as a reference. While there's no end to fine-tuning, I'll let you know that some believe it's slightly better to go a bit smaller than larger if a perfect size isn't available.

Gravel road bikes are rapidly gaining attention. These bikes are designed with good straight-line stability and fatter tires to handle some rough terrain.

Depending on your range of activity, it might be worth considering.

Conclusion

For those of you who have discovered the appeal of road bikes, I'm sure gaining knowledge about them is a great pleasure.

The ICAN blog is also extensive, packed with information that will help you.

Please make use of it.

[Reference Articles]

Sports Bicycle: Beginner's Guide

How to Choose and Buy a Road Bike for Beginners

Why You Should Buy a Road Racing Bike