Cyclists tend to fall into two distinct categories: Those who enjoy a leisurely ride and those who see the sport as a way of life. The former may be happy with an everyday affordable bike, but hardy cyclists embarking on long-distance rides tend to have grander ideas.
And while some fantasise about their perfect property or a plush sports car, it is fair to say that almost every dedicated cyclist has a dream bike.
Made from superior materials and promising a better ride, the best bikes can carry a large price tag. So, with that in mind, be prepared to day dream about three of the best elite road bikes that money can buy.
Merida Reacto 5000
Based in Taiwan, Merida aim to build fast, high quality bikes and the Reacto 5000 is no exception. Jam packed with the latest technology, the aero carbon frame is composed of layers of flax fibres to dampen vibrations, as well as nano matrix carbon which improves resistance by 40%. Combined with carbon forks, Shimano Ultegra gears and a carbon seatpost designed to decrease muscle fatigue, the Reacto 5000 is built for speed and comfort. Costing around £2000, this bike is the dream of every adventurous cyclist.
Van Nicholas Chinook 11 Speed
Known for being artisans with titanium, the Dutch company Van Nicholas creates bikes that offer longevity, supreme handling and optimum performance. Priced at £3,370, the Chinook 11 Speed embodies these qualities and offers a classic racing frame with round tube construction, making it perfect for those who prefer bikes with a traditional aesthetic.
Combining a frame composed of an aerospace grade titanium with an alloy seatpost and carbon fork, this bike’s geometry allows for frighteningly fast acceleration – ideal for cycling a sportive.
Enigma Echo Dura Ace
Offering expertly crafted, hand-built bikes, this British brand manufactures their high quality cycles in Sussex, with models costing up to £8000. Currently, the Echo range is Enigma’s most popular, with the Dura Ace being the most elite. Available to purchase for £3799 from Fat Birds, the Dura Ace promises technical quality, expert handling and top performance. Featuring sloping geometry, a full Shimano Dura Ace groupset, a carbon seatpost and brushed finished, this is a bike that delivers both a premium finish and a sublime ride. Plus, crafted from hardy titanium, this is a lightweight bike that could last a lifetime.
This post is written in collaboration with Fat Birds.