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We analyse nine characteristics of competition road bikes in order to give them an overall score, weighted according to their relevance. A manufacturer cannot fail in any discipline if it wants to be among the best. The difficulty: some characteristics are almost incompatible, such as the best aerodynamics and the lowest weight, the two most important criteria in the test. This balancing act alone is a fine art. This is demonstrated by the rankings on the following pages, as other bikes lead in the individual disciplines than in the overall ranking.
The search for the best this year was more focussed than ever: In the February issue, an elite test field was assembled, bringing together all the big names. Models from Canyon, Scott and Specialized emerged with the top score of 1.5 and thus perhaps the most valuable test victory in the world. They are neither the fastest nor the lightest, but very good in both criteria. In addition, they offer a high level of comfort to reduce fatigue, good stiffness values so that the bike is stable and safe to ride, the best shifting technology, the strongest brakes and the fastest tyres. It goes without saying that the best road bikes are very expensive due to their top equipment alone.
Canyon Aeroad CFR AXS
The claim to build nothing less than the most complete road bike in the world is more than just a marketing promise from the Koblenz-based manufacturer. With 204 watts in our aero measurement, it lays the foundation for the top score, even though it is heavier than many of its competitors. But there are only a few faster bikes in the world, and they weigh considerably more. The Aeroad doesn't score top marks in any discipline, but you won't find any weaknesses either. The bike also manages to fulfil all requirements in practice in a remarkable manner. The handling is predictable, but not boring; the suspension is firm, but not uncomfortable. For what it offers, the Aeroad can even be described as inexpensive, especially in view of its competitors with the same rating. And even on closer inspection, it doesn't turn out to be a sham: from the power meter to the 3D-print saddle, everything is on board to make the hearts of technology fans beat faster.
- Weight: 7.1 kilogramme
- Price: 8,999 Euro
- TOUR grade: 1,5
Scott Foil RC Ultimate
The name says it all. The Foil resembles a flounder: drawn like a line from the front, the aero profile is reminiscent of a time trial bike from the side. However, Scott has already shown with previous models that they can also skilfully combine other strengths with a fast silhouette: The Foil has always been stiff, light and comfortable, and this applies all the more to the current generation. It leaves most of its competitors behind, especially in the aero rating. With the spectacularly light Syncros wheels, which are baked in one piece with their carbon spokes, Scott manages to stay under seven kilograms despite a heavy frame. However, you have to dig deep into your pockets for this: At 16,000 euros, it is at the upper end of what manufacturers are charging.
- Weight: 6.9 kilogrammes
- Price: 15,999 Euro
- TOUR grade: 1,5
Specialised S-Works Tarmac SL8
A prime example of a race all-rounder: the Tarmac, renovated in 2023, manages the balancing act between good aerodynamics and low weight so well that the competition bites its teeth out. According to the scores, it was caught up by its rivals from Canyon and Scott this year, but not surpassed, making it one of the best for the third year in a row. The Tarmac scores its points primarily with its low weight. The bike is more streamlined than it seems at first glance: at 209 watts, it competes with bikes with a much flatter design. Added to this are the well-sprung seat post and completely uncritical stiffness values. You won't find any weak points on the saddle either; the handling is as harmonious as a Michelin-starred chef's dish.
- Weight: 6.6, kilogramme
- Price: 13,499 Euro >> available here
- TOUR grade: 1,5
Jens Klötzer
Editor
