Learn more about road cycles and get the right one for your commute with Cyclescheme

Road cycles are ideal for turning your commute into a faster, lighter, and more enjoyable journey. They are often lightweight and feature narrow tyres and wheels, as well as a drop handlebar that makes for a more aero efficient position when riding. All of this comes together to help you cover more ground in less time.

That makes road cycles a strong choice if your commute follows paved roads or cycle paths. Whether you want to shorten a long journey, replace crowded public transport, or add more movement to your working day, a road bike can help you arrive feeling more awake and energised.

The right model depends on your route and riding style. Some road cycles focus on speed, while others offer a more relaxed position, practical mounts, or greater comfort over longer distances. This guide will help you compare the options, choose a road bike that feels right from your first ride, and explain how you can save 47% on a new road bike through Cyclescheme.

Save on Road Bikes Through Cyclescheme

What are road cycles?

Road cycles are bikes designed mainly for smooth, paved surfaces. Their frames tend to weigh less than those found on mountain or hybrid bikes, while their narrow tyres create less rolling resistance against the road.

Most traditional road bikes use curved drop handlebars. Drop handlebars give you several hand positions and let you lower your body when you want a more aerodynamic riding position. Many modern road cycles also use a wide range of gears, helping you keep a steady rhythm on flat roads, hills, and longer journeys.

These features make road bikes popular with commuters, fitness riders, weekend cyclists, and competitive racers alike. You don’t need to chase personal records to enjoy one. The same efficient design that helps a racer move quickly can make your daily journey feel smoother and less demanding.

Road cycles usually work best on:

• Tarmac roads
• Paved cycle paths
• Urban commuting routes
• Longer rides on smooth surfaces
• Fitness and leisure rides

Loose gravel, muddy trails, and rough tracks call for wider tyres and more stability. For road-based journeys, a road bike offers speed without unnecessary weight.

If most of your commute is on tarmac and speed matters, a road bike is likely to suit you well. If your route mixes roads with rougher tracks or gravel, a gravel bike may offer more versatility, while a hybrid bike can be a better choice if you prioritise an upright riding position and everyday practicality.

Why choose road cycles for commuting?

Road cycles suit commuters who want to travel efficiently. A lighter frame can make climbing hills and carrying a bike easier, while narrow tyres help you build and maintain speed.

A road bike can be especially useful when your workplace is several miles from your home. The efficient riding position helps you cover longer distances without wasting energy, giving you more freedom to leave the car behind or reduce your reliance on public transport. This can help you save money on the costs of fuel, buses, or trains too.

Road cycles also make it easier to turn commuting time into exercise. Instead of finding another hour for a workout, you can build regular movement into a journey you already need to make.

To learn more about how much you can save by cycling to work with a road bike through Cyclescheme, use our savings calculator.

Which type of road bike should you choose?

Road cycles come in several forms, and each design balances speed, comfort, and practicality differently. For example:

• A racing road bike prioritises low weight and aerodynamics
• An endurance road bike offers a more relaxed position for longer journeys
• Flat-bar models give you an upright view of traffic
• Practical commuter road bikes may include mounts for mudguards and panniers

Think about where you’ll ride most often. Your regular route matters more than a feature that sounds impressive in a product description.

Racing road cycles for speed

Racing road cycles, sometimes called aero road bikes, help riders move quickly on smooth surfaces. The low, forward-leaning position reduces wind resistance, while lightweight components help the road bike respond quickly when you accelerate or climb. Being able to ratchet up a good amount of speed is both motivating and plenty of fun, and it allows you to cycle further without burning as much energy as you might with a heavier bike. 

For riders who are new to this kind of bike, entry-level road race cycles will often come with what are referred to as ‘training tyres’. These are generally heavier and more durable than racing tyres, so they are better suited to a morning commute.

A racing model could suit you if your ride to work doubles as a workout or covers a long distance on open roads. Just make sure you check the riding position before buying, as aggressive race positioning can place greater strain on your back and neck than a more relaxed road bike.

Endurance road cycles for comfort

Endurance road cycles, also known as sportive bikes, combine road-bike efficiency with a focus on a more comfortable riding position. The frame geometry places less pressure on your upper body, which can help you remain comfortable during long commutes and weekend rides.

Many endurance models can also take wider tyres, and they are designed to make fitting mudguards and panniers as simple as possible. These features make an endurance road bike useful when you need to carry work clothes, protect yourself from road spray, or add comfort across uneven tarmac.

Flat bar road cycles for more upright riding

Flat-bar road cycles combine road-bike speed with straight handlebars and a more upright riding position, as opposed to the usually lower position of standard road bikes. Sitting higher can improve your view of traffic, junctions, and pedestrians, which many city commuters value. It can also offer more comfort if you’re not a fan of the more forwards-leaning athletic posture while riding.

A flat-bar road bike may create slightly more wind resistance than a drop-bar model, resulting in a slight trade-off in speed, but this will barely be noticeable for commuters and casual riders making urban journeys. The familiar controls and relaxed position can also help newer cyclists feel more confident when braking, changing gear, or navigating busy routes.

Road cycles with disc brakes

Disc brakes first featured on mountain bikes but now appear on many different types, including road cycles. Instead of operating at the rim, disc brakes work in the centre of your bike wheel which makes them much more resilient against mud, snow, and rain. 

Bikes with disc brakes are more reliable in extreme weather conditions and allow room for mudguards and wider tyres. They also last longer than rim brakes, making them a good all-round choice for commuters. If you’re riding in a built-up area, however, the difference between rim and disc brakes will be minimal and more a matter of preference.  

The main disadvantage to disc brakes is that they aren’t as aerodynamic as some other brake types and they can take a little longer to change. This is important to note if you’re a competitive cyclist, but it shouldn’t impact commuters.

Women’s road bikes

Women’s road cycles are specifically designed for female riders. A few subtle differences like narrowed handlebars, shorter cranks, and a shallower drop mean improved comfort for women. These features will be particularly appreciated by shorter women who may struggle to use standard bikes.

This does not mean women have to buy specific bikes. Bikes are unisex, but you might benefit from the slight differences in size. The best way to figure out what type of road bike is right for you is by going for test rides to see which design is the most comfortable. 

What to check before buying a road cycle

Ultimately, a well-fitted road bike should feel stable, comfortable, and easy for you to control. Your frame size, saddle position, handlebar reach, and riding posture all affect how a road cycle feels.

It’s a good idea to try out several models in person, which includes sitting on them to get a feel and even taking them for a short test ride if possible. When doing this, wear the shoes and clothing you expect to use while commuting, and think about practical details such as luggage, lighting, storage, and changing weather.

In summary, you should look for a road bike that matches your real journey and riding needs. Comfort builds confidence, and confidence gets you riding more often.

Get road cycles through Cyclescheme

Once you know which road bike suits your journey, Cyclescheme can make the cost more manageable.

Cyclescheme lets eligible employees save up to 47% on a new bike and eligible cycling accessories through salary sacrifice. You pay nothing upfront and spread the cost through payments taken from your salary before Income Tax and National Insurance deductions.

You can choose road cycles from more than 2,600 participating bike shops across the UK, including independent shops, online retailers, major stores, and brands that sell directly. The choice gives you room to compare frames, components, and fits rather than settling for a road bike that doesn’t suit you. Many participating retailers can also help you choose the right frame size and compare different road-bike styles, so you don't have to know exactly what you need before you start.

The process is simple:

• Check that your employer offers Cyclescheme
• Choose a road bike and eligible accessories
• Apply for the amount you need
• Wait for your employer to approve the request
• Get your Cyclescheme Certificate
• Redeem the Certificate with your chosen retailer

Your Cyclescheme package can include a road bike, eligible safety equipment, and practical commuting accessories. Cyclescheme also includes 14 days of free bike insurance, helping protect your new ride from the moment you get moving.

A faster commute could be closer than you think.

Check if Your Employer Offers Cyclescheme