Cyclo-cross or Road?

Question

I am going to be a lot of riding on the road (all of the time) when I get my new bike but I am not sure what to get. I want a road bike t go fast, be light and just do on-the-road riding but i am worried that the roads here in Windsor,Ont will damage the bike. Will a road bike get damaged over some bumps/small potholes (4inches deep). The only reason I would get a cyclo-cross is so be safe so if there ever is rough roads or such that i will be fine. But if i got a cyclo-cross i would use it the same just as i would with a road. PLEASE ANSWER!! thanks,

Answer 1

I use a cyclocross bike for commuting but a lot of that is on tracks.  Certainly if the roads are really that bad then the wider tyres will take a bit of the impact out.  If your in Ontario and expect to do much cycling in the winter you might want the option of using the chunkier tyres too.

One down side is that the geometry may be a bit aggressive for comfort.  Another thing to think about is a touring bike which will give you a fast road bike with wider tyres and a more comfortable position.

I had another thought, if you do go with a cyclocross bike the gears may be a bit low for road use.  Most will have a compact chain ring so you might want to get this changed when you buy it.

Answer 2

Cyclocross bikes are modified racers. Yes, they can handle off roading to some extent. But they have an aggresive riding position and might not be a good fit. Touring bikes like the Bianchi Volpe have sturdier frames and wheels than a race bike. They aren't quite as light as a racer, but are excellent commuter bikes. I run one in Maine year round on 700x32c tires. I find they are the most comfortable of the genre to ride too. Tire volume will give you the best ride, puncutre resistance, and wheel safety while not changing rolling resistance much at all (smooth tread). Just make sure that the frame will allow you enough clearance for the tire you want to run. Trust me, the next bike I'll get will be able to handle 700x38c! Studs for winter! Yeah!