As we write this article, Mathieu van der Poel has just won his second Milano-Sanremo. The 2025 edition of La Classicissima has already gone down in history as one of the most thrilling ever, thanks to the spectacular battle on the Cipressa and Poggio between van der Poel, Filippo Ganna, and Tadej Pogačar. Pushing their machines to the limit, they fought to be the first to cross the finish line after an almost 300 km ride.
When we talk about World Tour professionals' bikes, we refer to road and racing bikes that may seem "simple" at first glance but actually boast a wide range of features. Just like the ones you should consider when buying a bike online. But where do you start? Of course, with this guide, which we’ve written specifically to help you choose the best road or racing bike for your needs and riding style.
Mathieu van der Poel in the last 400 meters of the 2025 Milano-Sanremo | Credit: Solowattaggio
Racing Bike vs Endurance Bike: Which One to Buy?
Road bikes can be divided into two main categories: racing bikes and endurance bikes. Here are the key differences:
- "Pure" racing bikes – the rider is positioned lower and more aerodynamically. These bikes generally have a more aggressive geometry, allowing for better handling;
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Endurance road bikes – the rider maintains a more upright position, and the frame angles are slightly more "relaxed" to provide stability and comfort over long distances.
And what about prices? Both categories fall into two distinct price ranges:
- €1,500 - €2,500 for new entry-level road bikes;
- €1,600 - €2,000 for used road bikes.
Capo Noli, the "train" of road bikes at the 2025 Sanremo Women | Credit: Milano-Sanremo
From Aerodynamic Road Bikes to the Emerging E-Road Bikes
Below the two main categories just described, there are other subcategories tailored to more specific needs. The two primary subcategories of road bikes are:
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aerodynamic road bikes, or simply "aero" bikes - designed for absolute speed;
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"climbing" road bikes - prioritize lightness over aerodynamics.
2025 Sanremo Women, the Cipressa curves highlight aerodynamics | Credit: Milano-Sanremo
But there is also a rapidly growing category of road bikes: electric road bikes, or e-road bikes. These are equipped with hub or mid-drive motors and integrated batteries. These next-generation bicycles retain all the technical and aesthetic features of a modern racing bike, with the added advantage of extra power.
The Road Bike Collection on bike-room.com
Our endless passion for cycling continues to expand our bike selection year after year. From new to used and Demo Bikes, Bikeroom's revolution in online bike shopping, premium models used in major brand showrooms (or high-end photoshoots) that are typically available only to "family and friends." These bikes have either never touched the road or have only been ridden for a few kilometers.
And that's not all! By exploring the "Road" section on bike-room.com, you’ll find two categories of bikes that go beyond "top level":
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World Tour Team Bikes - these are bikes personally acquired by Bike-room at the end of each racing season, directly from professional teams. Each bike is carefully inspected, serviced, and certified, ensuring 100% quality and reliability for our customers in over 40 countries;
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Dream Build Bikes - unique, custom-assembled models crafted by our professional mechanics. A perfect example? The latest arrival in our workshop: the BMC Masterpiece.
Choosing a Road Bike Based on Price
Now that you have an overview of the different types of road bikes and the factors affecting their price, here’s our final piece of advice. Another key factor in choosing a road bike is its condition. At equal quality, a certified top-tier used bike from a few years ago will be more affordable than a Demo Bike model.
That said, it all comes down to what you truly want. But don’t worry—whatever your goal, Bikeroom is here to meet your every need. Before we wrap up, here’s a quick look at road bike components and some articles to explore the topic further.
Elisa Longo Borghini in action at the 2025 Sanremo Women | Credit: Solowattaggio
Want to Learn More?
Carbon, Aluminum, Steel, or Titanium Frame?
Many of the most expensive road bikes are made from carbon fiber due to its high strength-to-weight ratio, allowing brands to design lightweight and efficient bikes.
However, high-end aluminum road bikes can deliver similar ride quality and performance to carbon models while being more affordable. The downside? They tend to be heavier. Many entry-level road bikes are made from aluminum.
On the other hand, steel road bikes offer a classic and elegant look, and many cyclists prefer them for their smooth ride quality, which absorbs road vibrations and makes the experience more "thrilling."
Then there are titanium road bikes, often a premium investment due to the complexity of working with the material. Yet, like steel, they are prized for their unique ride feel, attractive aesthetics, and exclusivity.
Want to dive deeper? Check out our magazine feature on why a bike's frame material can affects its handling.
How to Measure a Bicycle Frame
Buying a bike and choosing the right frame type is just the first step. Next, you need to select the right model and size, and this is where an uninformed cyclist might run into some trouble. But don’t worry! Here’s how to measure a bike frame in just a few easy steps using the Bikeroom size calculator. Finding the right bike size has never been easier!
Road Bike Groupsets
What is the best drivetrain system for road bikes? What's the difference between SRAM and Shimano? How much do they cost? Find the answers to these and more in our guide to choosing the best bike drivetrain system.
Disc Brakes vs. Traditional Brakes?
Many believe the debate between disc brakes and traditional brakes will never truly end. We've taken on the challenge and put together the ultimate guide on the pros and cons of both braking systems to settle the discussion once and for all.
Aluminum Rims vs. Carbon Wheels
The choice between aluminum rims and carbon wheels can significantly impact an athlete's performance. While aluminum rims offer greater impact resistance and better heat dissipation during braking, carbon wheels provide faster acceleration and improved aerodynamic efficiency due to their lighter weight and superior stiffness. Want to make the best choice for your riding style? Check out our ultimate guide to choosing between aluminum and carbon wheels.
Clincher, Tubular, or Tubeless?
What type of tires are mounted on road bike wheels? And what are the key differences between them? Find all the answers in our complete guide to choosing between clincher, tubular, and tubeless tires.
