The Defy features 15mm longer chainstays than the Propel (420mm compared with 405mm). Chain Stay LengthĪnother critical measurement is the chainstay length. The numbers are similar for the Propel (57mm) and the Defy (58mm), with the small increase making the Defy just that little bit more stable. More trail provides increased stability at higher speeds. Fork & Rake Trailīy affecting the head tube angle, this knocks on to the ‘rake’ of the fork ( also known as offset, which is the difference between the centre of the wheel and the centre of the steering axis) and the trail (the difference between the steerer axis and where the wheel contacts the ground). When it comes to endurance, it’s all about control over long periods of time rather than short sharp blasts. This small change in the angle results in the bike having more stability and control under steering, compared to ‘twitchier’ racing bikes. The Defy sits at 72.5 degrees, which is slightly slacker. This brings us nicely onto the head tube angle – a classic race bike design has a head tube close to 73 degrees, which makes the bike more responsive as a steeper head angle makes the steering faster. This extra 20mm raises the natural riding position of the bike away from the racier Propel, giving a slightly more upright ride. If we take the Defy, the Medium size has a 160mm head tube, compared to the propel which sits at 140mm. The longer head tube also helps in dampening vibrations from the road, as there is more frame material between your handlebars and the ground, therefore it is a common trait on endurance road bikes. A longer head tube results in a more natural upright riding position, ideal for rides where speed isn’t essential. One of the crucial identifiers of endurance bike geometry is looking at the head tube length. ![]() They are quite similar and share common features however, there are a few noticeable differences that separate a racing machine from an endurance bike. Despite that, we can pick out a few key indicators of endurance road bikes and assess how they compare to another road bike.īelow, we have the geometry charts for the Propel Advanced pro and the equivalent Defy. It’s tempting to focus on the numbers in isolation, however, the whole package must be considered when comparing bikes as a small change in one area has a huge knock-on effect elsewhere. On first glance, a geometry chart can just look like a load of numbers chucked onto a table however, they are the result of decisions refined over years of experience and manufacturing that lead to the perfectly tuned machines on the road today. They typically attract riders who want to spend long days in the saddle without feeling every bump and vibration from the road at the end of the day.įocusing on the geometry, they aren't as aggressive as race bikes such as our TCR or Propel range. But what does this actually mean?īelow, we look at what goes into making an endurance road bike and the small changes that make a big difference in how the bike feels and rides. Sometimes referred to as a 'sportive bike', the endurance road bike has increased in popularity in the UK as riders look for more comfort when tackling poor road surfaces and adverse weather conditions.Īlthough they look similar on the surface, there are subtle changes to the makeup of the bikes in this category wider tyres, more upright riding position, powerful disc brakes and shorter top tubes are all common features that distinguish endurance road bikes.
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