Carbon and aluminum dominate mainstream bikes today. Nearly all new bikes are 11-speed, and some are even 12-speed as standard spec. Generally, the more you spend, the lighter the bike, with more reliable, durable and better-performing components. In no particular order, here are the bikes for 2020 that caught our eye.
Specialized Allez Sprint Comp Disc, $2,200
The Smartweld technology used to create the Specialized Allez Sprint Comp Disc allows for more material at joints and high-stress regions, and less where it's not needed in the middle of a tube. This means a lower-weight bike with a refined road feel. The Allez also features a FACT carbon fork, which further smooths ride for this race-ready bike from the northern California-based brand.
Trek Madone SLR6 Disc, $5,299
The Trek Madeon SLR6 checks all the boxes for a premier race bike: sublime comfort, precision handling, aerodynamic advantage, high-performing components and color customization through Trek ProjectOne. But what differentiates the Madone from other race bikes is the Adjustable Top Tube IsoSpeed. Along with a vibration dampening elastomer, you can select the amount of comfort-enabling compliance with this feature found in top-end Trek road bikes.
Pinarello Dogma F12, $12,000-$13,500
This bike was designed to win Grand Tours. It's a do-it-all, no-compromise racer, and is hand-finished and assembled by professionals. Disc and rim brake configurations, choices of drivetrain, as well as a variety of livery options will suit any discerning cyclist. This Italian superbike is available in 13 different sizes, from 42 to 62 cm.
Viathon R1, $1,498-$6,998
Recently launched, and sold through Walmart, the Viathon R1 road is a no-compromise, all-in racer. You can spec this all-carbon frame with component packages from Shimano, SRAM, Zipp and Knight Composites. This race bike will change your mind about buying a quality bike at a big-box store.
Fuji Transonic 2.1, $4,999
When we rode the Fuji Transonic when it first launched, we were impressed with its nimble handling and ability to whip around corners yet still stay firmly under us, offering confidence and control. This Fuji aero road bike comes equipped with the SRAM Force eTap AXS group, hydraulic disc brakes and rolling on house brand Oval Concepts carbon wheels. It is a fantastic value for new enthusiasts and seasoned racers alike.
Diamondback Century 5C, $2,500
The various stiffness values of the carbon that comprises the Diamondback Century 5C help to make this endurance road bike an easy ride, no matter the distance or surface. The Shimano 105 component group with hydraulic disc brakes offer modulation and power for effective stopping in nearly any condition.
Cannondale CAAD 13 105, $1,800
The Cannondale CAAD 13 behaves just like a more-expensive, all-carbon bike with a ride quality that is nearly as refined as a bike costing thousands more. This is the 13th iteration of this model line, and Cannondale just keeps improving and refining it to be better and better. We can't wait to ride the 2020 CAAD13.
Liv Langma Advanced 2 Disc, $2,330
The women's-specific geometry of the Liv Langma Advanced 2 Disc means women of nearly any height should be able to ride this bike out of their local bike shop and have it fit well. A saddle designed for women and an appropriately sized narrower cockpit complete this entry-level racing package.
Giant TCR Advanced Pro Disc, $1,800-$4,400
An all-around racer from Giant, the TCR Advanced Pro Disc even comes complete with a power meter mounted to a mid-compact crankset, no matter if you go with Shimano or SRAM electronic drivetrain options. Of our rides on the TCR Advanced, it stood out as an apt climber and was comfortable even on light gravel roads.
Canyon Ultimate CF SL Disc, $3,699
The Canyon Ultimate CF SL Disc is available for online purchase only; it will arrive with very minimal assembly required. The light weight (7.5kg, claimed) makes this bike an easy climber, while the frame tubes, with truncated virtual foil shapes, offer aerodynamic benefit for descents and flat road riding. Shimano Ultegra Di2 electronic groupset is all the performance you'd expect of this do-it-all racer.
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