Sleek, light and durable speedsters
Some call it the Lance Armstrong wannabe effect. Others say mountain bikes are just too slow on pavement. Whatever the reason, high-end road-racing bikes are more popular than they’ve been in decades. The hottest category is bike frames that use carbon-fiber -- the lightweight, strong, shock-dampening material found in tennis racquets, kayak paddles and other gear. Here are four models to check out.
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If it’s good enough for Lance...
Trek 5900: Armstrong used this ultra-light, all-carbon climbing bike during the Tour de France mountain stages.
Likes: Quiet, smooth, powerful climber. At just 17 pounds, one of the lightest production bikes ever. Traditional frame with a level top tube. Shimano Dura-Ace 20-speed drive train.
Dislikes: None
Price: $4,800. (800) 879-8735; www.trekbikes.com
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Head-turning aerodynamic style
Litespeed Siena: A racing bike with striking looks and titanium-carbon frame.
Likes: Aerodynamic, wing-shaped down tube, fork and seat stays. Unpainted titanium mainframe is durable, scratchproof. Carbon fork and stays cushion the ride. High-end Shimano Ultegra 18-speed drive train. Weighs 19 pounds.
Dislikes: May prefer the durability and liveliness of an all-titanium frame.
Price: $3,530. (423) 238-5530; www.litespeed.com.
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Built for comfort and distance
Specialized Roubaix: This all-carbon design is perhaps the most comfortable racing bike ever.
Likes: Innovations make this bike ideal for long-distance and over-35 racers. Has built-in, shock-absorbing elastomer inserts. Handlebars are 2 inches higher than usual, so there’s less bending over. Well-cushioned saddle. Shimano Ultegra 18-speed drive train. Weighs 19 pounds.
Dislikes: Though handsome, all-black clear-coat finish scratches easily.
Price: $2,550. (408) 779-6229; www.specialized.com
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Easy riding and economical
Klein Aura 5: A bargain aluminum-carbon racer from a prestigious manufacturer.
Likes: The edge is taken off the rough-riding metal tubes by the carbon fork and seat stay. Mid-range Shimano 105 18-speed drive train. Weighs 20 pounds.
Dislikes: None.
Price: $1,520. (920) 478-2191; www.kleinbikes.com.
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-- Roy M. Wallack