Originally Posted by gtownviking

What constitutes a bike as being a "Sport" bike? Made for going at a pace that's not leisurely, but efficient for distance over time. Minimal gear carried.

Same for a "Sport Tourer"? Take some stuff with you, not a lot, and not exactly meandering around. Going somewhere as if with a purpose, with a few items along to ease the journey or prepare for changes in temperature, etc. Often able to mount at least a rear rack, or maybe fenders.

Are drop bars the only requisite for a bike being called a "road" bike? No, but generally they have them.

If I could only have three "road" bikes in my stable, what would you tell me to get and why? I'll stick to the bikes generally found in this forum, though newer models of all can be found and ridden.


I like to tour: Nice steel bike with relaxed (longer) wheelbase, center pull or cantilever brakes, ability to mount racks, geared for various terrain, often a triple.

bum around the neighborhood in the evenings and get groceries at the corner store: 3-speed with upright bars, a rear rack or front basket, fenders, simple.

and charity/event rides: generally a road bike, geometry that suits the sense of urgency you may/may not feel. comfortable and efficient.

I guess what I am getting at is this. Is there an "etiquette" to what bike to ride for certain event? Not really. People generally respect what you ride, unless it's sort of ridiculous or unsafe for the type of riding. I've seen mixte's, hybrids, and 3-speeds at charity rides, including 100-milers. I've been beat in triathlons by riders on touring bikes, and I've seen people bumming around on racing bikes.

Other than the obvious. You don't show up with an LHT to your Tuesday Night Crit.

Thanks for sharing your wisdom.