For millions of people, cycling has resurfaced as their primary form of exercise to have a good workout. It puts a strain on the lungs, improves aerobic fitness, and increases power and strength. While there’s no substitute for hard work, technology is now available to track real-time information and take your cycling conditioning to the next level, from power metres to on-bike computers.
Bike technology refuses to stand still, and neither will bike brands – but what can we expect in the coming year? These are our best selections for the greatest bikes to consider buying, whether you’re searching for the fastest racing, sleekest aero bike, long-distance mile muncher, or most agile climber.
Cowboy 4
The Cowboy 4 is one of the best e-bikes of 2021, and it’s tough to overlook if you’re seeking an electric bike for city riding. The Cowboy 3 was a fantastic machine last year, but the new model takes things even further with a more refined ride and the option of step-over or step-through frames. The simplicity of the Cowboy 4 is one of its most appealing characteristics. On an e-bike, the lack of gears, switches, and other controls ensures that you’ll be able to ride with ease right away. When you turn the pedal, the motor automatically engages, altering the level of help based on the amount of pressure you provide.
The internal cabling and carbon belt drive mechanism, which does not require oiling or tensioning like a chain, make maintenance a breeze. There are lights and fenders built-in and a charging port for your smartphone.
Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi-Mod Disc
Cannondale’s latest SuperSix Evo was released just in time for the 2019 Tour de France, and it features a sloping top tube, as well as a dedication to disc brakes (on the Hi-Mod model). But it’s not only the flat top tube that’s gone; Cannondale has also switched to aero tube designs, which it claims saves 30 watts (at 48kph) more than its predecessor. The frame also features a flat-backed seat post and seat tube, as well as the dropped chainstays that have become standard on race bikes. The new frame weighs 886g in size 56, painted, with room for 30mm tyres (28mm on non-Hi-Mod rim-brake variants).
Cannondale has also chosen an integrated cockpit, with the bar, stem, seat post, and wheelset all being provided by the brand’s KNOT components. The 45mm deep road wheels are carbon fibre and tubeless-ready, as you’d expect for a bike in this price range, and a Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 groupset provides the gearing. At launch, a Power2Max NG Eco power metre was put in the Dura-Ace-equipped SuperSix Evo (which you had to pay to activate). Unfortunately, for 2021, that option is no longer available, and the SRAM eTap model is the only one with a power metre.
VanMoof S3
The VanMoof S3 is difficult to top if you don’t require your bike to fold or have suspension. The S3 is a fantastic electric bike due to its automated gears, powerful engine, and long-range. Although the price is lower than the S2, no compromises have been made: you receive a built-in alarm and tracking system, LED lights, and mudguards as standard, as well as a three-year warranty.
Specialized Allez
The Specialized budget bike sports an internal cable routing system and a lightweight frame with an all-carbon fork. However, the Axis Sport wheels are heavy, and the Tektro rim brakes aren’t the best. On the other hand, the Shimano Claris groupset provides ample gear range for tackling slopes and space for mudguards and a rack. For the price, it’s a fantastic deal.
Robbie Hybrid AL e
The Ribble Hybrid AL e is one of the most excellent electric bikes available right now, thanks to its road-inspired design and exceptionally smooth ride. This electric hybrid could be just the ticket. The Ribble Hybrid AL e might easily pass for a traditional push-bike, even though electric bikes aren’t exquisite, and their hefty frame-mounted batteries are regular targets for vandals. The bike’s motor system weighs only 3.5kg, making it remarkably light, with only an inconspicuous power button and a slightly thicker than usual downtube revealing its presence.
It can be charged from flat in 3.5 hours and gives you up to 60 miles of power-assisted riding over mixed terrain. The Ebikemotion companion app provides turn-by-turn guidance and live metrics on your ride, and there are three degrees of help to select from (but we’ve found that the highest is the most enjoyable). Not only that, but it’s also one of the cheapest e-bikes on the market today. It’s highly recommended, and it’s a blast to ride.
