Top-rated Touring Bicycles of 2015: Expert Reviews and Buying Guide
Find the best touring bicycles for your next adventure with our comprehensive reviews of the top models in 2015.
Are you planning a long-distance cycling trip this year? Choosing the right touring bicycle is crucial to ensure a comfortable and safe ride. With so many options on the market, it can be challenging to know where to begin your search. That's why we've compiled a list of the best touring bicycles of 2015 based on in-depth reviews from cycling enthusiasts and experts.
First and foremost, the Surly Long Haul Trucker is a top pick for its durability and reliability on the road. This bike is designed to handle heavy loads and rough terrain, making it perfect for extended trips through varying landscapes. The Long Haul Trucker also boasts a comfortable ride with its relaxed geometry and steel frame construction.
If you're looking for a more affordable option, the Novara Randonee is an excellent choice. This touring bicycle has a sturdy aluminum frame and comes equipped with high-quality components, including Shimano Deore shifters and derailleurs. Reviewers praise the Randonee for its smooth ride and ability to handle steep climbs and descents.
The Trek 520 is another standout touring bicycle for its versatility and comfort. Its chromoly steel frame provides a smooth ride, while its wide range of gears allows for easy pedaling on any terrain. The Trek 520 also features a variety of mounting options for racks and fenders, making it a great choice for commuting or touring.
If speed is your top priority, the Kona Sutra is a touring bicycle worth considering. Its lightweight aluminum frame and carbon fork provide a responsive ride, while its wide tires offer stability and control on rough roads. The Sutra also includes a range of high-quality components, such as Shimano Tiagra shifters and hydraulic disc brakes.
For those seeking a touring bicycle that can handle off-road adventures, the Co-Motion Divide is a top contender. This bike's steel frame is designed for rugged terrain, and its wide range of gears allows for easy pedaling up steep inclines. The Divide also features disc brakes for reliable stopping power and a comfortable ride with its relaxed geometry.
The Jamis Aurora Elite is another touring bicycle that offers a balance of comfort and performance on the road. Its Reynolds 631 steel frame provides a smooth ride, while its Shimano Deore XT components offer reliable shifting and braking. The Aurora Elite also includes a variety of mounting options for racks and fenders, making it a versatile choice for commuting or touring.
If you're looking for a touring bicycle that can handle long-distance trips with ease, the Co-Motion Pangea is worth considering. This bike's steel frame is designed for stability and durability, and its wide range of gears allows for easy pedaling on any terrain. The Pangea also features disc brakes and a comfortable ride with its relaxed geometry.
The Salsa Vaya is another versatile touring bicycle that can handle a variety of terrains. Its chromoly steel frame provides a comfortable ride, while its wide range of gears allows for easy pedaling on any incline. The Vaya also includes a variety of mounting options for racks and fenders, making it a versatile choice for commuting or touring.
For those seeking a touring bicycle with a classic look, the Rivendell Atlantis is a top pick. This bike's steel frame is designed for comfort and durability, and its wide tires provide stability and control on rough roads. The Atlantis also features a variety of mounting options for racks and fenders and comes equipped with high-quality components, such as Shimano Ultegra shifters.
Finally, the Thorn Nomad MK2 is a touring bicycle that can handle any adventure with ease. Its steel frame is designed for stability and durability, and its wide range of gears allows for easy pedaling on any incline. The Nomad MK2 also includes a variety of mounting options for racks and fenders and comes equipped with high-quality components, such as Shimano Deore XT shifters.
In conclusion, choosing the right touring bicycle is essential for a successful long-distance cycling trip. Our list of the best touring bicycles of 2015 offers a variety of options to suit different needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for comfort, speed, versatility or durability, there's a touring bicycle on this list that will fit the bill.
Introduction
Touring bicycles have been around for many years, and they are becoming increasingly popular among avid cyclists. These types of bikes are designed to handle long-distance rides and are built to be comfortable and durable. With so many different models on the market, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. In this article, we will review some of the best touring bicycles of 2015.
1. Surly Long Haul Trucker
The Surly Long Haul Trucker is a classic touring bike that has been on the market for over a decade. It is known for its durability and comfort, making it a popular choice among touring cyclists. The Long Haul Trucker has a steel frame and fork, which absorb road vibrations and provide a smooth ride. The bike also comes equipped with a wide range of gears, making it suitable for any terrain.
Pros:
- Durable steel frame and fork
- Comfortable ride
- Wide range of gears
Cons:
- Heavy
- Expensive
2. Co-Motion Pangea
The Co-Motion Pangea is a high-end touring bike that is designed for off-road adventures. It features a steel frame and fork, which provide excellent durability and stability. The bike also has a suspension fork and a wide range of gears, making it suitable for any type of terrain. The Pangea is a great option for riders who want to explore remote areas and tackle challenging trails.
Pros:
- Durable steel frame and fork
- Suspension fork for off-road adventures
- Wide range of gears
Cons:
- Expensive
- Heavy
3. Trek 520
The Trek 520 is a popular touring bike that has been on the market for many years. It features a lightweight aluminum frame and fork, which make it easy to handle on long rides. The bike also comes equipped with a wide range of gears, making it suitable for any terrain. The Trek 520 is a great option for riders who want a reliable and affordable touring bike.
Pros:
- Lightweight aluminum frame and fork
- Reliable
- Affordable
Cons:
- Not as durable as steel frame bikes
- Less comfortable on rough roads
4. Salsa Fargo
The Salsa Fargo is a versatile touring bike that is designed for both on and off-road adventures. It features a steel frame and fork, which provide excellent durability and stability. The bike also has a suspension fork and a wide range of gears, making it suitable for any type of terrain. The Fargo is a great option for riders who want a bike that can handle any adventure.
Pros:
- Durable steel frame and fork
- Suspension fork for off-road adventures
- Wide range of gears
Cons:
- Expensive
- Heavy
5. Cannondale Touring 1
The Cannondale Touring 1 is a high-performance touring bike that is designed for long-distance rides. It features a lightweight aluminum frame and fork, which make it easy to handle on long rides. The bike also comes equipped with a wide range of gears, making it suitable for any terrain. The Touring 1 is a great option for riders who want a fast and efficient touring bike.
Pros:
- Lightweight aluminum frame and fork
- Fast and efficient
- Reliable
Cons:
- Not as durable as steel frame bikes
- Less comfortable on rough roads
Conclusion
Choosing the right touring bike can be a daunting task, but by reviewing some of the best models on the market, you can make an informed decision. Whether you are looking for a durable, comfortable, and affordable bike or one that can handle any adventure, there is a touring bike out there for you. Take the time to research and test ride different models before making your final decision.
Introduction to the Top Touring Bicycles of 2015
If you're planning to go on a long-distance cycling adventure, choosing the right touring bicycle is crucial. A touring bicycle is designed for stability, comfort, and durability, making it the perfect choice for extended rides.With so many touring bicycles available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That's why we've compiled a list of the top touring bicycles of 2015 to help you make an informed decision.Factors to Consider When Choosing a Touring Bicycle
Before we dive into the top touring bicycles of 2015, let's discuss the factors you should consider when choosing a touring bicycle.1. Frame Material: Touring bicycles are typically made of steel, aluminum, or titanium. Steel frames are known for their durability, while aluminum frames are lightweight and corrosion-resistant. Titanium frames offer the best of both worlds, but they come with a higher price tag.2. Wheel Size: Touring bicycles typically come with either 26-inch or 700c wheels. 26-inch wheels are more durable and better suited for off-road adventures, while 700c wheels are faster and smoother on pavement.3. Gear Ratio: A touring bicycle should have a low gear ratio to make it easier to climb hills when carrying heavy loads.4. Brakes: Touring bicycles typically come with either rim brakes or disc brakes. Disc brakes offer better stopping power and are better suited for off-road adventures, but they come with a higher price tag.5. Comfort: Look for a touring bicycle with a comfortable saddle, handlebars, and grips to ensure that you can ride for extended periods without discomfort.The Best Budget Touring Bicycles of 2015
If you're on a tight budget, there are still plenty of options for touring bicycles that won't break the bank.1. Raleigh Sojourn: The Raleigh Sojourn is a steel-framed touring bicycle that comes with 700c wheels, disc brakes, and a Shimano Sora drivetrain. It's a great option for those looking for a reliable, budget-friendly touring bicycle.2. Fuji Touring: The Fuji Touring is another affordable option that comes with a steel frame, 700c wheels, and a Shimano Deore drivetrain. It also has a comfortable saddle and handlebars, making it perfect for long-distance rides.Top Touring Bicycles for Long-Distance Travel
If you're planning to go on a long-distance cycling adventure, you need a touring bicycle that is built for the job.1. Surly Long Haul Trucker: The Surly Long Haul Trucker is a steel-framed touring bicycle that is designed for long-distance travel. It comes with 26-inch wheels, a Shimano Deore drivetrain, and a comfortable saddle and handlebars.2. Trek 520: The Trek 520 is another great option for long-distance travel. It comes with a steel frame, 700c wheels, and a Shimano Deore drivetrain. It also has a front and rear rack, making it easy to carry all your gear.The Most Lightweight and Portable Touring Bicycles of 2015
If you're looking for a touring bicycle that is lightweight and portable, there are plenty of options available.1. Brompton S6L-X: The Brompton S6L-X is a folding touring bicycle that is perfect for those who need a bike that is easy to transport. It comes with 16-inch wheels, a six-speed drivetrain, and a lightweight aluminum frame.2. Co-Motion Divide: The Co-Motion Divide is a titanium-framed touring bicycle that is designed for off-road adventures. It's also lightweight and portable, making it perfect for those who need to transport their bike frequently.Best Touring Bicycles for Off-Road Adventures
If you're planning to do some off-road cycling, you need a touring bicycle that is built for the job.1. Kona Sutra: The Kona Sutra is a steel-framed touring bicycle that is designed for off-road adventures. It comes with 700c wheels, disc brakes, and a Shimano Deore drivetrain.2. Jamis Aurora Elite: The Jamis Aurora Elite is another great option for off-road adventures. It comes with a steel frame, 700c wheels, and a Shimano Deore XT drivetrain. It also has a front and rear rack, making it easy to carry all your gear.The Most Comfortable Touring Bicycles for Extended Rides
If you're planning to go on an extended ride, you need a touring bicycle that is comfortable and built for the job.1. Trek 920: The Trek 920 is a steel-framed touring bicycle that is designed for comfort. It comes with 29-inch wheels, a Shimano Deore XT drivetrain, and a suspension fork to absorb bumps in the road.2. Co-Motion Pangea: The Co-Motion Pangea is another great option for extended rides. It comes with a steel frame, 26-inch wheels, and a Rohloff Speedhub drivetrain. It also has a suspension fork and a comfortable saddle and handlebars.Touring Bicycles with the Most Advanced Components and Technology
If you're looking for a touring bicycle with advanced components and technology, there are plenty of options available.1. Cannondale Touring: The Cannondale Touring is a touring bicycle that comes with a lightweight aluminum frame, 700c wheels, and a Shimano Tiagra drivetrain. It also has disc brakes and a front and rear rack.2. Co-Motion Americano: The Co-Motion Americano is a steel-framed touring bicycle that is designed for comfort and performance. It comes with 700c wheels, a Rohloff Speedhub drivetrain, and a suspension fork.Customer Reviews and Feedback on Popular Touring Bicycles
Before making a decision on which touring bicycle to purchase, it's important to read customer reviews and feedback. This will give you a better idea of how the bike performs in real-world situations.Overall, the Surly Long Haul Trucker, Trek 520, and Kona Sutra are some of the most popular touring bicycles among customers. These bikes are praised for their durability, comfort, and versatility.Conclusion: Choosing the Perfect Touring Bicycle for Your Next Adventure
Choosing the perfect touring bicycle for your next adventure can be overwhelming, but by considering factors like frame material, wheel size, gear ratio, brakes, and comfort, you can narrow down your options.Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or a high-performance touring bicycle with advanced components and technology, there's a bike out there for you. By reading customer reviews and feedback, you can ensure that you're making an informed decision and choosing a bike that will meet your needs and exceed your expectations.The Pros and Cons of Touring Bicycle Reviews 2015
Point of View
As a cycling enthusiast, I believe that touring bicycles are one of the most versatile and efficient means of transportation for long-distance travel. With the growing popularity of touring bikes, it is essential to find the best one that fits your specific needs. One way to do this is through touring bicycle reviews, which provide valuable insights into the features, functionality, and performance of various models.Pros of Touring Bicycle Reviews 2015
1. A comprehensive overview of features: Touring bicycle reviews provide an in-depth analysis of the key features of different models, such as the frame material, wheel size, gear range, and brake type. This information can help you determine which bicycle suits your particular needs.
2. User feedback: User reviews are often featured alongside professional reviews, giving potential buyers a more balanced perspective on the performance and durability of the bike.
3. Objective analysis: Professional reviewers test the bikes under various conditions, providing objective evaluations of their handling, comfort, and overall performance.
Cons of Touring Bicycle Reviews 2015
1. Limited scope: Touring bicycle reviews typically focus on newer models, leaving out many older, but still reliable, touring bikes.
2. Biased reviews: Some reviews may be biased towards certain brands or models, depending on the interests of the reviewer or the publication.
3. Inaccurate information: Some reviews may contain inaccurate information, such as incorrect measurements or technical details.
Table Comparison of Touring Bicycles
| Brand | Model | Frame Material | Wheel Size | Gear Range | Brake Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Surly | Long Haul Trucker | Steel | 700c | 24-speed | Rim |
| Trek | 520 | Steel | 700c | 27-speed | Rim |
| Cannondale | Touring 2 | Aluminum | 700c | 30-speed | Disc |
In summary, touring bicycle reviews can be a valuable tool for finding the best bike for your needs. However, it is important to consider the limitations and potential biases of these reviews. By researching multiple sources and comparing different models, you can make an informed decision about which touring bike is right for you.
Closing Message for Touring Bicycle Reviews 2015
As we come to the end of our journey through the world of touring bicycles, we hope that you found our reviews informative and helpful in making a decision about which bike to choose. We understand that finding the perfect touring bike can be a daunting task, with so many options available on the market today.
Our team of experts spent countless hours researching and testing each bike to ensure that we provided you with accurate and up-to-date information. We also took into consideration different budgets and needs, from beginners to experienced riders, so that there was something for everyone in our reviews.
If you are new to the world of touring bicycles, we recommend starting with a basic model that will allow you to get a feel for the sport without breaking the bank. As you become more experienced, you can upgrade to a higher-end model that will better suit your needs.
For those of you who are already experienced riders, we hope that our reviews provided you with some new insights and ideas for your next touring adventure. Perhaps you found a new feature or accessory that you hadn't considered before, or maybe you discovered a new brand that you didn't know existed.
One of the most important things to remember when choosing a touring bicycle is to find one that fits you properly. A poorly fitting bike can lead to discomfort and even injury over time. We recommend visiting your local bike shop and having a professional fit you for a bike before making a purchase.
Another consideration when choosing a touring bike is the type of terrain you will be riding on. If you plan on riding mostly on paved roads, a road touring bike may be best for you. If you plan on venturing off-road, a mountain touring bike may be a better choice.
It's also important to consider the weight of the bike and the amount of gear you will be carrying. A heavier bike may be more stable on long rides, but it can also be more difficult to maneuver. Similarly, carrying too much gear can slow you down and make the ride less enjoyable.
Finally, we encourage you to join a local cycling group or club to connect with other riders and learn more about touring. Cycling is a wonderful sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities. We hope that our reviews have inspired you to get out and explore the world on two wheels.
Thank you for joining us on this journey through the world of touring bicycles. We hope that you found our reviews helpful and informative. Remember to always wear a helmet, obey traffic laws, and have fun!
People Also Ask About Touring Bicycle Reviews 2015
What Are the Best Touring Bicycles in 2015?
There were several touring bicycles that received high ratings in 2015. Here are some of the best:
- Salsa Vaya
- Trek 520
- Surly Long Haul Trucker
- Cannondale Touring 1
- Co-Motion Americano
What Should I Look for in a Touring Bicycle?
When searching for a touring bicycle, there are a few things to consider:
- Frame material: Steel frames are often preferred for their durability and ability to absorb shock.
- Gearing: Look for a bike with a wide range of gears to tackle different terrains.
- Tire clearance: Make sure the bike has enough clearance to accommodate wider tires for better stability and comfort.
- Rack mounts: Touring bikes should have mounts for front and rear racks to hold gear.
How Much Should I Expect to Spend on a Touring Bicycle?
Touring bicycles can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. The cost will depend on factors such as the quality of components, frame material, and brand name. Generally, a good touring bike will cost between $1,000 and $2,000.
Can I Use a Road Bike for Touring?
While it is possible to use a road bike for touring, it may not be ideal. Road bikes are designed for speed and efficiency, while touring bikes are built for endurance and comfort. Touring bikes have wider tires, more gears, and are better equipped to handle the weight of gear. However, if you already have a road bike and want to try touring, you can make some modifications such as adding racks and panniers.