Which Type of Bicycle is Best for Speed? Unpacking the Science and Technology of Fast Cycling

When I first got serious about cycling, the burning question on my mind, just like yours probably is right now, was simple: "Which type of bicycle is best for speed?" I remember staring at rows of gleaming machines in a bike shop, each promising a different kind of exhilaration. There were sleek, minimalist road bikes that looked like they were sculpted by the wind, rugged mountain bikes built for gnarly terrain, and those versatile hybrids that seemed to be a jack of all trades. My initial thought was that maybe the lightest one would be the fastest. I was partially right, of course, but the reality of bicycle speed is far more nuanced and deeply rooted in engineering, physics, and the specific demands of how and where you intend to be fast.

The short and direct answer to "Which type of bicycle is best for speed?" is overwhelmingly the road bicycle, particularly those designed for racing. However, this is a simplification. The pursuit of speed on two wheels involves a complex interplay of factors, and understanding these will unlock the true potential of any cyclist. Speed isn't just about the bike; it's about the rider, the environment, and the finely tuned relationship between the two. Let's dive deep into what makes a bicycle fast, dissecting the anatomy of speed and exploring the different contenders.

The Fundamental Elements of Bicycle Speed

Before we even start comparing specific bike types, it’s crucial to understand the foundational elements that contribute to a bicycle’s speed. Think of these as the building blocks. Without mastering these, even the most high-tech bike won’t make you a speed demon.

1. Aerodynamics: The Invisible Force Multiplier

Of all the forces acting against a cyclist, air resistance is by far the most significant, especially at higher speeds. It’s estimated that air resistance accounts for around 70-80% of the total force a cyclist must overcome when riding at a moderate to fast pace. This means that reducing drag is paramount. Aerodynamics on a bicycle is a holistic approach, considering:

Frame Design: Modern aerodynamic frames feature shaped tubing (like airfoil or Kamm tail profiles) that cut through the air more efficiently than round tubes. This isn't just about aesthetics; it’s about minimizing the frontal area and optimizing airflow.
Wheel Design: Deep-section rims, often referred to as "aero wheels," are designed to slice through the wind. The depth of the rim creates a more streamlined profile, reducing turbulence and drag.
Rider Position: This is arguably the biggest aerodynamic factor. A tucked, aggressive riding posture significantly reduces your frontal area and thus air resistance. This is why professional cyclists often adopt such extreme positions.
Clothing and Accessories: Tight-fitting cycling kit, aero helmets, and even the way your water bottles are mounted can all contribute to or detract from aerodynamic efficiency.

My own experience with aerodynamic improvements has been eye-opening. Swapping out standard wheels for a deeper-section set made a noticeable difference on flat, windy days. It wasn't just about feeling faster; my average speed on familiar routes genuinely increased with the same effort. Similarly, investing in a well-fitting, aerodynamic jersey felt like a small change, but it contributed to a tangible reduction in wind resistance, especially during longer solo efforts.

2. Rolling Resistance: The Friction Under Your Tires

This is the force created by the deformation of your tires and the surface they are rolling on. When a tire encounters a surface, it flattens slightly, and this deformation requires energy to overcome. Key factors influencing rolling resistance include:

Tire Pressure: Counterintuitively, higher tire pressure can sometimes reduce rolling resistance on smooth surfaces. However, there’s a sweet spot. Too high, and the tire can bounce, increasing vibration and reducing grip. Too low, and the tire deforms excessively, increasing resistance and the risk of pinch flats.
Tire Width and Construction: Wider tires, when run at appropriate pressures, can sometimes offer lower rolling resistance on rougher surfaces because they conform better to the terrain. The casing construction (TPI – threads per inch) and rubber compound also play a significant role. Higher TPI tires tend to be more supple and roll faster.
Road Surface: Smooth asphalt has the lowest rolling resistance, while rough gravel or sand dramatically increases it.

I’ve learned to be meticulous about my tire pressure. On a smooth road, running my road bike tires at around 100-110 psi makes a tangible difference in how effortlessly the bike glides. However, if I were to take that same bike on a slightly rougher path, I'd lower the pressure to avoid feeling every single pebble and to maintain better traction. This delicate balance is key.

3. Weight: The Pull of Gravity

While often overemphasized by beginners, a bicycle's weight is a crucial factor, particularly on climbs and during acceleration. Every extra pound requires more energy to overcome gravity or to get up to speed. However, the impact of weight is greatly diminished on flat terrain where aerodynamics and rolling resistance become dominant.

Frame Material: Lighter materials like carbon fiber and advanced aluminum alloys significantly reduce overall bike weight.
Components: Lighter wheels, drivetrain components, handlebars, and saddle all contribute to a lower bike weight.

My first "upgrade" was a lighter set of wheels, and the difference on hills was astonishing. It felt like shedding a burden. However, when I took those same wheels on a flat group ride, the aerodynamic benefit of deeper rims was more pronounced than the weight savings alone. This highlights how context matters for weight.

4. Drivetrain Efficiency: The Transfer of Power

The drivetrain is the system that transfers power from the rider’s legs to the rear wheel. Every component in this system introduces some degree of friction and energy loss.

Chain and Gears: A clean, well-lubricated chain running on precisely manufactured sprockets and chainrings is highly efficient. Worn or dirty components can significantly sap power.
Bearings: The bearings in the bottom bracket, hubs, and pedals are critical. High-quality, well-maintained bearings offer less resistance.
Gear Selection: While not a component, using the appropriate gear for the terrain and effort level allows the rider to maintain an efficient cadence, which maximizes power output and minimizes strain.

I cannot stress enough the importance of drivetrain maintenance. A gritty, un-lubricated chain not only sounds awful but feels sluggish. Regularly cleaning and lubing my chain has become a non-negotiable part of my cycling routine, and the responsiveness of the bike is directly tied to it.

The Contenders: Which Bicycle Type is Best for Speed?

Now that we understand the forces at play, let's examine the different types of bicycles and how they stack up when the goal is pure speed.

Road Bicycles: The Kings of Speed on Pavement

When the question is "Which type of bicycle is best for speed," the road bike immediately springs to mind, and for very good reasons. These machines are purpose-built for one thing: going fast on paved surfaces.

Design Philosophy: Road bikes are engineered to minimize weight, maximize aerodynamic efficiency, and provide a stiff platform for power transfer.
Frame Geometry: They typically feature a relatively aggressive riding position, with a longer reach and lower stack height. This allows the rider to adopt a more aerodynamic tuck. The frame itself is often designed with aerodynamic tubing profiles, especially in higher-end models.
Wheels and Tires: Road bikes use narrow tires (typically 23mm to 32mm wide) inflated to high pressures. This minimizes rolling resistance on smooth pavement. They often come with lightweight, often deep-section rims for aerodynamic advantage.
Gearing: Road bikes are equipped with gearing ranges optimized for high speeds on flat terrain and steep climbs, usually featuring compact or standard cranksets and a wide-range cassette.
Handlebars: Drop handlebars are a hallmark of road bikes. They offer multiple hand positions, including a low, aerodynamic tuck, a more upright cruising position, and a standard position for control.

Sub-categories of Road Bikes and their Speed Implications:

Aero Road Bikes: These are the absolute speed machines. They prioritize aerodynamic shaping of the frame, fork, handlebars, and wheels above all else. They are designed to cut through the wind with minimal resistance, making them ideal for flat stages, time trials, and breakaways where maintaining high average speeds is critical. While they might be slightly heavier and less compliant than lightweight climbing bikes, their aerodynamic advantage often outweighs this on flatter courses. My personal experience riding an aero road bike for the first time was revelatory; it felt like the wind was being pushed away from me.
Lightweight / Climbing Road Bikes: These bikes focus on minimizing weight. They feature lighter frame materials and often less aggressive aerodynamic tubing. They excel on steep climbs, where gravity is the primary adversary. While they might not be as fast as aero bikes on the flats, their reduced weight makes them quicker to accelerate and easier to sustain high speeds uphill.
All-Around / Endurance Road Bikes: These bikes strike a balance between aerodynamics, weight, and comfort. They often have slightly more relaxed geometry for longer rides and may incorporate some aerodynamic features but are not as extreme as dedicated aero bikes. They are a good choice for riders who want a fast bike that can handle varied terrain and longer distances without sacrificing too much speed.

When is a Road Bike the Best for Speed?

On paved roads, from smooth asphalt to slightly chip-sealed surfaces.
When the goal is to achieve and maintain high average speeds over extended periods.
For racing, including criteriums, road races, and time trials.
For fast group rides and solo efforts where efficiency is key.

Time Trial (TT) / Triathlon Bikes: The Pinnacle of Aerodynamic Speed

If you’re looking for the absolute fastest machine on a flat, straight course, a time trial or triathlon bike takes the crown. These are specialized road bikes that have been optimized to an extreme degree for aerodynamic efficiency and rider positioning.

Aerodynamic Integration: TT/Tri bikes take aero tube shaping to the next level. Frames, forks, and even integrated storage solutions are meticulously designed to cheat the wind.
Rider Position: The defining feature is the aerodynamic handlebar setup, typically with extensions. This allows the rider to adopt an extremely low, stable, and wind-cheating position. The geometry is also significantly different, often featuring a steeper seat tube angle to allow for this forward-leaning position and ensure hip flexion for power generation.
Wheel Choice: Often paired with deep-section wheels, or even a disc wheel on the rear for maximum aerodynamic advantage.
Single-Purpose Design: These bikes are built for speed, and that’s it. They are generally heavier than lightweight road bikes, less maneuverable, and far less comfortable for varied riding.

I've had the chance to test ride a TT bike, and the feeling is unlike anything else. You’re locked into this incredibly aggressive position, and the bike just seems to slice through the air. It’s not a bike for chatting with friends; it’s a rocket ship for one.

When is a TT/Tri Bike the Best for Speed?

For individual time trials where the goal is the fastest possible time over a set distance.
For triathlon bike legs, especially on flat to rolling courses.
On courses with long, straight stretches and minimal technical demands.

Gravel Bikes: Versatility with a Speed Component

Gravel bikes have exploded in popularity, and while their primary design isn't solely for speed on pavement, they can be surprisingly quick under certain conditions and offer a unique blend of versatility and pace.

Frame and Tire Clearance: Gravel bikes are designed to accommodate wider tires (typically 35mm to 50mm), which offer more grip, comfort, and control on unpaved surfaces. This wider tire profile, when run at lower pressures, can increase rolling resistance on pavement compared to a road bike.
Geometry: They often have a more relaxed geometry than road bikes, offering greater stability and comfort.
Versatility: Their strength lies in their ability to transition seamlessly between pavement and light off-road terrain.

While not the *fastest* on pure pavement compared to a road bike, a gravel bike can be very fast for riders who want to link up paved roads with dirt paths or fire roads. On a rougher, unpaved surface, a gravel bike’s wider tires and more robust build can allow it to maintain a higher speed than a road bike that would be bouncing and struggling. If your "speed" involves traversing varied terrain, a gravel bike can be the fastest *overall* option.

When is a Gravel Bike Fast (in its own way)?

When connecting paved roads to gravel paths, dirt roads, or light singletrack.
For riders who prioritize a single bike capable of handling diverse terrain at a respectable pace.
On surfaces where a road bike would be impractical or unsafe, a gravel bike can maintain higher speeds due to its tire and frame design.

Mountain Bikes: Built for Off-Road Dominance, Not Paved Speed

Mountain bikes are engineered for tackling challenging off-road terrain, with features designed for traction, suspension, and durability. This makes them inherently slower on paved surfaces.

Tires: Wide, knobby tires are fantastic for grip on dirt, mud, and rocks but create significant rolling resistance and drag on pavement.
Suspension: Front and/or rear suspension absorbs impacts, which is essential for off-road riding, but it also saps energy when pedaling on smooth surfaces.
Weight and Gearing: Mountain bikes are typically heavier and have lower gearing ranges designed for steep climbs and technical trails, not high-speed cruising.
Riding Position: The upright riding position is less aerodynamic.

In short, a mountain bike is about as far from a speed-optimized bicycle as you can get on pavement. While a highly skilled rider on a very light, hardtail mountain bike might keep up with casual road riders for a short while, they'll quickly fall behind on any sustained effort or longer distances due to the massive disadvantages in aerodynamics and rolling resistance.

When is a Mountain Bike *Not* the Best for Speed (on pavement)?

Any situation where the primary surface is paved road.
When the goal is to achieve high average speeds or cover long distances efficiently.

Hybrid Bikes: The Jack of All Trades, Master of None (for Speed)

Hybrid bikes are designed to bridge the gap between road bikes and mountain bikes, offering a more comfortable and versatile riding experience for commuting, casual fitness, and light touring.

Tires: They typically have tires that are wider than road bikes but narrower than mountain bikes, often with a less aggressive tread. This offers a compromise in rolling resistance.
Geometry: They feature a more upright riding position for comfort and better visibility, which is less aerodynamic.
Components: Often equipped with flat handlebars, which limit aerodynamic hand positions.

A hybrid bike is great for getting around town or for leisurely rides, but it is not designed for speed. The upright posture, wider tires (even if semi-slick), and less aggressive frame geometry all contribute to increased air resistance and rolling resistance compared to a road bike. While you *can* go fast on a hybrid, it will require significantly more effort than on a dedicated road bike.

When is a Hybrid Bike *Not* the Best for Speed?

When the primary objective is to achieve high speeds on paved surfaces.
For competitive cycling, racing, or long-distance, fast touring.

The Science Behind the Speed: Diving Deeper

Let’s go beyond just naming bike types and delve into the scientific principles that dictate why one bike is faster than another, especially focusing on the road bike's dominance.

Aerodynamics Revisited: The Power of Shaping

The concept of aerodynamic drag can be expressed with the formula:

Drag Force (Fd) = 0.5 * ρ * v² * Cd * A

Where:

ρ (rho) is the air density (relatively constant).
v is the velocity of the object (your speed!). This term is squared, meaning that doubling your speed quadruples the air resistance. This is why aerodynamics becomes so critical at higher speeds.
Cd is the drag coefficient, a dimensionless number that describes how aerodynamically streamlined an object is. A lower Cd means less drag.
A is the frontal area of the object. A smaller frontal area means less air to push aside.

This equation highlights why road bikes are so effective for speed:

Reducing 'A' (Frontal Area): The drop handlebars allow for a significantly lower and narrower riding position, reducing the rider's frontal area. Frame designs, particularly aero frames, are shaped to minimize the bike's frontal area and present a more streamlined profile to the wind.
Reducing 'Cd' (Drag Coefficient): Aero tubing, disc wheels, integrated components, and even tight-fitting cycling apparel all work to lower the drag coefficient. The smoother the airflow, the lower the Cd.

This is why time trial bikes take aero to the extreme. They are essentially optimized for minimizing 'A' and 'Cd' by any means necessary, often at the expense of comfort or weight.

Rolling Resistance: The Tire-Surface Interface

Rolling resistance is primarily caused by hysteresis – the energy lost when a material deforms and then returns to its original shape. In a tire, this happens as the tire presses against the ground and deforms, and as the tire casing flexes.

Tire Pressure vs. Width: On smooth surfaces, a narrow tire at high pressure deforms less significantly than a wider tire at lower pressure. This leads to lower rolling resistance. This is why road bikes use narrow tires. However, on rougher surfaces, a wider tire at a lower pressure can conform better to the terrain, potentially reducing shock and vibration, which can indirectly help maintain speed by keeping the rider from bouncing as much. But on smooth pavement, the physics favors narrow and high pressure.
Tire Construction: The materials used in the tire casing (TPI) and the rubber compound have a massive impact. High-TPI casings are more supple, allowing the tire to deform and rebound more efficiently, reducing hysteresis. High-quality rubber compounds also minimize energy loss. This is why premium road tires are so expensive but also so fast.

Weight: When it Truly Matters

The force of gravity on a mass is F = mg (mass times acceleration due to gravity). When climbing, you are constantly working against this force. Acceleration also requires overcoming inertia, which is directly related to mass (F=ma). So, a lighter bike requires less force to accelerate and less force to ascend a hill.

However, consider the forces involved. On a 5% gradient (a moderate climb), the force of gravity pulling you downhill is roughly 1/12th of your weight. The force of air resistance at 20 mph can be equivalent to the force of gravity on a much steeper climb (approaching 10% or more). This is why on flats, aerodynamics dominates weight. On steep climbs, weight becomes much more significant.

Drivetrain Efficiency: The Chain's Journey

The efficiency of a bicycle chain and drivetrain can be remarkably high, often exceeding 95% under optimal conditions. However, even a few percentage points of loss can add up.

Chain Lube: The type and application of chain lubricant are critical. Wet lubes can attract dirt, increasing friction, while dry lubes might not offer enough protection in wet conditions. The best high-performance lubes often use specialized waxes or ceramic coatings.
Chain Wear: A worn chain and sprockets don't mesh as precisely, leading to increased friction and energy loss.
Cross-Chaining: Riding in extreme gear combinations (e.g., largest chainring with largest cog) puts the chain at an angle, increasing friction and wear.

This meticulous attention to drivetrain cleanliness and lubrication is what separates professional mechanics from the everyday rider and directly translates to felt speed and efficiency.

Choosing Your Speed Machine: A Practical Guide

So, how do you actually go about choosing the right bike for speed? It's not just about picking the most expensive road bike. It involves understanding your needs and priorities.

Step 1: Define Your Primary Riding Environment

Where do you intend to be the fastest?

Paved Roads Only: If your riding is exclusively on asphalt, a road bike (aero or all-around) is your best bet.
Paved Roads and Light Trails/Gravel: A gravel bike offers the best blend of speed on pavement and capability off-road.
Specific Time Trials or Triathlons: A dedicated TT/Tri bike is unparalleled for these events.

Step 2: Consider Your Riding Style and Goals

Pure Speed and Racing: Focus on aero road bikes or TT bikes.
Climbing Prowess: Lightweight road bikes are designed for this.
All-Day Speed and Comfort: Endurance road bikes or performance gravel bikes offer a good compromise.
Fitness and Commuting with Speed: A performance hybrid or a comfortable road bike might suffice.

Step 3: Budget and Component Level

The price tag on bikes can skyrocket, but often, a significant portion of the cost is for weight savings and higher-end components that offer marginal gains.

Entry-Level: Aluminum frames, basic Shimano/SRAM groupsets (e.g., Sora, Tiagra, Apex). You can still achieve good speed, but the bike will be heavier and less refined.
Mid-Range: Higher-grade aluminum or entry-level carbon frames, mid-tier groupsets (e.g., Shimano 105, SRAM Rival). This is often the sweet spot for performance and value.
High-End: Full carbon frames (aero or lightweight), top-tier groupsets (e.g., Shimano Ultegra Di2, SRAM Force eTap AXS, Dura-Ace Di2, SRAM Red eTap AXS). These bikes offer the best in weight, aerodynamics, and component performance but come at a premium.

Step 4: Fit is Paramount

No matter how fast the bike is designed to be, if it doesn't fit you correctly, you won't be able to ride it efficiently or comfortably. A professional bike fit is one of the best investments you can make for speed and injury prevention. A good fit ensures optimal power transfer, comfortable aerodynamics, and efficient pedaling mechanics.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bicycle Speed

Q: Can a bicycle be too aerodynamic for its own good?

This is an interesting question that touches on the nuanced relationship between different forces. In pure straight-line speed on smooth pavement, it's difficult to be *too* aerodynamic. The benefit of cutting through the wind almost always outweighs other factors at high speeds. However, in certain scenarios, extreme aerodynamic designs can present challenges:

Firstly, crosswinds. Very deep-section wheels and highly aerodynamic frames can be susceptible to being buffeted by strong crosswinds, making them more difficult to control. This is why many professional riders opt for slightly shallower front wheels in windy conditions or races with frequent turns. Secondly, handling in tight situations. While not directly related to aerodynamics, some aero bikes can have slightly longer wheelbases or different geometries that might make them a fraction less nimble in very technical terrain compared to a more agile climbing bike. Lastly, comfort on rough surfaces. Extreme aero frames and components are often stiff, which can transmit more road vibration to the rider, especially when paired with narrow tires at high pressure. This is why endurance road bikes and some gravel bikes prioritize compliance and comfort alongside speed.

So, while "too aerodynamic" isn't a common issue for pure speed on flat roads, it’s a consideration for overall rideability and control in varied conditions.

Q: How much faster can an aerodynamic bike make me compared to a non-aerodynamic bike?

The difference can be substantial, but it heavily depends on your speed and the conditions. At lower speeds (e.g., 10-15 mph), the difference might be barely noticeable, perhaps a few seconds saved over a mile. However, as your speed increases, the impact of aerodynamics grows exponentially due to the v² term in the drag equation.

At typical road cycling speeds (20-25 mph), an aero road bike or TT bike can save a rider anywhere from 30 seconds to over a minute per mile compared to a standard road bike with a more upright position and less aerodynamic frame. For example, a rider generating 300 watts of power might be able to sustain 25 mph on an aero bike, whereas on a standard bike they might only be able to maintain 22-23 mph with the same effort. Over a longer distance, like a 10-mile time trial, this difference can translate to several minutes saved. It’s not just about having a faster bike; it’s about having a bike that allows you to utilize your power more effectively against the dominant force of air resistance.

Q: Is it worth upgrading to lightweight wheels for speed, even if I'm not a climber?

This is a classic cyclist's dilemma. Lightweight wheels offer two main benefits: reduced rotational weight and reduced overall weight. While they are fantastic for climbing and acceleration, their benefit on flat terrain is less pronounced than aerodynamic wheels.

For acceleration: Lighter wheels spin up faster, meaning you’ll get to your desired speed with slightly less effort. This is noticeable in stop-and-go situations or during quick accelerations out of corners. For climbing: This is where lightweight wheels truly shine, as reducing weight directly combats gravity. On the flats: The primary benefit on the flats comes from the aerodynamic properties of the rim. If your current wheels are standard depth (e.g., 20-30mm), upgrading to a moderate-depth aero wheel (e.g., 40-60mm) will likely yield a much larger speed gain on flat terrain than upgrading to an even lighter, but non-aero, climbing wheel. However, if your current wheels are very heavy, there’s a dual benefit: they’ll be lighter *and* potentially more aerodynamic if you choose an aero-focused upgrade. Ultimately, for pure flat-speed, aerodynamics is king, but a lighter wheelset always helps with responsiveness and reduces the inertia you need to overcome.

Q: How do different tire types affect speed?

Tire choice is a critical, yet often overlooked, factor in bicycle speed. The primary way tires affect speed is through rolling resistance and aerodynamics.

Rolling Resistance: As discussed, narrow road tires at high pressure generally have the lowest rolling resistance on smooth pavement. This is why you see them on road bikes. They deform less, minimizing hysteresis. Wider tires, while offering more comfort and grip on rougher surfaces, tend to have higher rolling resistance on smooth roads due to increased deformation and a larger contact patch. Tire construction is paramount here. A high-performance, supple tire (often with a high TPI count) will roll faster than a cheap, stiff tire of the same width and pressure. The rubber compound also plays a role in grip versus rolling resistance.

Aerodynamics: The profile of the tire and how it integrates with the rim can also impact overall aerodynamic drag. Modern aero wheels are designed to work best with specific tire widths to create a smooth, uninterrupted airflow. Very wide tires on narrow rims can create a less aerodynamic profile, and conversely, very narrow tires on wide rims can also disrupt airflow. Generally, the trend for aero road bikes is towards slightly wider tires (25-28mm) paired with wider rims (21-25mm external width) to create a more seamless aero profile and allow for slightly lower pressures, offering a better balance of aero efficiency and comfort.

Q: If I'm on a budget, what's the single best upgrade for speed?

This is a question many cyclists grapple with! If you're on a tight budget and primarily ride on paved roads, the single best upgrade for speed is almost always a good pair of **performance tires and ensuring proper tire pressure**. High-quality road tires (like Continental GP5000, Vittoria Corsa, or similar) offer significantly lower rolling resistance than stock or cheaper tires. They are designed with supple casings and fast-rolling rubber compounds.

Paired with this, simply running the correct tire pressure for your weight and riding conditions can make a massive difference. Overinflating can lead to a harsh ride and reduced traction, while underinflating increases rolling resistance and the risk of flats. Finding that sweet spot, often through online calculators or experimentation, can feel like unlocking hidden speed in your current bike. While new wheels or a lighter frame are tempting, the gains from truly excellent tires and correct pressure are often more immediate and impactful for the cost.

In conclusion, while the road bicycle, especially its aero variants, stands supreme for outright speed on paved surfaces, the pursuit of speed is a multifaceted endeavor. It involves a deep understanding of physics, meticulous engineering, and a rider's dedication to optimizing every aspect of their equipment and technique. Whether you're a seasoned racer aiming for the podium or a recreational rider looking to shave minutes off your personal best, focusing on the core principles of aerodynamics, rolling resistance, weight, and drivetrain efficiency will guide you toward the fastest machine and the fastest you.

Which Type of Bicycle is Best for Speed? Unpacking the Science and Technology of Fast Cycling