But does that mean the lighter the bike, the easier it is to ride? That’s a complete misconception.
WESTCITY, a senior technician at Misi Bikes, explains that unlike motor vehicles, which rely on horsepower to increase speed, bicycles use the rider’s physical effort as the engine—approximately 0.5 horsepower per person. For a bicycle, how to minimize the loss of your energy is the key factor in determining whether riding feels strenuous.
In addition to the bike’s own weight, at least four other factors determine the reduction of energy loss: 1. The stiffness of the wheelset and the lubrication of the bearings; 2. The rigidity of the frame; 3. The appropriate rebound speed of the suspension; 4. The proper balance between tire grip and rebound.
Therefore, most Europeans and Americans prioritize the durability of their bikes, rather than focusing primarily on weight. This is also why mid- to low-end bikes from well-known international brands often weigh much more than expected. Heavier bikes can take advantage of inertia on flat roads and perform better when riding in windy conditions. Lightweight design should not come at the expense of frame rigidity and component durability—blindly pursuing lightness is an irrational choice. To meet these requirements, components generally need to be made from more expensive materials and crafted with higher precision, which means you’ll need to have the budget to match.
Finally, WESTCITY reiterates that for any sports bicycle, rigidity and smoothness are non-negotiable basics. Don’t overlook this.