As far as hobbies go, cycling can start to weigh heavy on the wallet. Looking the part requires quite the get-up: sunglasses and helmets, bibs and jerseys, gloves and shoes (see our roundup of fashionable biking accessories). And that's before you even buy the bike (and inevitably repair it).
If you're itching for some new wheels, Chicago's got you covered. We've selected six different models (three for men, three for women) that cover the spending spectrum, ranging from the Giant Defy 2's low price tag of $1,075 to the high-and-mighty Cannondale SuperSix Evo Black.
Not ready for ownership? Test ride this month's brand new Chicago Divvy bike sharing system.
For the Gents:
Photo: Courtesy of bicycling.com
LOW: Giant Defy 2
An entry-level road bike with a lightweight, silvery-blue aluminum frame offers value and performance. Complete with 10-speed shifting and available in six sizes.
$1,075; Bike Connection, 1226 N. Roselle Rd., Schaumburg, 847-882-7728. Call ahead for availability.
Photo: Courtesy of cervelo.com
MID: Cervélo R3 Ultegra
A midrange bike with high-end swag: Shimano Ultregra drivetrain, Fulcrum wheels and a slick, silver coat. It's one of the most tested frames on the globe and built to withstand the bumpiest cobble roads.
$3,900; Velosmith Bicycle Studio, 801 Ridge Rd., Wilmette, 847-920-9360 and Running Away Multisport, 800 Waukegan Rd., Deerfield, 847-945-2929
Photo: Courtesy of bicycling.com
HIGH: Cannondale SuperSix Evo Black
The Lexus of racing bikes, its carbon construction—weighing a measly 11 pounds—creates a lightweight feel. Germany's Tour magazine deemed it the "Best Bike in the World."
$13,310; Cycle Smithy, 2468 1/2 N. Clark St., 773-281-0444. Stop in or call to special order this model.
For the Ladies:
Photo: Courtesy of giant-bicycles.com
LOW: Giant Avail 1
Comfort meets affordablity with an aluminum frame and five sizes including XXS. A unique OverDrive steerer tube is larger and taller than normal to improve handling and positioning.
$1,349; roll: on Clybourn, 2163 N. Clybourn Ave., 773-697-3917
Photo: Courtesy of bianchi
MID: Bianchi Sempre Pro Ultegra D12
A balanced geometric build allows for rapid-fire speed and comfortable stability ascending and descending. Sempre literally means "always" and Bianchi claims this one's always ready to excite! (Cheesy, we know.)
$5,400; On the Route Bicycles, 1118 S. Michigan Ave., 312-588-1050
Photo: Courtesy of trekbikes.com
HIGH: Trek Madone 7.9 WSD
An aerodynamic, carbon fiber frame and top-of-the-line components result in this genuine speed demon. Packed with integrated brakes and a chain-keeper ready for hard shifts.
$11,550; Chicagoland Bicycle, 10355 S. Kedzie Ave., 773-445-0811. Stop in or call to special order this model.
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