Answer: The 2017 Editors’ Choice road bikes featured innovative designs like the Specialized S-Works Tarmac, Trek Emonda SLR, and Cannondale SuperSix EVO. These models excelled in lightweight construction, aerodynamic efficiency, and responsive handling. Bicycling Magazine’s selections emphasized carbon fiber advancements, electronic shifting systems, and race-ready geometries that balanced speed with rider comfort.
Does a bigger battery mean more power on an eBike?
How Were the 2017 Editors’ Choice Road Bikes Selected?
Industry experts tested 50+ bikes using standardized protocols for weight, stiffness, and aerodynamics. Key metrics included frame compliance, component quality, and real-world ride performance across varied terrain. Manufacturers submitted prototypes for blind testing, with final selections based on innovation, value, and measurable performance improvements over previous models.
The selection process involved rigorous wind tunnel sessions and back-to-back comparisons on iconic cycling routes like California’s Mount Palomar. Test riders logged over 2,000 collective miles, evaluating shock absorption on cobblestones and descending stability at 50+ mph speeds. A unique aspect of the 2017 testing was the introduction of standardized power meter readings, allowing direct comparison of energy transfer efficiency between frames. Judges particularly focused on how new bottom bracket designs and seatpost flex patterns affected sprint performance during 30-second power intervals.
What Technologies Defined Top 2017 Road Bikes?
Breakthrough technologies included:
- Directional carbon fiber layups (e.g., Cannondale’s BallisTec)
- Hidden cable routing systems
- First-generation disc brake integration
- Shimano Dura-Ace R9100 groupsets
- Tubeless-ready wheel systems
These innovations reduced average bike weights to 6.8kg while improving torsional stiffness by 18% compared to 2016 models.
Which Brands Dominated the 2017 Editors’ Picks?
Specialized claimed 3 top spots with their Tarmac, Roubaix, and Venge models. Trek followed closely with the Emonda SLR series featuring 700 Series OCLV carbon. Italian brands Colnago and Bianchi gained recognition for high-modulus C68 and Countervail damping technologies respectively. Canyon’s Ultimate CF SLX disrupted the market with direct-to-consumer pricing advantages.
The brand competition revealed distinct engineering philosophies. Specialized’s Rider-First Engineered frames used size-specific tube shapes, while Trek’s IsoSpeed decoupler prioritized vertical compliance. Canyon leveraged its factory-direct model to offer Dura-Ace components at Ultegra-level pricing, particularly in the Aeroad CFR model. Notably, BMC’s Teammachine SLR01 introduced TCC (Tuned Compliance Concept) technology that allowed frame stiffness adjustments via interchangeable seatpost inserts – a feature later adopted by multiple competitors.
| Brand | Flagship Model | Key Technology | Weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Specialized | S-Works Tarmac | Rider-First Engineered | 6.5 |
| Trek | Emonda SLR 9 | OCLV 700 Carbon | 6.6 |
| Cannondale | SuperSix EVO | BallisTec Carbon | 6.7 |
How Do 2017 Models Compare to Modern Road Bikes?
While 2017 bikes established critical thresholds for weight (sub-7kg) and integration, modern counterparts exceed in:
- Aero-optimized tubing shapes
- Wireless electronic shifting adoption
- Improved disc brake modulation
- Smart component integration (e.g., power meters)
However, 2017’s mechanical groupsets and rim brake options remain popular for maintenance simplicity.
What Were the Hidden Gems of 2017’s Road Bike Lineup?
Underrated performers included the BMC Teammachine SLR01 (ascent specialist), Giant TCR Advanced Pro (all-rounder), and Scott Addict SL (climbing beast). The Fuji Transonic 2.3 offered exceptional wind tunnel performance at mid-range pricing, while the Ridley Helium SLX proved a dark horse in cobbled classic simulations.
Expert Views
“2017 marked the industry’s inflection point between traditional rim-brake designs and disc brake adoption. The best bikes from that year still hold value due to their transitional engineering – many featured flat-mount disc standards that remain relevant today. Their balanced approach to compliance and stiffness continues to influence modern endurance bike geometries.” – Senior Product Manager, Leading Cycling Brand
Conclusion
The 2017 Editors’ Choice road bikes established performance benchmarks that shaped subsequent design cycles. While newer models offer technological refinements, these bikes remain competitive for serious cyclists, particularly in secondary markets where their combination of proven reliability and depreciated pricing creates exceptional value propositions.
FAQs
- Are 2017 road bikes still worth buying?
- Yes, particularly if well-maintained. High-end 2017 models retain 60-70% of original performance capabilities at 40-50% lower cost.
- What maintenance issues affect older carbon bikes?
- Inspect for delamination near stress points (bottom bracket, head tube). Replace original press-fit bottom brackets, which had higher failure rates in this model year.
- Did 2017 bikes use obsolete standards?
- Most compatible with modern components except for:
- Straight 1-1/8″ steerer tubes vs. tapered
- Quick-release axles vs. thru-axles
- Mechanical groupset cable routing