![Ribble endurance SL R disc](https://static.independent.co.uk/2021/07/06/16/Ribble%20endurance%20SL%20R%20disc%20indybest.jpeg)
The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission. Why trust us?
Whether you prioritise speed or stamina, you’ll want a sturdy pair of wheels to take you the distance
Super-aggressive, super-aero racing road bikes look the business, but comfortable they are not. If you’re the type of rider who leans towards longer stints in the saddle, an endurance road bike is going to be a better choice.
Endurance road bikes are geared towards tackling long days and smoothing out rough roads. Their slightly upright riding position makes them far more comfortable than purebred race bikes, but they can still go fast when they need to.
Another key benefit is durability. This category of bike was born out of the cobbled streets of Northern France, home to several of the “Classics” races. These historic landmark events are known for shaking bikes (and riders) to bits with rougher-than-rough road surfaces, and endurance road bikes were designed as a solution. If your local roads are littered with bumps and potholes, these may be the bikes for you.
We’re partial to a big day out, and our tester’s local roads in rural Northumberland aren’t exactly known for their smooth, rolling tarmac. This stood us in a good position to put some of the best endurance road bikes through the wringer and see how they performed.
We were looking for a good balance of comfort, speed, durability and sure footedness on less-than-favourable roads, all of which we found in the following machines.
Read more:
Few brands offer better value for money than Ribble and the endurance SL R disc is further evidence of that. We love the customisation options and the fact that you can slap a custom paint job on your order too. With most brands only offering a few set-menu colourways each year, this really is a breath of fresh air.
For those of you with deeper pockets, we’d urge you to consider the Mason definition. It may not be cheap, but we fell in love with it out on the road and you can’t put a price on that.
For the latest discounts on sports and outdoor gear try the links below:
Need to keep your stuff safe and dry while you’re on the road? Try our best cycling backpacks and bags