2009 Felt ZW30 Women's Road Bike

The 2009 Felt ZW30 road bike has specifically been designed for maximum comfort even on less than smooth surfaces. The bike is also built with speed in mind for those who want to go faster or push their limits even further. The aluminum Superlite frame also dampens road vibration less than other similar aluminum road bikes.

The 2009 Felt ZW30 is priced at $1,095 which is fairly reasonable compared to similar bikes of its class. The bike comes in four sizes so whether your size is petite, small, medium or large you will find a size that's comfortable for you without having to sacrifice speed and performance. Felt also offers specific handlebars and saddles to allow for maximum comfort.

2009 Cannondale Feminine Synapse 5 Road Bike

The 2009 Cannondale Feminine Synapse 5 road bike is priced at $1,995 and offers advanced vibration dampening technology for maximum performance and comfort while riding even on the toughest terrains. The Triaxially bent seat is designed specifically to prevent rider fatigue.

This also is also very customizable with many selections of paint color and the choice of a 6061-T6 aluminum, HI-MODulus, or ultra carbon frame. Bicycling Magazine rated this road bike as The Best Women's Road Bike of 2008 which makes this bike a contender for the best of 2009 as well.

Trek 1.2 WSD Women's Road Bike

The Trek 1.2 WSD is the most affordable on this page at $879.99. However, don't believe for a second that the low price results in lower quality as you would be very wrong. Fitted with Bontranger components like a carbon fork, race fit seat and allow wheels, this bike contains world class features at a very affordable price. This bike is perfect for the beginner cyclist or for those who would rather cruise on a path with style.

Trek Madone 4.5 WSD Road Bike

Priced at $2,469 the Trek Madone 4.5 WSD is probably the more expensive investment and is more for those who ride on a daily basis. This bike features a Bontranger Race Lite fork, race wheels, Race Lite tires and even a TCT carbon frame. This bike also features Shimano components such as the alloy dual pivot brakes which work to bring the bike to a stop smoothly and quickly.

So here are four of the best women's road bikes of 2009. While these are only suggestions, be sure to give them a test ride before finalizing the purchase.

Another important factor when choosing the best road bikes is where you will be riding. This will determine the type of bike that you will ultimately need as different types of bikes are built specifically for particular terrains. Here are just some of the different types of bikes and how they are used.

Road bikes are typically built for smooth surfaces such as paved roads. This type of bike would not be ideal if you plan on riding through the mountains or bumpy terrains. What separates this bike from other types is that the wheels are tall and thin which enable higher speeds. Road bikes are excellent choice for fast, long distance riding.

Hybrid bikes are so named because they are a cross between a road bike and a mountain bike. If you intend to ride on paved roads and mountain trails, then a hybrid bike would be an excellent choice as it offers diversity as to where you can ride.

Comfort bikes are designed for leisure riding or cruising around your area. Comfort bikes feature a wider seat and wider tires for better traction even on loose surfaces. The upright seating position enables you to ride in a seated position without straining your back.

Mountain bikes are built specifically to be ridden on tough terrains such as mountain trails and features a sturdy frame to withstand bumpy roads. The tires usually have knobby treads for better traction. One thing to note is that mountain bikes do not reach high speeds as road bikes or hybrids do.

Not that you understand the different types of bikes, the next step is determining your budget and how much you intend to spend. You can always drive down to a local bike store to test out different types and models to see which one suit you best. These types of stores are also a great way to get advice and tips for choosing the best road bikes.

Be sure to choose the proper size that best fit your body. You don't want a bike that is too small or too large as it can stress your body. A good way to determine whether a bike fits you is to straddle the crossbar with both your feet on the ground. There should be from 1 to 3 inches of space between your body and the bike.

If your budget can allow it, then find a road bike with a full suspension as it offers greater comfort and better control. A full suspension is especially handy if you intend to be cycling for a long time. Of course, it also comes down to preference and what feels most comfortable to you. Be sure to test out different bikes that have full suspensions and ones without.

Finding the best road bikes that fit your style is just a matter of trying different types and which one feels most comfortable to you. The road bike you choose will largely depend on your budget and what type you choose as each type serves a different use. When you are ready to finalize a purchase, be sure to do your research ahead of time.

You can find great deals just by shopping online at discount stores such as auction sites like eBay. In addition, if you are patient enough you may even be able to get certain models on clearance as most stores need to make room for new inventory. Many bike stores will even give you discounts or free accessories just by purchasing from them.

When searching for the best road bikes, be sure to test out different types and to deal with a reputable seller. Finding a good dealer is especially important as you are bound to have questions about the bike you are about to purchase. If possible, be sure to test ride as many bikes as you can to get a better feel for them.