Touring Bike vs Road Bike: Riding a Carrera Virago to Paris

Mark Pawlak    Cycling     Brighton to Paris, Carrera Virago, cycling, Cycling Holidays, France, holidays in France, paris, road bikes

Some bikes you can truly use for just about anything. Still, there’s some lines that shouldn’t be crossed. When you’re considering touring bike vs road bike, you’re thinking about speed vs comfort and handling vs practicality.

But where’s the point when the latest carbon fibre race-bred calorie-counter becomes too tiring to enjoy?

And when should you leave it behind, trusting instead your miles and your backside to a more forgiving, more laid-back ride?

Well, I’m riding a Carrera Virago to Paris for charity and will find out on the way!

The bike’s already proved itself as an excellent climber and surprised me with it’s comfort – ok, some of this has been me adapting to its shape, but overall it’s been surprisingly sure-footed and comfortable for such a light bike.

But first up: What’s the difference between a road bike and a touring bike anyway?

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