Traditionally, the geometry of the vast majority of road bikes was influenced by machines intended for racing. However, since the boom of sportive riding in the UK, and across the world, manufacturers have conceded that a geometry that’s perfect for a professional cyclist may not be ideal for the hobby or weekend rider.

The main differences between traditional ‘race’ oriented geometry and ‘sportive’ geometry are the length and angles of various tubes on the frame. For example, a frame that has been designed with the sportive rider in mind will offer a slightly more relaxed overall position.

A taller head tube will mean that less strain is put on the back, allowing the rider to sit in a more upright position, while a slacker head angle (typically around one-degree less than race geometry) will provide more stable and predictable steering.

To continue this theme, the overall wheelbase is likely to be longer than that of a racing bike too, again with the intention of making the bike easier to handle and more comfortable over longer rides and rougher terrain. Identifying the type of riding you will do most of (racing, sportive events, or weekend leisure rides, for example) will go a long way to helping to determine which type of geometry may be best for you.