BikeRadar’s 2016 Most Wanted Awards are underway. You can cast your votes by clicking here.
Vote for your favorite trail bike now!
Our editors assembled the list of nominees based on the following criteria: bikes with a proven record of success under our own testers; bikes that push the envelope in terms of technology and design for their respective categories; and last but certainly not least, bikes and gear that make us want to get out and ride.
Our team of sprocket junkies may have chosen the contenders, but it’s up to your, our readers, to the make the final verdict on which bikes deserve the title of ‘Most Wanted’.
Let’s take a look at the sharp end of speed-hungry road bikes.
Bianchi Specialissima
Throughout Bianchi’s 130-year history, the Specialissima name has represented the pinnacle of the Italian legend’s road machine line-up. The brand has now resurrected the moniker for a bicycle that uses its unique Countervail carbon technology – and was judged ‘best superbike’ in our sibling title Cycling Plus magazine’s Bike of the Year 2016 shootout.
In the words of lead tester Warren Rossiter: "This bike is as good as any superbike we’ve ridden before, and it really does set the standard for super light bikes for years to come."
Bianchi Specialissima full review
Cannondale SuperSix EVO
With the EVO, Cannondale has managed to build upon everything that made the original just so good, adding improved comfort and stiffness – especially up front – and enhancing its handling hugely.
If you're in the market for a superbike that’s shaped with geometry numbers from a professional rider's wishlist, combined with the comfort of one of the finest endurance machines to date, then the EVO – in whatever spec you can afford – should be at the top of your list.
Cannondale SuperSix EVO full review
Canyon Ultimate CF SLX
There are no two ways about it, this bike is fast. Whether standing up or seated, the frame reacts instantly to efforts, and speed rises, no matter if it’s on a climb or flat road. The direct-to-consumer brand has the pro teams and riders to back up their technology.
With a design that's labelled "engineered perfection," Canyon's featherweight Ultimate CF SLX has a lot to live up to, and thankfully it achieves those goals with aero touches and a welcome balance of compliance.
First look at the Canyon Ultimate CF SLX
Giant TCR Advanced SL 0
Giant is the largest bicycle manufacturer on the planet, and its pro-level TCR Advanced SL 0 is the company's straight-ahead road race bike. The three core values behind the TCR design are efficiency, handling and race-tuned ride quality in world-class measures.
Built for the demands of the world's elite riders, this sleek, light, and proven on the WorldTour bike easily lives up to the #totalracebike hashtag.
First look at the Giant TCR Advanced SL
Pinarello Dogma F8
Seen under the Tour de France-winning Team Sky, as well as the Team Wiggins squad, Pinarello's Dogma F8 is a bike of legend. Originally designed in a partnership with former sponsor Jaguar, the Pinarello Dogma F8 is one of the more premium framesets in the pro peloton. Its aero shapes are combined with refined Italian handling and a unique aesthetic to create a bike that’s often regarded as one of the finest going.
Standing on the pedals reinforces the feeling of absolute solidity, all of the asymmetric features working together to give a completely balanced experience when accelerating. Sprinting on the flat, attacking on a climb, or firing out of a corner, the F8 feels urgent, with no lag between pedal strokes, no undue flex, and everything focused on rapid forward motion.
Pinarello Dogma F8 full review
So which road racer is your Most Wanted?
To vote, head to our awards page below and select the bikes and products you think deserve the title of 'Most Wanted'.
