The term 'road bends' can be solved in a crossword puzzle with the answers 'curves' (6 letters) and 'esses' (5 letters). Road bends are a common feature of roads, which are typically designed to follow the natural contours of the land. Curves and esses are two types of road bends that are used to help drivers navigate around obstacles or to reduce the severity of a hill. Curves are gradual turns that allow for a smooth transition from one direction to another, while esses are sharper turns that require more maneuvering.