Bicycle Materials...

Will the growing demand for space-age materials put a cramp on rocket-science inspired bicycles?

Bicycle industry publications have pointed out some of the hottest frame materials are getting more expensive and more scarce because demand for specialty materials such as titanium and carbon fiber, is soaring.

Increased demand comes from the aerospace industry, computer makers, and even the medical fields, where titanium is a favored metal for bone screws and joint replacement parts.

The price of titanium, aluminum and carbon fiber has risen as orders increase from airplane makers and defense companies such as Airbus, Boeing Co. and Lockheed Martin Corp., who are buying up a greater portion of the supply to keep up with demand.

However, area bicycle sellers believe the industry isn't going to see a material crunch, that supplies will increase to meet the market demand, and it hasn't impacted bicycle maker's plans to continue to offer the exotic materials in their frames.