Posted by Sensible Cyclist from Moline, Illinois at 8:38AM on Monday, 11/13/06
What a wonderful article! I especially liked the references to Winter riding and commuting. Unfortunately, too many may be scared to take up cycling thinking bikes like these are necessary for serious cyclists. They are not; in fact...
Titanium is wickedly stiff, rough riding and brittle.
Aluminum is often too stiff and brittle or soft and spongy.
Carbon Fibre wears and fast. It delaminates, particularly when regularly exposed to the elements.
Suspensions are heavy and absorb a lot of power. Saving rotating weight (wheels, cranks, pedals) is FAR more valuable than static weight, (frame, accessories etc.).
Exotics are great for the avid racer that understands their $7K bike won't last for ever. Most people purchasing anything like this don't understand they aren't the best thing for commuting, weekend or club ride. $400-$800 buys one whale of a bike, good enough to ride across the country.
For 90%+ of serious commuters or distance cyclists, a mild steel frame with alloy wheels and components will work at least as well. There are times when these can be significantly better.
1 comment:
It is far too often that people “pigeon hole” bicycle frame materials. There can be large differences in both the stiffness and ride quality bikes made out of the same material. These variances can come from factors such as tubing quality, thickness, diameter and butt. Carbon cycles bring an even higher level of variance of ride and stiffness because even if all other factors are kept the same there are unlimited ways to “lay up” the carbon; since carbon unlike other materials is directional (it is strong only one way) this has the greatest effect over the bike. In conclusion it is best to test ride a few bikes at your lbs and talk with the local Guru to find the best bike for you rather the lessoning to the rumor mill. Jeremiah Gantzer Healthy Habits Bike Shop www.healthyhabitsqc.com
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