Alu is buzzier but lighter...
...how about a Specialized Roubaix? It's designed to be more comfortable on the rough stuff
Much appreciated food for thought
Quote:
Originally Posted by
mrushton
Really? Lighter (maybe) yes, but stronger? It would depend what test(s) you are subjecting the bike to
Obviously it depends. Mostly on the architecture, not on the material. Carbon is way stronger than aluminium. It is one of the veryVERY few materials outside of the comparative the density/strength range.
Whether a frame made from carbon is stronger than out of other material is depending on the shape. Bike frames can be made wayWAY stronger in carbon than in any alternative.
The thing is that strong (or stiff) is not necessarily the begin and end all of properties. BSA learned that the hard way with their titanium framed motorcross bikes.
Take cromoly. Great stuff and a well constructed frame from special tubing can be both strong enough and feather light. The problem then is that the wall thickness in the less stressed areas gets so thin that the slightest hit will dent it.
With aluminium the extra wall thickness gives geometric stiffness, resistance to dents. Same thing the larger diameter adding geometric stiffness.
Carbon is different in all aspects. Not least because the fibres spread, distribute forces evenly. For anyone having doubt about carbon, look at high end fishing rods.
For me carbon may very well be too stiff and I do not need the 1 or 2 kilo weight reduction. My current bike weighs 14.5 kilos!!! and that is not mygripe even. Still like carbon an awful lot as it is such awesome stuff.
Oh, and ever so much appreciated all the feed back here!!