ALLOY VS CARBON FIBRE BIKE

4 BENEFITS OF A ALLOY ROAD BIKE

1) Cost

Though generally more expensive than comparable steel frames, aluminum frames are still relatively inexpensive. Due to their durability, rust resistance, stability and low weight, aluminum frames can suit the needs of a range of riders. While the benefits of an aluminum frame may not compare with those of some titanium and carbon fiber bikes, frames made with aluminum are substantially less expensive. Well-rounded, lightweight and affordable, aluminum bike frames are ideal for riders at all levels of expertise.

2) Weight

Aluminum is the most widely available lightweight bike frame material. Steel, the most common and oldest bike frame material, is approximately three times the weight of aluminum. Though modern steel bikes have adapted to approach the low weight of aluminum bike frames, aluminum frames require no substantial design changes to remain among the lowest-weight bikes available. Due to its naturally low weight, aluminum remains an ideal and affordable choice for racing and mountain bike frames.

3) Durability

Unlike standard steel frames, aluminum bike frames are not prone to rust. This resistance to rust makes aluminum very low-maintenance and ideal for mountain biking and touring cyclists, or for any hobby cyclist who regularly rides in wet conditions. Due aluminum's lower strength compared with steel, titanium and carbon fiber, aluminum bike frame tubes often have thicker walls. Though this does not necessarily provide an advantage over other frame types, thicker-than-standard tubes can be used in aluminum bike frames without making them significantly heavier.

4) Stiffness

Stiffness affects the feel of a ride, providing stability when sprinting and climbing. Varying levels of stiffness are ideal for different types of riders. Partially owing to their thicker tube walls, aluminum bike frames are often stiffer than bike frames made with other materials. This may make for an uncomfortable ride if you are a mountain biker, because aluminum frames have less give than others when biking on bumpy or rocky terrain. This stiffness may provide an advantage to racing and touring cyclists, however, because the low sway of a stiff aluminum frame allows for more stability, and possibly more speed, when sprinting.

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FRAME MATERIAL: CARBON VS ALUMINUM???

by Benedict John • 15 October 2020

5 BENEFITS OF A CARBON FIBRE BIKE 1. It’s lighter, of course The first thing people think of is the weight, and yes carbon fibre makes the lightest bike frames. The fibrous nature allows frame builders to adjust stiffness and compliance by aligning the carbon layers in varying ways. For example, the frame will have stiffness in the bottom bracket and head tube areas for power delivery and control, and compliance in the seat tube and stays for rider comfort. 2. It’s a makes for a smoother, more comfortable ride The main benefit for non-competitive riders is the comfort of a carbon frame. Where aluminium transfers vibration and shock through the bike, carbon has vibration damping qualities that give a smoother ride. If you’re not ready for a full carbon rig though, you can mitigate some of the vibration experienced from an alloy frame by fitting wider tyres and choosing a bike with a carbon fork. 3. It’s stronger and more durable Technical improvements in the weave and epoxy, and the ability of designers to build in strength in frame areas where it is needed most, mean carbon can now be used to build a very durable frame. In fact, carbon road bike frames have been shown to outperform alloy in lab testing and you can now even buy a carbon downhill mountain bike with good impact resistance. 4. It's an extremely stable material Carbon frames used to be susceptible to UV damage, but this is no longer an issue as quality frames made these days contain UV stabilisers. Also, don’t worry when using bike wash on your new carbon frame – compared with steel or aluminium, carbon is an inert material and not susceptible to chemical corrosion or salt damage. 5. It's tried and tested It's been used for years in the bike industry and design and manufacturing techniques have come a long way since the first all carbon-framed bike built in 1986. What if I drop the bike? If your carbon bike is involved in a major crash it is worth having it checked over. Frame damage can be difficult to detect as cracked paint does not necessarily mean a compromised frame. Alternatively, as with any bike, it’s a good idea to check for visible cracks, scratches and scrapes when cleaning, service the bike regularly (at least twice a year) and speak to a skilled mechanic with carbon frame experience if you hear suspicious creaks from the frame after an incident. A note on “big brand” carbon vs the rest… Most of the carbon frames produced in the world today come from a handful of manufacturers who make bikes for all the major brands. The quality among the recognised and tested manufacturers is uniform, high and regularly certified.