NEWS
NEWS DETAIL
Understanding Bike Frame Materials |
08-Jun-2013 |
The frame is the main body of bicycle and is the framework onto which all other components are attached.
Modern bicycle frames are typically composed of multiple hollow tubes joined together to form a "double triangle" or "diamond" shape. This basic design hasn't changed much in over a century, although advances in engineering, manufacturing techniques, metallurgy and material science have provided a large number of variations on that theme. One of the most active areas of innovation, especially the past decade or so, is the material from which the frame is constructed.
Bicycle frames are usually made from steel or aluminum alloys, although more exotic materials such as carbon fiber and titanium can be found on higher-end bikes. While rare, one can find bike frames made of wood, plastic, magnesium, even bamboo.
Frame materials are a topic of intense debate and strong opinion among cyclists and there is no shortage of myth, hype and misinformation available. While there are important differences between frame materials, the fact is that the frame material matters much less than many would have you believe and it is just one of many factors that influence the strength, weight, and durability of a bike and the way it feels and performs on the road or on the trail.
