Zephyr11

So the big issue with PA roads (at least in the northeastern and central parts of the state...haven't hung out at all in the northwestern area) is potholes. Small holes get water in them, the water freezes, the holes get bigger, and then PennDOT either doesn't fix them or doesn't do a good job of fixing them, and then the process repeats, only with bigger holes to start. With a bike, you're really trying to avoid those holes. So while aluminum gives a slightly harsher ride than steel or carbon, they're really talking about the little vibrations you get from the asphalt being textured, as opposed to the potholes that you are avoiding. And please do avoid the potholes...they'll throw a roadbike's wheels out of true.