Road Cycling - 1021 steel vs. aluminum

I was looking for a new bike, and after reading the forums, I think steel may yield a more comfortable ride. I saw 1021 hi tensil steel as a spec. for a bike frame, and the same bike with an aluminum frame for $50 dollars more. Is 1021 good steel, or junk? Any idea how much heavier it might be than the aluminum frame in the same size? (they don't specify the weights of either bikes) It is not in stock, so I can't weigh it. Does anyone think the increase in comfort (if appliciable) will outweigh the increase in weight. I have learned alot from these forums and appreciate all of you. Thanks in advance!

Who makes this frame you're talking about? If it just says "high tensile steel," it's probably an x-mart bike. Run. Run far away. If you want a steel bike go to your LBS and get one made with Reynolds or Columbus double butted tubing. Other than that don't bother.

And yes, the comfort and durability of a quality steel frame is more than worth the slight increase in weight over aluminum!

I agree with live311, I have never heard of 1021 hi tensil steel frames. If steel is your desire go with the Reynolds, Columbus, or Boron Steel frames.

I raced a Reynolds steel Bianchi for 4 years and found the ride to be far superior to my former Cannondale Alum frame. It was heavier but the weight difference I can take off my body to equalize the difference. I could stay on the saddle much longer on the steel frame. That being said I just bought a new Orbea and elected to go with a non steel frame. But the design is such that it reduces the vibration from the downtube and the rear triangle is carbon. It's an Alum, magnesium,zing allow with carbon. With a carbon seat post the ride seems to be as nice as my steel Bianchi. The upside is it climbs better due to the weight and the carbon rear triangle allows more direct energy to the wheel. Maybe it's all in my head, it looks cool though!

Thanks for the quick responses. The manufacture is Giant. The model is a cypress st compared to a cypress. I am flip floping between a road bike and a hybrid. I may be getting a bit old and stiff to get a good road bike position. Thanks

I forgot to say Giant 2004 model. Thanks again

Hi tensile steel is the lowest grade I've seen used on a bike frame. It's sturdy, I'll give it that, but it's heavy. A slightly higher end steel will give the comfy ride you're looking for without the weight penalty of hi-ten.

Giant doesn't seem to have their '04 line online yet, but I would at least go for a frame that is Cro-Moly steel. It's a different alloy that allows for a lighter frame that still has the benefits of a steel frame's ride.