Bicycle Mechanics - Leader Aluminum Aero fork vs. Carbon Fiber

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awsnaps
04-30-08, 04:08 PM
Whats up everyone. I wanted to ask what some of you felt about the aluminum aero fork that Leader just started manufacturing. I am currently in the process of building a fixed gear (Using the Leader 720TR aluminum frame) and I am stuck on deciding what is my best choice for a fork. I plan on being a bit rough with the bike as well as riding long distances. Carbon fiber worries me a bit from the stories I've heard about cracking/snapping from pot holes and being rough.

Leader offers the aero fork in aluminum and carbon. About $100 price difference between the two. I am not looking to spend tons of cash on a fork. This is my first road bike/fixie. If any of you have and suggestions or advice, I appreciate it.

You can check out both forks here:

Leader I806A:

http://cgi.ebay.com/LEADER-I806A-ALUMINUM-700C-AERO-ROAD-RACING-BIKE-FORK-B_W0QQitemZ120242483659QQihZ002QQcategoryZ56196QQrdZ1QQssPageNameZWD1VQQcmdZViewItemQQ_trksidZp1638Q 2em118Q2el1247

Leader I806:

http://cgi.ebay.com/LEADER-I806-3K-FULL-CARBON-700C-AERO-TT-ROAD-BIKE-FORK_W0QQitemZ380015947981QQihZ025QQcategoryZ56196QQrdZ1QQssPageNameZWD1VQQcmdZViewItemQQ_trksidZp16 38Q2em118Q2el1247

Ex Pres
04-30-08, 06:38 PM
Can't give you specifics on that frame/fork, but the most common issue I've heard from people with aluminum forks is their odd feel on fast (40 mph+) descents, resulting in a loss of confidence. Have not had anyone say it caused them to wreck, however. YMMV.
lomoid
07-07-08, 03:08 PM
whatever you decide definitely hit up ebay for your fork... I am in the exact same position and found a profile design carbon fork for 41.00. if you are willing to spend much more money you can get some great alpha q forks or easton forks for under 100.00...

love to see your build by the way...

awsnaps
07-14-08, 09:46 AM
whatever you decide definitely hit up ebay for your fork... I am in the exact same position and found a profile design carbon fork for 41.00. if you are willing to spend much more money you can get some great alpha q forks or easton forks for under 100.00...

love to see your build by the way...

After a lot of reading I came to the understanding that aluminum on aluminum would be a pretty bumpy ride. I did end up getting a good deal on a used aero carbon fork for under 100. Not Leader, but similar aero bladed design. I also ended up going with 735TR frame as well. I am almost done. I'll send you photos when complete.