Will be looking at a new bike soon, and have seen references to "traditional geometry", "compact geometry", "relaxed geometry", etc. and that some are better for power, some are better for comfort, etc.
Are there some decent sources of information on the basic characteristics of the different geometry types?
Phatman
06-03-04, 07:31 AM
Will be looking at a new bike soon, and have seen references to "traditional geometry", "compact geometry", "relaxed geometry", etc. and that some are better for power, some are better for comfort, etc.
Are there some decent sources of information on the basic characteristics of the different geometry types?
Ok, I'll define these for you.
compact geometry - the top tube slopes down towards the back of the bike. pioneered by giant for use on a road bike.
relaxed geometry - the angles of the head and seat tube are small, less then 73-74 degrees. a relaxed headtube makes for a more stable, slower turning bike, and a longer wheelbase, which also slows the handling down. a relaxed seat tube puts you more behind the pedals, and is supposed to be more comfy. it is the opposite of steep geoentry. see below.
traditional geometry - usually, this is geometry that is not relaxed, but not super steep either. usually, its 73/73 seat/head tube angles. it makes for a nice riding bike, not too quick, but not too sluggish.
I'll define another couple for you...they might pop up...
steep geometry - angles more then 73 degrees. a steep seat tube makes for a more powerful position, as your pedals are more underneath you. a steep headtube shortens wheelbase, and makes a faster-steering bike.
tri-geometry - if you aren't racing a triathalon, stay away from this. they have a steep seat tube for more power, a really relaxed head tube for stability while in aero bars, however, they are not particularly comfortable, and dont handle very well. designed for speed, and are mostly not legal for racing in most places.
track geometry - very steep angles, short wheelbase. very quick, nimble handling. not very comfortable. designed for use...on the track...
I think I've covered it. by now someone has already posted something...I thought I was the first reply oh well. i hope you weren't too confused...
jeff williams
06-03-04, 08:38 AM
"compact geometry - the top tube slopes down towards the back of the bike. pioneered by giant for use on a road bike."
Naw, Ritchey, Brodie-mtb designers. And Grrls bikes, old Italian comforts etc.
Oh,****. I didn't even really read your statement. ROAD bikes. :rolleyes:
(anyway-big deal over Giant. Ritchey did this stuff in 90-91 and a road bike with a tube design of this nature is directly derivative of that developement mtb racing frameworks IMO.)
I guess I should be quiet.
No yelling please.
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