Jaz123

I'm trying to find a bike for my brother who isn't very interested in cycling but is willing to go along rides with me. There's a lightly used '07 Fuji Team (Not rc, pro, issue etc) for a pretty good price but we're hesitant to get it as we have no idea how long it might last and whether it can sustain my brother's weight (around 215).

In some ways, I feel aluminum bikes may be just as good and won't crack like a carbon bike. What are your opinions on the Fuji Team or Fuji bikes in general? Should we go for it or find an aluminum bike?

atallen223

I'd buy an aluminum. Not because of the durability, but because of cost. If he isn't very interested in cycling then why spend the money? Get a nice used aluminum road bike that fits him for 400 or 500 bucks, then if he doesn't like cycling you can sell it for the same amount you bought it for, and if he decides he does like it then he can buy a carbon bike.

bbattle

The bike should have no trouble supporting your brother's weight provided it doesn't have some superlight, low-spoke count wheelset. Same for an aluminum bike.

Best thing is to let him test ride a bunch of bikes, see what he likes best. It may be that a steel frame bike is the best one.

banerjek

Buy based on cost. The Fuji bikes are fine and anything you get should be plenty durable. Don't worry about cracking carbon unless he does all his own maintenance and doesn't believe in torque specifications.

BTW, I ride a 2005 Team Pro. I love that bike.

rms13

my friend is over 250 lb and rides a carbon Supersix and nothing has broken yet.

With that said, I would recommend something used in $500 range or maybe an entry level alum bike if you can find a good deal. But you'll get more bang for the buck with a used bike. Just find something that fits properly or he'll never ride. If you aren't experienced enough to help with fit, than going to an LBS for a entry level bike might be better.

Lazyass

27 years in the saddle, I'm no beginner. I prefer aluminum over carbon. The reasons why are in countless threads that always end up in drama.

atallen223

I totally disagree! I'm just kidding. I have both carbon and aluminum and I love them both.

Lazyass

I should have specified "hydroformed" aluminum. What builders can do with alu nowadays is pretty cool. Much nicer ride than the round tube frames of the 90's.

Jarrett2

The only reason I would say aluminum is so he can get his newbie falls out of his system. Otherwise, there is no other reason I would suggest aluminum over carbon for recreational road bike usage.

Lazyass

A good article.

Carbon Fiber Bikes: There Is An Alternative | Easy As Riding A Bike