Originally Posted by
waterrockets
Actually, I think the biggest performance benefit from carbon comes from a feature that many associate with comfort. The ride in a good carbon frame absorbs bumps incredibly well. On my steel bike (which I used to think rode really nice), if I'm descending at 40-50mph through a sweeping turn, the washboard would skitter me out about an inch or two off my line. Disconcerting, and it slowed me down.
On my first ride on carbon, I was amazed at how it just absorbed the same bumps, and at higher speeds. Cornered on rails. Huge difference. Huge.
That is a good point WR. In addition on longer rides, even ones as short as 20 miles, I think vibrations will take its toll on your power output.
Have you tried riding one yet? If not then do it and you will feel the difference.