Originally posted by flyefisher
I want to know the overall ride characteristics of these materials compared to steel, aluminum, and each other.
Cipher is essentially correct. Carbon fibre although being laminated cloth can be made much lighter than steel, ti or aluminum. Each have their own feel, obviously. i would advise if ossible to ride bikes, made from the two materials you are interested and decide for yourself.
Cipher don't try to argue with D* Alex his above answer is typicalI doubt if he has any experience with ti and carbon or he could have answered the actual question. Also pokey is the same way, rarely any good advice just sarcasm.