Originally Posted by
Street rider
Titanium isn't going to hold up to any sort of abuse as well as chromoly though. I remember when Eastern started making a Ti BMX frame, and the warning label said that it was not meant to be raced, used for heavy street riding, or dirt/trails. And for $2000 a pop? This is a bit different than an ssfg frame of course, but I'm sure you get the general idea. Its lighter and more expensive. Doesn't necessarily make it any better.
The statement that Titanium is "better", was used with respect to durability and longevity of service, under normal recreational and commuting conditions. The applications of racing, jumping, and bicycle tricks, are not best suited to Titanium, due to its tendency to flex. The stiffness of bicycles lends itself to greater control when it comes to both agility and acceleration. This is particularly most noticeable when climbing hills. You'd most likely climb a hill with greater efficiency riding either a steel or aluminum framed bicycle, as opposed to Titanium.
However, if you were to commute daily with a Titanium bicycle, or if you were to tour with a Titanium bicycle, your bicycle would most likely last for many decades longer than steel. It could be an ongoing family hierloom!
Only in that sense is it "better".