Originally Posted by
55/Rad
Bikes don't climb, people do.
On a simplistic level, Jimmy Connors could've blown us off the court playing with a frying pan in his prime, so I see what you're saying. But, this isn't a simplistic issue. The scenario would be something like this: Same rider riding a new Addict or Foil with comparable carbon filament structure (HMX Or HMF), same size frame and same everything on the bike, and properly fitted by a pro...I'm wondering which will transmit power more efficiently on given climbs.
I'd like to see a head-to-head comparison if one exists.
Testing torsional and longitudinal stiffness of frame areas is doable (giant publishes their own tests), and that along with weight factors should theoretically translate into power transfer. Beyond lab work, I'd really like to see some experienced bike testers pit them against each other.
Back to your original comment, I can only say that when I switched to the Addict from my older bike, I noticed (and measured) immediate improvements climbing hills on my normal training routes without any other changes.