Originally Posted by
Scooper
The frame is TIG-welded Reynolds 853 air-hardening steel, and appears to be in great shape. It will last as long as you do if you don't crash it or allow it to rust.
These bikes do have aluminum alloy forks that are overbuilt to minimize fatigue from stress cycles, and that makes them very stiff. Many owners have replaced the OEM alloy forks with steel or carbon fiber forks to reduce road buzz/vibration.
Ok thanks ..but it still gets me worried knowing the frame is welded and not joined like a lugged frame ..how would it compare to lets say a high quality steel lugged frame like SLX or ???