Originally Posted by
BoSoxYacht
compact frameset geometry became common before carbon fiber became affordable(but it definitely helped CF frameset prices drop).
I'm thankful for the 9,10,and 11 speed advances. Even the best shifting front derailleur system is a weak link, but a necessary evil.
Yeah, sloping top tubes became feasible as soon as welded frames became popular. Started a little bit with steel, but really took over with aluminium. Most liked to stick with the horizontal top tube tradition for a while.
Seems like many race frames have nearly horizontal top tubes while many frames for the recreational rider are more compact.