Originally Posted by
CliffordK
Well, there's progress for you.
Mom's 1979 (ish) Grand Jubile Mixte (Vitus) is rated at 23 or 24 pounds, I think. Fully outfitted with lock, it is still pretty light.
That's a really elegant bike, and nicely maintained.
So, what's the deal? I weighed a couple more bikes: Early 80s Trek 311 is 26 pounds with Sturmey Archer drivetrain. Schwinn "World Tourist" from 1982 is 33 pounds, fully encumbered with steel fenders, chain guard, kick stand, rack, basket, and Sturmey Archer.
Are aluminum frames heavier? Welded frames heavier than lugged? Do heavier bikes give riders a more solid feel? Sorry about going off topic, but my curiosity is piqued.