Originally Posted by
RollCNY
How many aluminum frame bikes have you built up and ridden, with exact swap of parts from one frame to the other? I have done it multiple times, and absolutely experienced significant differences among aluminum frames. Wheels and tires absolutely make a difference, just as frame absolutely makes a difference, and seat post absolutely makes a difference.
I had a CAAD5 (I'm 208#) and it beat the crap out of me on broken asphalt. I got a Gunnar with the same parts, wheels, tires, even seat and post and there is a big difference in comfort.
Now I also have a Seven Axiom Race and it is almost as harsh as the Cannondale. Beautiful ride on a nice mountain road, however.