Originally Posted by
Dean V
It seems to be generally accepted that carbon is good in forks, handlebars, and seat posts because it adds comfort by absorbing road vibration.
Surely this is basically saying it is damping and absorbing energy?
So why isn't it said that the frame is damping and absorbing the energy the rider is putting through it and is less efficient for transferring power?
The majority of a cyclists power is transmitted over a 10 inch long arc per side (165mm cranks, 90 degrees of rotation).
If you are asking if it is more or less efficient to deflect the bottom bracket by .050 inches or .025 inches during this 10 inch pedal movement... The answer is "negligible".