Originally Posted by
McBTC
Just passing along what I've read but, while 7005 is a little stronger, 6061 is a better suited for use in manufacturing processes like hydroforming techniques that enable fabricators to more effectively maximize the properties of the material, the end being a superior performing bicycle frame.
Companies like Specialized are very careful not to tout a given Al alloy for the simple reason that their frames may have a mixture. Of course they want to optimize weight and make their frame around 1000g or abouts if possible. But depending on material gage they spec, location on the bike, how much forming etc they may use different heat treat
Al alloys. It is somewhat analogous to carbon fiber. Most top companies provide a 'series' of carbon and don't specify a particular modulus. This is because frames use different carbon layups throughout. Same with Al...different alloys depending on the objective of a given frame member.