Originally Posted by
rossiny
I have a few road bikes. A Rossin Record, all campy super record bought new in the 80s. A 90s Casati Elisse , with the EL-OS Columbus. They ride beautifully. Just been thinking about titanium . Hiw would u compare them to good steel bikes? Wish I could ride one to see? Not racing these days , actually thinking about touring.
I am a Ti newb, as I have exactly one ride under my belt. But everything I have read from those with more experience, weeding out the hyperbole you occasionally come across, is that premium steel and Ti don't necessarily ride very differently, and factors such as fit, tires, handling,etc. matter more than material. Any any material can be used to result in either a flexible or rigid frame given various possible manipulations of tubing diameter, thickness, etc.
My first ride supports this overall theory.
My sense is that there is a difference, but it's tough to be sure since there are a number of other variables at work (other than frame material). It could also be the placebo of having a new bike.
On my first ride, the bike felt like I had been riding it for years. Like an old friend. Normally I struggle for a little while to feel at home on a new bike. Not this one. This has to be a good sign.
20181230_154841 by
Kett-Man, on Flickr