Originally posted by phat bahsturd
I got to wondering, how much does a frame REALLY matter to the overall bike experience? I'm wondering this cause it seems like my frame is the weakest link of all my components (it was the cheapest at least).
Basically, i'm wondering if there would be a huge difference in ride quality, going from an 80s bianchi steel frame to say, a more modern tig welded steel bianchi frame?
I'll venture the opinion that a high-quality modern steel frame with thin-walled tubing can offer you a combination of a resilient "steel" ride, along with lower frame weight and less flex, compared to a "traditional" frame using the conventional tubing diameters. Whether that translates into a bigger smile on your face or not, that is the question...
My last road bike's frame didn't look very special... just an ugly blue TIG'ed Fuji with thin-walled steel tubing that was a touch oversized compared to a "traditional" frame. The ride quality was nice, however, and it did enhance my riding experience. Sign me up for some more
thin-walled steel, baby... lugged, even!
I'm going to throw a new cat among the pigeons and suggest that you stay with a conventional-type headset, either Aheadset or threaded, if you get a new frame.