In the world of competitive cycling, every gram of weight reduction helps. The reduction of an individual component may not seem that great, but when added to the reduction of other components, the savings can be fantastic.

Ever listen to a NASCAR mechanic talk about getting an extra horsepower out of a 750HP engine by modifying several different parts? Or a world-class sprinter wanting lighter shoes and shorts so he can get that extra 1/100th of a second needed for a world record? Its the same in cycling.

The difference in weight of a carbon rear triangle versus aluminum may be what provides the winning margin in the world championship.

And, the public, being the lemmings that we are, want what our heros ride.