Originally Posted by comradehoser
I can also definitely tell the difference between my old Nova (631) and my special frame (853). Lighter and stiffer, not necessarily better, just different.
631 and 853 are the same 853 tubes, the only difference is that tubes are air hardened for 631 and the heat treated for 853.
From the
bobjackson.com web site:
The primary difference between 853 and 631 is the lack of heat treating applied to an 853 tubeset, thus producing 631 tubing
So there is no difference in weight as I read it. The only difference is that 853 is stiffer. For some that is reason enough to justify the not insignificant price difference. For me, having ridden many steel bikes as well as a few aluminum, I much prefer a softer ride. It is not noodly either if that's the way I make it sound. I have 2 bikes (both Jamis!) made of 631 and both are a magic carpet ride.