Originally Posted by
bigbossman
The flip side of a stiff aluminum frame is the ride quality.
I had a early 90's all aluminum Trek 1500. It was a fantastic riding bike, up to about 30 miles or so. Past that, it got very uncomfortable to ride. I couldn't imagine spending the day on it.
Newer aluminum frames ride significantly better - partly because the construction/geometry has evolved and has been refined, and partly because of the use of CF stays and forks.
I'll not ride a "vintage" all aluminum bike again, if I have a choice about it.
This is a good point. I had one of the first generation Klein Quantums and I feel lucky to still have teeth. It beat the heck out of me. But as far as wearing out I think any of the older Kleins or Cannondales would outlive any of us as long as they weren't damaged in any way.