questions about tubing thicknesses
who knows anything about tubing butts? how thick should i be looking at? 31.8 diameter, I know that much, but what is the major difference between .7/.4/.7 butting vs .8/.5/.8? (and don't come back and say that the former is lighter, while the latter is stiffer. I know that much. ) but what is the real world difference? does a lighter tube (thinner) make for a more or less harsh ride off road? while a thinner tube would be easier to dent, it would also (seems) to absorb more shock than a thicker tube, right? where is the tradeoff nuetral? anyone?
to clarify, this is for a cross bike. I want oversize tubes (going to be tigged), and I also want it light yet stiff, as this is going to be a race bike.
on a separate note, is there any way to ovalize a steel tube (OX Platinum) to make a more comfy top tube?
Thanks very much.