Originally Posted by
mustang1
I always thought a smaller triangle is sturdier/stiffer/stronger than a larger triangle. If we forget compact v regualr frames for a sec and compare 2 regular frames, one 50cm, one 58cm, I would say the smaller one is stiffer.
Now we can apply this analogy to a compact frame, a 58cm compact frame and 58cm regular frame, I'd say the smaller triangle (compact frame) is stronger.
As an aside, I too prefer the look of a regular frame (see my post "My ugly Allez" but I'm now getting more accustomed to compact frame designs.
The 2 biggest reasons (performance) that compact frames are used by racers are the "smaller triangles are stronger/stiffer, and the compact frame uses less material than a traditional frame and is thus a lighter frame.
Beyond that there are all sorts of rationals for fit, comfort and manufacturing cost. One can go back and study the history of Giant Bicycles development of the compact frame for some of these.