Originally Posted by
Wogsterca
You do know that a mountain bike isn't really that much stronger, most of them have AL frames, which means thiicker and larger diameter tubing, which looks stronger, but isn't. Wheels are a little stronger, due to smaller diameter, but it's not really enough to make a huge difference, except that most MTB wheels are 36 spoke. What is often different is that MTB's are geared lower, 42/32/22 is common for MTB cranks where as 53/39/29 are common for road bikes, although I think 46/36/26 would be best for touring bikes. The smaller wheel on an MTB actually makes it even lower in gearing.
i beg to differ, a aluminum road bike and a aluminum mountain bike are not created equal. how many downhill riders have skinny aluminum tubes? why do cyclocross guys jump off their bikes during rough sections? would you ride you aluminum comfort frame off a jump? i would chose not. the size of the tubing does matter as does the geometry of a mtb which is meant for more hits. you may try the experiment of tyring to snap a pencil and then a 2x4, both wood, but one is certianly stronger.