Originally Posted by
sced
As a material for bike frames, Ti offers absolutely no advantages over CF, steel, or Al unless one rides under water at temperatures above about 800F. As for a car, compare a $15k Honda Civic to any $5K-$15K bicycle. Technologically in all respects the bikes are primitive, but stupidly overpriced ego-ornamentation in comparison - unless (maybe) you're a Pro. A well maintained Civic will carry 4 passengers 300k miles or more in comfort and safety at - name a speed.
IMO CF will never be serious material for MTB's or Cyclocross. It can not take the abuse typically dished out by an intermediate rider let alone an advanced rider. Rocks, logs etc. do not mix well with CF. High end steel MTB / Cyclocross frames are nice but corrosion can be problematic (I know ... my favorite hardtail rusted out at the bottom of the seat tube. Ti is hands down the top material for a MTB frame .... light and very tough. I smirk everytime I see a CF MTB frame (typically on a fire road) along with the average weenie riding full suspension (which in the vast majority of MTB applications is not needed!!).
I'm sure someone will post a Pro. MTB rider on a CF frame but it is a little different when a Pro. rider hits a rock pile with his BB and he / she is handed a new frame from his / her sponsor vs. the average rider who needs a frame that will last for years.
For pure road applications CF has it's place as does high end Ti, Steel and AL.