Originally Posted by
BananaTugger
3K refers to the type of cosmetic weave that you see on the exterior of the frame or component.
The only differences between a 12k weave and a 1k weave is how much they cost, how much they weigh and what they look like.
The lower the number, the smaller the weave pattern and the lighter/more expensive the material is.
What you are trying to get into is the type of structural carbon fibre that is used in the frame.
Incorrect.
Fibers are bundled in various sizes designated in thousands (K) of fibers. 1K, 3K, 6K, 12K, 24K, 50K and others are common bundle sizes. These fibers are woven into fabric with various weave patterns. 3K fabric is most common. The various types of fiber will have the same “K” designation to indicate the number of fibers in the bundle. These numbers describe the size of the bundle used and have little to do with the quality of the fiber itself.