Originally Posted by
Banzai
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.
1K weave is hard to make because the pattern is so damn tiny. The material itself is prone to tearing and folding when being handled.
12K weave is that big square looking stuff that was on Scott CR1 frames initially. Now everyone is using it, because it is cheaper. Also, 1K, 3K and 6K weaves are being sucked up by the people who make planes and other crap that doesn't pertain to cycling, which reduces its supply.