I've been able to detect differences resulting solely from frame material, but it's a fairly subtle change that can be easily overshadowed by other design factors.

I.e. it's largely irrelevant that the Dahon Jetstream is made of aluminum, as it has both front and rear suspension. Or, given the same frame, using wider and lower PSI tires on an alloy frame will very likely result in a cushier ride.

Distance traveled is also a consideration. If you're doing a 10 mile ride, it's highly unlikely that frame material will make a noticeable difference. If you're doing a double century (200 miles), it's likely that even a relatively small increase in road buzz will start adding up over time, and cause fatigue and distress that impacts your performance.


That's because all the roadies are busy comparing aluminum to carbon fiber.

Discussion of the merits of various frame materials is quite common. It's just that most of the talk focuses on carbon fiber, which is not used for folding bikes.