A very good discussion. Stiffness does not equate to "better" necessarily. I think we like a conventional steel frame because it is not brick stiff. The same reason that I don't personally like cannondales...they are brick stiff. But there are times that I do like a klein, especially in steep downhill corners. Wiggly top tubes are perhaps not dangerous, but they are scary.

Why the compact frame? Not because of increased stiffness. Not because of weight. Because the manufacturer can fit 95% of the world with three or four sizes, saving a boatload of capital on their production costs. A Cinelli SC or a DeRosa used to come in 1/2 cm increments...making just-in-time and inventory management almost impossible for retailers.

They are ugly, IMHO. I have four that I ride regularly, however. Once you are on 'em you don't know how ugly they are, and they ride just about like a bike.

I'm supposed to be setting up the trainers (snowed today), and I'm here drinking scotch and blathering.

Good night!