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Al vs CF for racing

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Old 11-16-10, 11:36 AM
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Al vs CF for racing

Putting aside weight and assuming identical geometry - does anyone feel that CF is particularly better than Al for cross races?

I'm mentally debating the merits of Ridley's X Fire and X Ride and wondering if the extra $ for CF is really worth it (the small weight difference isn't really a deciding factor).
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Old 11-16-10, 12:41 PM
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If weight is not an issue then I would go with Alu. Personally, I prefer a stiff CX frame because the tires absorb so much.
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Old 11-16-10, 12:50 PM
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There's no such thing as "worth it" at this level of bike. You either want it and can afford it, or not.
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Old 11-16-10, 01:38 PM
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My AL bikes felt like jackhammers compared to my steel bike. I would think CF would be a nicer ride but is it worth the price? IDK?
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Old 11-16-10, 06:58 PM
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to me it really is about affording CF (and/or being a pro...!)....

regarding comfort, there is nothing comfortable about CX, so that isn't an issue. lessen the jackhammer feeling with tire pressure...

a carbon seatpost, maybe fork is a good mix for the aluminum ride.
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Old 11-16-10, 10:13 PM
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Carbon fork and aluminum frame on mine. I really like this combo simply because I don't freak out everytime I drop it, which is often. It does beat the crap out of me and makes some pretty good 'BONGGGG' sound when the front wheel takes a hard hit, but hey, that's cross as far as I'm concerned.
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Old 11-17-10, 03:26 PM
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https://www.bikeforums.net/showthread...r-cross-racing.
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Old 11-28-10, 11:20 PM
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I've got an aluminum frame cross bike with all aluminum components except for the fork. It's carbon with an aluminum steer tube. The only thing that bugs me while I'm racing is the acid in my legs and the fire in my lungs.

HTFU.
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