define a racing frame
 

okay so im on the hunt for a new frameset and i was wondering what exactly defines a frame as a racing frame? in other words, what specific geometries or frame characteristics (aside from material and weight) should i be looking at? any help is appreciated.

stiffness

stiff, light, quick handling.

As for Geometry, typically you're looking at bikes with short chain stays, short wheelbases,fairly steep seat and head tube angles.

You're also going to want the bike to set up in an aero position, so bikes with long head tubes that are intneded to setup for an upright position are the opposite of what you're looking for.

Of course there are mutiple ways to skin a cat, and lots of geometry is personal preference (for example Lemond always advocated a pretty laid back geometry.) so all the above is a pretty gross generalization.

stiff, short wheelbase and puts you in a very aero position.

Aggressive geometry, or certainly feels that way when you get on the bike.

Have you got any frames in mind? It might be easier to do it that way rather than go through countless (subjective) characteristics.

Just a thought.

edit: the other guys beat me to it!

Any frame upon which you race. Mine is not super stiff, light, or particularly quick handling.

I didn't buy with intentions of racing though... if you're buying a new frame, these are important considerations if you intend to race it. It just doesn't make that big of a difference.

what do you want to use it for ? road racing, TT's or ???

One that you can afford, feel, and ride on comfortably enough on to be faster than others....

Thats a race frame

bingo...the rest is subjective

right now im cruising around on a nashbar road frame (aluminum) and i had given a good guess that the longer headtube was not conducive for a good racing frame. i bought the frameset when i didnt know very much about road cycling and now id like to get a bit more specific with all of the fancy Campy parts i have for the frame. right now i am looking at the Le Champion frame and sticking an Ouzo Pro with it. I am fairly certain i cant afford a full carbon fiber frame. sidenote-- i did just enter a sweepstakes for a Look 555...

+1 but also it will usually put you in a more aggressive riding position.

any suggestions? i really cant go too exotic.

so many bikes, so little time...there are some that think the way to go is to get the latest tech from large manufacturers and then there are those that think the way to go is small custom builders.

check out qbike.com there is a bike buying guide. good luck.