Carbon Unit

I finally got my wife to show interest in cycling and am shopping for a bike for her. What I want for her is a frame that can take out some of the road buzz so I am looking at getting a carbon frame. The entry level carbon frames have an aluminum steerer. Would she notice any difference between a full carbon and an aluminum steerer?

ahsposo 

Man, if I could get a bike for my wife I'd jump on that deal. Nobody will take her, though.


Seriously, you think a beginner is gonna be able to tell the difference between a carbon steerer and an aluminum one? I would bet that most riders couldn't without looking at it.

adriano 

no.

rdtompki

CF handlebars would make more of a difference, but fit should be at the top of the list. I would think her initial fit needs to be one that puts her in a balanced position without needed a lot of weight on her hands. If she really takes to cycling and gets stronger you'll be able to change the handlebar position with spacers and stem within a certain range, but the bike has to initially feel comfortable or she won't ride.

valygrl

I doubt the steerer will be noticeable. Fit and saddle are most important. Women tend to ride a shorter TT and taller HT than men for the SAME body position, so don't be surprised if the WSD or comfort fit bikes work better. I ride a Scott CR1 and it fits great, they do make a women's version. Specialized does a good job with their women's bikes too.

Expect to go through a couple of saddles until she finds the right one. Specialized & Terry have good try-out policies.

Adrianinkc

Get a specialized roubaix (don't know what the women's model is). I just got a great deal on a 2011 roubaix elite(entry level) and to my surprise it has a carbon steer tube.