New road bike
06-06-14, 09:44 AM
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New road bike
I have two mountain bikes and all of my riding at the moment is in the dirt. I would like to get a road bike to ride three or four times a month. I can get a good deal on an aluminum Trek Madone. A carbon frame is a bit more expensive. I have heard that the aluminum road frames can feel quite harsh. My rides on the road would 30 to 40 miles on flat roads in good condition. Is the ride so harsh that I would notice it?
06-06-14, 01:01 PM
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Not with a carbon fiber fork. I have not noticed any difference in compliance than with a steel road bike.
A well designed aluminum bike can be a good ride.
A well designed aluminum bike can be a good ride.
06-06-14, 01:59 PM
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My Caad 10 is stiffer, but not any harsher than my two steel bikes. The harsh ride reputation came from some of the early aluminum bikes. Lots of good choices out there.
06-06-14, 03:02 PM
#7
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Does the shop have an aluminum Domane that they'd also give you a good deal on? You might find that to have a bit smoother ride.
In any case, you should do side-by-side rides of the Aluminum and Carbon versions -- then you can decide whether the additional $$$ for carbon is worth it for you.
In any case, you should do side-by-side rides of the Aluminum and Carbon versions -- then you can decide whether the additional $$$ for carbon is worth it for you.
06-07-14, 04:36 AM
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Current age aluminium frames are fine - no, not quite as 'comfortable' or 'absorbent' as carbon frames, but they are very, very good, nonetheless.
Ride it, if you like it, then buy it!
cheers
Ride it, if you like it, then buy it!
cheers
06-07-14, 01:16 PM
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Yup. They feel as good as steel and the ride is just as lively. And for bike manufacturers, the weight savings over steel is considerable.
Even low big box store bikes sport alloy frames these days. But not all aluminum is created equal. You do get what you pay for so buy a high quality bike.
Even low big box store bikes sport alloy frames these days. But not all aluminum is created equal. You do get what you pay for so buy a high quality bike.
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