Entry-level carbon frames in small sizes: would they be stronger and stiffer?
05-06-15, 07:37 PM
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Entry-level carbon frames in small sizes: would they be stronger and stiffer?
Can lower strength and stiffness of cheaper, entry-level carbon be compensated by a smaller-sized frame? I'm talking in the ranges of 42-48 cm sizes. The frame would be built by a well-respected manufacturer.
Would aluminum be stiffer than entry-level carbon? I'm thinking yes.
Would aluminum be stiffer than entry-level carbon? I'm thinking yes.
05-06-15, 07:42 PM
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Too wide open and too many assumptions would be required.
The frame material is only a small part of the story, but there are so many variables, that just about the only possible conclusion that might be safe, is that all things being as nearly equal as possible, a CF frame will be probably lighter than it's nearest metal counterpart.
In any case, the starting point is the right fit for you. To fudge that in an effort to gain some advantage would be folly.
The frame material is only a small part of the story, but there are so many variables, that just about the only possible conclusion that might be safe, is that all things being as nearly equal as possible, a CF frame will be probably lighter than it's nearest metal counterpart.
In any case, the starting point is the right fit for you. To fudge that in an effort to gain some advantage would be folly.
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05-06-15, 08:01 PM
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Entry level carbon does not necessarily give up strength and stiffness. It more likely has those characteristics equivalent to much higher level frames. But at lower levels those properties come at a weight penalty as compared to a higher level frame.
05-06-15, 08:23 PM
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Some manufacturers will also use size-specific tubing, so there really are a lot of variables. I think that the best thing to do would be to circle back and ask why you're asking this in the first place.
05-06-15, 08:44 PM
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I guess I just want to make myself feel better about my purchase? I have heard that smaller frames are stiffer which I hope will cancel out my fears. As to my bike's size, I'm quite short and only fit Pinarello's smallest size, 42 EZ-Fit. My specs: 5'2 (156 cm) and 143 lbs (65 kg).
05-06-15, 08:57 PM
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Frame on the Razha is supposed to be its best feature. I think you'll be fine.
05-06-15, 09:04 PM
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OK, that explains your position. So, yes, all other things being equal (they never are) shorter frames are inherently stiffer. Also smaller riders tend to be lighter, so don't need as much stiffness. All this is by way of saying I doubt you'll find stiffness wanting.
In any case, stiffness is often misunderstood. Not all flex robs power, and it's very possible for frames to be too stiff. I don't know what downgrades their entry level bikes may have, but the folks a Pinarello understand bikes and I doubt they'd put their name on a dog.
BTW- one bit of advice I give all my friends with new bikes is that once you've bought a bike, stop reading any reviews or comments about it, and don't ask your "knowledgeable" friends about it. You already have it, so good news won't do anything for you, and bad news may have you having unwarranted regrets. So ride your bike, and listen only to your own legs, hands and head, and enjoy the hell out of it.
In any case, stiffness is often misunderstood. Not all flex robs power, and it's very possible for frames to be too stiff. I don't know what downgrades their entry level bikes may have, but the folks a Pinarello understand bikes and I doubt they'd put their name on a dog.
BTW- one bit of advice I give all my friends with new bikes is that once you've bought a bike, stop reading any reviews or comments about it, and don't ask your "knowledgeable" friends about it. You already have it, so good news won't do anything for you, and bad news may have you having unwarranted regrets. So ride your bike, and listen only to your own legs, hands and head, and enjoy the hell out of it.
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An ounce of diagnosis is worth a pound of cure.
Just because I'm tired of arguing, doesn't mean you're right.
“One accurate measurement is worth a thousand expert opinions” - Adm Grace Murray Hopper - USN
WARNING, I'm from New York. Thin skinned people should maintain safe distance.
05-06-15, 09:21 PM
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BTW- one bit of advice I give all my friends with new bikes is that once you've bought a bike, stop reading any reviews or comments about it, and don't ask your "knowledgeable" friends about it. You already have it, so good news won't do anything for you, and bad news may have you having unwarranted regrets. So ride your bike, and listen only to your own legs, hands and head, and enjoy the hell out of it.
05-06-15, 10:00 PM
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You'll be fine. Don't worry.
Last edited by Deontologist; 05-06-15 at 10:03 PM.
