Chris Loffredo wrote:
> I have a choice between an aluminium and a steel frame for the same price.
>
> According to the bike shop & several on-line articles I've read, the
> material itself isn't so important compared to the construction. I'd
> appreciate advice on anything I should look for in making my choice.
Generally speaking, the steel frame is repairable while the
aluminum frame is not. Also, given comparable quality,
aluminum frames typically cost less to construct these days
than a steel frame. However, given the number of variables,
it would be hard to say in your specific case which is the
better value.
I would also look closely at the fork. The fork can have a
large effect on ride quality. In steel, a crowned fork will
flex more, and thus ride smoother, than a unicrown fork.
Aluminum appears to be a poor material for a fork since once
enough material is used to make the fork sufficiently
strong, it is also quite stiff.
Carbon forks can vary quite a bit. Carbon forks that are
bonded at the crown are often beefed up there, and the
result can be a harsh ride.
A full carbon fork with no bonding (many carbon forks with
carbon steerers are still bonded at the crown) can have a
nicer ride. When we offered a carbon fork option for our
Heron Road, we found that the Easton EC90 provided a
comparable ride to our crowned steel fork.
Of course, if you are going to tour with the bike and use
front panniers, you will definitely want a heavy-duty fork
designed for such use. The primary options here are steel,
but expect the stiffer fork to offer a harsher ride when
riding the bike unloaded.
Todd Kuzma
Heron Bicycles
Tullio's Big Dog Cyclery
LaSalle, Il 815-223-1776
http://www.heronbicycles.com
http://www.tullios.com
