Let's Talk About Bike Frames
bikes have influenced the loves of people all over the world. From China to America, from ordinary to orthodox, bikes have catered to the needs of everyone.
Bikes have provided a means of movement to people for centuries and now, with the technological revolution, bikes have further evolved to offer people numerous designs and types. riding a bike is an activity quickly catching the attention of youngsters for the unlimited fun plus health benefits that it has to offer.
Invented in the 19th century in Germany, it has since transformed into a formidable eco-friendly sports machine. With events such as world cycling championship and Olympics, bike riding has become very challenging and various frames are used to focus on performance. Listed below are the four bike frames most commonly used.
- Carbon fiber: this is a light weight, strong frame with high-performance characteristics. It is the go-to frame if you need speed, light weight and control. Some frames come with a graphite threaded coat with glue balms. There are certain drawbacks relating to recycling and a lot of water is used to create the basic fiber frame. Some vendors have a buy-back scheme so that old or unwanted model can be returned.
- Steel: these frames are as durable as dependable mounts but heavier. It has a long life and is recyclable. Old steel can be converted into new bikes. It is eco-friendly as production doesn’t give out carbon as compared to other metals like aluminum.
- Aluminum:frames are lighter and most convenient along with being cheaper as compared to steel. They are recyclable and reusable. It is however not eco-friendly as the manufacturing of aluminum results in huge emissions of carbon dioxide. And at times, recycled aluminum can compromise structural integrity.
- Titanium: for all the right reasons, this metal frame is considered most suitable for cycling needs but it is not cheap. It is an elite in the world of biking and due to its strength, reliability, robustness, etc. it is considered ideal for most cycling challenges. With a lighter body frame and better dynamics related to driving and the ride that it has to offer. It is however extremely difficult to extract and refinement is more complex than aluminum.
Dependent on your needs and challenges, it is best to consider which type of frame is best for you through detailed analysis of all the key factors that you would accomplish such as speed, control, aerodynamics, etc.