What Bicycle Frame Material Should You Choose?

[@Cade_Media]

yes that is supposed to say Titanium at 9:32

[@janeblogs324]

But where/what is the bike frame in the thumbnail on the right??

[@slodoco]

AKA Steel 2

[@Alex_564]

853 as mid-level? In what world. 853 is like the highest steel in reynolds line up. Only one higher end is stainless steel 931 & discontinued 953. 921 is the stainless equiv of the 725 from what the info says.

[@reinholdachleitner2069]

​@@Alex_564Why did they discontinue 953?

[@dinodaniel2237]

I'm an old boy and still have a great love for steel roadbikes made from Columbus tubing. Nothing beats steel for its supple and comfortable ride it provides.

[@DEAR7340]

I recently resurrected my 1987 Panasonic Team America (Columbus SL). Instead of going vintage, I stripped it and had it powdercoated; I updated the components because I planned for it to be a workhorse. It has exceeded all of my epxectations.

[@two2pedal289]

My '99 Columbus steel Italian built Marin with steel fork is a magic carpet ride, Think it's smoother than my Ti/carbon forked rig.

[@davidnicholson6680]

IMO, any material can make a great frame. I have had great steel, carbon and Ti frames. I haven't had an aluminum (sic) frame ride as well as other options, but aluminum can be perfect for racing as it's cheap, stiff and tough. Setting aside ride quality, I focus more on durability and toughness these days. This is making Ti and steel ever more appealing to me. My favorite current frame is the carbon/Ti Seven I have: beautiful and tough with a great ride quality. Still, my carbon Giant road bike rides incredibly well and was a lot cheaper than the Seven. Overall, I'd say carbon is best for performance road, steel is best for touring or tough gravel and aluminum is best for inexpensive hardtails and crit bikes you don't care about damaging. Ti and Ti-mix is best for all around dream bikes you plan to keep for a while.

[@Mensch-et3xm]

Just out of curiosity - why do you think it should be called "aluminum"?

[@m_sharif]

Nice summation..

[@domestique3954]

Right-I’m on my titanium frame for more than two decades now-just have to renew the groupset every few years. Titanium doesn’t wear out,it stays the same ride quality it had when it was new. It doesn’t rust,it’s easy to clean and you don’t get dents on the tubes. It can be a problem when the tube walls are too thin,because then you are more likely to overheat the weldings. It’s not easy to paint titanium-you need to prepare it the right way to make the paint stay,but it’s possible

[@MrQuestful]

I’ve been riding a Ti Serotta for the last 18yrs, it’s still my favorite descender, and has literally stood the test of time.

[@simonorr594]

Mr Serotta is back building frames again up in Saratoga - he just fixed a weld on my friend's 20 year old Legend Ti.

[@shrkys4]

Totally agree with you! My Ti Serotta is such a great all around bike, might be time for a drive train upgrade tho

[@MrQuestful]

@@shrkys4 just did that myself a few months back, got the last of the cable actuated ultegra

[@richmck007]

Nothing stands the test of time like a Titanium bike. It’s so damn expensive to produce due to the expense of the metal. Moots would have paved the way in the past if was not for costs and material… That Serrota is a one-off a kind ride. 👌

[@parrisgeorge9708]

Thanks for the video. I've got 3 steel, 1 alloy, and 1 carbon road bike. All the bikes have their good and not so good points which go beyond the material that they're built from. What I've experienced is that the way a steel bike with a steel fork seems to communicate what the road surface and "feel" in a very linear way. That makes for being able to not get surprised often times with sketchy conditions. The way the carbon and alloy bike for me tend to go from about a 2 to 10 way faster in a surprising way than the steel bikes if the conditions turn to crap. The carbon bike surprised me when I first got it because of how muted the road feels when on it when the roads are half way decent. The bike feels "slow" until I remember to look at the computer. It's a very different experience for me. The alloy bike has it's own feel. It transmits shock more than the other 2 materials but isn't objectionable on most rides. The geometry of 2 steel and the alloy bike are quite close. The carbon bike is setup different so It's not a fair comparison. I think that the steel fork plays a much bigger part in the ride than many give it credit for. just some rambling.

[@xviiibestarot]

Much appreciated. Newbie here doing her research as I’m hearing steel is for a much smoother ride vs how the body absorbs much more with aluminum and carbon

[@artgreen6915]

​@@xviiibestarot if you use tubeless tyres at the lower pressures they work with, and slightly wider tyres now recommended 28-32mm rather than the 23-28mm of old) with modern rims of 23-25mm inner width vs older 19mm.... ....then this will give you a bigger improvement in ride quality than aluminium will be able to take away again. I'm surprised to read that alloy transmits vibration but not change in conditions. If it isn't change in timbre of the vibe that communicates change in surface, then what does?

[@Mosely2007]

​@@xviiibestarot I have carbon, alum. And steel bikes.steel last forever and is easily repaired. Aluminum is good too. I've had a lot of carbon bikes . They all broke frames. I ride daily 40 or more miles on gravel. Steel frames on road and gravel for me. I want to ride home not carry broken bikes. Ride several , you'll know what feels right.

[@drooghead]

Steel is an alloy.

[@maxgrass8134]

I'm proud to be a steel frame builder myself 💪🏻. Loving it. Road, Gravel, MTB, Dirtjumps and my kids bikes 😁

[@maverick6631]

Steel is real...

[@gurmeharsingh5228]

@@maverick6631 is it still

[@michaelvanthiel2615]

a carbon gravelbike / bikepacking bike sounds fun but in reality go for aluminium. the amount of times a rock has hit the frame and i genuinly fear a broken frame is not worth it. i would rather have a nice aluminium frame with a high end wheelset and nice finishing kit than a medium priced carbon bike with cheaper parts (3000 euro)

[@Jacob99174]

Completely agree!

[@YuichiTamaki]

Exactly!

[@deadreckoner5276]

So titanium.

[@DavidLamon]

Steel frame, carbon fork, handlebars and wheels is the way to go for gravel/bikepacking

[@larisonjohnson]

Great overview. For me, Road bike is Carbon, Mountain/Gravel are Aluminum. My choices are a result of what was available/appropriate at the price I was willing to pay. For me, mountain/gravel usually always includes travel by car, various car racks, and generally a rougher environment, more aligned with metal. Road bike is a less harsh overall environment, where weight, compliance, and electronic group support were influencers. All good, really nice to have options!

[@dpie4859]

Totally agree. I know of several MTB friends who had their carbon frame crack. Alu is only a few hundred grams heavier but it will not break and cost at least 1000usd less. Money you can spend on other lighter components.

[@seancolwell3815]

I ride mainly steel frames. But a Moots titanium is on my bucket list.

[@bradwjensen]

I don't think a titanium frame is going to really impress you. Steel is great.

[@2ForceCycles]

Just bought a titanium bike - come to the dark side, you wont regret it

[@robertfouldes509]

I have a bamboo bike - an AluBoo made in Vietnam, they also had another range simply called Boo. Sadly the maker of these bikes left Vietnam and I don’t think they’re in production anymore. The ride, to me, is very similar to a steel frame , I had always ridden steel frames (531 and some newer variant ) and couldn’t abide the hard vibrations from aluminum framed bikes (I test rode one long long back, late 1980s, and just walked away from it, maybe- hopefully, they got better). I’m planning to bring my aluboo back to the UK in the near future, am hoping it’s adjusts just fine, but, if it doesn’t, I would probably find myself another steel frame to ride, maybe carbon, not sure - cost dependent! Also have to think about winter versus summer rides!!! When you cycled Vietnam - you should have dropped into James’ shop, certainly the best shop in hcmc at that time!

[@anotheryoutuber_]

wood is the original carbon fiber

[@JulianAndresKlode]

@@anotheryoutuber_ bamboo is grass, not wood though.

[@anotheryoutuber_]

@@JulianAndresKlode tell that to your lawnmower

[@SuperNeilB]

The Bamboo Bicycle Club will sell you a kit so you can build your own bamboo bike!

[@cubatea]

I have an Enigma Excel frame bought a year ago. It is 6Al4V titanium, made in the UK. Absolutely love the ride quality. When they say titanium zings, it sure does. Wonderful ride quality on our poor quality roads. And I had a shoe fit at James' shop. Well worth the money as it makes cycling much more enjoyable

[@simon-morris]

I have just bought an Eikon frame, should be delivered in Jan so looking forward to getting that built up

[@robertosantoro9685]

Have been riding steel, alu and carbon frames. The video is on point and according to my experience. Steel has a lovely ride quality and it feels like a spring winding up under your pedalling input. Alu is quite sterile instead, it feels flat and rather liveless, but it's much lighter and stiffer than steel. Therefore it's definitely more suitable for racing. Carbon feels firm as alu yet responsive and compliant as steel, and it's therefore by far my preferred material.

[@RandomActOfDod]

A glimpse of Cade’s new bike, just outside the shop whilst James is discussing aluminium and steel frames🤪

[@sventice]

I ride an aluminum gravel bike (Trek Checkpoint) almost all of the time, and maybe I just don't know any better, but I really like it. I've used it for gravel riding (go figure), commuting, road rides, and touring, and it's performed brilliantly at everything. This is the first aluminum bike I've ever had, and I honestly haven't noticed much of the harsh ride quality that people often ascribe to aluminum frames, even though I'm riding this thing on 32mm road tires at 100psi. I'm pretty convinced by now that a high-quality aluminum frame is probably vastly preferable to many carbon frames, and that you can get that high-quality aluminum frame for about the same price as a crappy carbon one.

[@Stu-ky5ut]

Love my Checkpoint have over 20000 k”s on it now love it. But thinking my next bike would be Bombtrack hook ect22 🤔 for no other reason just like the look of it 😋

[@henderthing]

There's really no reason to put 100 psi in 32c tires. Whether you're running tubeless or tubes... even if you weigh 300 lbs. Try running less than 70 psi. Don't take my word for it. Have a look around.

[@artgreen6915]

Doesn't a Trek Checkpoint have an 'IsoSpeed' decoupler?

[@sventice]

@@artgreen6915 The aluminium frame doesn't have the in-frame suspension feature, which I'm actually happy about.

[@recuperacion420]

Titanium does not scratch, feels deli, and looks beautiful.😅

[@MattChapple]

I'm lucky enough to have a Curve Belgie (titanium) and the ride is amazing - so comfortable but so fast! I race on alloy frame with a geometry for crit racing but I'd happily do (and have done) long days on it - it's that good.

[@uNkieTee]

Onya Mate! Also a Curve ride here, but I'm on a Ti Kevin. Compared to my Focus CX the thing that still amazes me is the way I feel after a big day out. The compliance on nasty gravel is next level goodness.

[@neilashton9459]

I have owned all 4 frame types and vote Titanium. One big advantage you didn’t mention was it essentially lasts forever - won’t rust or corrode and excellent fatigue properties. I recently bought a top of the line Litespeed T1SL and it was actually a bargain compared to even a mid-level carbon bike. Made in USA (same state where I live) by a company that more or less started the Ti bike business so knows how to make them right.

[@vectura5480]

My dad had a really nice titanium Serotta Classique.... the head tube just cracked apart (the tube itself, not the welds). Doesn't rust or corrode, sure, but I don't buy the fatigue argument.

[@neilashton9459]

@@vectura5480 which is why having a lifetime warranty is also a nice thing 😉

[@vectura5480]

@@neilashton9459 sadly that company went under so no warranty, and it would be impossible to prove that it wasn't normal wear and tear. After that experience I just would not ever go titanium again.

[@roblucchetti2993]

@@vectura5480 Are you sure about that? Serotta is absolutely still in business. I'd reach out if it's still worth it for you. I ride with some folks who bought Serotta custom frames recently as two years ago.

[@vectura5480]

@@roblucchetti2993 I believe the company originally was dissolved, then basically restarted a few years ago. Unfortunately it's too late now, we've stripped the bike down, scrapped the frame, and sold all the parts that were worth anything.

[@ViscountCharles]

I have a cheap Far Eastern Ti frame, and an expensive one. And I’m not sure that I can tell the difference between them in terms of the ride. But what I like most about them is their durability and finish. In terms of their strength, I smashed one off the roof of my car. A carbon frame would have been scrap, whereas the Ti frame was 100% fine. And the finish on a Ti frame just looks fantastic, whether it’s a day old or a decade. Scratch it, and all you need is a scotch pad to buff the scratch right out. I wish I could do that with my car.

[@MrHamncheez]

I guess you can check back in in 7 years and see if the pricier one really does hold up better.

[@bugsygoo]

Who did you go with for your cheap frame? I'm looking at buying a ti frame from China, but after watching this, I'm not so sure.

[@ViscountCharles]

The cheap bike is a Sabbath (effectively from Spa Cycles in Harrogate) @@bugsygoo

[@IronHorsey3]

If you want Ti, Buy American. 🎯

[@davidkendall4588]

Interesting. I just ordered a titanium frame from Ora in Taiwan. Everything I've read suggests Ora's work is fairly good. I guess we'll see how it turns out.

[@donnyo65]

My tourer is all steel and my gravel bike is steel with carbon forks. The tourer is very comfy but heavy. The gravel bike is a joy - you mentioned Fairlight - I'm thinking of building a 'fast tourer' from one of their frames. I'm no racer and I think this level of steel frame is ideal for this - anything racier would be too fragile for the knocks of touring. I'm really enjoying these videos and have learned a lot - thanks guys.

[@junggyuszko]

I am pretty sure Reynolds 853 is high end steel (along with 725) and only stainless being higher grade like 931.

[@alansheard553]

I ride an Aluminium winter bike & carbon summer bike. Would love a Titanium one. Need to see Rob Quirk back on the channel !!!

[@paulflory3532]

Ditto here. Though may be switching to Ti this summer. My nephew rides a Renovo wood frame bike.

[@boshebosh9269]

Great video! Learnt allot there. I was led to believe that most titanium frames came from the same far Eastern factories and then were branded which essentially accordingly which led to the price differences. I have just purchased a steel frame Genesis Equilibrium which I am yet to ride as I am waiting on a couple of parts. But very much looking forward to riding it. Although I rate carbon frames I have concluded that I essentially can't afford what I would consider to be worth having - I say that in regards to allumium frames where I have formed the opinion that if you have let's say 2k to spend on a bike - buy the alluimuim frame and build it with high quality parts and components as a carbon bike in that price point is probably not any better. Great video!!! 👍

[@matthewlewis2072]

Not sure about Ti, but certainly a lot of carbon is made in a few places. The Moots in the vid is USA made.

[@barrytantlinger1033]

Most frames are made in far Eastern factories, regardless of the material. With steel and ti, you can find any number of boutique builders making frames in the country of their origin. Custom carbon is a little more rare.

[@janfrancis2583]

Got back into cycling about 4 years ago because of gravel, I bought a cheap aluminium bike, a kona rove, base model. Found it worked ok, agree with vibration feedback, my arms after certain rides were quite worn. A year ago I upgraded to a bombtrack beyond, a bike more at the rowdy end of gravel. Steel frame and forks and I love it. I grew up with steel as the main bike frame material so it felt quite natural to chose steel. My bike is a bit on the weighty side but then it is also meant for more demanding bikepacking trips as well. Bombtrack are about to release an after market carbon fork for the model I have, which I'm hoping to buy, so I can cut down on a bit of weight. I'm also going 1x so a tiny bit more weight gone there as well. Would like at some point to buy na endurance bike, also made of steel, aesthetically nothing beats the look of a steel frame either, probably showing my age a bit there!

[@pjnice]

After crashing a few times on my bikes and dented the frames, I switched to a titanium frame. It’s the best for terrible riders like me 😅

[@rizzlerforthergyatt]

Titanium is quite durable I have to say

[@richardggeorge]

I bought a CAAD 10 with a dented rear chain stay, still ok 3 years later (90kg strong rider)

[@K777John]

First road bike on my return to road cycling was a B’Twin Ultra 720AF, aluminium frame and it really did transfer road buz and vibration, but was quite light and fast. Changed that for a carbon Specialized Roubaix Expert which is still my summer road bike. I have a Ti hardtail and a Ti gravel bike-both at the lower end of the price scale. I have nothing to compare either of them to but will say that the gravel bike does ride very smoothly-it’s a Planet X Tempest.

[@thedmxtube]

Just bought a Fairlight Strael and also have a carbon and an aluminium bike and the first few rides have blown me away. Considering getting rid of the carbon and just using the Strael all year round. Beautiful bike to ride (for the type of riding I do anyway)

[@dafiltafish]

Currently riding aluminum, it's a bit stiffer than my old steel frame, but that also makes it a lot easier to accelerate, so the stiffness has pros and cons, just get a good saddle and thicker bar tape.

[@artgreen6915]

I'd like a better range of experience to say more definitely, but think aluminium probably has more zing than steel and it's too often spun only as a negative in commentary. A sort of get-up-and-go that makes you want to ride fast, so you need to pace yourself. But you can come back from a long ride tempted to hold the bars funny, because your hands have had enough!

[@josh33172]

I ride all 4 but don't own a steel frame anymore. That said, I'm glad the point was made about not all frames made with the same material are created equal! The builder has more to do with the process than the material, selecting the right tube dimensions for the rider. IMHO, you're better off with a high-end aluminum frame than a low-end run-of-the-mill steel frame, or a high-end steel frame over cheap titanium. With the CAAD series, its among the best production aluminum frames you can buy from mass production...there are others like the Mason Bokeh that uses Italian Dedacciai aluminum which is top shelf. You can also make carbon super stiff or super flexy, the same with all the other materials...it comes down to the builder and the schedule (tube dimensions) that are chosen for the frame. I was actually expecting a different approach to this video, but I'm glad the most important aspects were touched on, and I'll end with "Steel is real.....when its made by a real frame builder" Not all steel is created equal!

[@jesmondo5785]

Currently converted over to Ti, love it. Not the lightest, but robust and will last a long time! My Alu experience was a Cannondale CAAD10 Track and I fucking loved it!! But sadly had to sell it. Don't mind steel and I hate carbon fibre!

[@tobiasknoll8235]

This is such a great series! Thanks for all the effort and content!

[@jamesoshea1042]

Confirms my choice in custom build Field steel bike, using steel from the city of steel……. at 6”6” you can’t get off the shelf to fit properly so this is an investment but worth it. Going for brazed weld for a smoother finish to tig….can’t wait for this bike…!!

[@co7013]

My order would be: 1. aluminium: affordable, light and stiff. 2. titanium: more durable and comfortable, but more expensive. 3 steel: nostalgic, comfortable. But a good, light steel frame will be expensive. 4. carbon. Because why? And also because of problematic sustainability and recyclability. And I don't like the looks of carbon. I currently mostly ride a (cheap) titanium bike. Love it. Although it probably feels a lot like aluminium. The high quality steel bike I rode before that was even nicer. But thin walled (highly butted) steel frames are vulnerable.

[@peterwinkler8382]

Thanks for a very informative video. I ride a Litespeed titanium. My frame is 21 years old, and pardon the cliche, but it looks as good as new. I do lust over steel frames too.

[@MrChippinator]

I have an Argon 18 carbon frame. We have some of the roughest roads here in Eastern Canada and, honestly, the frame is amazing, with the right tire set-up (I'm using a GP5000), you'd think you were on smooth tarmac.

[@simonalexandercritchley439]

Have all 4 each have their own qualities. Steel Bianchi is Columbus genius 26 years still rides great.Treated with fisholene at about 18 months,redone after repaint 2008. No rust.

[@DEAR7340]

I never knew *stainless* steel was an option(?). Corrosion from sweat has been a problem that has followed me throughout, but the addition of internal cable guides has helped to facilitate the "wipe down". My current ride is (Lynskey) titanium with a polished finish' problem solved. I also powdercoated a 1987 Columbus SL frame and updated the components. Steel is for Sundays.

[@myomilky]

I’ve had a stainless steel bike for 10+ use that’s gotten heavy use. I’ve used it in rain, fog, and in day time - not once has it rusted. I do, however make sure to wipe it dry after it’s exposed to water. Love the way the bike handles on road, and dirt, it’s versatile, and dampens vibration, making it easy to respond swiftly when needed.

[@alanmacaskill6121]

I have an aluminium winter bike with a carbon fork (Orro) and a carbon fibre (good bike) framed Specialised Aethos. Frame choice does make a difference but the most important element of compliance/comfort for me is tyre size and tyre pressure.

[@goldenshowercap9395]

One or two bike shop owners have told me wheels, too

[@shrkys4]

I’m a hardcore Serotta fan, riding both steel and titanium, the titanium is a dream to ride…I also love a smooth carbon bike …just love bikes!!

[@veterinarius7646]

I ride Specialized Smartweld Allez E5 and gotta say its snappy, fast and comfortable, one of the best aluminium frames out there

[@MaxGloger]

I’ve got a 2008 CAAD9 in the same colour. Not my main road bike anymore but it’ll be with me forever. Enve 1.0 fork, Chorus 11, Corima tubular wheels. 6.9kg ready to ride. I have also got a 56cm CAAD5 that needs a home though!

[@aarvig]

I've ridden aluminum, carbon, and titanium. The breakdown above was spot on. My favorite...titanium. Almost as snappy as carbon but a lot more comfortable. Carbon is fast but to make it comfortable it gets heavy quickly. My S-Works Tarmac is a carbon dream. Its super fast and high performance but beats the living daylights out of me. Nothing beats my Serotta Legend Ti (currently 15 years old) for comfort and performance.

[@531c]

I've an aluminium Cube cross race 2013 model 10 speed ultegra. Great off and on road, the geometry seems to fit me perfectly and for road use 40 mm Donnelly gravel at 50 psi so comfortable. Hand-built Columbus Zona framed audax bike made to measure CF forks, handles like a wet noodle. 58/ 59cm for 185 cm me. Can't comment on titanium or CF. Geometry and fit is king IMO.

[@theobserver844]

Fairlight cycles are wonderful steel frames. Great value for money and the ride is sublime. If you want Ti it is Moots or Seven.

[@petervonl]

I have a little bit of everything. The gem is my '94 steel Marin Redwood. It had about a 15 year vacation due to back/neck problems, but I had it rebuilt in '18. Fast, durable and incredibly versatile. This bike will outlive me, granted spare part will be available...

[@davidide1525]

Good video, a lot of info. covered in a short time. I ride a 10 year old Moots Vamoots ti frame. New Campy 12 record and Bora wto wheels this year .

[@guywright1833]

I have two steel bikes, Mason Resolution Di2 and Fairlight Secan. Carbon got sold

[@nobbycycles]

Titanium - I would say carbon as well but since the Ti bike arrived the Colnago hasn't been out of the kitchen - game changingly good to ride especially if you want a sofa on wheels

[@bianchirider....neverendin8532]

Excellent information. Riding a low end aluminium Bianchi which I totally adore and couldn't live without.

[@playmoreguitar5393]

My progression. Aluminium x2 - Carbon x3 - now on a steel frame... Never going back. But ill be on Titanium in the next year. Converted.

[@ramonnorris8028]

I own all 3 type and recently bought my last bike a Ti and I love it. It is more of a completion of all 4 types of frames.

[@milkbunnies]

Had carbon, now riding Columbus steel, hanging out for the Ti Mason Aspect that’ll be here in about 1 week….

[@kinghadu9611]

This is a good video for all those people looking to buy cheap Titanium frames / bikes As he says you're better off buying a steel frame than Ti

[@stephenboneau9090]

My main steed is a Seven - titanium. I also have a Co-Motion touring bike (Pangea) - Chromoly, a Co-Motion tandem (Java) - Chromoly, a foldable Bike Friday (Pocket Rocket Pro) - Chromoly, and a fully rigid MTB Niner single speed converted to Rohloff IGH - Scandium. I may buy a carbon fiber frame someday, although I think the feel of steel and titanium can't be beat. I'm also an older rider who doesn't race so maybe not. Good video, guys!

[@deblordoutdoors5783]

I had a really modest budget to spend on a bike. I was getting more into cycling and went from a full aluminium hybrid frame, to an aluminium gravel bike with carbon fork. It really suits the type of terrain local to me (shit U.K. road surfaces and lots of shorter off-road sections) and I instantly noticed more dampening through the handlebars. It’s also a couple of KGs lighter than the hybrid. I spent under 1k on it so it rides like a lower end bike, but I’m happy with what I got for the money and will upgrade some of the components for a better ride as time goes on (and parts become more available!)

[@timbridgman8236]

I have a few steel bikes. One of which is a surly troll I rode around the world. Had the rear triangle on the driveside dropout brazed in Argentina, welded in Canada and I rewelded it at a road construction camp with a arch welder and splinted with jubilee clips so I could finish my trip up to Prudhoe Bay and it made it. My carbon road bike however was found to have a 75% cracked fork head tube just before doing a massive descent after just 4000 miles of road riding. I think I'll stick with steel or titanium. Great topic thanks guys

[@mghallock]

coulda been 'material monday' too - after a few years of riding carbon or steel, it's been great, but I've actually got a spring project cooked up to take an old CAAD10 and and it down, it'll be interesting to compare after so many years off the material.

[@richardggeorge]

Replace the expander plug for a longer one (>40mm, >stem height). I bought a used 2014 CAAD10 with smallcrack in steerer (helped with the sale price)

[@flyingdutchmancycling7874]

Started with steel 35 years ago, then carbon and now riding a Wittson Illuminati titanium bike. Great ride!

[@martimcfly6207]

Steel is real! For gravel bikes at least it’s fitting to the purpose. An the looks of thin steel tubing is has just something to me.

[@eXaviar]

i started on a carbon XC bike, went over a aluminium trail bike and now arrived at a steel enduro bike. All of them were / are hardtails. i can happily report that i love my steel frame.

[@balrog687]

I have two surlys, not on the lightweight side, but cheap and strong enough to be loaded and tossed on buses, trucks, and trains when I need to. I have ridden a full suspension carbon bike and I still like the feel of my surly hardtail. thanks for all than steel love, my mind was blown away with that 7,5 kg steel roadbike

[@slammerf16]

Cannondale did make some fantastic frames with absolutely stunning paint jobs back in the day. I think my favourite was a purple/dark blue metallic fade. Sounds naff but was gorgeous in the flesh.

[@Juanblazquez]

Titanium - a Pretorius Outeniqua. Five years in and I could not be happier. Agree with everything mentioned on the video.

[@WakizashiSabre]

Got aluminium frame from one Czech small builder company specializing at it. Carbon might be nice, but I guess I would love steel gravel (or carbon for weight and aero shape). I had a steel freeride hardtail and the feel and look of thinner tubes was so nice. Nice videos, guys.

[@brockjennings]

Great analysis of the internal frame structure. The footage reminds me of my last colonscopy 😮 Looking forward to the full build video.

[@fennec13]

I am riding a Ti frame - and I love it. The R+ from Why Cycles - light and compliant and forever.

[@willjones7132]

I just bough a vintage litespeed ti road bike, it feels great, I had a ti mtb a while back and thought it felt flexible, but on a road bike it feels really nice it doesn't feel particularly flexible, but just smooths things out a little. Thanks for your videos on set up.

[@Risayogi]

My first bike was an aluminium, using it for 6,5 years for training, racing, and commuting, retired the bike, and then bought two bikes, a carbon bike and a chromoly steel bike. The weekend carbon bike, I actually couldn’t tell the difference in ride feel apart from being a lot lighter and looks cooler than the aluminium bike. The weekday steel bike, I use it for commuting and long rides. This one is heavy and flexy, but is very comfortable. Love all my bikes.

[@RicardoRocha-lg1xo]

Ti for gravel. I love it. Mine’s on the cheap side but made in the USA, so I would expect it to last. I sort of gifted my old carbon road bike to my fiancée to get her started and went back to my Aluminum bike for all around road riding (‘cause it’s got disc brakes and more clearance and it can take a bit more abuse than the carbon one). I already went through a racer phase and did poorly so I don’t think I’ll be getting another carbon bike in the future haha. When it’s time to replace my current Alu bike, I’d go custom steel.

[@dpstrial]

Mine's a USA Lynskey Cooper CX and it's excellent. It's 6 years old and been over some really rough ground and looks as good as new.

[@RicardoRocha-lg1xo]

@@dpstrial good to know that! I certainly would hope mine lasts for a long time

[@geoffsaddlesore]

I’m on a Mason Bokeh. Dedacciai triple-butted Aluminium frame and it rides sublimely. Would image whatever the frame is made of - be it Alu, Carbon, Steel or Ti - quality materials + quality design + quality craftsmanship = quality ride!

[@mattswain552]

I ride a steel Genesis Equilbrium and titanium Genesis Croix De Fer...love the solid feeling of both. They may not be the lightest but damn do they ride smooth. I am eyeing up a carbon aero beast for the summer as my next purchase, though!

[@robertwalkerdine1178]

Equilibrium are a lovely bike 👍🏼.

[@bean4332]

SOOOOOOOOO EDUCATIONAL. Francis needs to get James back in Vlog on the regular!

[@gerritgovaerts8443]

Alu suffers from metal fatigue no matter how stiff you make the frame . There is just no safe deflection limit on those tubes , eventually they will fail . This is unlike steel or Ti which do have a safe limit , so that if you keep deflection within that limit the material will never fail .

[@EditioCastigata]

3:03 Engineer here. Aluminium and Titanium (usually an Aluminium alloy with Ti) will crack though, steel not so much. 12:11 what you refer to "road buzz" falls under the field of 'vibroacoustics.' Depending on shape, tapering (etc.), and metal you get different "tones." Steel attenuates higher, which leeds to lower being passed. Those naturally feels nicer to us humans. Also: SS will eventually rust, it just takes longer. Seal it from the inside, and apply a coat on the outside and you're good.

[@PEBelarus]

Steel is real and steel is forever. I have been riding the same bike for 25 years and I broke the frame twice and simply welded it and shimmed it and she's still up there taking abuse. I mean, you can use cycling to demonstrate your wealth and power or you can just use your bicycle to get around town. If I ever did get another bike, I'd go steel every time.

[@coloradocowboy3073]

'75 Motobecane Super Mirage 10 speed with center pull brakes, quick release hubs, and alloy bars, cranks, and rims. Classic cast iron bicycle!

[@sonymicronin]

Steel is real, the only frame material I care to ride for almost 5 years

[@lucblain7957]

My first road bike was a specialized allez 2002, My current bike is a Devinci Millenium 2011. Great aluminium bike. Aluminium is light, stiff and responsive. Many people hate the response from an alloy frame, both I really enjoy to feel the road. I try the trek madone slr 9 of my friend. Incredible bike, but wasn't that different in term of confort from my Devinci. Geometry is more important than the frame material.

[@blahqwe]

Steel, what's not to like? It feels good to ride, durable and looks great. Only downside is that it's not the best for racing or if you live in a hilly part of the world.

[@AnvilAirsoftTV]

Carbon Giant Defy Pro - I would like a custom steel bike for big trips and winter. Moots is a unobtainable dream!

[@jeffreyhill1589]

I still rock my '96 Giant Cross Nutra and adore it's Cromoly triple butted frame. It just feels great to ride.

[@cb6866]

Thanks Francis and James...I have a carbon road, aluminum MTB and gravel . I am going to get a Moots one day ..they are awesome ! Peace

[@TenSapphires]

I would love to hear more picks for each material. For example : aluminum frame very good CAAD 10, Scott, Merida (I don't know), good to avoid : Giant, KHS, Marin...

[@Megadeth6633]

Been riding the caad9 for years. Love it so much I repaired it with carbon when a seatstay cracked. Still riding

[@robbchastain3036]

Fantastic overview of frame materials and construction, James and Francis, thanks and more please, 'tho James is breaking my heart with his dismissal of chrome moly steel. I mean, we all thought we were the coolest in the Seventies when we got BMX bikes with chrome moly frames. And I even had a plated chrome moly frame on my CYC Stormer, so you know I was styling back in the day. It was a moment and it was fun.

[@domonkosscheiling5809]

i use aluminium for commuting, either aluminium or steel for the road, and steel for track (very occasionally). i think that the wheelset and tyres you are riding are as important in compliance as the frame material and technology used for it's production or it's actual geometry. having a low/mid profile 32h tubular rim built with butted spokes and 3 crosses versus high profile 20/24h carbon clinchers with regular/aero spokes makes a huge difference in ride quality. also forks with a slight bend versus straight ones (steel or carbon, preferrably not aluminium).

[@JulianAndresKlode]

You can also ultrasound carbon frames to check for damage, which is cheaper than x-ray but more involved.

[@stuartpotter4923]

Steel frames for me, all day, every day.

[@ultimobici.]

The reason Rapha Condor raced on steel was more to do with the bike being more robust in the even of a crash. A steel frame was less likely to be compromised by a stack and carry hidden damage. Weight wasn’t really an issue on the Tour Series.

[@bigmikeapa]

I have 2 bike, my first road bike is a bianchi via nore aluminum with carbo fork, then my second bike is a bianchi Orso, steel frame for gravel with 105 components. I’ve used the orso as my daily rider because It is a lot more comfy to ride

[@daroskygeronimo2609]

BIKE JAMES IS THE GOAT OF BIJE FITTING LOL💪

[@n22pdf]

Hooray for Steel and Titanium.. I own 2 x Steel and 1 Titanium and they are lovely to ride, I also own a CAAD10 which is awesome to.. I've owned Carbon in the past and now prefer the feel of metal frames.. just my opinion :) Pete

[@colinhili]

I run both Steel and Carbon, I prefer the Carbon ride feel. Both run a 28mm tyre and same wheels and I'm suprised the material impacts ride quality so much. Way back had an alu frame but that was running 650b x 47 which in my opinion made it the softest most compliant bike I've ever ridden (but not the lightest).

[@banjo7127]

Carbon Wilier and Columbus Steel Coppi. If find the steel frame just as stiff but much more comfortable, although there’s a significant weight penalty. I’ve got an aluminium lug carbon tube bike coming next week so will be interesting to compare that against those 2.

[@sanjb]

steel quirk ;) love it

[@ellon118]

I ride a steel Shand bike, but I know a guy from Edinburgh who has a beautiful wooden frame. It’s a thing of beauty.

[@houseofsolomon2440]

I have a very nice vintage steel frame & a nice (contemporary) aluminum one. Both good for very different aspects -

[@KOL630]

Very interesting video thanks guys. I ride an alloy frame but plan to get a steel one in the future. Love that ti moots bike, work of art 🥸

[@richardcarr6493]

ALLOY is great for anything really especially new riders Ti is KING FOR EVERYTHING and high end CROMO is GREAT TOO but cheaper than Ti . l guess it comes down to what can you afford really :) l dream of Ti be ok with CROMO and settle for alloy ....N+1

[@darrelduke]

trek 720 cromo lugged, cannondale sr600 fat tube, hand built (schwinn) paramount lugged, cannondale r2000, a few unremarkable specialized frames, carbon s-works tarmac and finally dreaming of a custom steel speedvagen or similar. thanks for the frame class.

[@gregmorrison7320]

Carbon MTB for lightness, carbon gravel bike, carbon TCR, aluminum GT ZR3.0 converted to SS (this is my 2nd favorite bike) and my favorite carbon Cannondale Synapse.

[@stenstensen3522]

I have a Columbus Spirit steel frame. I also ride a CAAD9 with a Ritchey WCS fork. The CAAD9 is maybe even more comfy and is stiffer than the Spirit frame.