A successful aluminium bike now winning in carbon, but how much is bike and how much rider?

Don’t be fooled by the luxury impression of carbon, largely it depends on the construction, for many bikes still feel and behave like cheap plastic bikes. However, carbon vs aluminium is a valid question. In terms of the frame/chassis, whilst carbon is overpriced it is seen to add value in terms of weight loss and looks. Light weight is a good thing as long as strength is not compromised.

Aluminium, less of a smooth operator still has a lot going for it although the raw material is now commanding high prices. The fact is I’ve broken several carbon bikes in the past twelve months and would suggest caution to many who are in the market for such bikes. Some are of immense integrity others weak of muscle where needed, something largely down to manufacturer experience and knowledge. Plainly some are still guessing. If you’re a bruiser on 160-200mm I’d advise on aluminum simply because its less catastrophic when it fails and less prone to stone chips.

Even though weight might be your deciding factor, just remember ali’ can still be light if built light – there are many sub thirty pound 160mm bikes and a couple of sub thirty five pound 200mm ones. Remember many carbon bikes are actually only carbon front ends.

So to wheels, in trail bike circles where carbon frame and carbon wheels are great, consider the carbon wheel only option before splashing out on a carbon frame as well. It’s the wheels that will get you faster, this is especially true on 29” wheels. On 160mm bikes many racers have opted for aluminium rear wheels because of the fragility of carbon in rock situations.