Carbon as frame material
Carbon as a material in road bike construction is still relatively new. The breakthrough came with the Scott CR1 carbon frames in 2003, when the weight of the frame was less than one kilogram and the stiffness values were sensational. In the past few years, manufacturing processes have improved considerably and the problems of the initial period have been eliminated. Today, carbon is much more stable and less susceptible to cracks and impacts, but at the same time it is becoming more and more affordable. The futuristic-looking, stylish frame sets from the premium manufacturers are the maximum optics and technology currently available.
STW and comfort
A carbon frame offers an unmatched STW value - regardless of the material used for comparison. In simple terms, STW describes the stiffness of a frame. A particularly rigid frame makes it possible that practically all the energy that ends up in the bottom bracket is actually converted into propulsion. Imagining the rider in cradle-step on the mountain, one can see what forces are acting on a frame and the attachments at that moment. An aluminium frame moves and bends itself much more and any energy that ends up in the frame is lost. A carbon frame moves significantly less or not at all. Due to the second positive characteristic of this material, vibration damping, carbon bikes are not disproportionately hard or uncomfortable and feel very comfortable.
Carbon in everyday life
The enormous advantages of carbon are also a clear advantage off the track. Light and torsionally stiff, it is also comfortable to drive to work or the smaller tour on weekends. The new production processes ensure that carbon no longer has to be treated like a raw egg. Smaller impacts and environmental influences process the modern frames without problems.
Equipment options and style
Hardly any other category has such a wide range of equipment as carbon road bikes. From the beginner's model to the high-end professional bike for time races, all options are available. Optically, everything is possible from reserved to poisonous green and aggressive. The manufacturers also take into account the different usage profiles. For the occasional rider, bikes are available with a slightly modified gear ratio. The uncompromising professional can enjoy an electronically controlled circuit. The new and poisonous disc brakes, which are specially designed for racing bikes, provide an extreme deceleration on request. If you want to be on the road in a classic way or participate in official UCI races, you can use rim brakes. If you are unsure about the choice of a suitable bike, please do not hesitate to ask us, we will be happy to advise you.
