When executed correctly, CF just straight up has a higher strength-to-weight ratio than alloy. This is not really debatable any more - the best CF structure will be (significantly) lighter than the best alloy structure of the same strength. Look at aircraft and Formula 1 cars - historically, lots of alloy and other metals used. But every new generation sees more and more composites used.
Strength and weight matter in mountain bikes.
There is a case to be made that alloy can _sometimes_ shrug off impacts better than CF (this distinction is getting more dubious, as CF continues to improve in impact resistance), and you could argue that alloy deals better with "ham-fisted" home mechanics who don't know how to tighten a bolt. But for a rider who isn't crashing all the time, but putting huge loads through the bike on a regular basis, CF is a pretty good choice. That is why I choose it over alloy.
Neither material is perfect, they both have their limitations.
I don't hate on alloy - in fact, if I had to get a new bike today, and could pick any bike, it would likely be a particular aluminum bike I've had my eye on.
March 3, 2022, 1:24 p.m. - Ryan Walters
When executed correctly, CF just straight up has a higher strength-to-weight ratio than alloy. This is not really debatable any more - the best CF structure will be (significantly) lighter than the best alloy structure of the same strength. Look at aircraft and Formula 1 cars - historically, lots of alloy and other metals used. But every new generation sees more and more composites used. Strength and weight matter in mountain bikes. There is a case to be made that alloy can _sometimes_ shrug off impacts better than CF (this distinction is getting more dubious, as CF continues to improve in impact resistance), and you could argue that alloy deals better with "ham-fisted" home mechanics who don't know how to tighten a bolt. But for a rider who isn't crashing all the time, but putting huge loads through the bike on a regular basis, CF is a pretty good choice. That is why I choose it over alloy. Neither material is perfect, they both have their limitations. I don't hate on alloy - in fact, if I had to get a new bike today, and could pick any bike, it would likely be a particular aluminum bike I've had my eye on.