Steel or Ali Frame

Stormtrooper

Looking at getting myself a new bike either a Orange P7s, Rock lobster, Zaskar expert or a rockhopper comp cant make my mind up which to go for but the main thing i cant make my mind up with is the frames which is better steel or ali and what are the performance differances apart from weight?

Bfmv_Jamie

well, as you know, steel is the heavier of the two and steels has some flex to it, therefor it isn't so hard on the knees over the rough stuff. I personally don't trust steel (xc frames that is) because i'm heavy, but they can be fantastic frames or builds. If i where you i'd get a go on a mates steel framed bike if you wish to compair the two directly.

dirtbiker100

If I were heavy I'd much prefer to ride a steel frame, it bends rather than snaps so safer. it has a better feel to the ride.
for racing xc - alu
for having a laugh xc + more - steel
thats how i think of it

Mik3yB

I have a Team TIG SL, Easton Alu.

There's enough spring not to jarr your legs but at the same time it's stiff enough on singletracks to feel responsive. 'Tis nice.

jeffers696

cant go wrong with rockhoppers, its just a quality bike that gets every job done. i love the frame, strong and light

HixX

Hey Stormtrooper thats an unusual name, unless you are one of course. TK or KE?