Carbon frames - durability?

HebdenBiker

I'm looking at buying a new bike sometime in 2010, and want it to be light. I would consider carbon but I'm a big lad (15 stone) and wonder if carbon would be able to take the hits with my fat censored on board? Don't want to make an expensive mistake and end up with a cracked frame.

So... is carbon strong enough to cope with us big boys?




PS... before anyone says it, I know there's no point in having a light bike and a heavy rider - I'm working on it

supersonic

Just like steel and aluminium, it depends on what the frame is made for. You can get light XC frames, to reinforced AM and DH frames.

What sort of bike are you after?

HebdenBiker

Full Suss for XC and trail riding, possibly some marathons and enduro rides in the future. Not too bothered about jumping around in the woods - will leave that to the teenagers

supersonic

I can't see carbon trail bikes being a problem.

thebikechain

Pick the right bike for the application as the man above says.

Nothing wrong with carbon at all. The perception of it is wrong, not the material.

I have 2 carbon bikes and 2 alloy. Treat them all the same way.