What is the real difference between carbon fibre vs aluminium vs steel vs titanium…

What are the pros and cons of each material?

Carbon Fibre

Most high-end bikes are made from this material and for good reason:

Pros

• Lightest, strongest, stiffest material
• Best shock absorption
• Infinitely mouldable to any design
• Flexible where it needs to be
• Won’t rust or corrode like steel

Cons

• Expensive
• Not all carbon is created equal
• Can crack/fracture
• Strength and stiffness depend on design

Aluminiun

Many entry level bikes are made from aluminium because it can be made stiff and light enough for a great ride.

Pros

• Light
• Strong
• Stiff
• Mouldable
• Great for climbing and sprinting
• Won’t rust or corrode
• Less expensive than carbon fibre

Cons:

• Harsh on rough roads
• Can fatigue over time (Leads to overbuilding which adds to weight)
• Not easily repaired
• Weak joints

Steel

Steel will last a life time. It is also the easiest to repair, making it a great bike for touring.

Pros:

• Inexpensive
• Strong
• Flexes enough for a soft ride
• Most durable of all the materials
• Lively feel
• Easy to work with and repair

Cons

• Heavy
• Prone to rust/corrosion
• Flexes too much for racing

Titanium

Titanium is a metal that takes aspects from aluminium and steel. It has better shock absorption that aluminium but is not quite as light.

Pros

• Its density is between that of steel and aluminum which makes it stiff but shock absorbing
• Lively feel
• Shock absorbing
• Does not corrode

Cons

• Expensive
• Difficult to make aero shapes due to welding considerations
• Difficult to repair
• Stiffness is traded for reduced weight

In summary: Each material has different qualities that you should keep in mind when you go to purchase your next ride.