What are the pros and cons of buying a steel frame?
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but I'm curious if there are many steel frame mtn bike riders out there and why do you own one?Pros - Steel (and ti) is a great material if you want a frame that was made by hand / in the USA / for you specifically / not the same as three other guys on the group ride. If you are the type that appreciates the form of a thing as much as the function, that wants a bike that was built by a craftsman instead of manufactured in a factory, then steel might be for you.
If you are after "bang for the buck" or "performance" or want a full suspension, steel may not be for you. You'll get a lighter bike with nicer parts and a perfectly functional frame if you take the same money to a bike shop and get an off the rack bike from one of the big manufacturers.
Is one better than the other? I would say no. Is one a better fit for you than the other? Maybe so.
You could make a comparison to the difference between a '65 Mustang and a new Honda Accord. The Accord is faster straight line, around corners, with better fuel economy, and more comfort. Is there an aesthetic, visceral appeal to the Mustang that speaks to some people in a way that overcomes some of the empirical advantages of a new sedan? Yes!
If you are after "bang for the buck" or "performance" or want a full suspension, steel may not be for you. You'll get a lighter bike with nicer parts and a perfectly functional frame if you take the same money to a bike shop and get an off the rack bike from one of the big manufacturers.
Is one better than the other? I would say no. Is one a better fit for you than the other? Maybe so.
You could make a comparison to the difference between a '65 Mustang and a new Honda Accord. The Accord is faster straight line, around corners, with better fuel economy, and more comfort. Is there an aesthetic, visceral appeal to the Mustang that speaks to some people in a way that overcomes some of the empirical advantages of a new sedan? Yes!
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Steel frames are often a whole pound heavier than their aluminum counterparts (4.5 vs 3.5 or less for a Medium). I own a few steel bikes, because I like the look of steel and the durability of the frames.roc865 said:
You are going to pay a premium for high-end steel frames, because many of them are made in the US whereas most aluminum and carbon frames are made overseas. People like the vibration-damping quality of steel, as well as the strength and stiffness of the material. A good steel frame made from something like 853 can also be made to have some vertical compliance, resulting in a comfortable ride that most AL frames won't have. Also, as pointed out by eric, most custom framebuilders use either steel or Ti, which is a great option if you have the money.
Steel bikes I own or have owned:
Specialized Hard Rock, Rockhopper, and Stumpjumper
GT Karakoram and Psyclone
Ibis Mojo
VooDoo HooDoo and Wanga
Rocky Mountain Solo ST (steel and carbon road bike)
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Keep in mind that while a steel frame may weigh 1-1.5 lbs more than a comparable Aluminum frame, this generally represents less than a 5% increase in total bike weight. I have owned many steel Mountain, CX, and Road bikes over the years and in my opinion (which includes owning Aluminum and Carbon Fiber hardtails) it is the best material for full rigid and hardtail bicycles if comfort and enjoyment are more important than how light your bike is.
I'm certainly not in it to win races so a steel frame might be worth a try. Can you guys recommend some bike builders and should I pick a local builder or company to make it easier for sizing purposes and not dealing over the phone.mtnbiker72 said:
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Independent Fabrications is in your neck of the woods (based on your profile), so is Seven (known mostly for Ti but they do steel too). Vicious is in New Palz, New York.
I've sold and worked on these three brands and have been very impressed with their quality. Others I'm familiar with are Gunnar, Strong, Sycip, and Curtlo
I've sold and worked on these three brands and have been very impressed with their quality. Others I'm familiar with are Gunnar, Strong, Sycip, and Curtlo
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I'll always stick to aluminum for my mtb rig (until I strike it rich and get Ti.), but I will always love the feel of steel on roads. It's just so.... buttery smooth on every little bump or divot in the pavement.
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Charlie Chan's Number One son very intuitive!roc865 said:
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Yes, I love climbing on the light aluminum. And, let's face it, while mountain biking you're going to feel a bit of bumps along the way no matter what you ride.
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