Using The Carbon Bike Correctly

Owning a carbon bike (and choosing a bike frame) is a pretty tricky business, especially if you are have a great passion for cycling, or if you are interested in improving your time in competitions such as road racing or triathlons. There are factors to consider in picking the right bike (or frame), and found below are some tips you may find helpful.

First thing we should define is what is a carbon bike? Named as such, a carbon bike is that in which it's major parts (mostly the bike frame itself) are built of carbon fiber, which is a material consisting of plastic that has been strengthened and reinforced by a graphite textile.

Carbon fiber costs above ordinary but this is because the product it yields has great benefits, especially for serious cyclists and other people involved in racing sports. So what, really, are the benefits of a carbon bike, or a carbon frame?

1. Aesthetics and Style. Carbon fiber may be molded into different styles and forms. As a matter of fact, this material is used in high end quality cars, boats, bicycles, and planes. Also, carbon fiber is used in the more popular F1 race cars. Both F1 racing and cycling have for its consideration "speed" and "style".
2. Weight to Strength Ratio. A carbon bike has a fantastic weight to strength ratio, and this affects the rider's speed, a whole lot. A carbon bike has a sturdy and durable frame that doesn't weigh down the rider with too much steel weight.

Having said that, you may take your pick whether to buy a brand new frame or a second-hand one. If you buy a brand-new one, you may also opt for the combination frame such as a carbon fiber and aluminum mix which will give you a bike with a lighter frame but better overall strength. If you bought an item such as a carbon fiber seat post, you may find that it is not entirely made from that material, but rather a hybrid mix that is designed to make it lighter yet stronger.

If you buy a second-hand frame, on the other hand, you should find out about the history of the frame, and check for dents, scratches or cracks as this could affect the build of your bike later on. However, if you are buying from a professional cyclist who is looking to upgrade, then the frame must have been looked after and taken care of. Now, the question is, are you ready to upgrade and pick your carbon bike frame?