Quote:
Originally Posted by greglepore
Was having this discussion at a bike shop the other day-the tech there is of the opinion that the trend to super stiff bottom brackets actually waste forward energy because they transmit a lateral load to the tire, slowing forward progress. I'm not sure I buy this and would need finite element analysis or something to tell. They do feel "dead" to me-I prefer my steel bikes for pleasure rides. Carbon doesn't hop around like aluminum, but they don't communicate to me the way steel does. I am building up a way light carbon bike (800g frame with light stays) to see if its any different.
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Oh, carbon communicate just fine depending on the builder. All of my previous carbon did with the exception of my Trek OCLV. I am not sure if I buy that BS from your tech neither. Personally I like a stiff BB, and front end. Hell, Most people pump up their their tires to the max. That in itself will screw up your ride quality. Lots of people talk a lot of tech stuff that can only be measure in a lab. Plus, they buy a "racing bike" but ride a century and complain about how harsh the bike is and it isn't comfy like their couch at home. I like steel, and it was the only type of bike I had for years. Now I will always have a carbon bike around. I really like em' that much.
For screwing around and training, I like snapping feel of the bb. For racing, I like a stiff frame. those racing days are over a long time ago. I am having a steel frame painted. AS soon as I get it back from my lazy painter, I will post a pic.