Material definition and history
A thread of carbon is made up of several thousand very thin strands of carbon (much smaller than a human hair) twisted together. Many threads can then be woven into a material/sheet which can be moulded into a shape and set with a plastic resin to form a solid shape. This is a material with a low density, weight and high strength and ideal for high performance bike frames.
Remember, the fit of your bike is more important than material! Read our frame size guide to get the best fitting bike possible.
Carbon Fibre bikes
Carbon bike frames are usually formed from tubes or monocoques, where the whole frame is formed as one continuous shell, which makes them stronger. A well-designed carbon fibre frame will have the fabric aligned to provide maximum strength in all maximum stress directions.
Carbon is relatively soft so it scratches easily and more care should be taken to protect it from scrapes with walls, garages and other bikes. Expect a 4-6 year life from a properly maintained carbon frame.
Good points
- Ultra low weight.
- Very strong.
- Very shock absorbent.
- Not cold to the touch.
Failure
It breaks, not bends and is very expensive to fix i.e. if it breaks, you throw it away.
Best suited to
- Exclusive, no expense spared hardtail bikes e.g. Track bikes, Road/Racing bikes and Cross Country bikes.
- Complex and exclusive full suspension bikes.
