What is the best bike frame material?
There is no answer to this. It depends on what distances you plan on racing, your weight and size, manufacturer offerings and your budget. Aluminum is the most common and popular material right now. It is very light, produces strong tubing and frames, makes the stiffest bike frame material on the market (stiffness implies that all applied power is transferred to the wheel for forward motion), yet remarkably inexpensive. The downside of stiffness is that it makes for a harsh ride, particularly in the long distances on a bikes that are not well designed or built. Some high-end frame makers overcame the harshness but you will have to pay premium for such bikes. Heavier (175 plus pounds) athletes would prefer it but lighter riders may get shaken on long rides on bad roads. Another major disadvantage is that aluminum lacks the durability or damage and fatigue resistance of either steel or titanium. Steel is the most versatile material and can be shaped and alloyed with other metals to accom
