Bike The Bump

Basically there are five types of materials used in the making of the frame of the bike. These five materials are High tensile steel, Chrome steel, Aluminum, Titanium, and Carbon. The cost of the frame is proportionate to its material and the treatment of the material also increases the cost of the frame.

1)High tensile steel: The most durable alloy that is used for cheaper frame. It consists of high carbon and it is flexible so more materials are needed to make it stiff enough for bicycle frames, which will in turn make it that much heavier. This is the most inexpensive material and is used in trail bikes, city bikes and beginner’s mountain bikes. The combination is made of Chrome seat tube and the rest of the body with tensile steel.

2) Chrome Steel: It is also known as steel alloy. Its major addictives are chromium and molybdenum. This is the most refined of frame and it is long lasting. They offer durability to the bike and character to it. As far as the cost is concerned it can be available from $400 to $1500. It all depends on the heat treatment and the butting of the material.

3) Aluminum: The aluminum has been used for framing in the last 15 years. They have developed from various alloys which are heat treated, oversized and butted. The dual suspension bike the framing is generally made for the aluminum as it is the stiff material and cost effective. Aluminum is stiffer that chrome and therefore has a tendency to crack before chrome. The advantages of aluminum are that the frame is very light and very stiff through over sizing or butting.

4) Titanium: The price for titanium has come down over the last few years. The titanium is an exotic material and it is the most expensive material mainly because it takes longer to weld. Titanium is considered an alloy, normally mixed with small amounts of vanadium and aluminum to weld better and ride characteristics. More compliant than chrome, it offers better fatigue and corrosion properties.

The material you choose for your bike, all depends on where you ride and what style you use. Almost all materials will last you for years, as long as you take care of your bike and treat the frame with some respect.