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CARBON FRAME
VS ALUMINIUM FRAME

QUICK VERDICT

Carbon is lighter and more comfortable. But a good aluminium frame with quality wheels outperforms cheap carbon. Money saved on aluminium is often better spent on coaching or a power meter.

SIDE BY SIDE

FEATURECARBON FRAMEALUMINIUM FRAME
Weight6.5-8kg complete8-10kg complete
Ride comfortBetter — vibration dampingHarsher
Crash durabilityLower — can fractureHigher — dents, doesn't shatter
Cost$2,000-12,000+$800-3,000
ValueDiminishing returns above ~$4,000Excellent

CHOOSE CARBON FRAME IF

  • Competitive racers
  • Long-sportive riders
  • Riders with full budget

CHOOSE ALUMINIUM FRAME IF

  • Budget riders
  • Commuters
  • Crash-prone riders