Cycling is one of the most popular sports around and there are literally thousands of bikes to choose from. Traditionally bikes have been made of steel but there have been many alternative bikes produced using different materials. A very popular alternative at the moment is aluminium, which is even now being used in snowboards and surfboards. But how does aluminium compare to steel-framed bikes?
Strength. Because aluminium as a metal has about 50% less tensile strength than steel, lots of people consider its use for aggressive bike riding not suitable. However, due to aluminum being around half as heavy as most steels, the frame width can be a lot larger and this somewhat makes up for its weakness. Having said this, thicker stronger steel is required on some bikes to withstand large amounts of punishment put on them during some forms of bike riding.
Performance. Steel frames tend to have around 33% greater stiffness than aluminum frames. Whilst you would automatically think a more forgiving ride would result, bike riders tend to say the opposite is true. Lots of riders feel that steel frames are more comfortable. Aluminium bikes do outperform steel bikes in some sectors such as road racing and hill climbing events due to their better weight but again, most choose steel for bike riding that requires great strength of frame
Cost. The overall standard of the steel or aluminum used in the frame is a big determining factor over cost. Although very costly, there a new steels that have been produced that maintain their strength, yet weigh close to what aluminum does. Also, as aluminum use becomes more widespread, is costs in lower end products is coming down. However, due to the fact steel is more readily available and is the standard for most new and second hand bikes, it is usually cheaper than aluminium.
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