The Advantages of Aluminium Bike Frames
WEIGHT
Aluminum is the most widely available lightweight bike frame material. Steel, the most common and oldest bike frame material, is approximately three times the weight of aluminum. Though modern steel bikes have adapted to approach the low weight of aluminum bike frames, aluminum frames require no substantial design changes to remain among the lowest-weight bikes available. Due to its naturally low weight, aluminum remains an ideal and affordable choice for racing.
RUST & DURABILITY
Unlike standard steel frames, aluminum bike frames are not prone to rust. This resistance to rust makes aluminum very low-maintenance and ideal for cyclist who regularly rides in wet conditions. Due aluminum's lower strength compared with steel, titanium and carbon fiber, aluminum bike frame tubes often have thicker walls. Though this does not necessarily provide an advantage over other frame types, thicker-than-standard tubes can be used in aluminum bike frames without making them significantly heavier.
STIFFNESS
Stiffness affects the feel of a ride, providing stability when sprinting and climbing. Varying levels of stiffness are ideal for different types of riders. Partially owing to their thicker tube walls, aluminum bike frames are often stiffer than bike frames made with other materials. This may make for an uncomfortable ride if you are a riding on rough conditions, because aluminum frames have less give than others when biking on bumpy or rocky terrain. This stiffness may provide an advantage to racing and touring cyclists, however, because the low sway of a stiff aluminum frame allows for more stability, and possibly more speed, when sprinting.
COST
Though generally more expensive than comparable steel frames, aluminum frames are still relatively inexpensive. Due to their durability, rust resistance, stability and low weight, aluminum frames can suit the needs of a range of riders. While the benefits of an aluminum frame may not compare with those of some titanium and carbon fiber bikes, frames made with aluminum are substantially less expensive. Well-rounded, lightweight and affordable, aluminum bike frames are ideal for riders at all levels of expertise.