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Rennr-der-Herren-Carbon-2025

Carbon as a frame material

Carbon as a material in road bike construction is still relatively young. The breakthrough for carbon frames came with the Scott CR1 in 2003. At the time, the weight of the frame was under a kilogram and the stiffness values were sensational. In recent years, the manufacturing processes have improved significantly and the problems of the early days have been eliminated. Carbon is now much more stable and less prone to cracks and impacts, but at the same time it is becoming more and more affordable. The futuristic, chic framesets from premium manufacturers are the pinnacle of what is currently possible in terms of looks and technology.

STW and comfort

A carbon frame offers unrivaled STW value – regardless of what material you compare it to. STW describes, in simple terms, the rigidity of a frame. A particularly stiff frame makes it possible for practically all the energy that ends up in the bottom bracket to actually be converted into propulsion. If you imagine the rider in a cradle position on a hill, you can see the forces acting on the frame and components at that moment. An aluminum frame moves and bends significantly more and any energy that ends up in the frame is lost. A carbon frame moves significantly less or not at all. Due to the second positive property of this material, vibration damping, carbon bikes are not disproportionately hard or uncomfortable and feel very comfortable.

Carbon in everyday life

The enormous advantages of carbon are also a clear advantage away from a race. Lightweight and torsionally stiff, it is also quite pleasant for the ride to work or a smaller tour at the weekend. The new manufacturing processes ensure that carbon no longer has to be handled with kid gloves. Minor knocks and environmental influences do not affect modern frames.

Equipment options and style

There is hardly another category in which there are such diverse features as in the case of carbon road bikes. From entry-level models to high-end professional bikes for time trials, all options are available. Visually, too, everything is possible from restrained to bright green and aggressive. Manufacturers also take into account the different user profiles. For the occasional rider, bikes with a slightly more relaxed gear ratio are available. The uncompromising pro can look forward to electronically controlled shifting. The new and venomous disc brakes, which are specially designed for racing bikes, provide extreme deceleration when needed. If you want to ride in a classic way, or take part in official UCI races, you can use rim brakes. If you are unsure about which bike is right for you, don't hesitate to ask us. We will be happy to advise you.