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I have been looking at getting a 29er for my bike packing adventures, and cannot decide whether to go carbon or stay alloy.
The benefits I see for carbon are
1. Lighter weight. Which helps with bike packing
2. Nice stiff frame when climbing out the saddle on a loaded bike
The downsides I see are
1. More expense
2. Carbon is not as durable as aluminium and I worry about the longevity of a carbon frame for bike packing
3. Some carbon frames are reviewed as a harsh ride and not forgiving. Not sure whether you will notice this when bike packing
For reference, I have my eye on the Cube GTC SL 29er
Interested to hear from those who have tried both carbon and aluminium 29ers for endurance events or bike packing
Thanks
After much on-lining, test riding and angst I went for aluminium about a month ago and have no regrets. And a slightly healthier bank balance.
If you're going 'bike-packing' and want real durability, then you'll need steel as at least it can be mended (in the 'field').
Otherwise carbon. Lighter, more comfort and should be just as strong as aluminium - just dearer.
Ti?
I had the choice of carbon and alloy went alloy simply as i preffered the colour and had shimano kit instead of sram. Little if any percievable difference between the 2 frames on weight and feel. Cannondale f29 btw
Went for alloy over carbon due to price and the fact that on an fs bike the suspension is taking the buzz out. Went carbon for my hard tail though.