A sturdy bike is composed of several factors: frame, chain tension, and components that make shifting smooth into gear with ease. The bike frame is an important component that can not only support the weight of the rider, but allow for many outside environmental stress factors associated with both short and long distance biking. The best materials can accomplish the following tasks:

• long distance endurance to cyclical stress
• high density for durability
• the ability to hold heavy weight
• Maximum yield strength for crash strength

Steel

Steel frame of 2000 LeMond Zurich road racing bicycle.

Steel is a popular material used for bikes due to their ease in production and lack of expense. Traditional steel bikes use higher density in frames compared to less expensive tensile steel gauge bike frames. Steel also includes unique features to increase strength:

• Flex for absorption of shock
• Reduction in weight with light steel frames

Carbon Fibre

A carbon fiber Trek Y-Foil from the late 1990s.

Carbon fibre has become popular in recent years with its use in the auto industry as a non-metallic material with its strength and residual beauty. It is a strong substance that allows for highly detailed bicycles that can be made with an aerodynamic profile. It also has characteristics that increase longevity:

• Corrosion-free tubing
• Can have a matrix added for stiffness
• Vibration damping abilities

The most unique aspect of this bike metal is its vibration damping strength. This is why it is used in many vehicles today and as an eco-alternative to some of the other metals.

Titanium

Characteristic weld beads on a titanium frame made by a master craftsman.

Although one of the more expensive metals to use in a bike, titanium has many desirable traits that allow for various tube sizes. It is typically used as an alloy material, which means that the material is mixed with a more lightweight material. These alloys were often used in the engineering field due to their ability to handle stress. The standard titanium bike has many strengths:

• High strength to weight ratio
• Fantastic corrosion resistance
• Low weight tubes with high stiffness

Scandium Aluminum Alloy

Another alloy that holds its weight in the metal industry for cycling is the metal scandium. The content of scandium is rather small, but the alloy allows for excellent flexibility in design and advanced welding techniques for unique styles. It is, by itself, a soft metallic chemical in a natural silver-white color.

• Frames are thinner and lighter than most metals
• Smaller tubes without sacrificing durability. A smaller tube may make the bike more agile and less weight for the rider overall.

The strength of metal in a bike should not be the only determining factor. You should also consider the rigidity of the frame, shock absorption, and budget at hand. These top metals can remain strong for almost any rider on the market, particularly if the rider is looking for a long term overall bike to serve any purpose that may place stress on the frame. All options should be considered, which includes: price, design style, and intention of biking. Whether you are looking for a mountain bike, riding bike, or a heavy-duty, there is one for you.

William writes for Dynamic Metals stainless steel & titanium suppliers. Look to them for high-grade metals. Metals available include AMS 5643 and many others, visit DynamicMetalsLtd.co.uk today for more information.

Photo Credits:  Wikipedia

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