in

SLC-SL seems super thin

Last post 11-19-2009 4:25 AM by eric01. 5 replies.
Page 1 of 1 (6 items)
Sort Posts: Previous Next
  • 11-18-2009 4:27 PM

    SLC-SL seems super thin

    This frame is super thin and light and wondering how much of an impact it can take. Anyone have any experiences with it?

  • 11-18-2009 7:41 PM In reply to

    Re: SLC-SL seems super thin

     I'm 82 kg; I've been riding it for over a year on some pretty bad roads in London and SE England; plenty of bumps, potholes and cracks in the road.

     It's been fine. Never felt even close to having an issue with it. 

  • 11-18-2009 8:29 PM In reply to

    Re: SLC-SL seems super thin

    I've hit some pretty big potholes by surprise and have no problems.  I worry much more about my wheels.  The frame can withstand a lot.

  • 11-18-2009 8:59 PM In reply to

    Re: SLC-SL seems super thin

     How about in a crash though? Lets say while taking a corner and the bike sliding out underneath you. Wondering if the SLC-SL can take such a spill.

  • 11-18-2009 9:32 PM In reply to

    Re: SLC-SL seems super thin

     Carbon fiber is really strong depending on alot of manufacturing variables, but when it comes to crashing, all carbon frames are very susceptible to cracking. We live in a disposable world, and unfortunately that goes for multi-thousand dollar products, like your SLC-SL. 

     

  • 11-19-2009 4:25 AM In reply to

    Re: SLC-SL seems super thin

    Unfortunately, crash resistance and lightweight, great road-feel, "vertically compliant / horizontally" stiff are at odds with one another.

    I'm sure that cervelo and other manufacturers could build a carbon frame that is very capable of coming through a crash in good condition, but how much would it weigh?  Who would buy it?  And because so many crazy variables are involved in a crash, how could you really design for protection?  You'd have to overbuild the entire frame.

    Also, this concept does not only apply to carbon.   Any frame that strives for lightweight is going to compromise its "crash resistance".  I've seen some titanium frames (Litespeed Ghisallo), steel frames (new stainless models come to mind) and aluminum that have tubes that give a little when you squeeze them.

Page 1 of 1 (6 items)
Copyright © 2007-2009 Cervélo SA. All rights reserved.