In a message dated 6/6/02 2:55:28 PM Eastern Daylight Time, REClassicBikes@aol.com writes:
> They use curved seat stays to reduce vibration. Is this a gimmick or does
> that curve make a difference?
It is a gimmick on seat stays. On chain stays, it allows for wide rear axles and still clearance with low-Q-factor cranksets. It is good marketing to match the chain stays curves with the seat stays, I think.
Cannondale has aquired a reputation for uncomfortably stiff rear triangles, somehow, over the years and the curved tubes are a marketing-driven attempt to alleviate that perception. Gives a visual impression of "springy-ness", I suppose, helps to counter the "Crak'nFail" "myth" too, maybe.
"Cannondales are, uh, the best bikes." says Mario. (or something like that)
Glenn Jordan - Durham, NC