Re: [CR] Stainless steel tubing, Reynolds and Columbus

(Example: Events:Cirque du Cyclisme:2002)

Date: Sun, 12 Nov 2006 22:21:11 -0500
Subject: Re: [CR] Stainless steel tubing, Reynolds and Columbus
From: "Doug Fattic" <fatticbicycles@qtm.net>
To: Brandon Ives <brandon@ivycycles.com>, <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>


Brandon"monkeyman"Ives wrote:

"Just so this stays on topic let me add that I believe that using something like this stuff with its ultra-thin walls on a traditionally tubed bike (1" TT, 1.125" ST and DT) would be a real whippy ride. Ever ride the old Columbus KL or Record tubesets?"

best, Brandon"monkeyman"Ives doesn't believe the hype in Vancouver, B.C.

Whether light tubing in traditional diameters is a whippy ride depends on the rider. I'm 5'8" 130 some pounds and have made several frames for myself using .6 X.3 X .6mm tubing. 7/4 is even stiffer. It works fine for me even though I like a 56 or 57cm frame. It also works good for women's frames as well. Thin tubing has other issues like durability, however. It is not just about the weight of the rider but who smooth he/she pedals as well. I'm under the impression that the riding characteristics of the builder carries over to influence how they select materials.

Doug Fattic
Niles, Michigan, USA