Originally posted by senzed but why are so many road bikes at 'em big competitions traditional ones if compact frames are better.
That's just the point; there's no real evidence that compact frames are better. They're a slightly different trend in frame design, is all. Like any successful trend, compact geometry is teetering on the 3-way fence between completely re-writing the industry rules, co-existing with the traditional model, and falling out of favor.
What's clear is that both compact geometry and standard geometry can result in great bikes. Beyond that, I personally couldn't care less where the marketing gurus and engineering gurus steer frame design. So long as the bikes work and don't look too stupid.
Originally posted by rollers ahdunno there's just something about that extra-long seatpost sticking up there.
They're growing on me. My Giant looked goofy to me for a while, but compacts are becoming so common, it doesn't strike me as an ugly duck anymore. Looks kind of mean, actually.
'ahdunno there's just something about that extra-long seatpost sticking up there. ' That's my biggest thing too, 'cause I could go for both a compact or a traditional bike since they're both priced the same and have the same components, but I thought that the compact looked a bit awkward
Originally posted by boudreaux ....and what does one put their knee against when cornering?
Aww, you get used to it. The top tube's positioned pretty normally at the headtube, where your knee is, on most compact frames. Well, at least my knees can touch mine.
The compact frame can be designed with a taller head tube, which is better looking than using spacers in-between the stem and the headset, and perhaps stronger and more reliable too.
I ride a Merlin Agilis (compact) and a C40 (non compact obviously) plus I have ridden about a dozen other non compacts in the past. I must admit that when I bought the Merlin I did so because I loved the looks of it but I have found that the more seatpost sticking out makes for a more comfortable ride since the post flexes for your butt and the frame does not flex for the speed factor. Also, I think compact frames are great for people with long torsos. It leaves some seatpost exposed rather than needing to run the seat way down with a 130 stem on a bike that just does not fit right. In the end, you need to get the one that fits best. If they fit the same I would take the better components so they don't wear out as soon. Good luck.
Originally posted by John Wolff Also, I think compact frames are great for people with long torsos. It leaves some seatpost exposed rather than needing to run the seat way down with a 130 stem on a bike that just does not fit right. In the end, you need to get the one that fits best.
I believe your comment about having a long torso, and compact frames and their relation to greater stem length is more directly affected by seat and head tube angles...
Originally posted by davek I came to this thread looking for hints on whether or not I should buy the Dawes Horizon that I've seen on special offer. It's red. I'm getting it.
I can only agree with the long carbon seatpost sticking out that makes the ride really plush. Compact frame are lighter cos less material are use and stiffer too cos shorter tube less flex and better transfer of power. About the long ride comfort use a carbon post to solve this problem.
This may not be a valid criticism of compact frames, but I think a seat that is extended way up looks stupid. I realize there are some purported advantages to the compact frame. I have bent seat posts because I am heavy and wonder if that is a problem. I have never ridden a "modern" compact frame.
senzed said:
What exactly is the difference. What advantages/disadvantages does a compact frame have over a standard one. I'm askign because there are several bikes within the same price range that I'm considering, but some are standard (trek 2200, lemond buenos aires) and some are compact (specialized allez comp and klein race), and it's really killing me because I have no idea what each type of frame has to offer. help.
The compact frame can be designed with a taller head tube, which is better looking than using spacers in-between the stem and the headset, and perhaps stronger and more reliable too.
