Quoted message said:
Touring franmes are much heavier than racing frames. Perhaps the weight of a
pro
cyclist combined with his or her high power output on a racing frame is
comparable to that of a loaded tourer.
I don't think modern touring frames are that much heavier than a
comparable mid-range racing frames. Maybe by a couple of lbs perhaps
mainly to strengthen the stiffness of the top tube and other frame
sections -- Cannondale had proven that it can be done with weight
savings and unquestioned durability. I think what make touring bikes
heavier than racing bikes are the components. Heavier wheels, more
robust brakes, racks and overall heavier components to help ease the
long journey. You can't afford parts that keep breaking on a long haul
tour-- so light components are off unless you're doing sag touring.
I also think that an experienced cycle tourist can have very high power
output after long periods of riding for many months. Basically, they
are no different than professional racers -- training constantly
everyday on the bike. They must be putting a lot of stress on the
bike, more so than a racer because not only the bottom bracket is put
to the twist, the whole frame is also being twisted by the side loads
right. That's why, racers like Lance Armstrong don't know what lateral
rigidity means to them and why it is so useful in keeping the bike
stiff and secure to a touring cyclist like myself.