How Small Is a 17-inch Frame? (quick answer and tables)
A 17-inch MTB frame will fit a person with an inseam measurement of about 82cm or 32.3 inches. In a specific context, taller individuals with a longer inseam can also…
Lugged vs Monocoque Carbon Frame (comparison & analysis)
This post compares the advantages and disadvantages of lugged and monocoque carbon frames. Definitions Monocoque frame. The majority of carbon frames today are built by gluing together a few separate…
Critically Comparing Lugged And Fillet Brazed Frames
This post compares lugged and fillet brazed frames. Definitions Before comparing the two types of frames it's necessary to present the technological processes behind their production. Fillet Brazed Frames As…
The Endless Debate: A Lugged Or A TIG Welded Frame? (a deeper look)
This post compares the differences between lugged and TIG welded bicycle frames. Definitions Before comparing the two types of frames, it's necessary to describe their main properties and the technology…
Time To Look at Curved and Straight Frame Tubing With a Critical Eye
This post compares the advantages and disadvantages of curved and straight bicycle tubing. The Advantages of Curved Tubing Shorter Chainstays Some aggressive road and track bikes have a curved seat…
Short vs. Long Chainstays: The True Effect Of Chainstay Length on Bike Handling Explained
Chainstays: The tubes running from the bottom bracket shell to the rear dropouts. The name comes from the proximity of the chainstays to the chain. FAQ: How are chainstays measured?…
Sloping vs. Horizontal Top Tubes (The Most Detailed Comparison)
The vast majority of modern bicycles come with a sloping (gradually increasing) top tube whereas many older models had longer, horizontal top tubes. And since nothing in bicycle engineering is…
Do Aluminum Bike Frames Have an “Expiration” Date?
Many bicycle models in the low and mid-range come with an aluminum frame and sometimes even fork if they are fully rigid and designed for the road. My MTB commuter…