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Research >> Road Bike >> Carbon Fiber Frame

Carbon Fiber Road Bike (The Best Bike for Serious Cyclists)



Table of Contents:
Why Choose Carbon Fiber Road Bikes?
Carbon Fiber Road Bikes are Molded for Aerodynamics
Carbon Fiber Road Bikes are Built for Long-term Durability
Carbon Road Bikes Strike a Balance between Stiffness and Flexibility
Factors to Consider when Choosing a Carbon Road Bike
Geometry
Brakes
Integrated Cockpit
Carbon Fiber Road Bike Reviews
Savadeck Warwinds 3.0 Carbon Road Bike
BEIOU 650B Carbon Fiber Mountain Bike
Eurobike Eu900 50cm Carbon Frame Road Bike
Eagle Z1 Carbon Fiber Aero Road Bike
Kestrel Talon X Carbon Road Bike
Bianchi Intenso Ultegra Carbon Road Bike
Understanding the “Rider-First Engineered” Label on Carbon Road Bikes
Tips for Choosing Women's Bike
Look for the WSD label.
A bike with a wider seat is better.
Check the handlebars width.
See if it offers comfortable reach.
The gears have to be comfortable to use.
Adjust the seat height.
Steer clear from heavy bikes.
Bianchi Women’s Carbon Road Bike
The Advantages of Carbon Bikes
The Possible Risks of Carbon Fiber Bike Frames
Carbon Fiber Road Bike Maintenance Tips 
1. Be careful about torquing it.
2. Watch out for signs of bulges or dents.
3. Make sure to park the carbon fiber road bike safely.
4. Avoid exposing the carbon fiber road bike frame to extreme temperatures.
5. Protect the carbon fiber road bike frame from rusting.
6. Never abuse the bike. 
7. Always observe proper clamping of the carbon fiber road bike frame.
8. Avoid changing the frame spacing. 
9. Take extra care when washing the bike.


Carbon Fiber Road Bike - The Best Bike for serious cyclists

For more than a decade, carbon fiber road bike frames have been the preferred material for many cyclists. It is lightweight, making it very comfortable for riders who frequently tackle uphill climbs. Most carbon fiber road bike frames for sale these days have already been aerodynamically sculpted. This makes the bike capable of performing at a faster speed. 

This article provides information on what makes carbon road bikes the best, what are the factors that have to be considered before buying one and reviews on the best carbon fiber road bikes.

Why Choose Carbon Fiber Road Bikes?

Carbon Fiber Road Bikes are Molded for Aerodynamics

What makes carbon fiber stand out from the rest of the materials used for bike frames is the fact that it can be molded in ways that will ensure better aerodynamics than those bikes made from steel, titanium or aluminum. It can also be built with tapered tubes while its shape is also streamlined with the aim of minimizing the bike’s profile. 

Road bike frames made from carbon fiber are known to significantly shave off significant amount of race time as it minimizes air resistance. There are carbon fiber frames that have curved seat tubes which make the bike more capable of providing continuous flow of air. 

Carbon Fiber Road Bikes are Built for Long-term Durability

When a carbon fiber material is built using mediocre technology chances are high that it will no longer be repaired once it crashes or breaks. This is the reason why many carbon road bikes that are for sale these days are overbuilt to ensure longevity. This makes the bike more efficient in transferring power from its drivetrain and into the rear wheel. Generally, the best carbon fiber road bike is one that has a stiff top tube that do not easily bend even during high intensity sprinting or climbing. Its level of stiffness is what makes carbon fiber bikes the best for aggressive cyclists that are into professional racing. 

Carbon Road Bikes Strike a Balance between Stiffness and Flexibility

Carbon fiber road bike frames are much appreciated because it manifests a good balance between stiffness and flexibility. Cyclists love stiff road bike frames that are made of carbon because it is less likely to absorb much energy. This is one reason why competitive cyclists prefer carbon fiber frame as it allows them to maximize the power produced from their pedaling efforts. 

For each pedaling, the power will be directly transferred to the bike’s drivetrain to allow the bike to move forward. Compliant carbon fiber frames can be so flexible that they can soak up one’s energy. This way, there will be reduced vibration which is usually experienced when going through rough roads. The result would be a more comfortable ride. 

Factors to Consider when Choosing a Carbon Road Bike

The general advice for individuals looking to buy a brand new bike is to spend more on road bike with carbon fiber frames than on its components. One reason for this is the fact that upgrading the groupsets, wheels and handlebars is easier to do than to buy another brand new road bike frame that is made from carbon. 

Geometry

Carbon road bikes that are for sale can be classified into two different types. The first category would include the race bikes and the second, the endurance bikes. Although people will now see some crossover especially in terms of its features and the technology it possesses, the fact remains that these two types of bikes have been designed to do different things. What these bikes are capable of would largely be dictated by the geometry of its frame. 

A race bike is  obviously built with "racing" in mind which is also the reason why speed comes first at the expense of the rider’s comfort. Race bikes will usually have steep angles to make it capable of fast steering. Its steep angles are also needed to better facilitate a long reach but low stack so that an aerodynamic position will more likely be achieved. 

On the other hand, endurance bikes are built with slacker angles and a more upright geometry. It is also made with a built-in technology that ensures comfort. 

Brakes

The use of carbon road bike disc brakes has been around for years now. In fact, every cycling discipline these days utilize disc brakes because of the outstanding performance it provides in every riding condition. However, the rotors and disc brakes together may entail more weight compared to calipers. Nowadays, majority of disc-equipped road bikes have been switched to 12mm thru-axles. This is done not just for the sake of increasing security with wheel to frame connection. The move to swap to 12mm axles is also done so that the stiffness of the bike from end to end will largely be improved. 

Integrated Cockpit

Many bike brands now usually come with their in-house components brand, while others also have their partner brand for their components. There are only very few bikes considered as high-end that make use of stem and one-piece bar combos. These carbon fiber road bikes have a definite cool factor which makes it possible for the cables to be completely hidden thereby increasing its aerodynamics. Besides, these are also lighter compared to other bikes that come with standard stem and bar. 

Carbon Fiber Road Bike Reviews

Carbon Fiber Road Bike Reviews

Carbon fiber is considered as the most advanced road bike frame material.  These carbon fiber bikes are now becoming more common in many cycling competitions. This is because no other materials can stand parallel to what carbon fiber road bike frame offers in terms of durability, stiffness and low weight. These carbon fiber road bikes are made with advanced manufacturing techniques that ensure years of service before it needs replacement. 

With carbon fiber frames, cycling enthusiasts must expect to pay quite a hefty price. Despite its exorbitant price many people claim that such investment is totally worth it considering the level of performance that the bike provides. 

The following is a review of some of the best carbon road bikes that are for sale.

Savadeck Warwinds 3.0 Carbon Road Bike

Savadeck Warwinds 3.0 Carbon Road Bike

Savadeck Warwinds 3.0’s carbon road bike possesses stiffness that can be felt at the bottom of its bracket as well as on its head tubes which makes the bike capable of producing powerful performance. Since its road bike frame is made of carbon fiber, the rider can expect a totally smooth ride as the bike ensures better shock absorption all throughout the ride. 

In turn, it will become easier for the rider to just focus on the ride. Not to mention the fact that carbon fiber frames are also known to withstand scarps and bumps. Reaching the destination can be done much faster since the bike is equipped with Shimano 6800 Gear System.

This Sava Warwind is equipped with Fizik Italian racing saddle that helps guarantee a comfortable ride even during long distance travels. This carbon road bike for sale has tires that are from Hutchinson which is known to possess better grip on the ground thus maximizing every rider’s fullest potential. 

Its Taiwan low friction hub also gives the bike ultimate grip while on the road. Sava Warwind also has Shimano 6800 derailleurs that give the cyclist full control of the bike while riding. Changing the pace of the bike can be done with so much ease due to its Shimano derailleurs. Emergency stops will not pose any issue at all. 

This Sava WarWinds 3.0 is a bit heavier compared to other carbon fiber road bike as it weighs 9.8 kilograms. However, once the cyclist rides on it, it would still feel lightweight. This model also exhibits the signature aerodynamic design of Sava bikes. Much attention has been given to every detail of it and the bike’s geometry alone is already enough proof. 

Some of its outstanding features also include internal cable routing, 40mm alloy bearing wheelset and Shimano 9-speed control. 

Pros

  • Guarantees smooth shifting
  • Greater durability
  • Provides the right level of comfort
  • Fancy design

Cons

  • The price is quite high, not everyone can afford it.

BEIOU 650B Carbon Fiber Mountain Bike

BEIOU 650B Carbon Fiber Mountain Bike


The BEIOU mountain bike is a high performing bike, so functional yet so affordable. It is constructed with high quality Toray T800 carbon fiber that is lightweight and durable. However, this carbon fiber mountain bike is endowed with so much more than what its carbon fiber frame material offers. 

This BEIOU carbon fiber mountain bike has a seat post that is  also made of carbon fiber which is part of the reason why the bike is so lightweight, weighing only 22 lbs. Its brake system is powered by Shimano M355 technology that guarantees swift stopping no matter what the road conditions are. 

Plus, blazing through the mountain trails is so much possible with its BOCBM05A along iwith a 27-speed system that makes use of Shimano Alivio gearing. These components help optimize the biker’s control even while accelerating. 

Its wheelset is a combination of great durability and low weight. 

Pros

  • Comfortable with high end gears and brake system

Cons

  • Its fork is made of mediocre quality.

Eurobike Eu900 50cm Carbon Frame Road Bike

Eurobike Eu900 50cm Carbon Frame Road Bike

Eurobike EU900 possesses the tire width and aerodynamics that are crucial for racing.

Cyclists who are into racing should consider buying Eurobike Eu900. This carbon fiber road bike frame not only assures less weight, but it also promises excellent performance on the road. 

Another factor that makes this bike a beast on the road is its SORA R3000 Shifting system and SORA R3000 Caliper brake that also guarantees braking efficiency for greater safety. It's made with T700 carbon fiber frame. Its double aluminum rims are also a wonderful addition as its looks make the ride stand out from a crowd of racers. 

Although this carbon fiber road bike frame is not specifically designed for off-road adventures however it possesses great features that make it powerful enough to handle inclines. Its close cassette makes it ideal for racing in addition to its optimal chainset ratio. 

Pros

  • Great looks
  • Carbon fiber frame and carbon fork
  • Easy to assemble
  • 18-speed Shimano Sora

Cons

  • Not ideal for off-road racing

Eagle Z1 Carbon Fiber Aero Road Bike

Eagle Z1 Carbon Fiber Aero Road Bike

The Eagle Z1 is equipped with aerodynamic frame tubing, coupled with high-end carbon construction. These features make the bike a good example of one with a perfect combination of both performance and comfort. Its carbon fiber road bike frame is also accompanied with Shimano 105 components. 

People who are looking to buy a bike that they can use for commuting, touring or just for recreational road cycling would might as well consider buying this one. With its aerodynamic design, the bike is so much capable of dancing through the steepest ascents. It is lightweight enough to be jumping under its demanding torque. 

Even if this carbon fiber road bike has to be ridden for several hours, it will not fail to provide the rider its much needed comfort. So, for those bikers looking to climb Mount Haleakala using a bike or just wanting to cruise down their neighborhood’s road on a Sunday morning, this Eagle Z will certainly not let anyone down. 

Pros

  • Can easily compete with other more expensive bikes
  • Shifting efficiency is perfect
  • Does not tend to be too twitchy 

Cons

  • The frame seemed to be very tall for some riders

SAVADECK Phantom 2.0 Carbon Fiber Road Bike 

SAVADECK Phantom 2.0 Carbon Fiber Road Bike

Savadeck Phantom 2.0 is made with Toray T800 carbon fiber. The rest of its features are also designed in a way that ensures the bike’s aerodynamic attributes. These include the 12 cm headtube aside from its thicker down tube. Its huge frame reach of 37.4 cm makes it bigger than any other road bikes. 

Its fork is connected in a seamless way to its frame which eliminates any likelihood of it being disengaged or misaligned. Though this carbon fiber road bike frame is massively brawny, but it only weighs 17 pounds. Its drivetrain is also just as powerful with its front and rear derailleurs made from Shimano Ultegra 8000. It also has a 50/34T crankset and 22-speed shifter. 

This goes to say that each component of this Savadeck Phantom 2.0 is guaranteed to function without flaw. Add in its capability of producing a larger power output without the need to exert so much force. In turn, driving efficiency can be achieved with much ease and less energy drained. 

Pros

  • Aerodynamic design in all its aspects
  • Shimano Ultegra 8000 drivetrain
  • The best saddle chosen by Italian professional cyclists

Cons

  • Rear V-brake could have been better if it was shielded to further reduce drag. 

Kestrel Talon X Carbon Road Bike

Kestrel Talon X Carbon Road Bike

 

This Kestrel Talon X Carbon Fiber Road Bike will prove to be beneficial for those looking to train using a road bike but are actually planning to race using a tri bike. This way, they do not have to splurge a hefty amount on buying two bikes. 

This carbon fiber road bike frame is assembled using 800K high-modulus carbon fiber which is known to serve as a very strong platform. This 800K carbon also makes use of polyurethane molds in its inner high-stress areas. This leads to greater compaction thereby making the bike one that is undoubtedly capable of giving excellent performance. 

Kestrel Talon X is also designed with a geometry that can fit perfectly for triathlon and road use with its tapered head tube. This Kestrel road bike’s lateral stiffness is greatly enhanced to ensure greater steering precision. 

Pros

Its direct mount caliper brakes provide outstanding tire clearance

Unique geometry for superb riding experience

Cons

Weighs 18.5 lbs which is a bit heavy for an aero bike

Shimano groupset makes the bike heavy

Bianchi Intenso Ultegra Carbon Road Bike

Bianchi Intenso Ultegra Carbon Road Bike

It does not have to take several miles before one can realize just how solid and how reliable this road bike is. It makes riders feel as if they are just gliding down the road. This bike responds quickly whenever it needs to go on an uphill climb and remains strong when it has to barrel downhill. This comes as no surprise knowing that this bike has Shimano 105 11-speed drivetrain coupled with hydraulic disc brakes which enables riders to achieve excellent control on the disc brakes. Not to mention great shifting performance. All these great features without giving anyone that sticker shock. 

Bianchi is also equipped with a compact crankset that has 50/34 chainrings. Bikers will also be assured of a go-fast gearing with the addition of its 11-32 cassette which also enables riders to retain several low-gear options as they continue to go for tough climbs without the need to burst out their own lungs.

This Bianchi Intenso bike is also endowed with fulcrum racing 618 hoops coupled with rims made from aluminum. These are wrapped with 28mm tires from Vittoria Zaffiro Pro Slick which makes supple ride so achievable. 

Pros

  • It has the best frame
  • Great looks, gives smooth ride and smart handling
  • Great kevlar reinforcements on its front fork

Cons

  • Price is a bit more expensive compared to its rivals
  • Some bikers say it could have been better with wider tires

Understanding the “Rider-First Engineered” Label on Carbon Road Bikes

This Rider-First Engineered™ frame is an approach to frame construction that combines information gathered through feedback provided by professional riders. This approach also makes use of a meticulous process of carbon construction so that the bike can be relied on to perform flawlessly. 

A technology that was first introduced with Tarmac bikes which is known as the Rider-First Engineered™ has brought with its unique tube shapes and layouts that perfectly fits every frame size. 

With its Rider-First Engineered frame, the bike becomes capable of maintaining its stiffness while saving up to 525 grams in weight. This is what any biker could save from its frame weight alone, which is something that is just too difficult to do with other bikes. 

The same technology has made it easier for engineers to design bikes that have ride quality target that is achievable regardless of whether the ride is a size XL or size small. 

There won’t be any stiffness or the feelings like a cyclist is riding on a bike not suited to its size. 

Tips for Choosing Women's Bike

Many women riders encounter difficulty looking for the perfect bike for them. Men’s body is perfectly fitted for most bikes and women might find it hard to select a bike that are completely comfortable with. Some women tend to have shorter legs and arms than men, they also have longer torsos, they weigh less and have smaller size too. So, if a woman wants to go cycling, then one must choose a bike that is designed specifically for women.

Look for the WSD label.

One might want to consider checking out bike stores that provide a wide range of women-specific designed or WSD bikes. WSD marked bikes are customized to accommodate women’s body frame. This gives the rider an assurance that the bike is especially made to cater a comfortable ride for women. Without the mark, the bike is designed to fit men’s body frame.

A bike with a wider seat is better.

A rider can check the bike first by trying to sit on it. A rider can sit on several bikes to find one that feels comfortable with. Women would usually prefer a wider seat due to their anatomical differences such as having wider hips. It is wise to take time while trying on the bike seat. Make sure that there’s no pain, discomfort, or numbness.

Check the handlebars width.

Aside from the seats, a biker may also need to check out the handlebar's width. Men’s bike usually have 40cm long handlebars which is considered to be too wide for many women, according to Team Estrogen. So, for this reason, every bike enthusiast must opt for handlebars that measure 36-38cm only. This is to enjoy its comfort and stability.  Note that if a rider has a small frame and short shoulders, it is better to go for narrower handlebars.

See if it offers comfortable reach.

After checking the seats and handlebars, the next thing to do is to compare the reach of several bikes. The distance from the seat to the handle bars is called reach. Reach must be chosen based on the length of the arms and the height. Find a bike that enables a biker to have a comfy seat while reaching the handlebars with ease. It is important that riders don’t need to stretch or slouch upon reaching the handlebars. It will only make one’s arms tired while cycling. A bicycle enthusiast will know if the reach is perfectly right when the elbows are bent slightly.

The gears have to be comfortable to use.

Now, after ensuring a comfortable seat, a good handlebar, and accommodating reach, one should also test out the brakes and gears. Most female cyclists complain about their too large gears. So, to avoid such dilemma, make sure to comfortably use the brakes and engage all the gears without too much strain.

Adjust the seat height.

Another thing all bikers need to ensure is the seat height. Adjust the seat height in accordance with the body so that it will fit perfectly. A responsible biker can ask for assistance from the bike seller or may courteously ask a rider friend to help out on it. By doing so, a biker assures that the seat height of the bike is perfectly adjusted to the body frame. Now, if the seat can’t be modified it is advisable to check out a different model that can ensure of hassle-free riding.

Steer clear from heavy bikes.

A good cyclist should also remember to ask details about portable or lightweight bikes. One can also go for a foldable bike because it is practical and can easily fit in a car. A carbon fiber or titanium bike is also good because anyone can lift them with ease anywhere. In short, refrain from buying heavy bikes and go for a safe and comfortable transport.

Bianchi Women’s Carbon Road Bike

Bianchi is an Italian bike brand founded by Edouardo Bianchi in 1885. 

Today, Nirone has become the name of one of the world’s bestselling bikes produced by Bianchi. In 2009, the first female specific bikes were then created in the range. 

The Italian bike manufacturer, Bianchi is popular in the cycling world. The name Bianchi is even equated as the sport of cycling due to its long history. This brand was founded by Edoardo Bianchi in year 1885 in Milan, Italy. It is also known as the world’s oldest and longest-running bicycle company. Bianchi was a medical instruments maker when he established the cycling business. He also instigated the bicycle fundamentals during that time. Pneumatic tires, equal-sized wheels, as well as the wheel caliper brake in front were among these fundamentals. There was also a certain period of time when Bianchi produced motorcycles and cars. However, later on, he focused more on the bikes.

Bianchi established his name and good reputation when he decided to sponsor, Giovanni Tommasello. He was the Grand Prix de Paris sprint race winner in 1899. Then they also backed Constante Giradengo up in 1935. It was the same man who became a dual winner of the Giro d’Italia and the first Campionissimo. As a result, their sales rose up to more than 70,000 bikes in annual production. There are other high-profiled racers that were sponsored by Bianchi all over the years. Some were Marco Pantani, Laurent Fignon, Jan Ullrich, and Mario Cipollini - to name a few.

Bianchi women’s road bike takes its focus not entirely on having a new geometry. The bikes are basically available in a variety of sizes, from 44cm to 47cm frame, swapping its most appropriate handlebar sizes, stem, as well as saddle specifically made for women.

This approach will either get a nod or frown from different people depending on their perception. Some are less convinced of the fact it's sensibility. Bianchi women's road bike is famous for its shorter top tube features compared to American brands. Shortened top tubes are often offered to women riders. This is one of the reasons why Bianchi is indeed popular among female riders.

The first lineup of bikes for women was introduced in 2009. It appeared with a variety of aluminum versions. It had the title ‘She’ as its precursor. Then when the carbon versions were introduced, they used ‘Lei’ for the name, which means “she” in Italian. The brand upped their game again in 2013 with the release of the Bianchi women’s road bike named Dama Bianca, it comes with wider versions to select from emphasizing its modification to fit women’s preference.

Now it has been three years into its range, it also includes tons of options for women to choose from such as the bestseller, Nirone, the classic and smooth Infinito, the endurance-focused Intenso, the entry level carbon Intrepida or the aluminum-endurance Impulso.

It is a fact that Bianchi women’s carbon road bikes are well received and had been garnering good sales value. It is also good to put emphasis on shared frames. Bianchi is glad to see women enjoying in one of their unisex frames adjusted to fit according to their preference. It is also good to know that more women are now enjoying their time on a Dama bike. It doesn’t matter which options do shoppers tend to opt. Whether its Dama Days or a women-featured bike on their ads, it will undeniably culminate an increased number of women choosing Bianchi.

Today, Bianchi made a lot from their long cycling business history. They are now trading under the tagline, ‘technology with soul’. Bianchi also produce hybrids, mountain bikes, commuter, urban, as well as junior range bike. They also make two versions of Metropoli e-bikes. Although not everything they have created are considered to be entirely top-spec competition stuff. It is still obvious that Bianchi took a lot of pride when it comes to their produced road bikes.

The Advantages of Carbon Bikes

Carbon fiber is no doubt lighter than steel. Riding on a lightweight carbon fiber road bike frame would make uphill climbs and racing feel like flying in the air. Many people think that carbon has a high tendency of generating vibration. In reality, a carbon fiber frame does a great job in reducing frame vibration. The result would be a smoother ride compared to what one will experience on a steel or aluminum bike. 

Any amount of accidental impact to a carbon fiber road bike frame is already enough to spell disaster. Experiencing a bad crash would lead the carbon frame to splinter, making it impossible to be repaired unlike a steel which can be welded to mold it back to shape. 

However, a road bike frame made from carbon also has a huge advantage over steel and alloy because it does not rust at all. The parts of a steel and alloy frame that are not covered with paint are prone to rusting. Therefore, having a road bike frame that is made from carbon would also help save on maintenance costs. 

The Possible Risks of Carbon Fiber Bike Frames

Carbon fiber’s major disadvantage is the fact that it's brittle so it has a higher risk of breaking. Besides, carbon fiber frames are also designed in a way that any damage will not be easily seen. 

To be able to produce this carbon fiber road bike frame, a process called bonding was done first. This is when carbon fiber strands were bonded with epoxy resin. If these internal layers of carbon fiber bonds are broken it will remain invisible especially if the outer layer is still intact. In turn, the frame will still look unblemished even when its internal layers already have damage in them. In other words, the carbon fiber frame may still look good on the outside but could compromise one’s safety as it has been weakened inside. Frames that have the tendency to break into two may pose a serious threat to a biker’s life.  So, a carbon fiber frame has to be thoroughly checked especially after surviving a heavy crash. Once exposed to trauma, carbon fiber frame could easily break. 

However, what determines the quality of a carbon fiber road bike frame is the process that it goes through during treatment. How carbon was heated, how resin was used with it and how well these carbon fibers were bonded together would largely spell its strength and durability.  

One advantage of carbon is that it can be super stiff yet remains lightweight. Its malleability also makes it a good material for aerodynamic tubing as manufacturers can easily form it into any shape they wanted. 

It is also important to note that not all carbon fiber road bike frames pose threats to riders. Carbon fiber frames can also be more durable than steel and can also be just as safe as steel if it goes through the right process during manufacturing. If the processing itself does not guarantee safety, then the carbon frame could be dangerous. However, such risk only occurs if the manufacturing company skimps on the use of resin. It can also be dangerous if there is uneven application of resin. This leads to the tendency for gaps to form, making the frame very susceptible to cracking. These fissures can easily spread in the event of a collision or if the biker lands hard right after coming off a curb. 

Over a period of days or years, this fracture will gradually spread until the material shatters. Time is one huge determining factor for the level of danger that this kind of carbon could pose. 

Carbon Fiber Road Bike Maintenance Tips 

If it is a biker’s first time to own a carbon fiber road bike frame, he will certainly be surprised to know that it weighs so much less. However, the greatest surprise that one will experience with carbon fiber frame is felt as soon as he rides on it. This featherweight material enables the biker to transfer more of his pedaling power to the ground resulting in a rate of acceleration, control and climbing ease that is beyond anyone’s expectations. However, despite the incredible strength that this carbon bike frame material possesses, one careless mistake, even if it seems too trivial to cause serious damage, is already enough to pose significant threat. If the bike owner treats the bike well, there is absolutely no reason to worry. The following are some helpful maintenance tips to ensure its longevity and durability. 

1. Be careful about torquing it.

Torquing it with an Allen wrench or allowing the handle bars to just swing around and be smashed into its top tube may result in serious damage. Bike owners, especially those who own a carbon bike must avoid over torquing. To prevent this from happening, bike owners are advised to always consult the bike company’s torque chart while working on the bike. This is to ensure that the bolts are tightened well without causing any cracks. 

During installation, one must make sure that there are no rough spots, metal shards, burs or dirt that may hurt or cause damage to the carbon while it is being assembled. The surfaces where the parts are placed have to be smooth to prevent the material from being scratched. 

Do not apply the same habit of tightening the bolt over and over again just to make sure that it is tight enough. This habit could spell disaster. Too much twisting and turning could damage the carbon. With carbon, see to it that the parts are aligned well and tightened completely. If there is a need to fine tune any specific part, it is best to fully loosen it first, before resetting and tightening it fully. 

2. Watch out for signs of bulges or dents.

Remember that carbon is made from entirely different material than aluminum, titanium or steel. It comes from synthetic composite material which consists of fibers that were soaked in epoxy resin. These carbon fiber road bike frame materials will have to undergo several processes which may include compression and heating. When metals suffer a blow or trauma, one can easily notice its damage as dents, bulges and bents become apparent. However, with a carbon material these damages will not be easily seen by the naked eyes. With carbon material, damages may not be apparent, and this is what makes carbon dangerous. The carbon fiber road bike frame could fail without the biker noticing it in advance. Carbon is also sensitive to notch and this would mean that scratches, deep cuts or gouges are enough to cause breakage. Once these signs are noticed, have the bike checked by an expert. When a snag is felt while cleaning or wiping any part of the bike it could mean that there is damage deep within. Any signs of cracking, popping and creaking must not be ignored. 

3. Make sure to park the carbon fiber road bike safely.

Whenever the bike needs to be parked, make sure that it is placed on the side as firmly as it should be. This is important to avoid the bike from rolling or falling on its side. Otherwise, it could slam into a hard surface and damage could occur. Avoid letting the seat or frame of the bike lean on the pole when parking it. One small movement may cause the frame to be smashed into the pole thereby causing damage to the frame. It is also possible that the handlebars will swing around and then thump into the top tube. It is best to just allow the bike to lay down in the safest place the bike owner can find. Or, the person can also make sure that the bike is resting on a leveled surface of the wall. 

4. Avoid exposing the carbon fiber road bike frame to extreme temperatures.

Some bicycle manufacturing companies advice bike owners to avoid leaving the bike to be exposed to high temperatures. So, do not park it into the open area only to be exposed directly into the scorching heat of the sun. Avoid parking it on high temperature areas such as near the radiators and any other heat sources. 

5. Protect the carbon fiber road bike frame from rusting.

Bike owners who live near the ocean must see to it that the bike is cleaned regularly. Rinse off the bike with tap water to completely remove traces of salty water on it. Failure to clean the bike regularly would lead its components to corrode. 

Similarly, if the bike owner lives by an ocean where there is lots of salt in the air, or if the person sweats excessively, he should clean and rinse the salt off the bicycle and its components to protect these from any possible corrosion of the metal parts.

6. Never abuse the bike. 

Do not use it carelessly and forget that it is placed on the roof rack. Remember that its damage can be easily seen by an untrained eye. Even if the bike has not suffered any blow, trauma or accident it should still be checked by a professional on a regular basis. This way, damage will be detected early on. Avoid using the bike unless it is one hundred percent safe and free from any amount of damage. If the bike’s brakes are not functioning well or are not shifting as fast as it should then it is possible that a damage exists. 

7. Always observe proper clamping of the carbon fiber road bike frame.

Avoid clamping the frame. Otherwise, too much load will be concentrated on the frame and this can lead to damage. It is best to just clamp the aluminum seat-post. However, if the bike also has a carbon seat-post, better purchase an aluminum seat-post which has exactly the same diameter as the post. Then, use this one for clamping while working on the bike. 

8. Avoid changing the frame spacing. 

These carbon frames have been designed to accept modern wheels with no issues. This would mean that there is no need for it to be compressed or stretched or it will only be damaged. Remember that carbon frames could not be bent. Avoid drilling holes in the carbon frame.

If the manual says that it is completely okay to size the carbon handlebars or cut the fork to a specific size, might as well use a hacksaw blade that is meant to be used for carbon only. This kind of hacksaw blade works as if it sands through the carbon. Other blades that tear through the material using its teeth could cause the carbon to fray or splinter the composite fibers. 

9. Take extra care when washing the bike.

It is completely fine to wash and clean the bike with water like one would with bikes that are made from other materials. However, one must be careful not to aim the water directly to its bearings, headsets or cranks to avoid the grease from being washed out. Use bike-safe degreaser for cleaning those parts that are greasy. Once the bike has been cleaned and dried, add a polish or wax it for more protection. 

Never think that carbon cannot be repaired. In most cases, it is possible to repair a bike that’s made from carbon materials. 


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