The cost of a mountain bike frame is proportionate to its material, as well as the treatment that material has received. Currently, there are five types of material used in mountain bikes – high tensile steel, chromoly steel, aluminum, titanium, and carbon fiber. Oversized diameters, heat treating, and butting are tubing material treatments that will increase the cost of a frame as well.

More on high tensile steel This is a very durable alloy that’s found in lower priced mountain bikes. It’s less stiff than chromoly steel and offers a high carbon content that’s why more materials are needed to make it stiff enough for bicycle frames and this will make it heavier.

Trail bikes, city bikes, and entry level mountain bikes is where this relatively inexpensive material is used. There are bikes that have chromoly seat tube and others have high tensile steel.

More on chromoly steel Chromium and molybdenum are the major additives of chromoly, which is also short for steel alloy. This is probably the most refined framing material, giving over 100 years of dependable service.

This material can be found in bikes as low as $400 up to $1500 and beyond, depending on the type of heat treating and butting. Offering good durability and a compliant ride characteristic is the chromoly steel material.

Aluminum Aluminum has been refined the same way as chromoly for the past 15 years. Various alloys, heat treatment, oversizing, and butting have been developed. With dual suspension bikes, aluminum is the preferred material as it’s the stiffest and most cost effective.

Because aluminum is not as stiff as chromoly, it will crack first. But this would depend on the abuse you give the frame and how you ride. Aluminum has certain advantages such as the frame being very light and stiff because of butting and oversizing.

Titanium The prices for this material has come down over the last few years even though it’s somewhat exotic. Frames made of titanium remain expensive because it takes longer to weld the tubes to the frame.

Titanium is an alloy that can have better welding ability and ride characteristics when mixed with small amounts of vanadium and aluminum. It offers better fatigue and corrosion properties and is more compliant than chromoly.

Where you ride and the style you use is where the material you choose for your bike would depend on. Nearly all materials can last for years as long as you treat the frame with respect and take care of your bike.

When you’re looking for high quality automotive service coupons Apex NC and personal service, try Vital Automotive. We offer the best in auto body mechanic Apex NC and our rates are competitive, with no hidden fees.