Full suspension bike- carbon fiber or aluminum?

[mgomez]

I'm interested in getting a full suspension bike and I'm not sure what material to go with. I'm 5'7'' and weight about 170 and i tend to ride pretty fast and aggressive. what should i get

Thanks in advance for any advice and information,

Mike

[gotfish8]

It all depends on how much money you want to spend. I have seen more aluminum frames break Over carbon frames

[BlackSheep]

I've always been suspicious of carbon fiber after reading Trek's guidelines on proper care and maintenance:

"Damaged carbon fiber can fail suddenly, causing serious injury or death. Carbon fiber can conceal damage from an impact or crash. If you suspect your bike has been impacted or crashed, immediately stop riding. Take the bike to a dealer for inspection."

I am sure Trek mentions this for liability reasons, but for a crucial part like a frame or fork, carbon doesn't really sound like the best material for the job, especially if you have the occasional crash or wipe out.

Google "carbon mtb catastrophic failure" for more info.

[lml427]

The new carbons are so much stronger and better then before.  Aluminum will dent.  If you can afford carbon do not fear it and buy it.  

[twntysxthstwoodsmn]

Carbon bikes are expensive, light, fast.  Thats all good until you crash and brake your frame.  Then you finally realize how you could have spent your money a little better.   

   Carbon(frames).  Been there, done that.

[Kenbenzo]

Buy the Kona Collair thats for sale. Great bike, decent price for FS. Well, thats what Id do if i had some cash laying around.

[jmnicebike]

Carbon frame makers also have warranty/loyalty/discount programs to help with frame damage  in the same way that they do other materials.

[machinetwelve]

I like steal because it's reel.

[CrAsHaNdBuRn]

I like steal because it's reel.

Carbon is the fourth most abundant element in the universe after oxygen, hydrogen, and helium. Pretty sure its real haha.

I have a carbon fiber bike. It is lighter, stronger, and quieter than my previous aluminum frames. Ibis's warranty program is rediculous. IF you manage to break the frame, they'll replace the front or rear triangle for LIFE at a super discounted rate, even if it was due to rider error.

But yes, it is a bit more expensive.

[Doug R]

Carbon is the fourth most abundant element in the universe after oxygen, hydrogen, and helium. Pretty sure its real haha.

I have a carbon fiber bike. It is lighter, stronger, and quieter than my previous aluminum frames. Ibis's warranty program is rediculous. IF you manage to break the frame, they'll replace the front or rear triangle for LIFE at a super discounted rate, even if it was due to rider error.

But yes, it is a bit more expensive.

I couldn't agree more!! I own a 2010 Trek Fuel EX Carbon 9.8  Trek warrenty is very good!!  I will never own another aluminum framed bike there is no comparison once you go carbon!   Besides all the Pro Downhill Mountain bikes are 95% carbon now.. Why? because there Stronger, Lighter and Faster!  We are all lucky to have trails like Palos  I love riding here..  19 Miles on Sat and Sunday.. can't wait to get back out..

[RJ2]

watch this video, it ended my fear of carbon frames and components.
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xreZdUBqpJs" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xreZdUBqpJs</a>