Bicycle frame

Buying advice for: Bicycle frame

• Frame types

  There are different types of frame, which vary depending on the type of bike and its intended use. The diamond frame is the most classic and most widely used frame construction. It consists of two triangles - the main triangle and the rear triangle - and offers an excellent combination of stability, rigidity and low weight. This type of frame is used on racing bikes, mountain bikes and many everyday bikes. Trapezoidal frames are a variant of the diamond frame with a lowered top tube, which makes it easier to get on and off the bike. This frame shape is particularly popular with city and trekking bikes and offers similar riding characteristics to the diamond frame. Wave or step-through frames are characterised by a significantly lowered or completely continuous down tube. Fully frames and hardtail frames are special frame types for mountain bikes. Fully frames offer full suspension for the front and rear wheels, which improves control and comfort on demanding terrain. Hardtail frames dispense with the rear suspension, resulting in a lighter and more efficient build.

• Frame brands

  Specialised is a leading brand known for its innovative frame designs and high-quality materials. Their road and mountain bike frames are highly regarded worldwide. Trek offers a wide range of frames for different types of bikes and is known for its durable and high-performance products. Their carbon and aluminium frames set standards in the bicycle industry. Cannondale has made a name for itself by developing lightweight and robust frames, especially in the road and mountain bike segments. Their aluminium and carbon frames are known for their high quality workmanship. Giant is the world's largest bicycle manufacturer and offers a wide range of frames for all bicycle categories.

• Materials and workmanship

  Aluminium is the most commonly used material for bicycle frames. It is light, robust and inexpensive, but offers less damping than other materials. Carbon is very light and makes it possible to build stiff yet comfortable frames. Carbon frames are ideal for racing bikes and high-quality mountain bikes, but are more expensive to produce. Steel is known for its durability and high riding comfort due to the natural damping of vibrations. Steel frames are heavier than aluminium and carbon frames, but offer a smooth ride and are particularly popular for touring bikes. Titanium combines many of the advantages of steel and aluminium. It is light, strong and corrosion resistant. Titanium frames offer an excellent ride feel and are extremely durable, but very expensive. The workmanship of the frames is crucial to their quality and durability. High-quality frames are manufactured with precise welding seams, cleanly finished tube connections and smooth surfaces.

• Technical features

  Modern bicycle frames offer a variety of technical features that improve their performance and adaptability. Geometry is a key aspect that determines riding behaviour. Sporty frames have an aggressive geometry with a short wheelbase and steep steering angle for fast and precise steering manoeuvres. Comfort-orientated frames have a more relaxed geometry for a more upright riding position and more stability. Frame sizes are also important to ensure that the bike fits the rider well. Many manufacturers offer customisation options or different sizes to ensure optimal comfort and efficiency.