ti frame for ss 29er?

**Lakelander** · 08-08-2008, 06:09 AM

i'm building a ss 29er and have a line on a ti frame. even with a great deal, the ti frame is substantially more $ than steel. any thoughts on the cost benefits of going ti? thanx.

**Andy_B** · 08-08-2008, 07:00 AM

its lighter and has a higher bling factor.

**chaka** · 08-08-2008, 07:09 AM

I love my Dean Ti Colonel 26in ss. The frame has a great feel, overall pretty stiff but compliant, snappy just where it counts. I've heard a good frame builder can deliver nearly the same ride characteristics with both steel and Ti, so for objective differences, you are left with possibly less weight, better fatigue strength (more a beneift over Al), no corrosion, and the oh so sexy nakedness of Ti.

**uncle crud** · 08-08-2008, 08:43 AM

I've owned Ti and steel frames. If the steel frame in question is good quality steel -- butted, thinner-walled tubes by a decent steel tube maker, then

Ti = more $$

Ti = never has to be painted

That's the only difference.

An On-One Inbred at about $400 for the frame (and less if you find a prior year's model as "new old stock" (see www.unrealcycles.com)) will ride as nicely as most $2000 and up Ti frames.

Your choice of tires, and the pressures you use in them, will affect your ride quality more than the difference between Ti and Steel, if ride quality is your gauge.