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Question:

steel or aluminum? I'm looking to try a steel mtb for first time?

I know aluminum is lighter but I'm looking at a 01 bianchi grizzly mountain bike which is steel. I used to ride a specialized stumpjumper m4 which was aluminum. It was quite light so I don't know if I'll like a bit heavier bike but overall what is better from those who have had both?

Answer:

Im a huge fan of steel frames. #1. they dont feel like they are bouncing off things like aluminum #2. they absorb more vibrations #3. they can be fixed if you wreck them #4. They dont weigh much more (if anymore) then aluminum #5. you are in a very limited clique #6. a steel frame will far out-live an aluminum frame. #7. it doesnt sound like your riding a tin can. #8. break a hose or cable guide, and you simply can take it down to your local muffler shop and have them weld one back on.. an aluminum frame is so fragile it will probably have to be replaced. Aluminum frames do have their pluses. #1. they are very stiff #2. you dont have to worry about rust #3. every company on the planet makes aluminum frames so they are easy to find... #4. looks. because aluminum is so stiff, there are some very radical frame designs. steel frames are just boring to look at. if you like steel frames, you wont want to go to aluminum. if you like aluminum, you could consider steel.
Depending on the price, aluminum may be as heavy or heavier than steel... don't let anyone tell you otherwise. Keep in mind that with age aluminum will eventually break from stress while steel will never fail due solely to riding stresses. In all, it is up to you. I ride steel or magnesium road bikes and aluminum or magnesium MTBs.
I've ridden steel, alum, Ti and carbon. I like 'em all. It all depends of craftsmanship and design IMHO. Really, a light steel frame is only about 1 to 1.5 lbs heavier than other super light frames. Steel has a rep for being heavy and most of that comes from being a heavier duty frame and being spec'ed with heavier parts. With that being said I have 2 alum and 1 carbon framed bikes now. I owned several steel bikes in my day, loved 'em too. I like light and if you're a weight weenie too you may not want a heavier bike regardless of material. The Stumpjumper is a sweet light bike. If the Grizzly is up to your specs give it a go. Thats how you experience life. Try something different. You'll like the feel of steel, as of the bike? Only you will know if you like it or not.

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