Top tubes, do you have a preference?

Straight or sloped, do you have a preference?

I cant say I have riden a bike with a sloped/angled top tube..

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Ali on February 25, 2009 at 4:10pm

Well that is not a question of aesthetics but rather a question of frame geometry...Personally I prefer compact frames with angled top tubes to others...

-Ali

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Permalink Reply by yellow jello on February 25, 2009 at 5:00pm

I think there is some aesthetics involved, but it goes hand in hand with geometry. I personally think straight top tube frames look nicer on its own merit, but when built up, a straight top tube bike set up comfortably for me would either have less stand over clearance that I'd like, or a long and highly angled stem (depending if I go large or small).

As a result, to make the bike look fast, which to me means a flat stem angle and more clearance (saddle looks taller), I go with the sloping top tube.

Some say a compact geometry frame is also stiffer because the tubes are shorter. Better acceleration but less comfortable? But then tubing choice is also a factor in that?

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Permalink Reply by Gecko on February 25, 2009 at 5:30pm

I think maybe the choice of top tubes would depend on the application.

For example, a bike built specifically for racing would most likely have a straight top tube because of the forward riding position which provides better leverage when pedaling (look at track or time trial bikes). Straight tt bikes usually have shorter steer tubes and a higher saddle location, which positions the rider's hands and head closer to the rest of their body, which makes their cross section smaller, which improves aerodynamics.

On the other hand, bikes with sloping top tubes are great for touring or long distances because of the relaxed body position. This position takes some of the rider's weight off the front of the bike and reduces hand, wrist, and back fatigue. Pedaling efficiency is slightly reduced, as are aerodynamics, because of the more upright nature of the position and the larger cross section the rider produces.

There are many things that make a bike comfortable or not, and sloping/straight top tubes are only one facet of proper bike fit. That said, some people are more comfortable on straight tt bikes, and some find sloping tt's the way to go. Figuring out what you'll use the bike for might be the starting point, but in the end, it's all about personal preference, and how comfortable you are on a certain bike.

I've only got straight top tube bikes right now, but that's because I prefer that geometry for my riding style and comfort.