| Advise on frame & fork materials for strong road bike?
I'm thinking of using a piece of the upcoming tax return to add my
first real road bike to the collection. While I'd like something
reasonably lightweight my main concern is strength. I weigh in closer
to 200lbs than I should and do not have the lightest riding style in
the world. I'm concerned that an aluminum frame & fork will not hold
up to my weight riding off city curbs or the occasional trail detour
thrown into a daylong road ride.
Now for the questions:
1) Am I correct in assuming that I should be looking for a steel frame
and fork?
2) I'm thinking 36 spoke wheels. Is that enough? Overkill?
Material or model suggestions?
3) Are touring bikes generally stronger than race bikes?
4) Is the same rider generally faster or a race bike?
5) Do any manufactures warranty their frames & forks in the road bike
world?
I've read of riders such as Jobst successfully using road bicycles on
rides with a couple miles of trail thrown in and logging many thousands
of miles. I've not heard anything about Jobst's weight or chosen
ride but am still encouraged by this.
Thanks in advance for any and all suggestions,
Dan
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