Polyacrylonitrile Fiber There is a lot of marketing techno-babble out there with all the different companies getting on the carbon bandwagon.  The idea is to try and convince the general public that they are using something special by using technical terms that have little pertinent meaning.  The real differences are fairly simple. Almost all carbon fiber is made from a common industrial fiber called polyacrylonitrile fiber, also known as PAN.  Most PAN fiber is used to make acrylic fiber.  It…

Instability and Speed Wobble Overview Calfee Design has identified a cause of speed wobble (a.k.a. shimmy) and instability that can be prevented. Speed wobble is a dangerous condition that can cause the rider to lose control of the bicycle and crash. While a skilled rider can prevent and stop speed wobble, it is better if it doesn’t start. Some experts state that speed wobble is caused by the rider, which is technically true because the rider responds to the steering…

Introduction Twenty years ago, choosing a road racing bicycle frame was simple...and limited. For light weight and a smooth ride there were Columbus SL and similar light gauge steels. Large powerful riders who needed more frame strength put up with the weight and harsh ride of Columbus SP or similar stout steel. Custom frame builders could tune the feel of a bike by mixing tubes, using stronger ones where needed and paring weight elsewhere. For aluminum, the choice was between…