Choosing the right frame material is one of the most important decisions when buying or building a bike. Among the most debated choices are steel and carbon fibre—two materials with distinct characteristics, advantages, and trade-offs. At R.A.M Custom Bicycles, we build handcrafted steel and titanium frames, ensuring every bike is Reliably Australian Made and tough enough for the harshest Australian conditions. But how does steel compare to carbon fibre? Let’s break it down.
1. Ride Quality & Comfort
Steel is celebrated for its smooth and lively ride feel. Thanks to its natural flex and ability to absorb vibrations, steel offers a comfortable experience, particularly on rough roads and long rides.
Carbon fibre, on the other hand, can be engineered for compliance, but it often lacks the forgiving nature of steel. While high-end carbon frames can be tuned for comfort, they generally prioritise stiffness, making them feel harsher on uneven terrain.
✅ Best for all-day comfort: Steel
✅ Best for race-tuned stiffness: Carbon
2. Strength & Durability
Steel is well known for its incredible strength and longevity. It can withstand years of riding, heavy loads, and even impacts that would leave a carbon frame cracked or shattered. Even if a steel frame is damaged, it can often be repaired and restored—something that’s nearly impossible with carbon fibre.
Carbon frames are strong in specific directions but can be fragile under impact. A crash or even a minor drop can cause fractures in the material, leading to costly repairs or complete frame replacement.
✅ Best for longevity & repairability: Steel
✅ Best for lightweight performance: Carbon
3. Weight & Performance
Carbon fibre frames are significantly lighter than steel and are often the preferred choice for competitive racing. The ability to mold carbon into aerodynamic shapes also gives it an advantage in high-speed applications.
However, modern steel tubing technology has come a long way. With advanced materials like Tange Prestige and Reynolds 853, a high-quality steel frame can be remarkably light while maintaining the legendary ride quality that steel is known for. At R.A.M Custom Bicycles, we use the best steel tubing to craft frames that strike the perfect balance between weight and strength.
✅ Best for weight savings: Carbon
✅ Best for balanced performance & durability: Steel
4. Cost & Value
Steel offers exceptional value for money. It’s more affordable than carbon fibre while still delivering a premium ride experience. A well-maintained steel frame can last a lifetime, making it a long-term investment.
Carbon frames tend to be expensive due to the complex manufacturing process. Additionally, if a carbon frame is damaged, repairs can be costly or impossible, potentially making it a short-term purchase.
✅ Best for affordability & long-term value: Steel
✅ Best for high-end racing performance: Carbon
5. Sustainability & Environmental Impact
Sustainability is an increasingly important factor in cycling. Steel is 100% recyclable and has a much lower environmental footprint compared to carbon fibre, which involves energy-intensive production and is difficult to recycle.
At R.A.M Custom Bicycles, we take pride in building bikes that are not only built to last but also environmentally responsible.
✅ Best for sustainability & recyclability: Steel
✅ Best for cutting-edge materials: Carbon
6. Which One is Right for You?
- Choose steel if you want a comfortable, durable, and versatile bike that lasts a lifetime and can be customised to your exact specifications.
- Choose carbon if you want a lightweight, aerodynamic bike designed primarily for racing and high-performance road cycling.
At R.A.M Custom Bicycles, we believe that for most riders—especially those tackling rough Australian conditions—steel remains the ultimate frame material. Our handcrafted steel frames offer the perfect combination of comfort, strength, and style, making them ideal for endurance riders, gravel adventurers, and everyday cyclists.
If you’re ready to experience the unmatched ride quality of a custom steel frame, get in touch with R.A.M Custom Bicycles today. Let’s build a bike that lasts a lifetime.