Aluminum or Steel

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veniceverges

New Member
Jun 1, 2009
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Venice, CA
First time builder, choosing the perfect bike to start with.
I want to use a Felt frame. One of the aluminum ones.
Are there any issues I should anticipate with using aluminum, ie. vibration, integrity, etc.?

I was told not to drill thru aluminum, but to use brackets instead. Is this true?

Any other useful advice is appreciated.

Thanks.
 
Retmachinist

Retmachinist

New Member
Oct 21, 2008
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Urbandale Ia
Venice, This is only my opinion but I always opt for the steel frames, especially chrome moly. It is thin, light weight, and very strong steel tubing. Alot of your mid range older Mt. bikes have these frames and can be found very reasonable on craigslist.
If you are set on building with a Felt Aluminum frame, it will work fine but I wouldn't drill any holes in it and you won't be able to clamp to it very tight or you will crush the thin wall tubing.

John
 
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veniceverges

New Member
Jun 1, 2009
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Venice, CA
Thanks John,
I know mt. bike frames are ideal in many cases but they just lack style.
I might end up having to go with steel cruiser frame. I do love those Felts though.

Anybody else out that that can comment from personal experience?
 
wheelbender6

wheelbender6

Well-Known Member
Sep 4, 2008
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TX
A vintage beach cruiser frame with MTB or BMX components may provide both.
Some guys add the banana seat, sissy bar and ape hangers. It's your build.
Newer steel beach cruisers will also take plenty of abuse.
Aluminum will work, but you must be more more careful with the installation.
There's no doubt that Felt has created a beach cruiser rennaissance with
their unique cruisers. However, I would use something less valuable on my first build.
Spend time in the photo gallery to see which bikes require more effort and hassle to install engine kits on.
 
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