i need to find out which is better for me: A steel hardtail MTB or Alloy 7005 hardtail?

Question

I'm new in MTB, XC Bike is a real temptation!

Answer 1

You're going to need to spend some serious cash to get a good steel frame that doesn't weigh eleventy billion pounds, where as you can spend a reasonable amount of money on a well designed light aluminum frame that races well. Aluminum is generally lighter and stiffer than steel, but this can be a drawback depending on the terrain you ride. You don't wan't a super stiff bike if you plan on long sections of technical rocky terrain for hours at a time. You _can_ get aluminum frames with a high degree of compliance.

A good steel frame will be one of the most comfortable and slick handling bikes you will ever ride. It may not have as much snap as a good aluminum frame, but it will more than handle its own on the technical stuff and feel way better after 3 hours in the saddle. But, like I said, you're talking significant cash for that.

However, I raced the Trek 8900 (aluminum) for a couple of years, and it was a really sweet ride. I had no complaints.

Since you're obviously just starting out, go for the Al. You don't want to spend the money necessary for a good steel frame for your first bike. But don't get cheesy on the Al either. Most companies offer the same frame with differing levels of components and wheels.

Get a bike that has the same frame as a 'race ready' bike, but lower end components, here's why:
You'll spend less money initially getting into the sport to see if it's right for you.
You don't want to spend a ton of money an a bike you're learning how to ride.
If you _do_ enjoy it, you would have replace the components as they wear and break anyway, and then you can upgrade.
Upgrading your own parts teaches you about proper maintinance.

Answer 2

Steel is OK for the purists. They have greater rigidity than Ali. However, weight is a big issue. I rode with a steel frame for a year and there is a noticable difference in speed due to the extra weight of the frame.

7005 alloy is good. As stated above, it will not be as rigid as a steel, but you will find hill climbing and general throw about ability a bit better.

However, if you really want to know, go to a rental place and try a demo, etc. However, if you have a budget and spec you would like, post a question on the board and we will put in our two penneth worth.

Luck

Answer 3

I disagree with the answer above. Aluminum is substantially more rigid than steel. Steel is more comfortable and generally has a more compliant ride, but aluminum bikes are always stiffer. Just look at what made Klein and Cannondales so popular when they first came out. In terms of an MTB, steel frames are nice, but not very common these days on the upper end. Aluminum is often easier to work with for manufacturers and more resistant to corrosion. Additionally, the metal is more rigid and less prone to bend.

Answer 4

it all depends on your budget and your type of riding

aluminum is generally lighter than steel, but then again steel has come a long way

others prefer carbon, even for MTB
try both out and go with what fits your wallet

Answer 5

7005!