Proving Grounds: Carbon Forks Put to The Test

Rivendell Cycles boldly claim on their website that carbon forks aren't safe and that their welded metal fork is superior. Check it out: http://www.rivbike.com/product-p/carbonomas.htm

Well, I'm sure their product is very strong and durable and nice in every way. I like steel. I've had many fine bikes made from the stuff. But it isn't better than carbon any more than carbon is better than steel. They're different. However, saying that carbon is weak or unsafe is just ignorance.

I've seen many crashed bikes come in to the shop where the only thing that survived was the carbon fork. I've seen carbon blades remain intact when their aluminum steerer snapped, and I've seen all frames buckle before the fork broke, regardless of what material they were made from.

I made the following video to prove that carbon can take a hit. That hammer is heavy and I'm swinging it hard. The newer Cervelo fork (made by 3T I think) was tougher than the Kestrel, and the Cervelo's steerer can be abused like nothing else on a bike. One thing you'll notice is that the carbon remains structurally sound until all the sudden it isn't. It breaks like a bone. That's what people are talking about when they say carbon fails suddenly.

If the vid doesn't work try this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=68SrB--WplM