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The best aluminium frames are only slightly behind carbon [carbon fibre] frames in terms of weight, so it's reasonable to ask why choose a slightly more expensive bike with a carbon frame? The answer depends on your ambitions and the purpose of the bike.
A bike with a carbon frame will be stiffer and lighter, with better cushioning and shock absorption, making the ride more comfortable and less tiring. Traditional aluminium frames are constructed from 2-3 aluminium tubes of different thicknesses, but a carbon frame is based on the principle that at each node of the frame, the material is applied according to the load - so a carbon frame is very light and very stiff. Carbon does not show the fatigue characteristics of metals, so it will last long and reliably if the frame structure is not damaged.
The carbon frame is coated with a thick protective layer of paint and varnish, which accounts for almost ¼ of the total weight of the frame and protects the composite fibres from structural damage. Veloprofs.lv service centres often see bikes with +8 g old carbon frames that continue to serve faithfully.
Although the protective layer of varnish and paint is thick, it is relatively brittle and a carbon frame is more sensitive to direct surface scratches and impacts than an aluminium frame. If you plan to use your bike in a particularly ruthless way, such as travelling a lot by plane or commuting to work every day, an aluminium frame may be a more rational choice. However, if you want to improve your performance in competition or simply enjoy the ride and go further and longer, make sure you choose a bike with a carbon frame.
The pros of a carbon frame: the lightest material for bicycle frames, no signs of metal fatigue, effective shock absorption and a more comfortable ride, usually with an extended manufacturer's warranty.
Disadvantages of a carbon frame: frame surface more susceptible to scratches and structural damage, usually less adaptable to racks, support rack, etc. for accessories
Aluminium frame pros: more robust and more forgiving to direct scratches and impacts, usually more versatile in terms of accessories.
Disadvantages of aluminium frame: heavier than carbon frame, possible signs of metal fatigue
TREK believes in carbon, which is why many of its bicycle components are made from carbon and why all carbon bicycle frames come with an unconditional lifetime warranty against industrial defects. As part of its loyalty programme, TREK will replace carbon rims damaged on stones or asphalt potholes and will support you with a substantial discount on a new frame if it is damaged in an accident.