The annals of bicycle history are inextricably linked to one element: steel. From the inception with the draisine, through the era of the high-wheel, culminating in the modern two-wheeled marvel we recognize today, steel has been a fundamental component. The emergence of aluminum and carbon fiber bicycles marks a milestone in technological advancement, with new manufacturing techniques and Finite Element Method (FEM) design enabling the precision crafting of high-end carbon frames. Yet, this innovation does not render steel obsolete as a material for bike frames.
Steel's longstanding presence in the bike industry provides a wealth of empirical knowledge, aiding manufacturers and builders in effective practices. Moreover, contemporary steel bike production benefits from advancements in technology, including multi-butted, alloyed tubing with Electro Deposition (ED) coatings, commonplace in today's steel bicycles. The integration of 3D printing and CNC-machined parts heralds the birth of the modern classic. Having embarked on my cycling odyssey aboard steel steeds, my viewpoint may carry a hint of partiality. The newer generation, raised on carbon frames, might find the adage "steel is real" less resonant. For those who view steel as a relic, I suggest a pilgrimage to events like Bespoked, where steel emerges as a rebuke to mass production, championing craftsmanship and creativity.
For countless enthusiasts and me, a steel bicycle transcends mere transportation; it is a legacy, a tangible narrative, a masterpiece imbued with nostalgia. Hence, the allure of gatherings like L’Eroica is undeniable, celebrating the road bikes of yore - Colnago, Cinelli, Puch, Gazelle, Moser, among others, not to mention the pioneering mountain bikes from Ritchey or Breezer - these are not merely brands, but chapters of my youth. Steel's allure lies not only in its ride quality and visual appeal but in its graceful maturation. Unlike other materials that simply wear, steel frames acquire character, proudly displaying their years and experiences. They are destined to become the classics of tomorrow, treasures for collectors.
The Case for Steel
Steel frames, revered for their resilience and timeless appeal, make a compelling argument for those seeking both durability and a sublime ride. In the following sections, we explore the unmatched durability, longevity, and repairability of steel, alongside its distinctive ride quality that enthusiasts and purists alike cherish.
Ride Quality
Without a doubt, the main feature of steel bikes is the ride quality. Steel profoundly influences a bike's ride quality and sensation. While carbon and aluminum frames can indeed forge exceptional bikes, it's the distinctive "springy" vibrancy and vibration-damping attributes of steel frames that set them apart. This sensation varies from frame to frame.
But let’s be clear, riding a steel frame doesn't inherently ensure a luxuriously smooth ride. The distinction between a frame designed for light touring versus one for heavy-duty world touring is significant, with the former providing a more animated and supple experience, and the latter potentially feeling somewhat rigid without a load. Also, it's the collective impact of all components in the "comfort chain"—including tires, seatpost, fork, and handlebars—that culminates in a delightfully smooth cycling experience. Indeed, as numerous tests have illustrated (for instance, see insights from Alee Denham), tires and the seatpost are paramount for comfort, requiring only a fraction of the force needed to flex a frame.
Built to Last
The durability, longevity, and repairability of steel frame bikes are renowned, primarily because steel is an exceptionally robust material that's also relatively easy to mend. Picture yourself navigating the remote wilderness, fatigued, when an unfortunate crash occurs. Though uninjured, your frame suffers damage from a rocky encounter. A minor dent in a steel frame might not hinder the remainder of your journey or its future use. Even in cases of severe damage, a competent bike or automotive mechanic can often weld and restore a broken frame.
Longevity is another hallmark of steel frames; a well-maintained steel bike could serve you for a lifetime, unlike its aluminum or carbon counterparts, which may succumb to wear more quickly. Reflect on the trend of beautifully upcycled vintage steel mountain bikes equipped with modern disc brake mounts, or the resurgence of fixed gear and single-speed bikes crafted from old road frames—a movement that's captivated Instagram. This trend, showcasing upcycled mountain bikes repurposed as all-terrain bikes or commuters complete with fenders, baskets, or drop bars, is something I find particularly appealing. Instagram accounts like Billobikes and babyldn offer a glimpse into the myriad of stunning transformations. Furthermore, the story of Heinz Stücke, who traversed the globe for nearly 51 years on a single steel bicycle, underscores the incredible longevity steel frames can offer.
Understanding Steel’s Mechanical Properties
Steel's unique mechanical properties set it apart as a material of choice for bicycle frames. It is distinguished firstly by its high Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS), the threshold beyond which material begins to neck and eventually fractures, and its Yield Strength, the elastic limit past which deformations become permanent. These characteristics enable the crafting of thin, flexible tubes, yielding a frame that offers compliance, whereas oversized tubes result in a stiffer, less forgiving ride.
Furthermore, steel tubes are capable of bending and flexing significantly before reaching a breakpoint, in stark contrast to carbon, which bends to a limit before fracturing abruptly. For those interested in a deeper understanding, this behavior is illustrated in the stress-strain curve, highlighting the differences between ductile and brittle materials.
The design of a tube, both its interior and exterior shape, plays a critical role in determining its resistance to bending forces. To illustrate this concept, envision stepping on a rectangular wooden beam in two different orientations: once when it's lying flat and then when it's standing upright. The degree of bending, or deflection, will vary markedly between these two scenarios, demonstrating the impact of shape on structural integrity.
Incorporating ovalized, bent, and butted tubes into a frame design not only enhances comfort by allowing for strategic flexing but also adds stiffness in key areas as needed. This flex, known as frame flex, introduces an extra layer of comfort to the ride. A meticulously designed steel frame leverages an optimal level of flex, akin to a spring mechanism. This flex not only absorbs shocks but also aids in propelling the rider forward, creating a synergistic relationship between rider and frame.
The Alchemy of Alloys
In the vast industrial landscape, a myriad of steel alloys exist, yet only a select few are deemed optimal for bicycle frame construction, balancing mechanical properties, cost, and manufacturability. The variation in steel alloys plays a pivotal role in the performance and weight of bicycle frames. Higher-end steel tubes, boasting superior Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS) and Yield Strength, allow for the use of thinner, lighter tubes. Notably, some manufacturers, like Reynolds with their 953 model, introduce stainless steel tubes that marry stainless properties with exceptional strength.
Several manufacturers stand out for their steel types, recognizable by the brand decals often found on a bike's seat tube. Commonly, 4130 CroMo steel, prevalent in China and Taiwan, serves as a standard in bicycle manufacturing, akin to many companies' proprietary steel blends. Reynolds, a UK-based legacy in steel tubing for bikes, offers an extensive range, accessible via their website. Columbus, an Italian stalwart, and Tange from Japan, both with rich histories in steel tube production, provide detailed insights into their offerings online. Meanwhile, True Temper, once a notable American supplier of cycling-specific steel tubes, has ceased production.
Best Steel Gravel Bikes: From Budget to Custom
Explore these steel gravel bikes that have captured our attention for various reasons. Some offer exceptional value or a budget-friendly foundation, others have withstood the test of time even before "gravel bike" became a term, and some stand out for their remarkable ride qualities.
Budget Friendly
Marin did a good job with this Nicasio+. It feels well balanced and provides a stable and solid platform for adventures. The builds list is quite basic, no fancy parts, but everything you need to get started. And at $999 it is well prized.
The State 4130 All-Road starts at $899 with options to customize and upgrade. It comes in a sick raw phosphate “color” way, offers lots of mounting options and the geometry looks promising.
Unfortunately, Surly has discontinued the classic and ever popular Cross-Check. It had been around before the gravel boom started and has since been a popular bike. It shipped with rim-brakes, quick-release standard spacings and a rather classic geometry with a low front end. Find one used and build it up your own way.
Brother’s Mr. Wooden is a great alternative and perfect for your parts pin! Rim brakes and old skool spacing are paired with generous tire clearance and a moderate price tag.
Mid Range
The Kona Rove is another bike that has been around for some time and Kona has constantly updated its geometry over the years. It is a well rounded bike with an agile handling and a solid specs list. It loves going off the beaten track!
Maybe a little less mainstream is the Genesis Croix de Fer 40 from Genesis. It comes with a slightly more upright riding position, lots of mounts and nice details. A Reynolds 725 frame and solid parts add to the value of this do-it all bike!
Faux-Premium
I assume Ritchey needs no introduction so let’s look at the Outback. Ritchey created a rather unusual bike, opposing the tendency to short chainstays and the “long, low, slack” philosophy. Regardless, the Outback is a great and supple adventure bike!
Fairlight from the UK are not really premium, but they do ride like a premium bike! I am the proud owner of a Faran, their adventure do-it-all drop bar bike. This bike is hands down one of the best bikes I have ever ridden. It offers such a nice ride quality and comes with lovely details. I ordered the frame and built it up myself but Fairlight offer full builds as well. Looking forward to many, many more miles with this bike!
The Sklar Super Something comes as a frameset and can be a great mid range or a premium bike - it depends on the build kit. I really appreciate Adam Sklar’s approach with this bike. It can be built up in so many ways and therefore will stick with you in one way or another. It features neat details, comes with Sklar’s signature curved top tube and can be run geared or SS. And the price is alright for a small series production almost-custom bike.
Custom
It is almost impossible to just mention only a few custom bikes because these days there are so many amazing builders offering a wide range of bikes, from rando and gravel to ATB - everything is possible. So here is a random listing of builders that came to mind for different reasons:
- Clandestine - Pi creates fantastic bikes with an utilitarian and “truth to materials” approach.
- Quirk - Quirk has a different philosophy: “balance is key”! Add 3D-printing and fancy paintings (best Finish Award at Bespoked) and out comes a stunning adventure machine.
- Meerglas - Looking for a classic bike? A Randonneur? Check out the stunning touring beauties from Meerglas! Bikes that appear as if from a bygone era but will take you to places in the future.
The Challenges of Steel
With every advantage, there are inevitable drawbacks. The primary concerns with steel frames are rust and weight. Rust can be managed with careful maintenance. However, steel, except for its stainless variants, is naturally susceptible to corrosion over time. To mitigate this, many modern frames come equipped with protective measures like E.D. coating or protective fluids such as Fluid Film. A bit of rust doesn’t mean your bike’s lifespan is over. Cyclists have journeyed across continents on steel frames for years.
The belief that steel frames are invariably heavy is another misconception. This idea possibly comes from the fact that older, low-budget bikes were often steel, whereas contemporary budget models are usually aluminum. Yet, lightweight steel bikes have been around for decades. Furthermore, on a fully loaded bike, the weight difference is marginal compared to the overall load.
Wrapping Up
Still on the fence? Let's revisit the benefits of steel for a moment. It provides the foundation for a frame that's not only comfortable but incredibly durable. And let's not overlook the aesthetic appeal of those slender tubes, which exude a timeless style. Of course, beauty remains subjective. However, the real draw for steel in bikepacking and gravel riding lies in its resilience to minor damage. Small dents and scratches hardly spell disaster, a stark contrast to the delicate nature of carbon frames. Moreover, the ability to repair or weld a steel frame in a pinch adds a layer of practicality. With minimal maintenance, a steel frame promises longevity.
Despite carbon's prevalence in the mass market, steel maintains its relevance and charm in today's cycling world. Don’t call it a comeback!
