Carbon fibre – any good?

Can anyone really feel the difference with carbon in terms of shock absorption? Or is this something only the pro’s can tell?

I’m asking ‘cos I am considering getting carbon for seatpost and bars for an alloy hardtail but if its all negligible in the real world then I’ll get cheaper – but similar weight(ish) – alloy stuff

What’s your experience?

Always found carbon bars easier on the hands.

I reckon I can tell the difference between a flexy carbon post and something stiff like a Thomson. The Exotic seatposts don’t cost any more than some expensive aluminum ones either.

I didn’t notice a difference between my old carbon bars and my replacement alu bars.

I do, however, think I noticed a difference when swapping from a cheapy alloy seatpost to an Easton carbon post. Possibly emperor’s new clothes.

tennis racquets are a good example. Try and old aluminium one and then a modern composite one.

It’s so good that I’ve got carbon fibre bars and cranks 8)

No complaints here. But it has been a while since I rode non-carbon

i can notice the difference in carbon bars and seat post i would thoroughly recommend them for a alu hardtail.

Had an aluminium frame, got a steel frame and got a crabon frame and yes there is a difference.
Is carbon fibre any good? Yes.

I have not noticed the change re bars tbh but then again i do have suspension forks 😉

Is there that big a difference between steel and alu?

There can be. Steel is heavier but sometimes springy and flexy. Alu is lighter but stiffer.

Carbon is fantastic for bikes, either seatpost alone or the whole bike. You wouldn’t regret it.