Aluminium and carbon fiber seat posts are the most used ones among bicycle riders. There’s always an ongoing debate on which one is better between both.
No wonder people get confused about which one to get.
If you’re also suffering from such a dilemma then you’re in the right place.
So wanna know which one is better regarding carbon seatpost vs aluminum?
Aluminum seat posts are well known for quality, durability, and cheaper price range. For riders who’re into extensive and harsh riding, aluminum is the better choice. Carbon Seatpost, on the other hand, is well known for its lightweight and damping. It’s perfect for a regular or professional rider.
That was the sneak peek. For more details join us in the detailed discussion. Shall we begin?
Quick Comparison: Carbon Seatpost Vs Aluminum
Before we begin, let’s see a quick comparison of carbon fiber Seatpost vs aluminum.
| Aspects | Carbon Fiber Seatpost | Aluminium Seatpost |
| Material quality | Good | Good |
| Durability | Good | Better |
| Lifespan | Better | Good |
| Weight | Lightweight | Heavier |
| Damping Effect | Reduced | Partially reduced |
| Cost | Expensive | Cheaper |
Need a detailed explanation? Then jump to our next segment.
Detailed Comparison: Carbon Seatpost Vs Aluminum
If you’re thinking “is a carbon Seatpost worth it” then this section is for you. See for yourself to find out which Seatpost will be worthwhile for your riding experience.
Material Quality:
Carbon fiber and aluminum are two different entities made from different compounds. Thus comparison of the quality would be regarding their strength.
Carbon fiber and aluminum both have the same strength as they have the same thickness. Both materials have about 500 kilonewtons of strength.
So it’s hard to determine which one is stronger. But needless to say both are rigid enough to make a bike Seatpost out of it.
Aluminum is definitely a strong material. But carbon fiber doesn’t fall short of it either. Instead, some manufacturers are providing great quality carbon fiber Seatpost.
The only drawback is not all manufacturers provide quality carbon fiber. For aluminum Seatpost, the chances of it being of poor quality are less.
For aluminum, it would depend more on the making of the Seatpost. So, in case you’re insecure about your decision go with aluminum Seatpost
Winner: Aluminum Seatpost
Durability:
Aluminum and carbon fiber both have their respective breaking points. Aluminum is known for its durability. It can handle harsher ride environments, frictions, and vibrations. So is it damage-proof then?
No, due to harsh impact or rough bike rides the aluminum Seatpost develops cracks sometimes. These cracks might not be visible but it doesn’t mean it’s not there.
But in terms of durability at least aluminum surpasses carbon fiber. Many may differ in this statement as there are strong carbon fiber Seatpost available.
But the problem with carbon fiber is that it straight outbreaks apart. Aluminum takes critical damage and may also break but in some cases, it bends. So there could still be hope.
But the same can’t be said about carbon fiber Seatpost. So it’s better not to hope carbon Seatpost will last longer than Aluminium Seatpost.
Winner: Aluminum Seatpost
Lifespan:
The lifespan of your bicycle Seatpost is really an unpredictable issue. Even though regular maintenance can prolong it. But it still doesn’t ensure how long it’ll last.
However, from the material quality and the user’s experience, we can assume the result.
As we mentioned before, aluminum Seatpost wear cracks as it gets more used. The same issue is less in carbon fiber. Although carbon fiber doesn’t have a shelf life, it doesn’t get fatigued easily.
So unless there’s a big impact that crosses the breaking point it should be okay.
Winner: Carbon fiber Seatpost.
Weight:
One of the major differences created by CF and aluminum is the Seatpost’s weight.
Aluminum is naturally heavier than carbon fiber.
So adding an aluminum Seatpost to your bicycle means it’s gonna be heavier.
Carbon fiber, on the other hand, is a lightweight material. Adding CF Seatpost to your bike won’t make it much heavier. And less heavy bicycles are more convenient to use.
Carbon Seatpost weight savings is one of the reasons why it’s popular.
Winner: Carbon fiber Seatpost.
Here are our top picks of Carbon fiber Seatposts out there.
- EC90 Carbon Fiber Seat Post – Precise angle reduces damage to the knee, shockproof
- Litetop Carbon Seatpost– Made of 3K carbon fiber, extremely lightweight
Damping Effect:
The damping effect is an important factor when deciding on a bicycle Seatpost. It reduces the friction and vibration of the upper body and lower back.
The bad damping effect can cause bruises from riding a bicycle. Turns out carbon Seatpost has a more effective damping effect. It can lower the harshness of friction. So if you’re curious will a carbon Seatpost make a difference? It will.
Aluminum on the other hand is a stiff material that can’t block the harshness. Rather it transfers the friction to the upper and lower body of the rider.
That’s why for reduced damping effect carbon Seatpost road bikes are more suitable. If your bicycle is of aluminum frame you can still use a carbon Seatpost.
You must be wondering can you put a carbon Seatpost in an aluminum frame? Luckily, yes that is possible. And you can reduce the damping of your bike as well.
But be careful with fitting the saddle on it. If your previously used one isn’t working how about using the finest selle italia saddle?
Winner: Carbon fiber Seatpost
Cost:
Between carbon fiber and aluminum Seatpost, carbon fiber ones are more costly. This is due to the manufacturing cost of carbon fiber.
It needs more intensive processing than aluminum and thus the price is high. You may still find a CF bike Seatpost type at the same price as an aluminum one.
But know that they are not of good quality. A high-quality carbon Seatpost is pricey. So if you’re looking for a cheaper option aluminum Seatpost is better.
Winner: Aluminum Seatpost
Final Verdict: Carbon Seatpost Vs Aluminum
Phew, that was some intense battle, wasn’t it? It’s almost confusing to pick one at this point. So know that both aluminum and carbon Seatpost is good depending on the quality.
But if you’re to choose one, think about what you’d prioritize more while choosing Seatpost. If durability is the goal then go for aluminum or high-grade carbon Seatpost.
If weight and dampening are more important then carbon is the right choice. Also, for harsh riding aluminum would be better. For regular riding, CF is an excellent choice.
Hopefully, now you know which one to go for.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What should be the Seatpost diameter?
You can find different diameter Seatpost. But the most common size of it is 27.2mm. Other diameter sizes range from 21.15 to 35mm. Always measure the diameter requirement for your bike first.
What other types of Seatpost are there?
Other than carbon and aluminum, there are titanium and suspension Seatpost. Aluminum and carbon Seatpost is most common. Titanium Seatpost is rather rare and comes with a titanium frame. Suspension seat posts are well known for being rigid and heavyweight.
How to know if my carbon Seatpost is cracked?
Look for any visible scratch mark on it. Also, do a coin test on it. Take a coin and tap on the area you suspect of being cracked. The normal tapping sound will come out as a dull thud where it’s broken.
Conclusion
That was all about carbon seatpost vs aluminum from us. If you have read our whole piece hopefully you know your answers by now.
Whether you buy aluminum or carbon Seatpost don’t forget to do maintenance on it.
Happy riding!
