Why Titanium
At T-Lab, we firmly believe titanium (Ti) is the ideal material − bar none − to make superior bicycle frames. Beyond its everlasting beauty, this exceptional metal distinguishes itself on a number of performance levels:
STRENGTH – At equal density, nothing can outdo titanium when it comes to tensile strength. This means that whatever cycling forces you apply to a properly constructed Ti frame (like ours), it’s never doing to deform and break down.
FATIGUE-RESISTANCE – While popular bike frame-building materials like carbon and aluminum lose their “pop” with use, titanium possesses a remarkable resiliency over time. Mile upon mile, year after year, a high-quality Ti frame will perform like the first day you ride it.
PLIANCY – When those who know talk about the singular ride quality of titanium, they are generally referring to its inherent “springiness”, a quality that makes it particular lively and responsive. When properly configured, Ti also provides superior vertical compliance, absorbing road-related vibrations better to deliver maximum comfort.
IMPACT RESISTANCE – What makes a bike frame durable; its capacity to take a beating and keep on going. If you ever crashed on a carbon bike or had one abused in transit, this is where the insecurity sets in. You just never know if a micro-fissure has occurred, one that can lead to catastrophic failure down the road. Simply put, this is a non-issue with titanium. It is, by far, the toughest material in the bike-building game. When welded by experts, Ti produces bikes of unparalleled quality and durability.
CORROSION-RESISTANCE – Other metals used in bike-building can deteriorate when exposed to the elements. Carbon fibre − surprisingly to some − can also corrode when it comes in contact with certain environmental factors (i.e. salt, UV radiation, etc.) Once again, titanium stands alone in this regard. It is virtually corrosion-proof, thus maintaining its performance characteristics and appearance longer.
STIFFNESS-TO-WEIGHT – A key contributor to cycling performance. More specifically, lateral rigidity is essential for power transfer and is ideally maximized while minimizing overall frame weight. Titanium compares favourably to other metals in delivering this characteristic. In the past, titanium bikes were somewhat limited with regards to lateral stiffness as compared to top carbon fibre models. With the advent of T-Lab's Ti-Morph shaping technology, the days of relatively "flexy" round tube Ti bikes are behind us. Now, titanium has absolutely nothing to envy of any other material when it comes to cycling performance.
