Yes, it is nice. But it is also a remembered frame style from 30 years ago, before compact frames appeared. So, remind us: What is the purpose of the narrow second pair of tubes from the center of the seat tube to the dropouts? Yes the bike would look funny without them, but to they add to torsional rigidity?
Thanks for taking the time to leave me your comment.
You make some good points. First of all, you say a mixte is a "remembered frame style" and that is a good choice of words. There are people who remember the mixte bikes of some years ago with fondness, and according to my local bike shop customers continue to ask for them and are disappointed that they are (mostly) not made any more.
You also imply that a compact frame accomplishes most of the goals of a mixte frame (stiffness, standover clearance) in a simpler way, and I would agree. You do get a bit more standover clearance though with a mixte I think. With a compact frame, you will probably use a longer seat post, and some people don't like the look.
You asked about the purpose of the "narrow second pair of tubes" - I call them mixte stays, and I believe they are as functional as the seat stays - they are made of the same (or similar) tubing and attached in the same way.
To be fair, I have not performed a detailed engineering analysis or laboratory tests on a mixte frame to rigorously compare it with a step through or compact frame.
I can tell you that I am riding the prototypes and am pleased with the ride.
Size medium is back from the powdercoater, a little faster than I was expecting, can't wait to get it built up and test ride it!
3 comments:
Jon K's dropouts look great
Yes, it is nice. But it is also a remembered frame style from 30 years ago, before compact frames appeared. So, remind us: What is the purpose of the narrow second pair of tubes from the center of the seat tube to the dropouts? Yes the bike would look funny without them, but to they add to torsional rigidity?
Hi Harry,
Thanks for taking the time to leave me your comment.
You make some good points. First of all, you say a mixte is a "remembered frame style" and that is a good choice of words. There are people who remember the mixte bikes of some years ago with fondness, and according to my local bike shop customers continue to ask for them and are disappointed that they are (mostly) not made any more.
You also imply that a compact frame accomplishes most of the goals of a mixte frame (stiffness, standover clearance) in a simpler way, and I would agree. You do get a bit more standover clearance though with a mixte I think. With a compact frame, you will probably use a longer seat post, and some people don't like the look.
You asked about the purpose of the "narrow second pair of tubes" - I call them mixte stays, and I believe they are as functional as the seat stays - they are made of the same (or similar) tubing and attached in the same way.
To be fair, I have not performed a detailed engineering analysis or laboratory tests on a mixte frame to rigorously compare it with a step through or compact frame.
I can tell you that I am riding the prototypes and am pleased with the ride.
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