I don't necesarily agree or disagree with the compact frame stiffness argument. However, the few statements in here by Lonny who "claims" his anonymous very knowledgeable pal thinks compact frames are unstable on descents is full of it to say the least. His discussion concerning Belokis crash and a compact frame is utter trashola, and that's being kind to call it only that. :-)
And actually Lonny Boy there are in fact good reasons for sloping toptube frames contrary to your belief that NONE exist. Sloping toptube bikes provide an excellent way to get more headtube length for a given toptube standover height without using a long headtube extension above the toptube. And yes, smaller triangles in a bike frame just like in any other structure are inherently stiffer than larger triangles in a similiar size frame using the same tubesets, this is basic mechanics! Will it make a difference for the typical rider? Who knows, but it certainly will not be less stiff than a same size traditional frame using the same tubeset.
As far as the longer seatpost flexing more than the seatpost in a traditional frame, well, that I buy into also, but when you are climbing out of the saddle, there isn't any seatpost flex in either case so in this instance you do theoretically get a stiffer performance enhancing ride with a compact versus traditional geometry frame for a given tubeset and overall frame geometry.
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