CF can offer stiff, light and comfortable ... but overall .... light usually doesn't always offer durability. I say "durability" in terms of from abuse. I will probably sell my Dragon Fly Pro next spring. Why? because most of my riding is for commuting. I currently use a 1988 Centurion Le Mans that I got for free. Put front & rear pannier racks, some fenders, and I was good to go. My Dragon Fly will be replaced with a Vanilla which will be built around October/November of next year.
In talking with Sacha at Vanilla, I told him the thing I like about the Centurion is the durability. Quite frankly, I could probably dump this thing out my 2nd story bedroom window and ride on. Actually, this bike has seen some minor accidents that included hitting the frame (I admittedly don't pay enough attention riding at night ....) Aside from scratched paint .... the frame is still perfect. The bike has fallen over fully loaded ... oh ... what a beatiful sound it makes when it hits the ground ... but unscathed. I am a little bit clutsy no doubt.
The Dragon Fly ... with the carbon ... it's not forgiving at all. A mild scratch could be catastrophic at some point ... could be, but maybe not. IMHO, it won't stand to the abuse of everyday use with 15/20 lbs hanging off the back wheel (or front wheel ... the Centurion has the most forgiving geometry) and eek ... I would be a bit frightened to hang panniers off the thing ... the bike just seems .... like it's paper thin fragile. And considering the tubes are nearly that thin ... no thanks.
I told Sacha that I don't want any fancy butted tubes ... just straight gauge ... something that after 20 years of hard, loaded use, will still be going.
just my $.02
Dan
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