(Bobinator) wrote in
m:

Can any of you explain the diffrence between the various steels used
for bicycles and their comparitive advantages? Example: A Lemond
Zurich (DF) boasts a Reynolds 853 sticker on the frame. It seems as
though all of the steel recumbents are 4130 chromoly. Thanks in
advance.


IIRC,most Reynolds steels use manganese as the stiffening alloy, although
they do make a 4130. 4130 uses chromium and molybdenum. Butted tubing is
more difficult to come across in larger diameters and lengths that are most
oft used in bents. Straight gauge 4130 is readily available.Also, many
alloys have more stringent temperature restrictions for brazing or welding.
4130 is more forgiving than most. Reynolds 853 is recommended to be used
with lugged construction silver brazed methods. Recumbent lugs are a
bit difficult to find.(^: Here is more info on the subject, written by
people who know much more than I:

A good description of Reynolds tubings:
http://www.worldclasscycles.com/JACKSON-HOME.htm
and
http://www.desperadocycles.com/The_L...eel_Tubing_pag
e4.htm

and http://www.henryjames.com/tubing.html
and
http://www.phred.org/~josh/build/brazing.html
and http://www.waterfordbikes.com/models/const.php

happy trails,
rorschandt