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The Differences between Bontrager Race and Race lite frames I received this question on December 24th, 1999 via e-mail. Question: What is the difference between the racelite and the race frames from SC [Santa Cruz]? How can you tell the difference between the two? Ric Lamoureux
Answer: There are a lot of differences between the two frames, too many to discuss in a lot of detail. The big difference is the tubing. The Race lite frame uses the lightest tubing we could find that was strong enough for XC racing. The main triangle tubes are butted and 0.7/0.5/0.7 mm thick. The chainstays and head tube are also lighter on this frame. The Race frame uses 0.9/0.6/0.9 mm butted main triangle tubes. The geometry of each is the same. The Race frame is intended for larger and more aggressive riders. These riders won't mind a few hundred extra grams to have a very durable frame. There are two easy ways to distinguish one frame from the other. The first is the easiest way. The head tube of a Race lite frame is relieved on the forward facing side to save a few grams. It's thinner in the center, away from the ends of the tube, but only on the forward facing surface. The head tube sticker is placed on this surface, and there are two "ridges" on this surface, one about 1/2" down from the upper headset bearing seat and the other 1.5" up from the lower headset bearing seat that show where material was removed. The ridges are about 0.7mm deep, big enough to see easily. Race frames are not relieved this way. The other visual difference is a little trickier. Race lite frames use 3/4" chainstays while Race frames use a 7/8" diameter tube, measured near the bottom bracket. The Race lite stays have a round cross section in the reqion where the tire comes close, the Race frames are formed into a "D" section in this area. Of course, none of these frames are in production any longer, though as of today there are still a few new ones available. KB
Fine print: The opinions expressed herein by Keith Bontrager are in the nature of general observations and should not be relied upon in your specific situation. Your question, problem, bicycle or component, may be different than the one he is discussing. This Page (Web Site) is not a repair manual and is not a substitute for having your bicycle examined and repaired by a qualified bicycle mechanic. It is not intended as a tutorial or course in how to safely ride or use your bicycle. See your local library or bicycle store for publications regarding how to ride and repair your bicycle. Think of Keith like your Aunt Edna. You wouldn't really do what she tells you to do, now would you? Bontrager Cycles is a division of Trek Bicycle Corporation. Bontrager and Trek are registered Trademarks of Trek Bicycle Corporation. Copyright, Trek Bicycle Corporation. All rights reserved.
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