California Bicycle Museum

The period from approximately 1980 to 2000 was a turning point in the materials used in bicycle frames. During this period, lightweight steel was continually refined to be lighter and stronger, while still maintaining excellent riding characteristics and durability. Also during this period, new materials including aluminum, titanium and carbon fiber gained respectable acceptance among cycling consumers. During this period, manufacturing improvements in these new materials resulted in frames with consistent performance advantages, and now steel frames are rarely used by professional racing cyclists.

The Exxon Graftek, the first production carbon fiber frame, debuted in 1975. Carbon fiber is similar to fiberglass, but is typically lighter and stronger. The Graftek carbon fiber frame tubing was glued into stainless steel lugs. The frames were raced successfully by the Exxon team led by John Howard. The Graftek eventually fell out of favor due to problems with separation of the tubes from lugs. However, carbon fiber has evolved into a popular frame material on many high-end bicycles, and many components including chainrings, handlebars, pedals and saddles are now made of this formerly exotic material.

Manufacturer: Exxon

Location: United States

Museum Collection

University of California