buying a carbon frame..what is ud

[coco69]

Again in laymans terms what is ud weave and is it good/strong....examples please

 

[vickster]

It means unidirectional

Google is your friend

http://www.yoeleo.com/weave

My pave is UD, rides nicely, then I've no other carbon to compare it to (I'd say the Steelie is more comfortable on SW London and Surrey roads)

 

[Hacienda71]

The UD you will see referred to on frames, wheels etc. is quite often just the top layer, so just cosmetic. It is not a weaved look it is a flat look. Your other options are matt or gloss weaved finishes the K refers to the size of the strands (bundles) of carbon fibre. I have had gloss and matt 3K weave frames.

 

[Hacienda71]

 

[jack smith]

As above its just the cosmetic look, often it has cloudy bits in it from the bonding process or whatever i personally thing 3k looke better

 

[coco69]

Right ok......so basically its the weave underneath that counts

 

[Hacienda71]

I believe the weave underneath has a slight effect on stiffness although I suspect you would be hard pressed to be able to id the k cf used in a frame other than what is visible. The layup is going to be more influential in terms of ride characteristics as is the geometry and shape off the frame. A large BB shell and chain stays will stiffen a frame. Aerofoil shaped seatpost downtubes seatstays etc will make the frame more aero. The top end sellers talk a lot about how their frames use certain layup procedures which cheaper open mould frames make no claims on. Would you notice it riding as a hobby, amateur racer, tt'er, probably not much.

 

[coco69]

Ok cheers for info

 

[coco69]

The frame I have been informed is made from all ud weave, is this then a weaker strength?

 

[jack smith]

What brand is it, im guessing its chinese? Ud is fine my boardman carbon was ud and it was one of the best bikes ive owned

 

[fossyant]

Be aware that the UD finish is not to everyone's taste. We had a chap on here send his new bike back as he didn't like it.

 

[coco69]

Be aware that the UD finish is not to everyone's taste. We had a chap on here send his new bike back as he didn't like it.

Thanks but its a painted frame so should be ok

 

[fossyant]

Thanks but its a painted frame so should be ok

You will notice no difference then. Bare UD can look like a marbled effect.

 

[jack smith]

If it's painted black chances are youll still see it like one all the ud bikes I've had

 

[Cuchilo]

I thought UD was the structural method for building up frames . Matting used for the top lay up and UD for the structure .