Carbon fiber exhibits the most desirable performance characteristics of any of the frame-building materials explored to date. It can be designed to be laterally stiff under heavy pedaling forces and still be light. It can absorb road shocks well, and still handle crisply while delivering undiminished applied pedal power to the drive train. It can be durable and not subject to fatigue failures while remaining strong enough to stand up to unexpected impacts and torsion forces. It can lend itself to attractive finishing and resist corrosion or attack by the elements. And it can be formed in an attractive, functional way allowing it to move through air resistance easily.
The big question is which specific designs best maximize these benefits and minimize any drawbacks. Certain designs and their manufacturing methodologies exhibit strengths in certain areas while making compromises in other areas. The best carbon frame design is that which offers the most performance benefits while minimizing the drawbacks.
