I am an average rider, meaning I’m confident on single blacks and typically stay away from doubles. I enjoy MTB, and I go a couple times a week nearly year round.

Why are carbon bikes so popular? I’ve only ever ridden aluminum (I’m broke) and it feels like enough. I have never had a crash that wasn’t a skill issue, and the extra weight has been compensated for by improving fitness. Sure, if I was a pro I could probably decrease my time by lightening my load, but outside of being pro, what’s the point? Does a carbon bike make you better? Can carbon do something aluminum can’t?