Don't let DH see this Post!

[Triskeliongirl]

Most stock guys frames are built for a 170 lb rider. Often WSD frames are built for even lighter riders. I was talking to a rather heavy guy at our club Xmass party last night (maybe 250-300 lb), and he said he broke several frames before going custom. With custom steel, your framebuiler selects tubes to support your weight and give you the performance characteristics and geometry you want. Same for components, wheels, etc. I know a guy who I do not consider heavy at ~200 lb that broke several frames. You didn't say how heavy you are. If you are 170 or less you can probably ride any guys bikes, but I'm not sure the weight recommendations on the womens models. If you are heavier than that, you may be best off with steel, and the heavier you are the beefier the steel. If you are actively slimming down, then maybe DHs suggestion to wait a bit before buying your dream bike isn't a terrible one if you are having fun on what you have. You can make it a kind of reward, and use it to help you reach your goals (I've dealt with weight issues all my life, so while I understand you must have something that works for now, maybe what you now have is also best for now).

[Grog]

A friend of mine broke his Cannondale aluminum frame in the early season last year from just riding on it (no crash). He's about 190 lbs, usually more like 210 at the beginning of the season. Had always been careful in choosing wheels etc. but the frame was not thought to be an issue. The bike shop guys were amazed.

The 'autopsy' revealed that too little of his seat post remained into the frame, leading to a lot of stress on a short surface when he was riding. (You should see him riding too... it's like he's fighting a wild beast. But he's an amazingly strong rider.) He got a longer seat post (and a new frame, which was covered by the guarantee).