Aluminum Bike Similar to Fargo?

[indysteel]

I have to wonder if this is just a matter of perception. Granted, I don't know the specifics of your son's Rockhopper, but in looking up both bikes, they're very similar in weight (roughly 27 pounds) depending on size and model. Your Fargo seems like a good compromise based on the things you're looking for in a bike. There's a good chance that an aluminum bike would ride rather harshly on the bad roads that you have to deal with. If you really want to lighten up the Fargo, look at getting some lighter wheels. The frame itself is probably not what's really slowing you down. It's your rotational weight.

[jessmarimba]

I have to wonder if this is just a matter of perception. Granted, I don't know the specifics of your son's Rockhopper, but in looking up both bikes, they're very similar in weight (roughly 27 pounds) depending on size and model. Your Fargo seems like a good compromise based on the things you're looking for in a bike. There's a good chance that an aluminum bike would ride rather harshly on the bad roads that you have to deal with. If you really want to lighten up the Fargo, look at getting some lighter wheels. The frame itself is probably not what's really slowing you down. It's your rotational weight.

Second this. Also, I can't seem to remember if you noted what tires you're using in another post, but perhaps getting slicks or something a little less knobby could help.

I usually commute on my Fargo, and while my average speeds on the way TO work are always pretty slow (the last 3.5 miles are up a series of hills) I can get some decent speeds on the flat sections when I'm feeling motivated!