What is the best carbon road bike frame?

Is there a bike frame that is full carbon, smoother riding, lighter that a Pinarello frame?

If there is what is it or what are they?

What would one step from a Pinarello frame be?

How would a GT full carbon frame compare to it?

Keep in mind Pinarello is an Italian bike maker. Like Colnago, DeRosa, Tomaso, and so many other great Italian marques, it has intrinsic style other frames just can't touch. (Even if they are all made in Asia.)

That said, regardless of the material a frame is made of, each and every frame design incorporates a whole series of tradeoffs. For example, do you want a stiff or a supple ride? Do you want extreme light weight or durability? Do you want stable or responsive handling? Do you want a road racing frame, a crit frame, a triathlon frame or are you even interested in racing?

You see, there really is no such thing as the "best" frame. Each frame embodies compromises that makes it ideal for one purpose and rider, but not necessarily the next.

So, the best thing to do, is go and ride a bunch of bikes. Take several for an hour, or so, test ride and buy the one that feels best to you given how you want to ride your bike. If the GT is the one you like best, so be it! (Keep in mind you'll feel faster on an Italian bike, though.)

Hope this helps.

There are many outstanding carbon frames on the market. Look, Colnago, are typically considered top of the mark with Giant and Trek also well respected along with Pinarello and many others. At the other end, some of the entry level bikes (made in Taiwan) are really outstanding as well. I haven't ridden the newest GTs but they look very nice. Roadbikereview.com is a fantastic place to read reviews. Just be aware that there are tradeoffs. If you can stand a little more weight, you'll save a lot of money and increase your durability. Some bikes may be too race oriented (too stiff) for everyday comfort. It really pays to do your research. I currently have a Raleigh Carbon (Prestige) and a Look (KX Light) as well as a Litespeed Vortex and am very happy with all three. The Ti is stiffer and more durable, but very expensive. Happy trails.