Carbon fiber bicycle frames are often lighter than steel or chrome-alloy frames, and allow for more unique frame designs. This can make carbon fiber frames much faster, and many professional cyclists use these bikes in races. Carbon fiber frames usually aren't as durable as metal frames--they may crack and need to be replaced after a crash. They cannot hold weight as well as metal frames, and are best suited to road use. Check regularly for cracks, as it's unsafe to ride a bike with a compromised frame. Some people claim that carbon fiber makes for a smoother ride than metal.