The table shows the elastic constant, Young's modulus, E, for materials used in bicycles. The metals and composites made from glass, kevlar, and carbon fibers in an epoxy matrix are used for frame components. The rubber reinforced with kevlar or nylon is used for tire construction.

For materials that can be considered isotropic in their behavior, Young's modulus is related to two other elastic constants, G, the shear modulus, and n, Poisson's ratio.

G = E/ 2(1 + n)

n = - (Transverse Strain)/
(Longitudinal Strain)

From: McMahon and Graham, :"The Bicycle and the Walkman,"
Merion (1992)