While a carbon fiber frame was once only seen in very costly road bikes, today it's commonly used by many manufacturers for building quality cycles. Although previously thought to be more likely to suffer impact damage, modern advancements have mostly overcome this problem. It is advisable though, for owners of these bikes to be aware of the care they need and be familiar with carbon bicycle repair indications.
Carbon is durable, but over time it can fatigue due to softening of the epoxy resin. Naturally, the more the bike is used, the faster it will deteriorate. The specific structural design, tube thickness, type of riding it is used for, and the degree of care it receives can also affect how long the bike will last before showing signs of aging.
Carbonized frames tend to be inert or unreactive by nature so they will not produce a chemical reaction such as corrosion or salt damage with most types of cleaners. However, the whole frame is not made from this same material, many parts are aluminum which is prone to rusting when exposed to harsh solvents, so care still must be taken when cleaning the bike.
Like any type of bike, those made from carbon fiber may be subject to some minor manufacturing flaws, most often broken drink bottle cage lugs or bent dropouts, but these problems should be covered by the warranty most brands provide. Superficial scrapes are typically not worth worrying about other than for aesthetic reasons, but a visible crack in the carbon matrix must be addressed before worse damage results.
A weak spot can spell disaster unless it is dealt with early on, it can result in issues such as bent rear derailleur hangers, a cracked seat or seat post, or even a break in the frame. Not all serious frame damage is apparent to the untrained eye, which is why it is risky to buy used bikes of this kind.
When a bike has been involved in a serious crash but is not totaled, it's important to have its condition assessed by a professional bike mechanic. They have special equipment such as ultrasound and UV scanners which can be used to look for damage that is not visible to the naked eye. As a rule of thumb it's a good idea to take the bike in for regular servicing every six months, and always mention any odd noises to the mechanic.
Most damage is repairable, however, that which is more extensive should only be handled by an expert who specializes in fixing this particular type of bike. Simple repairs on the exterior can usually be handled sufficiently by most bike shops, but more serious frame compromise needs the knowledge of someone well-versed in these repairs.
Replacing a damaged part is sometimes the best way to go, as it can cost less and be done in less time than attempting to fix it. The results are usually better as well when starting over with a new, undamaged component. The mechanic will determine which is best, depending on the extent and location of the damage.
Carbon is durable, but over time it can fatigue due to softening of the epoxy resin. Naturally, the more the bike is used, the faster it will deteriorate. The specific structural design, tube thickness, type of riding it is used for, and the degree of care it receives can also affect how long the bike will last before showing signs of aging.
Carbonized frames tend to be inert or unreactive by nature so they will not produce a chemical reaction such as corrosion or salt damage with most types of cleaners. However, the whole frame is not made from this same material, many parts are aluminum which is prone to rusting when exposed to harsh solvents, so care still must be taken when cleaning the bike.
Like any type of bike, those made from carbon fiber may be subject to some minor manufacturing flaws, most often broken drink bottle cage lugs or bent dropouts, but these problems should be covered by the warranty most brands provide. Superficial scrapes are typically not worth worrying about other than for aesthetic reasons, but a visible crack in the carbon matrix must be addressed before worse damage results.
A weak spot can spell disaster unless it is dealt with early on, it can result in issues such as bent rear derailleur hangers, a cracked seat or seat post, or even a break in the frame. Not all serious frame damage is apparent to the untrained eye, which is why it is risky to buy used bikes of this kind.
When a bike has been involved in a serious crash but is not totaled, it's important to have its condition assessed by a professional bike mechanic. They have special equipment such as ultrasound and UV scanners which can be used to look for damage that is not visible to the naked eye. As a rule of thumb it's a good idea to take the bike in for regular servicing every six months, and always mention any odd noises to the mechanic.
Most damage is repairable, however, that which is more extensive should only be handled by an expert who specializes in fixing this particular type of bike. Simple repairs on the exterior can usually be handled sufficiently by most bike shops, but more serious frame compromise needs the knowledge of someone well-versed in these repairs.
Replacing a damaged part is sometimes the best way to go, as it can cost less and be done in less time than attempting to fix it. The results are usually better as well when starting over with a new, undamaged component. The mechanic will determine which is best, depending on the extent and location of the damage.
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