Bicycle Mechanics - replaceable cropouts

I'm looking at buying a frame with replaceable dropouts (not a der hanger, the whole dropout). Are these things any good? To me it seems like it would create a structural weakness, especially for a dirt jumping frame (which is what it is)

I'd email the manufacturer to ask why they decided to build the frame that way. I suspect the idea is for the dropout to sacrifice itself before some other part on the frame breaks. If you design a dirt jumping bike to handle a 4' drop, you know that some kid is going to ride it off of a 12' roof and break it. It makes sense to me to design an easily replaceable weak point into the frame.

If I'm right, you might as well buy your first replaceable dropout set when you get the frame because I suspect that you're going to need them.

I'm interested in knowing how a frame can be made with replacable dropouts. Normally they are brazed or welded in place and are a significant structural member. How do they do it?

Santa Cruz bikes have this feature, check it out at www.santacruzbicycles.com I suspect it will become more and more common, since so many mtbers are into big drops, etc., these days. I agree with Retro Grouch, go ahead and buy replacement dropouts when you buy the frame-

Santa Cruz bikes have this feature, check it out at www.santacruzbicycles.com I suspect it will become more and more common, since so many mtbers are into big drops, etc., these days. I agree with Retro Grouch, go ahead and buy replacement dropouts when you buy the frame-
OK, I see how they do it. The "rear triangle" is made as one piece with a vertical section at the rear and the entire dropout bolts to it.