Bicycle Mechanics - aluminum frame cracking

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balto charlie
08-09-06, 08:13 AM
Hey folks: I remember tales of early aluminum frames cracking. Were these old wives tales? Only mnt bikes or many early Al frames. The reason for asking...I am going to look at an early C-dale toruing bike(unsure of model but has older Suntour superbe parts) later this week. I want the bike for commuting not touring. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks Charlie

sch
08-09-06, 08:35 AM
Cracking is the standard failure mode for aluminum frames, quickest route to scrap metal, converts $200 frame into $5-8 of aluminum scrap as it is non repairable. OTOH the average owner of a commuter on reasonably good streets will probably get 50,000 miles out of the frame. If the frame was ridden by a huckster in Vancouver might be best to skip it, if low mileage, low stress miles then all depends on price and the frame is not to worry after reasonable perusal.
Steve
slim_77
08-09-06, 09:59 AM
So, does this frame you are looking at have a crack? (if so skip it) Or are you just concerned about aluminum in general? Like Steve said, depending on your commute (and previous rider), I would guess it would put more stress on the frame than touring...but if they are offering a decent price and you are not 400lbs..why not?