Framebuilders - Can my Litespeed (aluminum) frame be saved?
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Hearing mixed messages on welding aluminum. Well, I have my Litespeed Hyperion which is a aluminum/carbon seatstay frame that has a crack near the bottom bracket chainstay. Can this be saved, maybe made into a nice zippy single speed?
twobikes
06-05-07, 02:24 PM
Someone (http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=300420) posted a link to a brazing rod for repairing aluminum (http://www.aluminumrepair.com/login/Video_Brochure/web.wmv). The video is impressive. Bernzomatic makes a similar rod with like published characteristics that is available at Home Depot near the welding equipment. I have not tried either of them. But, it works at home with a propane or MAPP gas torch. You will need to repaint.
you could get it welded, or find that thread about brazing aluminum and if youre handy/DIY inclined...
go for it!!! save that beauty!
~Steve
jeremyb_nz
06-05-07, 03:04 PM
Depending on the material tho' the frame will need heat treating after welding or brazing or it will break again right around the HAZ of the weld :(
They were just a rebranded Kinesis frame from memory, better off buying something new than going thru the cost of repairing it properly and repainting it etc...
seeker333
06-06-07, 12:42 AM
http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=300420
Surferbruce
06-06-07, 10:24 AM
my wife used to have that exact frame. one of her favorite bikes of all time.