Bicycle Mechanics - bike frame: to weld or not to weld

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debu
08-03-07, 01:05 AM
I have a Bianchi Volpe hybrid about 5 years old, it's been good commuter bike up until a few days ago when I was riding along and the frame cracked. The area this happened is a couple inches from where the bottom part of the frame meets the rear wheel area.

I have someone offering to strip the bike down, weld it, touch it up with spray paint (It's just a commuter I kind of want it looking bad) and putting it back together for 75. That seems reasonable to me, but I kind of want a lighter frame (Though I sometimes carry 50-ish lbs in saddlebags so I'm not sure if I should go lighter?). Should I have the frame welded or should I search on Craigslist/Ebay for a lighter frame? Any advice here would be appreciated. thanks, D

Ziemas
08-03-07, 01:36 AM
Have you spoken to the shop where you bought it about the possibility of replacing the frame under guarantee?
cs1
08-03-07, 02:12 AM
Have you spoken to the shop where you bought it about the possibility of replacing the frame under guarantee?

I would try the shop first also. It might be covered under waranty. If not, then look for a new frame, provided your group is worth keeping.

From what you are describing, it sounds like the chainstay broke. I would take it to a frame builder not a welder. Most welders have little if any experience in welding thin wall tubing. He might do more harm than good.

Try posting this in the frame builders forum and good luck.

Tim