Bicycle Mechanics - Is this crack worth repairing? [PICS]

Bikeforums.net is a forum about nothing but bikes. Our community can help you find information about hard-to-find and localized information like bicycle tours, specialties like where in your area to have your recumbent bike serviced, or what are the best bicycle tires and seats for the activities you use your bike for.



PDA
cedricbosch
08-18-07, 10:23 PM
I recently picked up a Motobecane Super Mirage frame for $50 to convert it to a FG. The frame itself is in decent condition, except that there is a sizable crack in the headtube. Pictures are below. Is this worth repairing? How much can I expect to get it welded?

Thanks!

As you can see, the crack follows the contour of the lug and then wraps almost all the way around.

http://img501.imageshack.us/img501/391/img0026mediumqj1.jpg

http://img216.imageshack.us/img216/4535/img0028mediumfy9.jpg

http://img329.imageshack.us/img329/145/img0032mediumaw8.jpg

Deanster04
08-18-07, 10:38 PM
The head tube no because the welding tempreatures would compromise the lugs...but the head tube can be replaced by a bike builder so it will look new. One of the advantages of a lugged steel frame. It will cost, however. Google bike builders in your area.
cedricbosch
08-18-07, 10:55 PM
The head tube no because the welding tempreatures would compromise the lugs...but the head tube can be replaced by a bike builder so it will look new. One of the advantages of a lugged steel frame. It will cost, however. Google bike builders in your area.

How much would you say would be a reasonable price?

Deanster04
08-18-07, 10:58 PM
How much would you say would be a reasonable price?

You need to contact a bike builder. They will all give a reasonable price based on the materials and labor. I am going to hazzard a guess of $100 to $150 but, I really don't know.
fogrider
08-19-07, 12:09 AM
more than what the frame is worth...the head tube would have to be heated up and pulled out, a new headtube would have to be brazed in place. plus paint...its not going to be cheap.
nitropowered
08-19-07, 08:35 AM
Just replacing the headtube would cost upwards of $200 including the tube. Then you have to deal with the paint, an additional cost.

Scrap the bike and get a new one
HillRider
08-19-07, 08:38 AM
Were you made aware of the crack when you bought the frame? If not you may be able to work out a refund from the seller. I agree the repairs will cost far more than the frame is worth.
operator
08-19-07, 08:39 AM
The frame itself is in decent condition, except that there is a sizable crack in the headtube.

Lol...!

That bike is not worth a frame repair unless it is something really special. I have to ask though, why did you buy a cracked frame?
mr.tool
08-20-07, 06:50 AM
that "crack"is bigger than the crack of dawn!
tellyho
08-20-07, 06:55 AM
This sounds harsh, but I think you got had. Do you have any recourse?