Rob_U

I just got a new Trek 7.5FX, and I noticed this irregularity in the Carbon wrap on the fork. It looks like a mismatched patch in the fabric, but doesn't appear cracked, although there is a tiny pin-hole sized "sink hole" near one of the edges. the "sink hole" is very smooth (like it's on the finish, or happened when the resin(?) was wet), and very shallow.

This is my first Carbon piece, and I'm not sure if this is normal/safe. There's a nice "death" warning sticker on the fork, so it makes me nervous.

It's too late to call or visit the LBS that I got it from.

Any opinions?

Thanks, Rob

Kimmo

It's not a real good look, but I wouldn't worry too much about it... the outer woven layer on carbon gear is mostly for cosmetics and abrasion resistance; most of the work is being done underneath by unidirectional and/or double-bias plies.

Mind you, it may be worth a shot at getting it replaced; that patch would make the fork slightly weaker there.

Perhaps they sanded through the woven ply before lacquering it...

Walter Sobchak

As a boat builder, I work with carbon frequently and what is shown in your pics would not worry me in the least. I say it's a cosmetic issue only, including the pin hole you described.

Rob_U

Thanks for the replies. I took it over to the LBS this morning, and they agreed that it looked cosmetic, but the Manager did take a photograph to email to their Trek Rep.

I took it out for a quick 10 mile ride, and it rides great.

Walter Sobchak

Let us know what the rep says. Glad you got to ride!