My wife's 30 year-old Specialized steel bike was on our car's rear bike rack a when we were rear-ended by another driver (DUI). We were traveling roughly 30-35 mph and the other car was traveling much faster. The Specialized bike was separated from our car and is visibly minimally damaged. Our car was substantially damaged ($7,500); the steel Yakima bike rack was substantially twisted and destroyed; and our new Cannondale bike was destroyed.


My wife is inclined to have a very capable bike mechanic inspect the Specialized bike to determine if it is OK to ride (occasionally up to 70 miles a day). I am concerned that a hairline crack may not be detected by an excellent mechanic and could result in a serious failure (axle?) some time in the future.


While I understand I am speculating I'm wondering what others think.


Thanks in advance.