Originally Posted by
Trakhak
Litespeed has a bit of a reputation for denying what appear to be valid warranty claims. Me, I'd make one more attempt at a warranty claim (assuming you or she bought the bike new). No idea whether it would likely help or hurt to mention this thread.
If they still refuse the claim, if it were my bike and the components were in good shape, I'd consider finding a replacement frame in steel, aluminum, or carbon (or titanium; lightning is unlikely to strike twice).
Or keep an eye on Craigslist for the next few months for a high-quality, little-used replacement. Prices on older bikes have mostly taken a nose-dive since their COVID highs.
Can't tell what size it is from the photo, but here's a (currently outrageously overpriced) Ritchey in steel, for example.
Somewhat less overpriced, here's what looks like an immaculate Cannondale cyclocross bike in 48 cm.
it is 48 cm c-c. we modified her gary fisher mountain bike with road tires and very upright stem in the mean time......