metro2005

I noticed my alumimium front fork of my hybrid is starting to fall apart. Looks like corrosion ? Is this common and most importantly: is this dangerous or is it just the paint that is falling off?





Additional question: this bike is now 20 years or so old, has seen lots and lots of harsh miles (winters, mountains, pooring rain) and i am considering buying a new bike or fix this one.
The things that are wrong with it are:
- chain and sprockets are on their way out
- Front tire is in desperate need of replacing
- The problem mentioned above with the front fork
- Wheel bearings are not as smooth as they used to and it could probably need a new pair of wheels
- Brake pads need replacing (have a pair lying around so that's not the biggest issue)
-
The good:
- Frame is decent with the exception of the front fork
- Derailleur is pretty new

Is it worth fixing or should i just suck it up and start looking for a new bike ?

CliffordK

Is the frame made out of aluminum?

Are the roads salted? Marine environment?

That certainly looks like corrosion to me. But, I can't tell how deep it is, or whether it is impacting the shock system.

It is quite possible that the frame and fork would be made of different aluminum alloys. 6061 Aluminum is a common frame alloy, and has generally good salt tolerance. But, perhaps a stronger, but less salt tolerant grade was chosen for the fork.

Used Hybrids are often found dirt-cheap, especially if needing a tune-up or some parts.

I'd probably start hunting for a replacement bike. Then take a look at the fork. Polish the top and try to assess how deep the corrosion is. But, also likely hunt for a good replacement fork.

metro2005

I don't live in a marine environment but i do ride through the winter with lots of salt on the roads.

Yeah, i think its about time i replace this bike.

Skipjacks

It's a 20 year old bike with a cheap fork.

Get a new bike.

If you wanted a new bike and were just trying to get some back up that it was a good idea....Bikeforums was the right place to come!!! In fact...get 2 new bikes!

metro2005

Lol thanks. A new bike it is then!

CliffordK

One can always rebuild the old bike.

And, then depending on one's ultimate goal, one can end up with a bike that is better than new, and potentially better than other replacement choices that might be bought new.

A $1000 replacement fork might be a good start.

metro2005

I was curious to see what was underneath the corrosion and i found this:



Looks good to me? Perhaps i could get away with sanding it down some more and applying a fresh coat of paint, what do you all think?

hokiefyd 

I think you could certainly do a spot repair and watch the area for any cracks that might develop, yes.