Once the hallmark of a high-end bicycle, frames made from carbon fiber are now one of the most popular materials used for a wide range of quality road bikes. At one time they were considered to be more prone to impact damage, but improvements in design have largely overcome this drawback. However, it is helpful for owners to have a good understanding of how to handle them and about carbon bicycle frame repair options when needed.
Even though as an element carbon is fairly durable, it's still prone to fatigue over time as its epoxy resin softens. The more often and heavy the use of the bike, the sooner this deterioration will occur. Other factors which influence the longevity of the bike include nature of the riding it is used for, level of care it receives, tube thickness, and structural design.
Since this material is inert or unreactive, it can withstand cleaning with most solutions and will not have an adverse chemical reaction or experience corrosion or salt damage. Yet the entire bike is not made from this material and it will also have metal components which may easily rust or get damaged, so it's advisable refrain from using harsh solvents.
Any kind of bike can be subject to errors in manufacturing, resulting in minor flaws. The most common issues with carbon frame bikes are either bent dropouts or broken drink bottle cage lugs, but these are not serious and are normally easily repaired under the warranty. Scrapes on the surface are usually nothing more than an aesthetic concern, but if a crack is detected in the carbon matrix, this does require timely attention.
All it takes is one small weakened area in framework to put the bike at risk for further damage, which is why this needs prompt servicing. Without repair, it may progress to a frame break, bent rear derailleur hangers, or a crack in the seat or seat post. Used bikes may appear sound to the untrained eye, but in fact have internal framework damage, which is why it's better to avoid them.
When a bike has been involved in a serious crash but is not totaled, it's important to have its condition assessed by a professional bike mechanic. They have special equipment such as ultrasound and UV scanners which can be used to look for damage that is not visible to the naked eye. As a rule of thumb it's a good idea to take the bike in for regular servicing every six months, and always mention any odd noises to the mechanic.
Most damage is repairable, however, that which is more extensive should only be handled by an expert who specializes in fixing this particular type of bike. Simple repairs on the exterior can usually be handled sufficiently by most bike shops, but more serious frame compromise needs the knowledge of someone well-versed in these repairs.
In some cases replacing damaged parts is more sensible than fixing them. If it is less expensive and will take less time to order and install new parts than to repair damaged existing ones, this is the best choice. This depends on the extent and location of the damage.
Even though as an element carbon is fairly durable, it's still prone to fatigue over time as its epoxy resin softens. The more often and heavy the use of the bike, the sooner this deterioration will occur. Other factors which influence the longevity of the bike include nature of the riding it is used for, level of care it receives, tube thickness, and structural design.
Since this material is inert or unreactive, it can withstand cleaning with most solutions and will not have an adverse chemical reaction or experience corrosion or salt damage. Yet the entire bike is not made from this material and it will also have metal components which may easily rust or get damaged, so it's advisable refrain from using harsh solvents.
Any kind of bike can be subject to errors in manufacturing, resulting in minor flaws. The most common issues with carbon frame bikes are either bent dropouts or broken drink bottle cage lugs, but these are not serious and are normally easily repaired under the warranty. Scrapes on the surface are usually nothing more than an aesthetic concern, but if a crack is detected in the carbon matrix, this does require timely attention.
All it takes is one small weakened area in framework to put the bike at risk for further damage, which is why this needs prompt servicing. Without repair, it may progress to a frame break, bent rear derailleur hangers, or a crack in the seat or seat post. Used bikes may appear sound to the untrained eye, but in fact have internal framework damage, which is why it's better to avoid them.
When a bike has been involved in a serious crash but is not totaled, it's important to have its condition assessed by a professional bike mechanic. They have special equipment such as ultrasound and UV scanners which can be used to look for damage that is not visible to the naked eye. As a rule of thumb it's a good idea to take the bike in for regular servicing every six months, and always mention any odd noises to the mechanic.
Most damage is repairable, however, that which is more extensive should only be handled by an expert who specializes in fixing this particular type of bike. Simple repairs on the exterior can usually be handled sufficiently by most bike shops, but more serious frame compromise needs the knowledge of someone well-versed in these repairs.
In some cases replacing damaged parts is more sensible than fixing them. If it is less expensive and will take less time to order and install new parts than to repair damaged existing ones, this is the best choice. This depends on the extent and location of the damage.
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