Is this a frame crack?

Triathlon Forum
1

It may be tough to tell, but I’m wondering if this is a crack in the carbon frame or if it is a crack in the paint. Is it possible to tell from the pictures? What would be the best way to tell physically?

I can’t remember scratching it recently, and this was just noticed this morning.

http://i44.tinypic.com/jjvj1v.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/34j7x34.jpg

Thanks,
Michael

2

Not possible for me to tell from the pix, but I bet it is only in the paint. Looks like a scratch and not a crack based on the shape.

3

Tough to tell. in the pics it looks like a clear coat crack.

  1. If you have a Macro function on the camera, turn that on and turn the flash off to get closer to the “crack.” Also, increase your resolution.
  2. Put a dot on the top of crack and bottom. If the cracks begins to exceed the dots, I’d hang it up until further analysis. Dangerous to ride given the location.
  3. I have a crack in the seat tube and will sending it off to to Calfee. Sending pics first, they respond, yeah/ney, bike goes off to get fixed. $200 - $350.

If it is a crack and you need a new frameset, ping me. I have a few connections and someone took pity on me with my cracked frame and gave me a deal…I want to pass on the kindness.

Best.
B

4

Not sure what bike it is, but many have filler around the joints which tends to crack even though the underlying carbon is OK.

You can lightly sand the area for a better look, a repair is pretty easy even if the carbon is cracked, but I am guessing it is filler.

5

Thanks. I’ll take a closer look at it or take it into the shop. Unfortunately, my craftsmanship skills are sorely lacking, and I’d probably just end up making it worse.

6

Thanks for the advice and offer. I’ll let you know if I need/decide to go with a new frameset.