Dents

[bscarola]

I have a small dent (about an inch long and maybe 1/8" deep at the apex) on my chainstay. Since the bike is aluminum I am a little concerned about it. What's the word on dents, frame fatigue, etc.. I often hear of people selling frames with small dents saying they are structurally "like new" or whatever. Is this total BS?

thanks

[greasemonkey]

it's AL, so dents can produce cracks

to be safe, chip off the paint on and immediately around the dent, and just keep an eye on it and watch for small cracks. it won't rust, don't worry about the paint. any sign of a crack, and stop riding. it's smoked.

is it a new dent, or has it always been there?

[Carbonguy]

Is this a dent on your chainstay about where your chain rings pass over?

[bscarola]

The dent has been there about a month or two. It is located about halfway along the chainstay. Not near the chainrings. Thanks for the tips.