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Delamination:
Delamination is serious damage. Composites are made from layers of fabric. Delamination means that the
layers of fabric are no longer bonded together. Do not ride any bicycle or component that has any
delamination. These are some delamination clues:
• A cloudy or white area. This kind of area looks different from the ordinary undamaged areas. Undamaged
areas will look glassy, shiny, or “deep,” as if one was looking into a clear liquid. Delaminated areas will
look opaque and cloudy.
• Bulging or deformed shape. If delamination occurs, the surface shape may change. The surface may
have a bump, a bulge, soft spot, or not be smooth and fair.
• A difference in sound when tapping the surface. If you gently tap the surface of an undamaged composite
you will hear a consistent sound, usually a hard, sharp sound. If you then tap a delaminated area, you
will hear a different sound, usually duller, less sharp.
Unusual Noises:
Either a crack or delamination can cause creaking noises while riding. Think about such a noise as a serious
warning signal. A well maintained bicycle will be very quiet and free of creaks and squeaks. Investigate and
find the source of any noise. It may not be a crack or delamination, but whatever is causing the noise must
be fixed before riding.
!
WARNING: Do not ride a bicycle or component with any delamination or crack. Riding a delaminated
or cracked frame, fork or other component could lead to complete failure, with risk of serious injury
or death.
!
C. Understanding components
It is often necessary to remove and disassemble components in order to properly and carefully inspect
them. This is a job for a professional bicycle mechanic with the special tools, skills and experience to
inspect and service today’s high-tech high-performance bicycles and their components.
!
Aftermarket “Super Light” components
Think carefully about your rider profile as outlined above. The more you fit the “shorten product life” profile,
the more you must question the use of super light components. The more you fit the “lengthen product life”
profile, the more likely it is that lighter components may be suitable for you. Discuss your needs and your
profile very honestly with your dealer. Take these choices seriously and understand that you are responsible
for the changes.
A useful slogan to discuss with your dealer if you contemplate changing components is “Strong, Light,
Cheap –pick two.”
!
Original Equipment components
Bicycle and component manufacturers tests the fatigue life of the components that are original
equipment on your bike. This means that they have met test criteria and have reasonable fatigue life. It
does not mean that the original components will last forever. They won’t.
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