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In most cases a fatigue crack is not a defect. It is a sign that the part has been worn out, a sign the part has reached the end of its useful life.
When your car tires wear down to the point that the tread bars are contacting the road, those tires are not defective. Those tires are worn out
and the tread bar says “time for replacement.” When a metal part shows a fatigue crack, it is worn out. The crack says “time for replacement.”
Fatigue Is Not A Perfectly Predictable Science
Fatigue is not a perfectly predictable science, but here are some general factors to help you and your dealer determine how often your bicycle
should be inspected. The more you fit the “shorten product life” profile, the more frequent your need to inspect. The more you fit the “lengthen
product life” profile, the less frequent your need to inspect.
Factors that shorten product life:
• Hard, harsh riding style
• “Hits”, crashes, jumps, other “shots” to the bike
• High mileage
• Higher body weight
• Stronger, more fit, more aggressive rider
• Corrosive environment (wet, salt air, winter road salt, accumulated sweat)
• Presence of abrasive mud, dirt, sand, soil in riding environment
Factors that lengthen product life:
• Smooth, fluid riding style
• No “hits”, crashes, jumps, other “shots” to the bike
• Low mileage
• Lower body weight
• Less aggressive rider
• Non-corrosive environment (dry, salt-free air)
• Clean riding environment
WARNING: Do not ride a bicycle or component with any crack, bulge or dent, even a small one. Riding a cracked frame, fork or
component could lead to complete failure, with risk of serious injury or death.
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