How To Prevent Damage On A Carbon Bicycle Frame
A hugely popular choice for cyclists, enthusiasts, and professionals is the carbon bicycle frame. Its strong and light as a feather designs makes it a top pick all around the world. Carbon fiber is an artificial material made by putting several sheets of carbon together with the grain in opposite directions. This method makes a very strong bike that is extremely light in weight.
Carbon bicycles frames are also known to be customized. The method used to construct the bike enables the manufacturer to mold, form, and design it any way wanted or needed. These bicycles are quite expensive. They are definitely an investment. Regardless if one is just riding for a hobby or for a career, good care should be taken it.
Even though this machine is extremely strong and sturdy, correct care and maintenance of the bike is necessary to keep it functioning properly. Many do not know the difference in caring for a carbon fiber bicycle versus steel, aluminum and titanium frames.Since carbon is man made, it works a little different. Metal typical shows its damage in the form of dents, bends, and bulges. Carbon does not necessarily do this. One should be familiar with the material or could end up with a ruined bike.
Carbon fiber is very sensitive. Cuts and scratches should be avoided when at all possible, but sometimes accidents do happen. When they do, the bike should be check by a professional. If not addressed, these marks could lead to the break down of the carbon and possibly destroy the bike.
The manual is easiest way to learn about any bike. Normally, it comes with the bicycle, but they can also be downloaded online or found on the company website. One should not perform services on a bike until reading and understanding the guide. This book includes important torque settings, warranty information, and special tools or techniques.
Bike shops can also provide some use. The sales people at the store normally are able to give advice on the carbon products they sell. Still, the most reliable method of getting help is the manual. Manufacturers can also be contacted for additional assistance if needed.
There are common sense methods of care one can practice everyday to help maintain their bike. The biggest of theses is parking. It is very common for cyclists to lean their bike against a tree or a fence. This is just an accident waiting to happen. It could easily fall causing irreparable damage, or at the very least expensive damage. Be sure to place it in a safe place when it is parked.
Leaving a carbon bike in really hot temperatures is not recommended. The heat can weaken the material. It is suggested to keep bikes in a place where there is little exposure to high heat.
No matter how great or strong something is designed, one still must care for it. This is true of the carbon bicycle frame. They are not cheap, and should be well maintained.
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