Appendix B
The lifespan of your bike and its components
1. Nothing Lasts Forever, Including Your Bike.
When the useful life of your bike or its components is over, continued use is hazardous.
Every bicycle and its component parts have a finite, limited useful life. The length of that life will vary with the construction
and materials used in the frame and components; the maintenance and care the frame and components receive over their life;
and the type and amount of use to which the frame and components are subjected. Use in competitive events, trick riding, ramp
riding, jumping, aggressive riding, riding on severe terrain, riding in severe climates, riding with heavy loads, commercial activities
and other types of non-standard use can dramatically shorten the life of the frame and components. Any one or a combination of
these conditions may result in an unpredictable failure.
All aspects of use being identical, lightweight bicycles and their components will usually have a shorter life than heavier
bicycles and their components. In selecting a lightweight bicycle or components you are making a tradeoff, favoring the higher
performance that comes with lighter weight over longevity. So, If you choose lightweight, high performance equipment, be sure to
have it inspected frequently.
You should have your bicycle and its components checked periodically by your dealer for indicators of stress and/or potential
failure, including cracks, deformation, corrosion, paint peeling, dents, and any other indicators of potential problems,
inappropriate use or abuse. These are important safety checks and very important to help prevent accidents, bodily injury to the
rider and shortened product life.
2. Perspective
Today’s high-performance bicycles require frequent and careful inspection and service. In this Appendix we try to explain
some underlying material science basics and how they relate to your bicycle. We discuss some of the trade-offs made in
designing your bicycle and what you can expect from your bicycle; and we provide important, basic guidelines on how to maintain
and inspect it. We cannot teach you everything you need to know to properly inspect and service your bicycle; and that is why we
repeatedly urge you to take your bicycle to your dealer for professional care and attention.
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