Frame Life

[Sdrtha]

I'm looking at a used bike and have a general question: What
is the average life of a bike frame? Is it significantly
reduced by racing? I know different materials would have
different expected lifespans, but which is best for
longevity (steel, aluminum, titatium, or carbon)? This bike
is Ti and has been ridden 7-8000 miles and raced one season.
The rider is 5' 7" and 145# ... Thanks, Snake

[Jim Flom]

"sdrtha" wrote ...
> I'm looking at a used bike and have a general question:
> What is the
average
> life of a bike frame? Is it significantly reduced by
> racing? I know different materials would have different
> expected lifespans, but which is best for longevity
> (steel, aluminum, titatium, or carbon)? This bike is
Ti
> and has been ridden 7-8000 miles and raced one season. The
> rider is 5' 7" and 145# ...

A good ti frame should outlast you. Because it's been raced
be especially attentive to the condition of the frame,
although one season isn't necessarily a big deal. How many
races? Examine the frame carefully, especially around the
bottom bracket and other joints, but look it all over for
cracks. I got my wife a one year old used alu race frame
last year and it's awesome (CAAD5).