force loads include crashes, but you don't have to crash to put a high force load on your bicycle. For example, hitting a large hole in the road or a sharp bump such as a railroad track can put large forces on your bicycle.
The manner in which you ride will determine whether your bicycle and its parts will last. If you ride hard or aggressively, you should replace the bicycle and/or its parts more often than riders who ride smoothly or cautiously. When evaluating your use of the bike or part, there are many variables: weight, speed, technique, terrain, maintenance, riding environment (humidity, salinity, temperature, etc.), and the frame or part
Carbon fiber composite inspection procedures Carbon fiber is among the strongest materials used in bicycle
manufacture. However, carbon fiber has unique qualities, different from metal parts, and must be inspected carefully for damage.
Inspecting carbon fiber parts
Unlike metal parts, carbon fiber parts that have been damaged may not bend, bulge, or deform; a damaged part may appear to be normal to a cursory glance. Use the following procedures to inspect carbon fiber parts (These tests may not be conclusive):
• Check for scratches, gouges, or other surface problems.
• Check the part for loss of rigidity.
• Check the part for delamination.
• Listen for unusual creaking or clicking noises.
The tests are difficult to describe, so we provide a movie of