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Okay guys, I would like some input from the community. I have a 2001 factory frame, frakensteined with parts. I have heard that aluminum frames have a lifespan of about 10 years. Is this true or not? I am contemplating selling my Homegrown and picking up a new Specialized. I am currently riding a 19″ frame, and I am 5’8″. The fact that I am on the short end of the 19″ recommendation, I have shortened the stem and moved the seat to try and negate the length of the frame.
Okay guys, I would like some input from the community. I have a 2001 factory frame, frakensteined with parts. I have heard that aluminum frames have a lifespan of about 10 years. Is this true or not? I am contemplating selling my Homegrown and picking up a new Specialized. I am currently riding a 19″ frame, and I am 5’8″. The fact that I am on the short end of the 19″ recommendation, I have shortened the stem and moved the seat to try and negate the length of the frame. I don’t have a problem riding it, but think that maybe a 17″ may be more comfortable??? I know and understand the epicness of the Homegrown. Hence my hesitation/problem. Thanks in advance for any input and info.
Mat
I say sell it and buy a correctly fitted frame – either a 17 or an 18 inch frame. The shortened stem and moved seat are a clear indication that you bought too big of a frame.
I am 5’8″ and ride 17 or 18 inch frame. I have short legs, but long torso and arms, so I bought a longer stem to fit the reach and it worked like a charm.
She is now up for sale. I knew the frame was too big when I got it, but hey, a free Homegrown is a free Homegrown.
It is a bit of an old wives tale about all aluminum frames having a short lifespan.
It started with some of the first aluminum frames, which had lightweight, small diameter tubes. In some cases, the tubes would flex too much and the metal would fatigue, leading to cracks and/or breakage. In some bonded aluminum lug frames, poor adhesives would fail and tubes would come unbonded from lugs.
Modern adhesives have solved the bonding issue, and maufacturers have solved the fatigue issue with larger tube diameters which stiffen the frame substantially (which in turn led to Aluminum’s reputation for harshness).
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