Is this a crack in my cruisers frame?
- Thread starter Rusty_Nail
- Start date
Is there a way to weld it or will I need to get a new frame? Also would it be safe to ride it like that or would it not be recommended? I’ve never had a frame crack on me.
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It can be fixed by a skilled welder. You're also going to need to repaint it. I suggest putting a custom made split lug on after the weld repair. The split lug will have to be welded back together once around the frame, then brazed on. This should prevent any future cracks.
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If I were fixing it I would drill the very end of the crack, weld it up, and then do as Jerry said. If a lug is out of the question then gusseting the frame on both sides would suffice.
If it's aluminum I'd get a new frame. This is a problem with the stress of powering an aluminum framed bike that has been discussed on here over the years. Walmart level bikes are usually the first to break. Find a steel frame if you can find one you like.
The frames usually crack where the tubing is welded to the head tube just behind the weld like this one did.
Steve.
The frames usually crack where the tubing is welded to the head tube just behind the weld like this one did.
Steve.
If it's aluminum throw that frame away
If it's steel strip the paint with a wire wheel then weld a 6" sleeve (1/2 pipe) on the frame rail to the neck Over the crack
Because if ya just weld the crack it'll probably crack again by the weld
Looks like the crack is at the frame neck top tube
If it's steel strip the paint with a wire wheel then weld a 6" sleeve (1/2 pipe) on the frame rail to the neck Over the crack
Because if ya just weld the crack it'll probably crack again by the weld
Looks like the crack is at the frame neck top tube
Looks like the top tube to neck
That big fat weld also makes me think the frame is aluminum
I honestly have no idea if its aluminum or something else. I have no access to a welder or someone that can fix it for me, so I'm still leaning toward a new frame. But How can I tell if its steel? I do know that whenever I would ride it the frame would vibrate a notable amount if I was on WOT. One reason I was thinking about another cruiser frame is so I can use my hub mounted sprocket setup. I hate having to use those stock sprockets.
Put a magnet on it. If it doesn't stick it's aluminum.
Steve.
Steve.
Again it's Walmart quality. Look for a frame from the 1960's or 1970's or even earlier. Craigslist or Facebook market place, second hand stores, bike shops old bikes pile or even a scrap yard if you have one near you. Check out Sportsman Flyer if you want the absolute best frame going. It's a lugged frame so there's no butt welded tubing.
Steve.
Steve.
Although it is a Walmart bike, the frame itself is damn impressive. It's made woth thick tubing and is surprisingly heavy compared to other frames. It is lacking with the stock wheels, but OP mentioned using his current wheel setup. Not everything is poor quality just because it's from Walmart.
Haven't worked on a Walmart bike yet, in which I didn't have to true the wheels. Low quality components and very poor assembly. On the former pedal only forum (YA Cycling) I told people, if they must get a Walmart bike; get one still in the box and have a reputable bicycle shop assemble it.
fasteddy referring to Sportsman Flyer is good. The frames are based on Worksman Cycle News Boy bike frames. Built like a A10 Warthog, tough.
Cruisers, Classic, Design Your Own
Tom
Cruisers, Classic, Design Your Own
Tom