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Appendix
F
F1 THE LIFESPAN OF YOUR BIKE AND ITS COMPONENTS
F.1.2 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 trade off, 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.
F.1.3 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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