11
Carbon Fiber Test
To examine for surface problems
1. Clean the part fully with a moist cloth.
2. Look carefully for problems. These
include scratches, gouges, cracks,
discoloration, loose fibers, or other
surface imperfections.
To examine for a change of the rigidity
(flex test):
Do not ride, but use the part in the
usual manner while someone carefully
examines the part for movement or
unusual noise.
To examine for delamination (tap test):
1. Clean the part fully with a moist cloth
2. With a coin, tap near the area you
suspect damage.
3. Listen carefully for variations in
sound. Tap on the part where it is
in good condition (or use a part that
is almost the same). Compare the
sound. Anything unusual, especially
a hollow sound, indicates a problem.
Protect from Extreme
Temperatures
Protect carbon composite components
from extreme temperatures when storing
or transporting your bike.
Allow carbon composite components to
cool off or warm up before you ride. Do not
store a bike with carbon components in
places where the temperature will exceed
66.5°C (150°F). For example, do not
leave your bike lying flat in a black pickup
truck bed in the desert sun or under the
glass of a hatchback auto.
Excessive heat, such as that used in
powder coating, or any open flame, may
damage the adhesive which joins carbon
composite parts. Do not exceed 180°F
(82°C) exposure to your frame.
Examine the Frame and Fork
Before and after each ride, examine
your bicycle for signs of fatigue and
stress. Such signs may manifest
themselves in the form of:
• Dents
• Cracks
• Scratches
• Deformation
• Discoloration
• Unusual Noises
If your bicycle receives a high force
load or impact, fully examine all the
parts of your bicycle. High force loads
include crashes and strong impacts that
do not cause you to crash. If you are
BEFORE EVERY RIDE
CONTINUED
A carbon fiber part that has damage
can break suddenly, causing serious
injury or death.
Carbon fiber can conceal damage
from an impact or crash. If you
suspect your bicycle has had an
impact or crash, immediately stop
riding the bicycle. Replace the part
before riding, or take to your dealer for
service.
WARNING
Summary of Contents for DIRECT CONNECT
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