I was planning on getting a bike like this in the future, but I picked this up today. I love riding but didn’t do nearly the amount of digging I would normally. Is there anything I should check for that’s different on a titanium frame? Also, any changes to be made, other than taking off the aero bars and trying to squeeze 28mm on it ?
by Otherwise_Reviewed
4 Comments
Where to start…
I use this general checklist whenever I’m checking out a bike for purchase.
It also applies to inspecting and maintaining a bike you’ve already own.
It will encourage you to go through and become familiar with the major systems on the bicycle.
I recommend viewing Park Tools videos on bicycle maintenance for details on some of this stuff.
GCN also has a lot of good videos on things like bike fit and riding techniques.
Start here:
1) Tires inflated.
2) Rims are true.
3) Spokes aren’t loose.
4) Brakes adjusted and inspected (cables, pads, braking surfaces)
5) Chain clean, lubed and measured for wear.
6) Shifting adjusted properly.
7) Wheel bearings checked for play and friction.
8) Bottom bracket/crank/pedals checked for play and friction.
9) Headset checked for play/friction/indexing.
10) Is the seat post stuck?
11) Is the stem stuck?
12) Is the frame intact and is it true?
13) Does it fit the intended rider?
Good luck.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to follow up.
It’s late now, but check the frame very thoroughly for cracks, especially around the welds. Titanium is an awesome material, but if conditions aren’t perfect when it’s welded up it gets brittle, and it’s not uncommon to find ti frames cracked at the welds after they’ve been ridden a while.
Maybe it’s the angle…but…
Seeing as this is a 20+ year old tri bike…
Are those 650c wheels?
If they are… 28mm ain’t gonna happen…& you better stock up on any descent 23mm tire you can find…( or any harder to find 25mm)
If it is 700c disregard…squeeze in as big a tire as you dare & send it all day, everyday!
Plastic and titanium 🧡