Looking at a bike online, at a glance it’s in fair shape except for this sizable patch of rust on the seat stay. Obviously I’ll have to go see it in person to judge how deep the rust is, but it’s a significant drive away, so I want to be prepared to make a decision on the spot. I’m new at this, so I’m here looking for tips, advice and simple facts.
How much rust is tolerable in a bike that is to be ridden? My best guess for how to assess the rust is to press it with a fingernail or maybe an awl and see if it gives way at all; what else might I do? If this spot seems compromised structurally, is it reparable? Would it need to be welded (which I would have to hire out) or can it be safely patched with something like a JB Weld product? Anything else you’d want to know before bringing home a bike with a rusty patch like this? The tubing is quad-butted chromoly btw, if that makes any difference.
by OkStation4360