Hey everyone,
I’m pretty new to mountain biking and just got my first “proper” bike yesterday, a Scott Genius 930 (2024, aluminum frame). It was a big purchase for me and I was super excited about it.
Today I took it out for its first ride on a normal forest/gravel trail (no jumps, nothing technical). Unfortunately, I got what looks like a small rock strike during the ride. It’s right next to a weld and it looks like a tiny bit of material/paint might be missing. The spot feels slightly sharp to the touch, which is what worries me.
I know bikes are meant to be ridden and cosmetic damage happens, but since it’s brand new and I’m still new to MTB, I can’t really judge how serious this is.
Does this look structurally harmless, or is damage near a weld something I should take more seriously?
I’m mainly wondering:
Is this just cosmetic / a paint chip?
Or could it be a potential weak point long-term?
I’d really appreciate opinions from more experienced riders or mechanics. Thanks a lot!
by AppropriateLuck3484
14 Comments
Cosmetic and harmless.
It looks like a minor chip,and those are goimg to happen,I had same,even bigger one on my brand new bike and it sucks but its nothing serious and purely cosmetic.Your bike is aluminum so its not going to rust,you can put some clear nail polish over it or even paint matched varnish to stop it from eventual spreading to bigger surface.
Beautiful bike,enjoy it!
Oh my god. It’s ruined! Jk, it’s a mountain bike, and this is the first of many paint chips. It looks like some dirt got in the pivot. No issue, nothing to worry about.
Yeah it’s scrap. I’ll give you $50 for it.
That frame is gone! 😅😅😅
Yea, that bike is done! By the way, did you know that bikes need special disposal that is very expensive? But you are in luck, if you send me the bike I will dispose it for you for free!
Hi there! I’m not a welder, by any means lol, but my brother is!
One of the first things I learned about welds is that if they are done right.. they are actually a stronger point than parts that are not welded. Which.. makes no sense to me, but again I’m not a welder.
So! As far as integrity goes, of the frame, you’re just fine. I got a few battle scars on my Fuel day one as well! Sucks, but it really does give it character and shows you’re riding! 😀
A weld is comprised of melted aluminium. It’s thicker than the frame material, making it stronger. It being a weld doesn’t matter! It’s fine.
It’s toast throw
it in the bin
You’re totally fine.
But if you want to reduce cosmetic damage going forward you might consider a frame protector. I have ride wrap on both my Spark and Scale and it’s been great. Pricey but totally worth it.
That said, that spot where your paint got chipped wouldn’t have been covered by ride wrap anyway (but might be with a different frame protector company)
Fuuuuck. That’s toast. Send it to me for an expert opinion though.
No, and with any luck your bike will get even more battle scars.
I like that color a lot
This is the equivalent of getting a small paint chip on your new car because the vehicle in front of you kicked up a small pebble.
Annoying the first time it happens, purely cosmetic, and will be one of many by next year.