Rpbergie

I've noticed a number of cracks in the paint on the top tube of my 2015 CAAD10 have developed. Is this a problem? (Would post image, but I'm not allowed.) The bike hasn't been crashed and lives a good life under cover. Is is just something to worry about because I've got nothing to worry about? Thanks.

CliffordK

We really need photos. Also, where are you seeing the cracks? near joints, or in the middle of the tube.

It could simply be bad paint + sunlight, or it could be critical frame cracks developing.

Scratches?

Rpbergie

Forgive the slow reply. The cracks aren't near the joints, just along the top tube. I expect it is cosmetic, but would like to keep this bike in good shape.

Andrew R Stewart 

As CK asked for, photos are really needed for us to give opinions that have any chance of being correct the first time around. I think you need a couple more posts to add a photo directly. But directing us to an open photo sharing service should work right now. You might want to also let us know where you are. This helps us direct you to a shop or "expert" in your area as even with photos hands on is the best wat to assess this stuff. Andy

Rpbergie

I know, I know. I tried to post something by quoting something, but then the post I was quoting included a link, which meant my post was denied. Then I went on this forum where everybody was giving relationship advice and I really didn't have anything to add and so on, and getting to the 10 post threshold has become quite thing. One step at a time. We will get there.

Rpbergie

blamester

Looks like paint damage from here. Crazing i think would be the term.
The cracks don't go anywhere but there maybe something underneath. Put your weight on the tube and see is there is any movement.
To be sure there is nothing wrong you would have to remove the paint in the damaged area and inspect.
If it was mine i would ride it as is and keep an eye on it. But thats me with my experince making the judgment.
And how long have they been there or have they
suddenly appeared?
Has there been any funny or odd handling issues?
Does the bike ride the same as it always has?

bikeme

I'd share this issue with Cannondale. Could be a warranty issue. That's not due normal wear and tear to me--really weird.

02Giant 

Is the white area paint, or a decal?

ign1te 

That is not wear and tear. Instead it is a bad paint job, probably due to poor surface preparation.

cbrstar

Is that frame Carbon Fiber? I would take a coin a tap the tube and listen if it makes a tink or a thud noise. If it's a thud then you have problems.

Also here in Canada if you leave your bike outside year round you will get paint checking like that due to the extreme temps

migrantwing

CAAD 10 is aluminium.

sch

Aluminum frame => paint crazing, annoying but not fatal by any means. Doubt Cannondale would do much about this.
Paint job likely to slowly deteriorate over several years, then you can decide on strip and repaint.
(Most powder coaters strip as a part of the paint job, around here about $200 for a frame).

Rpbergie

Great. Thanks for your take. I can accept "annoying but not fatal." There is nothing in the behaviour of the bike that suggests that it is anything but cosmetic.