The Elkhorn (subject bike) has always been used on flat terrain for the time I've ridden it. In fact, I haven't even put that many miles on it myself. I'd bought the frame, built it up and had it sit as standby in case I needed an extra. I was going to use the Elkhorn as the main 3 season bike, and the other (a BRC) as the winter ride. But, last fall the BRC failed so this Elkhorn was called into winter duty. I've used it one winter. I also treat my frames to Rustcheck spray from the inside, and spot treat bare surface metal. Messy, but it doesn't rust. I'll have some photos of the Elkhorn damage up tomorrow. I think this situation could be welded or brazed back into place no problem. I see so many bikes built with basically just an apparent tacking of the seatstay to the seat tube. Elegant looking, but maybe something a little more robust with more surface area contacted would be better.