Originally Posted by
genejockey
Good thing Beryllium frames were so light, because taking a drill to it could kill you!
True that. I am told that solid beryllium is not a problem - someone told me you could lick it without ill effects, but I refrained from putting that to the test - but anything that could get inhaled into your lungs makes asbestos look positively benign by comparison. I am also given to believe that beryllium is tough and hard to break, but that when it does break it kind of shatters and woe unto thee if you are within breathing range of such an event. As in "get your affairs in order" level woe.
Of course, I am speaking from the unique position of having zero first-hand knowledge of beryllium fabrication. I just rode a beryllium-framed bike once and have had people tell me things.