AdamITR

Need some advice. I recently purchased a minty 2013 Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi-mod Duraace from a friend. Excellent condition, low miles, no marks, crashes, etc. I did a drivetrain clean, as I wax all my chains. In doing so I noticed 2 paint cracks, not chips, on the tubes that meets the dropout. Both sides ... the paint cracking does not make a complete circle around the tube. More on the side and back. I contacted the two major carbon repair companies, 1 in CO, 1 in OR. The response from one was: "These look like just flex-related paint cracking. It can happen with thick paint. Keep an eye on it and let us know if it grows at all." The other company a bit more proactive said to "send frame in, they would sand down both sides, ultrasound, if all good repaint, or repair and repaint". Not sure what to do. Looking for some feedback please

Mojo31

Thick paint coatings can do that from flex. Personally, I'd ride it while keeping an eye on it. Take pictures periodically to you can compare and see if it is getting worse over time.

AdamITR

Yeah, my thoughts too. Thanks for your response.

eduskator

I'd vote for thick paint as well, but you could always do a structural integrity verification if you want to be 100% sure. There are techniques / tools for that and shops that offers it.

Iride01 

Almost looks like some stain on the paint more so than a crack. But that might just be the pic resolution and focus.

I too wouldn't worry other than just watch it every so often.

AdamITR

Definitely paint crack, Isopropyl does not remove. I decided to err on the safe side, have the frame checked, repaired if needed, and repainted. Plus it will calm my OCD when pushing the bike hard, lol.

Caliwild

Good idea... better safe than sorry.

Camilo

Could you mention where you're getting it done and about how much it would cost for the inspection (not the repair or repaint, if needed).

T

AdamITR

Ruckus Composites is doing the inspection and potential repair, no idea on cost yet.

merlinextraligh

tapping with a Nickel is cheaper, just sayin

AdamITR

Wanted to update this post, as I received the frame inspection results today. First, Ruckus Composites was excellent to deal with, and communicating via email was fast.

So, unfortunately bad news: "We've inspected the dropouts on your frame and found that the damage is structural (meaning, not just in the paint) on both sides of the frame. Additionally, we found that the non-drive side seat stay is broken. You might not have noticed this, as it was obscured by a sticker."

Definitely glad I sent the frame for inspection! Ty to Ruckus for keeping me safe! Now it's time to use the components to build a CADD 13 rim brake or Allez Sprint... not sure if I can find a nos rim brake version. Will be my winter bike.

Caliwild

Always good to err on the side of safety. Glad you had it checked out...