No Specified Lifespan
You cannot put a lifespan number on aluminum bike frames because that number is determined by a large number of factors. Manufacturers who have been in the business longer or are big names usually have more durably built and designed bikes.
Care
It is important to regularly clean, maintain and inspect your bike to help you see potential problems in the frame. Make sure your bike is stored in a dry and cool environment also is helpful as aluminum bikes can rust and corrode.
Accidents
Damage from crashing and transporting can damage an aluminum bike frame. Any dent, ding or deep enough scratch can decrease the lifespan.
Warning Signs
Typical warning signs of a potential failure are cracks and breaks in the frame. The frame may have an unexplained creaking for a period of time before failure, as well.
Article Written By Courtney Johnson
Courtney Johnson is a freelance sports writer and photographer based in California. Her articles and photos appear regularly in newspapers and magazines such as "Triathlete" and "Cross Country Skier." Johnson graduated from the University of Iowa with a B.A. in media production and minor in writing. She is studying for her copy editing certificate at the University of San Diego.
