Andrew D
Member
- Messages
- 41
- Location
- Essex UK
This probably is a stupid question, but here goes. I have an old BMX bike I was given, it has an oversized steal frame and the down tube is quite a large oval shaped tube. In the middle of the down tube, about half way along is a dent. I have taken a picture from above to show the dent as best I can, from the side (or face on to the dent) it is hardly noticeable, and from what I can tell it does not extend to the top or bottom edge of the tube. In my hunt for things to play with and try doing, I have started to wonder if the dent could be repaired by cutting a patch out, and welding a new bit in?
Assuming the rest of the frame is still sound, how will this affect it’s strength? A weld should be as strong? Or will it be weaker? Or even too weak? Or as I can’t grind the inside, will it be thicker and so stronger and put extra strain else where? It is not like the bike is ever going to be used as a serious BMX bike, I just want to kick about and pop to the shops on it, and perhaps try the tracks in the woods, like all 10(+25) year olds do. Or perhaps I should just stick to my normal bike with the toddler seat on? I guess if it all goes well, in a few years it might be commandeered by my boy as well.
My welding and metalworking skills, to match the curve, will certainly be tested, but that is the idea. Will I end up with a safe bike though? Also, I have never cut a frame before, how thick is it likely to be?
Assuming the rest of the frame is still sound, how will this affect it’s strength? A weld should be as strong? Or will it be weaker? Or even too weak? Or as I can’t grind the inside, will it be thicker and so stronger and put extra strain else where? It is not like the bike is ever going to be used as a serious BMX bike, I just want to kick about and pop to the shops on it, and perhaps try the tracks in the woods, like all 10(+25) year olds do. Or perhaps I should just stick to my normal bike with the toddler seat on? I guess if it all goes well, in a few years it might be commandeered by my boy as well.
My welding and metalworking skills, to match the curve, will certainly be tested, but that is the idea. Will I end up with a safe bike though? Also, I have never cut a frame before, how thick is it likely to be?