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New to Carbon

Long time cyclist, but just bought my first carbon fiber bike (2012 Felt B12).  I have done the requisite internet deep diving and read all the recommended stuff, but in good EN fashion, I will throw up a request for input.  What things do I need to know (care/feeding/maintenance) as a new carbon bike owner?  I transport my bike(s) locally using a Thule hitch mount and plan to ship my bike to "far" destinations using professional bike transport companies.  I do limited maintenance on my own (washing, drive train adjustments, cassette switching, etc) but leave the serious stuff to the professionals.  Any "wish I had known" issues that experience has taught the august Haus crowd?  Thanks in advance for any info you think is good to know.

Comments

  • Get a click stop torque wrench and pay attention to the settings when tightening any screws.
  • Nemo, thanks for the advice. I saw a lot of recommendations for that one, so I will definitely be getting one. Any special concerns for transporting your bike via a bike rack? I saw a few posts that said take care with car mounts.

  •  Hey Roy!

    Congrats on the bike!  

    Always check where the cables enter and exit the frame.  I had a cable cut through one of the grommets and the cable started rubbing on frame.  Luckily, I always clean and check my bike.  

    Treat the frame well, and it will treat you well.  I'm a big guy by most standards, and I ride hard(I took the first few rides carefully and eased into harder rides).  But I don't bang things on  my frame, I don't clamp my frame to a rack.  When we rack our bikes, they go on a hitch mount Cycle-On Pro rack, or when carrying a single, I put it inside if there's enough space.  Also, maybe a bit excessive, but our carbon bikes are kept inside(no extreme temp ranges)

     

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