john

That's what i would do, and then just ride it. Unless that dent is like
more then say 3/8" to 1/2" deep, i have a hard time believing that it is
"unsafe" to ride. A top tube, experiences bending and axial compression
loads and some torsion. If it does "fail" it won't be catastrophic, rather
you'll notice increased localized buckling at the dent, or maybe a crack
forming (not as likely since the compression will help keep the crack from
forming or propagating..).
The good news is the dent is right there within eyesight, so easy to keep an
eye on. When you notice something bad happening, then make it yard art. I
am guessing you will have you own house, yard, and mortgage half paid by the
time that rolls around, and of course at least another half dozen frames,
bikes laying around.
Even if it does break clean through while riding it, the down tube will hold
together until you stop.

You should post a picture so we all can make "reputable" comments about it.
:) great end of the week fun.

2009/3/6

> Ask a disreputable shop if it is safe to ride it.
>
>
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "chris robinson"
> To: obra@list.obra.org
> Sent: Thursday, March 5, 2009 7:27:48 PM GMT -08:00 US/Canada Pacific
> Subject: [OBRA Chat] things to do with an old frame?
>
> I have an aluminum road bike frame that a reputable shop has deemed unsafe
> to ride because of a dent in the top tube, so I can't sell it to anyone and
> I don't just want to throw it out...any ideas?
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--
jms, pe pdx, or
http://bikeeng.blogspot.com/