Modern R853 Steel Frame Rust Question

1800dinosaur

Recently transferred components from the frame in the pictures below to a new frame. I was hoping to sell this older (3 years old) frame, however I wouldn't want to sell something compromised.

Can anyone shed some light on the extent of damage from rust this frame has? Most of the brown colors seems to be some kind of clay (oxidized metal or just dirt?) that can be removed with a cloth. The main concern is the down tube, where rust clearly exists.

lesfirth

Just a bit of surface rust. Nothing to worry about.

simon_masterson

As above, it looks fine and more than likely is fine, however any steel frame could have significant internal rust that you can’t see and would only find out about when the frame fails - i.e. it might look fine but not be and vice versa. Frame Saver or Waxoyl is the best preventative, and well worth applying to any steel frame - you could always do this if you’re worried.

First.Aspect

Simon Masterson wrote:

As above, it looks fine and more than likely is fine, however any steel frame could have significant internal rust that you can’t see and would only find out about when the frame fails - i.e. it might look fine but not be and vice versa. Frame Saver or Waxoyl is the best preventative, and well worth applying to any steel frame - you could always do this if you’re worried.

This is the classic "just because you are paranoid, it doesn't mean they aren't out to get you" post.

The bb is a water trap and shows light surface rust. For info, the rust takes up about 1000x the volume of the iron from which it formed. So safe to say that the structural integrity of the frame won't be compromised by the rust you are looking at.

cycleclinic

There is nothing wrong with your frame. It will give decades of service.

The steel used in bikes dies not tend to rot like it does in 80's cars.

simon_masterson

First Aspect wrote:

Simon Masterson wrote:

As above, it looks fine and more than likely is fine, however any steel frame could have significant internal rust that you can’t see and would only find out about when the frame fails - i.e. it might look fine but not be and vice versa. Frame Saver or Waxoyl is the best preventative, and well worth applying to any steel frame - you could always do this if you’re worried.

This is the classic "just because you are paranoid, it doesn't mean they aren't out to get you" post.

The bb is a water trap and shows light surface rust. For info, the rust takes up about 1000x the volume of the iron from which it formed. So safe to say that the structural integrity of the frame won't be compromised by the rust you are looking at.

I expected it to come across that way, but take the point. I’m sure this frame is fine. I am probably more cautious than some as I have had a frame fail from internal rust, so all of my steel frames get treated.