Crash Inspection and Insurance Quotation

Types of Carbon Damage

Visible Damage:

• Cracks (can be hairline or obvious)
• Paint chips or scratches that may hide deeper damage
• Delamination (separation of carbon layers)
• Impact marks or crushed areas

Hidden Damage:

• Internal delamination not visible from surface
• Structural damage to internal carbon structure
• Damaged fibre alignment inside frame
• Weakened areas that may fail under future stress

Stress Damage:

• Areas stressed beyond elastic limit
• Micro-fractures not immediately visible
• Damage that may develop into cracks over time
• Weakened structural integrity

Step 1: Detailed History Taking

• Circumstances of crash (speed, impact type, etc.)
• What parts of bike made contact
• Any immediate observations after crash
• Rider's assessment of impact severity

Step 2: Systematic Visual Inspection

• Divide frame into sections for thorough examination
• Use bright lighting and magnification
• Look for paint damage that might hide carbon damage
• Document all findings with photos
• Note any unusual patterns or concentrations

Step 3: Acoustic Testing

• Systematic tapping of frame sections
• Listen for changes in sound indicating damage
• Compare left/right sides, top/down tubes
• Mark areas of concern for further investigation
• Experienced inspectors can interpret subtle sound changes

Step 4: Structural Testing

• Apply controlled stress to frame
• Check for unusual flex or movement
• Verify alignment with alignment tools
• Test all moving parts for binding or unusual feel
• Compare to known good frame characteristics

Step 5: Component Verification

• Test all bolted connections
• Check for stripped threads or damaged inserts
• Verify all accessories mount properly
• Test seatpost and clamp function
• Check bottom bracket and headset operation

Step 6: Documentation

• Detailed written report of findings
• Photos of all areas inspected
• Diagrams showing damage locations
• Assessment of frame safety status
• Recommendations for repair or replacement