Bignay Gi Fly Owner's Manual page 78

• STAINS AND DISCOLORATION CAN OCCUR NEAR A CRACK.
Such staining may be a warning sign that a crack exists.
• SIGNIFICANT SCRATCHES, GOUGES, DENTS, OR SCORING
CREATE STARTING POINTS FOR CRACKS. Think about the cut
surface as a focal point for stress (in fact engineers call such
areas "stress risers," areas where the stress is increased).
Perhaps you have seen glass cut? Recall how the glass was
scored and then broke on the scored line.
• SOME CRACKS (particularly larger ones) MAY MAKE CREAK-
ING NOISES AS YOU RIDE. Think about such noises as a serious
warning signal. Note that a well-maintained bicycle will be very
quiet and free of creaks and squeaks.
Fatigue Is Not A Perfectly Predictable Science
Fatigue is not a perfectly predictable science, but here are some general factors to help you and
your dealer determine how often your bicycle should be inspected. The more you fit the "shorten
product life" profile, the more frequent your need to inspect. The more you fit the "lengthen prod-
uct life" profile, the less frequent your need to inspect.
Factors that shorten product life:
• Hard, harsh riding style
• "Hits," crashes, jumps, other "shots" to the bike
• High mileage
• Higher body weight
• Stronger, more fit, more aggressive rider
• Corrosive environment (wet, salt air, winter road salt, accumulated sweat)
• Presence of abrasive mud, dirt, sand, or soil in riding environment
Factors that lengthen product life:
• Smooth, fluid riding style
• No "hits,", crashes, jumps, or other "shots" to the bike
• Low mileage
• Lower body weight
• Less aggressive rider
• Non-corrosive environment (dry, salt-free air)
• Clean riding environment
76
SIMPLE RULE 3: Inspect and
investigate any staining to
see if it is associated with a
crack.
SIMPLE RULE 4: Do not
scratch, gouge, or score
any surface. If you do, pay
frequent attention to this
area or replace the part.
SIMPLE RULE 5: Investigate
and find the source of
any noise. It may not a be a
crack, but whatever is
causing the noise should be
fixed promptly.