Fork Dropout Repairs - good to go or just say no?

[Mikku]

I've been distracted from my Laserlite build by the possibility of another grail purchase! 

The problem is that the fork dropouts have been repaired so I'm not sure I want to risk buying and, more importantly, riding a bike that has had dropout issues. Here are some before and after pictures for your viewing pleasure:-











As you can see, the drops were welded and cleaned up, then the forks rechromed. So what do you think - ok to buy and ride, or forget about it and finish off the Kuwi! 

[snoopy72]

Look a bit thin now , I would find another set.

[Mikku]

I think Thruster dropouts are on the thin side to begin with so yeah, that could be a good call. 

[rodriguez]

Nope, I wouldn't buy those doesn't look like a very good repair to me.

I would have preferred to buy them damaged and get the work done myself.

[MartyC]

They do look a little thin but would need to compare with an og set to really make a call.  Ask Andy68 for a pic as I think he has a Thruster with similar forks.

[snoopy72]

I think thruster forks are one of the nicest shape forks made, but as rodriguez said i would rather have seen the repair for myself before chroming, anyway that's not how I would have repaired them, i would have cut the drop out off and re made the complete dropouts and welded them to the fork like the originals  rather than adding metal to damaged ones.

[griff]

[snoopy72]

/>

+1   

[Andy68]

Right chaps, here's mine...... they are very thin as standard. If they weren't cracked and just filled perhaps ok?

I have the Vanishing Point and Tri Power forks, different shapes at steerer tube but dropouts the same. Neither welded on inside apart from the earlier VP dropout is welded above the half moon cut-out. Does that make sense??? Welded both sides where it meets the bottom of fork. 

The VPs











The Tri Powers





 

[Andy68]

They're certainly not cheap if you find another set, Im not sure, if it was me I'd walk away unless you can get a good price? 

Not that it matters too much, I could be wrong but I thought all chrome framesets had blue decals. 

Hope that helps Mick 

[Mikku]

That's brilliant info Andy - you're the man! 

So the general consensus is that I should pass on these, as nice and shiny as they are, on that basis that all that glitters isn't gold! 

Thanks for all the advice and comments guys - my wallet and Laserlite both appreciate it! 

[Andy68]

No problem at all Mick 

I think you need to go with your head on this one and not your heart. You've obviously got doubts so how much would it play on your mind you wished you'd held out for one without repairs. Could be made worse if you end up stung with import duty etc on top of a big spend. Just saying.........