How far can I take my mtb?

Question

I have a $800 Trek 6500 XC bike
All stock except fork - Manitou Axel Platinum

I know its an XC setup, but how would it be in light urban assault, what would break first, and could the frame buckle?

i weigh 140lbs and the biggest drop i''ve done on it is about 5 or 6ft, im scared to do any more on this bike, i dont want it collapsing

Answer 1

honestly no matter how sound the bike is part of it is your riding style. I know guys that can make a 5 foot drop look like they are riding off a curb they are so smooth and others that make you cringe everytime they take a drop because of how hard they hit.

The breaking stuff that I would be worried about would be rims (most XC rims are more about weight than strength), the cranks (again XC bikes put more of a premium on lighter weight because they are not expecting 5-6 drops on the bikes), and your shock. Though Manitou makes a good shock the Axel is not designed for big hits so there is a chance that you could blow your shock out.

If you manage to crack the frame it probably won't be from just landing (unless you go nuts and are doing 7-10ft drops, not sure it could hold up to that abuse) it will probably from bailing on a drop or jump and having the bike hit a curb or some other similarly hard object.

If you are really getting into urban riding save up your money and look for a new bike or at least a new frame to begin with. Most companies are doing big hit bikes whether they are hardtail or full suspension. The full suspensions will make the hits a bit easier to take but there are still a number of hardtails out there with beefier stays and disc brake mounts that will let you run downhill rims that can take the abuse of drop after drop.

Answer 2

If you have a '05 '06 or '07 model your frame is probably made from the Alpha Aluminum series http://www2.trekbikes.com/bikes/bike.php?bikeid=1033600&f=19
click above link to trek bikes to read more about frame specifications. I can't speak on treks behalf but they do have a top notch facility where they do extensive testing on each frame above and beyond what it is designed for. But anytime I had a question about any of my mountain bikes I have always been able to talk (via e-mail or 800 #) to a technical engineer from the bike company, You should do the same by giving more details of the urban terrain your riding along with height and weight specifics. In the mean time inspect your bike after each ride or big huck you perform. And if you see any type of crack stop riding it immediatly.

Answer 3

Urban assault meaning street riding? If thats what you are talking about dont use those bikes. You'll just get made fun of and it wont be easy to street rid with those. Get a dirt jumper or BMX Instead. If thats not what you are talking about then sorry.

Answer 4

Time for a new bike.