Chapter 3: inspection, adjustment, and lubrication
The frameset consists of the frame, fork, and headset. These pieces work together to provide the basic structure for the other parts of your bicycle. The frameset is largely responsible for the fit, performance, and structural integrity of your bicycle, so the frameset is very important.
Read the Warning about Mechanical Work before performing any service work on your bicycle.
The finish on your frameset can be affected by chemicals and ultra-violet light. Chemical attack can come from many sources including energy drinks, cleaning agents, lubricants, and even sweat.
When cleaning frame parts, do not use solvents or harsh chemicals. Remove road film with a soft rag and a solution of mild detergent and water. Use of industrial solvents for cleaning or paint removal may damage the finish.
Sweat contains corrosive salts. If you ride your bicycle on a trainer, use some sort of shield to prevent sweat from dripping onto the frame or parts. After each session on the trainer, wipe down the entire bike with a damp cloth and water, and allow to dry.
If you choose to use solvents to clean parts other than the frame, such as the cassette cogs, remove the parts from the bicycle prior to cleaning to avoid splashing solvents on the frame finish. Many popular solvents will damage the frame finish, including anodized frame finishes. Anything other than water and mild detergent may damage the finish. This type of damage is not covered under warranty.
Clamping frame tubes in a workstand or car carrier can damage the paint of even crush the lightweight tubing. Clamping a bike into a trainer or other device can also cause damage. Read the section about attaching a device to your bike.
Excessive heat, such as that used in powder coating, or any open flame, can damage the adhesive which joins the frame parts. Do not exceed 180° F. (82° C.) exposure to your frame. In extreme cases, the interior of a closed car in bright sunlight can reach this temperature.
Some frames or forks have special accessories. In most cases, those are discussed in this manual. If you cannot find the information you need, or you would like to purchase accessories discussed in this manual but not included on your bicycle, consult your dealer.
Some Trek bicycle frames and forks include a special location for the sensor of your bicycle computer. This location is called a DuoTrap (Figure 1).
Figure 1:
DuoTrap on the chainstay
Some types of frameset damage can be repaired at the Trek factory. You must send your frame back to Trek through an authorized Trek dealer.
Frame
Fork
Headset