Cracked Rims - ever had one repaired?

[buck_y_lee]

Both my rims have cracked. Both cracks run from one side wall halfway to the spokes, if that makes sense. They are both about half to three quarter of an inch long.

Since I don't fancy paying mega bucks for new rims and related expenses, I have spoken to a couple of guys about repairing them. One says he can repair them, the other says that while he can fix the crack, he is of the opinion that the rims will crack again next to the repair. Both want about 50 bucks per rim, which is a lot more attractive than the expense of new ones.

Anyone had any experience or success with this?

Thanks,
Buck.

 

[Patman]

I replaced a cracked rim with an Excel rim and even getting the wheel relaced ended up running me lesss that $150.

 

[RM_guy]

I've had them crack but was nervous to have them repaired. The wheels are a structural member and I’d hate to have them crack again at the wrong time because the welding weakened them. Like Patman says, a new Excel rim is cheap insurance.

 

[Ol'89r]

Buck.

It depends on what you are using the bike for. If you jump it, I would not recommend welding them but, for trail riding you can get away with it. I have repaired quite a few cracked rims with good success. The price of $50.00 per rim is a little steep unless the guy is removing and replacing the tires for you also. Be sure he tig-welds them. Welding softens the heat treat on the rim, so they won't be as strong.

Just my $ .02

Ol'89r

 

[buck_y_lee]

Thanks for the info.

I use it on trails. I do some jumping, but nothing huge.

50 bucks is dead cheap here in Australia. A new Excel rim is 250-300 dollars, plus spokes and labour. For two rims I'm looking at 100 bucks!! Not good. As much as I'd like some flashy new rims, it's hard to justify that expense for my old 95 RM.

Cheers guys.

 

[buck_y_lee]

That should have read 1,000 bucks for new rims + spokes.

Not good!