@Cyclist asks:
I have a Raleigh Randonneur from the early 90s. It's been well looked after, with many years of regular use, often heavily loaded. The frame was slightly dented at the back of the seat tube by a bike shop many years ago. All components apart from front & back rack have been replaced over time.
Q2. What should I check to help decide if I need to replace this much loved old bike?
(When is it time to retire a bike?)
@Cyclist @bikenite A2. My partner retired a bike when a crack in the head tube developed on an old aluminum frame. Cost/willingness to repair was too high.
Not sure if it's much better on a steel bike with a dent in it? I guess it depends on how much sentimental value it has for you! We didn't even bother getting a quote because my partner was ready for a new bike.
We chose to pay for repair for a similar issue on another bike. Aluminum head tube repair cost about $250 including shipping back to the manufacturer.
Some dents can be "rolled out" but generally it's not worth repairing unless the dent is huge because they don't affect the strength. Filling and painting is a cosmetic option.
Phil (ascentale)
David S