Do carbon bike frames break easily? How long will a carbon fiber bike last? What is the lifespan of a carbon frame? When will a carbon fiber bike need to be replaced?

Carbon bike frames can last for a very long time if they are built well using the proper manufacturing processes, are undamaged and are stored safely, in a cool place and out of direct sunlight.

Bicycle manufacturers recommend that a carbon frame should be replaced after six years. Due to the natural degradation of the resin, the frame will gradually lose stiffness and be more susceptible to cracking and/or breaking over time.

Any carbon fibre frame or components can break relatively easily in the event of a crash if they are hit very hard on a particular angle, or on a particular part of the frame. Breakage tends to occur more frequently when the carbon fibre and resin setup is not correctly made.

For cyclists who don’t ride thousands of kilometers a year in the hot sun, a good quality carbon frame may still remain very stiff and last even even longer than the recommended six years of use.

Does the sun damage carbon fibre?

The actual carbon fibres are not susceptible to UV damage, however the resin used to bond the carbon fibres together can be damaged by UV light. This means that carbon fibre components and frames can degrade over time, becoming less stiff and more susceptible to cracking or even clean breaking. If carbon fibre isn’t treated with a UV inhibitor/coating, then the resin can begin to yellow and fade if left in the sun.