The short and, perhaps, frustrating answer is: it depends. A number of factors go into understanding the lifespan of your bicycle, including the composition of your frame, maintenance, the type of rider you are, and what you’re looking to get out of the riding experience.

Frames

The more satisfying answer may be that with a little care, the frame of your bike can last a lifetime if you want it to. Let’s begin by thinking about the different frame types available.

• Steel frames: Steel frames are strong, durable, and easily repairable but can succumb to rust and are heavier than most other frames (we’ll talk about weight later). A well-kept steel frame can last 20-40 years, but for the average think around 10 years.
• Aluminum frames: Aluminum is lightweight and inexpensive but it does weaken under strain and over time. On average aluminum will last between 5 and 10 years, but can go longer if well kept. Aluminum frames are hard to repair and are usually replaced.
• Carbon frames: This is the go to material for high-end bikes (particularly racing) because it absorbs road impacts, is lightweight, strong, and resists corrosion. But carbon does degrade under sunlight and is more susceptible to dings and chips. Experts recommend replacing a carbon frame after 5-7 years.
• Titanium frames: This relative newcomer offers a combination of steel’s strength and carbon’s corrosion resistance. It is, however, pricey and heavier than some of the other choices. Titanium frames can last 20 years or more, but on average are replaced after 15 years.

Maintenance

The happy answer is that a well-kept frame lasts a long time and may even outlive the rider. You will, however, have to follow a schedule of maintenance, and you will inevitably have to replace components. Parts such as brake pads, chains, and tires may need to be replaced every few months if you put high mileage on your bike. Other parts, such as wheels, hubs, cogs, and bearings will need less frequent replacement if well maintained.

A good maintenance schedule involves performing small routine procedures such as lubing your chain, checking tire pressure, and washing your bike (particularly after rain or mud rides). You will also want to take your bike to a qualified repair shop for a maintenance check at least once a year. Some maintenance advice that can prolong the life of your bike is:

• Wash but don’t overwash–pressure washing a bike can force water into bearing cases and wheel cogs, shortening their lifespan.
• Lube your chain only when it needs it. If you can hear squeaks or links seem dry, a little lube is good, but otherwise leave it alone.
• Check your tire pressure before each ride. A good digital reader will make this easy.
• Use a torque wrench when installing or tightening components.

Type of Riding

The type of riding you do will make a big difference in the life of your bicycle and in the frame choice you make. For most riders, other than the casual rider, weight is a factor. The lighter the frame, the less work required to go faster or ride up hills. Are you:

• A cruiser? The casual cyclist can opt for a heavier frame material such as steel and expect a long life if mileage is low and maintenance is good.
• A commuter? Because you’re likely to put higher mileage on your bike, you will want to maintain a more strict maintenance regimen and can expect a shorter lifespan for your bike. You may also want to opt for a lighter, more comfortable material such as aluminum or carbon.
• A fitness junkie? If you’re riding your bike for serious exercise, chances are you’re going to replace your frame eventually whether it wears out or not. Most cyclists in this category start with an aluminum frame and work their way up to carbon or composite materials. You are also more likely to put significant mileage and more stress on your frame, so you will probably get less life out of your bicycle.
• A racer? If you are going to compete, you will be replacing components on a regular basis and will put the highest level of stress on your frame. Long mileage, hill rides, and sprints mean significant wear and tear. Furthermore, competitive riders are the most likely to crash thus doing significant damage to frames and other components.

Ivan Young is a writer in partnership with physical, occupational and speech therapy provider Burger Physical Therapy.