How to Identify a Bent Scooter Frame

Identifying a bent scooter frame can be difficult.

A scooter is a specific type of motorcycle which has a step-through frame and a platform to place your feet. The materials that comprise scooter frames range from heavier metals, such as steel, to lighter cast aluminum frames. After a heavy accident, a twisted headstock, bent frame tubes or flaking paint are all signs of a possible bent frame. Identifying a bent aluminum frame is more difficult and cannot be accurately done simply by looking at it.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape

Instructions

1. Search the body for any chipped paint, bent frame tubes or a twisted headstock.

2. Find the swingarm, which is the part at the rear wheel which provides the pivot point and mounting location for the rear suspension.

3. Measure the distance from the front wheel to the right-hand side swingarm.

4. Measure the distance from the wheel to the left-hand side swingarm.

5. Compare the two measured distances to make sure they are equal. If they are not equal, you likely have a bent frame.

Tips & Warnings

• This article provides a preliminary test of whether your scooter frame is likely bent or not. If you are at all suspicious that your scooter frame is bent, it is safest to additionally seek a professional mechanic's opinion.

References

• Abba Motorcycle Engineering: Frame Straightening Professional Frame Checking & Alignment Service
• Kosmix: Motorcycle Frame