Re:
Got the frame back and have a much better idea of what is what.
Firstly, the identity of the frame. On the seat post there is a clear Easton logo stamped and the word Ultimate just below it. Combine that with a clearer serial number (F210K0691 3I-50) and I'm pretty sure it's a Kula Deluxe 2006. Weight of frame in raw aluminium is 1476 - nice and light!
Now onto the damage. The bloke at the powder coaters managed to really worry me yesterday with his call and quick picture. In reality, it's not as bad as I thought. Yes there are two big dents and what looks like a repair. The biggest dent on the seat tube is about 1.5" x1" and probably about a quarter of an inch deep at it's worse point. But no cracks at all. There is evidence of a repair on the down tube but no visible cracks so the repair looks good.
Aside from the 3 grouped dents/repairs, there is just one ding on the top tube which is expected of used frames. Looking at the grouping of the dents perhaps there was a crash and the crank and rings were twisted? or a rock got wedged between frame and chain ring? who knows...
I guess the question is what to do with it? I think I am comfortable that the damage is not catastrophic and the frame should be okay for singletrack usage. I'm tempted to put some decals on it and get it lacquered and leave it as is. That way it shows it's scars and I can also keep an eye for any cracks or signs of fatigue around the damage. If it starts to crack I can make a decision and get a new frame.
Any thoughts or experience? Also, would appreciate any of the Kona experts confirming my model/year assumptions from the info posted.
Rich
