Frame top tube

Hi All

As a newbie to the Forum, please excuse what may be a dumb question but....

I'm restoring an 850 Commando (frame # 3090xx) and have found an indentation on the top frame tube, just above where the diagonal tubes are welded on to it (these smaller diameter tubes carry the gussett where the side panel / oil tank attach at the front, just above the airbox).

The frame looks very straight and not accident damaged, but I've not seen an indent like this before - can anyone tell me if it's 'normal' or not?

I've tried to attach some photos to show the indentation, which looks as if it's been deliberately formed, but I can't figure out how to - but the indent seems too regular to be a random dent from an accident?

There is no creasing or any other 'flattening' of the frame tubes and I'm confused.... and if anyone can tell me how to upload an image, I'd be happy to do so.

Any info would be very much appreciated.

Thanks

Triton

Welcome to the forum,Triton.

Triton said:

The frame looks very straight and not accident damaged, but I've not seen an indent like this before - can anyone tell me if it's 'normal' or not?

Click to expand...

No, a dent in that area wouldn't be considered normal.

Triton said:

.... and if anyone can tell me how to upload an image, I'd be happy to do so.

Click to expand...

You will find that information here: technical-information-section-how-post-photos-t2357.html

I'd guess something got dropped on the bare frame, maybe lumber when it was stored in past. That area is about strongest area being so triangulated by gusset and tubes so likely not a road use issue. Maybe bike with steel tank got dropped upside down so smashed tank dented it? If mine I'd just putty over and paint. Others might want to fill in with low temp weld then grind back for finishing. Spinal tube is about match book paper thin so not very resistent to impact pressure, its strength is the dia size. BTW the straight tube section that the top 1" tubes angle to - goes completely through the spine but the tubes next to the gusset do not. This area is not sealed by welds in ya ever think to put oil in it.