Welding - precautions

[Mouse]

I have already "fixed" it with an enormous tool

I want to get it strengthened so it doesn't happen again. Claiming on the insurance for something that can easily be fixed is just a waste of money - wave bye bye to no claims bonus.

 

[Spout]

The trouble with strengthening areas is that the load is then spread (or focused!) elsewhere (to somewhere less easy to fix?)

Would some sort of extended bash plate protect the area?

 

[Mouse]

I see your point. But assuming I'm right, and that the impact was to the brake lever, the lever should have bent / broken in preference to the frame. I'm considering deliberately weakening the lever, although that could be a bit dodgy. Can you get spring loaded folding brake levers? I have seen folding gear levers before.

If it was impact to the lever, rather than the frame itself, then I can't see how a bash plate or similar could protect it. I suppose one simple precaution I could take would be to make sure the lever is adjusted to be as high as possible.

I was considering getting the touratech extra-large bash plate as well, although I'm not sure if that protects the "sticky down" bits of the frame where the footpegs live.