High tensile bolts will often have their strength class stamped on their head: 8.8, 9.8, 10.9, and 12.9. Anything over 8.8 is not suitable for replacement with anything other than the same (or higher) class of bolt.

About titanium bolts

Titanium bolts come closest to steel in terms of strength but Ti is 47% lighter.

Note, although Ti bolts can be as strong as mild steel bolts,they are no substitute for high tensile steel bolts. Honest-titanium sell some high quality Ti bolts and here is what they say about high-tensile bolt replacement:

Titanium bolts are no substitute for bolts above 8.8 strength. If in doubt you have to assume that titanium bolts are NOT suited for the application to ensure your own safety.

Accordingly, if you need to replace 8.8 strength bolts, then make sure you are using the strongest and best Ti bolts you can get. DO NOT replace 10.9 or 12.9 bolts with Ti. The most common places to find high-tensile bolts on your bicycle will be holding the suspension pivots together.

Ti bolt applications on your bicycle

High quality Ti bolts can be used in the following areas:

·         disk brake rotor bolts;

·         caliper mounting bolts;

·         seatpost saddle rail clamp bolts;

·         frame/fork v-brake/cantilever brake bosses;

·         stem clamp bolts; and

·         any other areas where the strength of steel is needed.  

·         Titanium bolts can be as strong as mild steel or stainless steel bolts. Titanium bolts are not as strong as high-tensile steel bolts.

·         If you are not 100% sure that a ti or alu bolt will not work then DO NOT replace the stock bolt.