[djb]

I'm picking up a frame today, that has the paint stripped off of it.
My original thought was to get it powder coated, but the rawed look is really starting to grow on me.
My question is this;
Do I have to do anything to the frame to keep it safe? I'm guessing it's not really ideal to just leave it as bare aluminum. Take it to a shop and get it sprayed with clear?

Hopefully someone else has done the same, and has some experience. I remember seeing a thread somewhat like this, but I epically fail at searching!

 

[allsk8sno]

aluminum surface oxidizes so its ok to leave raw,
it won't look polished and clean though, but definately raw!!

 

[ultraNoob]

My socom is RAW. Friggin awesome but awesomer when it starts to oxidize a bit. I <3 the raw finish

 

[Sghost]

If you clear it, it will look like crap after a while. Either leave it raw raw or polish it.

 

[djb]

Awesome, so I don't really have to do anything to it?
I ride in pretty wet conditions, I just want to make sure not having any powder on the frame will make it weaker, or something of that nature.

 

[Sghost]

Unless your wet conditions also include lots of salt, you'll be fine.

 

[Cordsport]

If you ride somewhere real wet or salty then give it a light rub with Bee's wax every now and then. This will stop excessive oxidisation and furring up. Works a treat and doesn't in any way change the look of the raw finish.