Materials and technology

The basic physical properties of a structure depend on its building materials. This is especially true for bicycles. The first aspect is to minimise weight while maintaining strength and stiffness. We can cut weight by using a lighter material. Fiber reinforced plastics generally have a lower density than metals and their tensile modulus is not less, hence these materials seem an optimal choice of material for for bicycles.

Stiffness is a complex issue. Too much stiffness can make the ride a harsh one, however enough stiffness is needed to let the power that the rider puts into pedalling turn into speed efficiently. These seemingly contradictory requirements can be satisfied thanks to the anizotrophic nature of fiber reinforced plastics.

We have strived to design a frame where the force in the chain is put into motion with the maximum possible efficiency without bending the frame that would mean loss. To achieve this we applied fibers in the frame material running paralell to the chain and also shortened the boom (fork steerer centerline to BB centerline) length. However stiffness is reduced in the up-down direction providing a compliant and forgiving riding experience even on rougher roads.

Our frames, forks, seats and handlebars are made of carbon fiber reinforced composites. The different components are produced with different technologies for an optimal stiffness and value ratio. We use the following manufacturing technologies: injection moulding, hand laminating, winding and vacuum bag moulding and bladder moulding.