Innovation
The Bamboo Bike Project
Testing out new concepts is what drives us. When we get an idea we just can’t shake, it’s time to get in the workshop. This is how the Bamboo Bike Project came to life.
The question was, what if we could harvest our local invasive bamboo, test it’s strength and build a strong and beautiful bike that offered a superior ride quality. Through the process, we discovered innovative techniques in joinery and finishing that enabled us to achieve our goal and to think totally outside of the box in our commercial woodworking. We also rode hundreds of miles for the sake of research and had amazing adventures along the way.
Project Info
For over 5 years, we worked to prove the concept, that bamboo, when used in appropriate structural ways, is an ideal building material and our test project was bicycles.
Along the way, we were reminded that riding bikes makes your feel like a kid again and is a guaranteed smile.
Goals for the Project:
Exhibit the Strength of Bamboo – bicycles are structurally an ideal use for bamboo building.
Build a Connection System -with modern epoxies, we are able to make a joint that far exceed the requirements for bicycle lug strength
Build Community – by teaching build-your-own workshops, we were able to build deep connections
Sustainable Mission – We proved that bamboo harvested locally, has a great value and can be made into high-end, value-added products
