News: In the past few decades, quite a few innovations have come from Silicon Valley. With However, these mostly had little to do with bicycles. The Californian newcomer Superstrata however, recently presented to the public a revolutionary concept that would transform the bicycle market could change and is even sustainable. A wheel from the 3D printer!
Individual wheel from the 3D printer
So far, carbon frames have been made using molds. Layer by layer, a finished off-the-shelf frame is created with special adhesive and often a great deal of manual work. In the future, the company Superstrata wants to produce its frames as a monocoque construction in one piece using 3D printing without any form, glue or seams. Particularly interesting is the fact that it is possible to adjust a bicycle frame to your own needs when ordering, such as arm length, seat height, leg length or preferred seating position.
Up to 500.000 frame variants possible
Adjustments with regard to the preferred stiffness or reinforcements for higher body weight can also be incorporated in this way. The problems associated with buying an off-the-shelf frame would then be a thing of the past. According to the manufacturer, the biggest advantage of the bike from the 3D printer: The frame of the Superstrata bikes can be adapted in over 500.000 individual variants. As expected, the crowdfunding goal for the first models has already been reached. These are a classic bike called "Ion" and an e-bike that goes by the name "Terra". All frames should also be 100 percent biodegradable.
A look into the future
After more than four years of development, the manufacturing technology is now ready for series production, according to Sonny Vu, CEO of Superstrata. If the technology proves successful, it could actually transform the bicycle market. Imagine being able to buy a frame that is 100 percent customized for you. In addition, the automation of this production step should result in bicycle prices falling somewhat, at least in the higher price segment.