chagzuki
10-26-08, 09:32 PM
http://www.popsci.com/brett-zarda/article/2008-10/plastic-bicycle
Folding Bikes - Plastic bike frame
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Tommy C
10-27-08, 01:27 AM
I bet the seatpost doesn't slip ...... :lol:
datako
10-27-08, 02:38 AM
Looks like a piece of designer junk.
The real work in the rear triangle is going to be done by the metal flat bits so the plastic there is decoration.
The general style of it does not take advantage of the mechanic properties of the material, instead it apes the traditional diamond frame. Therefore it will be heavier than necessary.
Nothing wrong with the material used, just the design.
If you want to see good innovative bicycle design that works, google "Mark Sanders"
The real work in the rear triangle is going to be done by the metal flat bits so the plastic there is decoration.
The general style of it does not take advantage of the mechanic properties of the material, instead it apes the traditional diamond frame. Therefore it will be heavier than necessary.
Nothing wrong with the material used, just the design.
If you want to see good innovative bicycle design that works, google "Mark Sanders"
tcs
10-27-08, 07:01 AM
Been there. Done that. Have the souvenir T-shirt, ball cap and autographed poster.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Itera_plastic_bicycle
tcs
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Itera_plastic_bicycle
tcs
datako
10-27-08, 07:55 AM
The other thing is that carbon fibre bikes are largely "plastic" too.
Unfortunately they are also aping the diamond frame, but I think this is because of dinosaur rules from the UCI (someone correct me if I'm wrong).
I have an Australian designed carbon fibre frame from a company called EP-X which is a monocoque, very stiff, and even folds! The chainstay folds under the front of the frame, but not with the wheel on. It even has a small amount of rear suspension.
These bikes were originally available with belt drive, and mine came with a Rohloff hub.
I've attached a photo of my spare frame.
Unfortunately they are also aping the diamond frame, but I think this is because of dinosaur rules from the UCI (someone correct me if I'm wrong).
I have an Australian designed carbon fibre frame from a company called EP-X which is a monocoque, very stiff, and even folds! The chainstay folds under the front of the frame, but not with the wheel on. It even has a small amount of rear suspension.
These bikes were originally available with belt drive, and mine came with a Rohloff hub.
I've attached a photo of my spare frame.
jur
10-27-08, 04:00 PM
Ah yes the EPX Mako. I eyed those, from time to time the pop up on ebay.