Friday, 29 March 2024
Electric BikesFeaturedNews

“World first” 3D-printed carbon fibre DH bike revealed

Revel Bikes looks to have made history with what it says is the world’s first fully 3D-printed carbon fibre Downhill Bike.

The Revel Rodeo is a multi-year passion project of Adam Miller (Revel Bikes), Chris Canfield (CBF suspension inventor) and Jordan Haffener (Revel Bikes Senior Engineer). Designed by Revel, this unique concept bike was manufactured in partnership with 3D Printing pioneer, Arevo Inc.

Following in the footsteps of those brands which have used additive manufacturing for components and even tube junctions on frames, Revel sought Arevo due to it having developed a 3D printing method for structurally sound composite products for the intended use.

The Rodeo is the world’s first 3D-printed, thermoplastic carbon fibre mountain bike and the world’s first carbon CBFtm suspension downhill bike.

Arevo has already brought a fully functional 3D printed bike to market, showcased at 2019’s Eurobike.

Revel Bikes Senior Engineer Jordan Haffener worked closely with Arevo at its facility in Silicon Valley to develop dozens of prototypes before landing on a design.

3D printing a downhill bike is a particularly ambitious project, with the bike experiencing stronger forces more than perhaps any other type. Proving it is possible, Revel believes this method of frame production “could be the future for carbon bicycle manufacturing”. Revel added: With further innovation, there is even the potential for this thermoplastic composite material to be fully recyclable”.

Revel Bikes is based in Carbondale, Colorado. During the summer months, Carbondale hosts a weekly rodeo event every week, and Revel’s official company party takes place at the rodeo.

revelbikes.com