What Made Me Decide to Build a Bamboo Bike?

I’ve always loved the idea of building my own bike, and the concept of creating something both functional and unique was really appealing. When I discovered that bamboo could be used as a material and that it didn’t require overly complex tools, I was instantly drawn to it. Working with bamboo seemed like an exciting blend of craftsmanship and sustainability, and that sealed the deal for me.

Did I Enjoy the Process, and Would I Recommend It?

Absolutely. The experience of building my bike from scratch was incredibly rewarding. The team at Bamboo Bicycle Club was extremely supportive, providing helpful tutorials that guided me through each step and reassured me along the way. Completing the build was a huge sense of accomplishment, and I'm proud of the result. I’d recommend it to anyone interested in hands-on projects—so much so that I'm already considering building another one soon!

What Was the Most Challenging Part of the Build?

Honestly, as long as you take your time and approach each step with care, the build itself isn’t too difficult. The tutorials from Bamboo Bicycle Club make it very manageable. For me, the hardest part was sourcing specific parts for my Alfine Di2 11 build since the manufacturer didn’t offer much guidance. Painting was also tricky—I wanted something unique, which took extra time and patience.

What Was the Easiest Part of the Build?

Cutting and sanding the bamboo were probably the easiest steps. Bamboo is a surprisingly user-friendly material to work with, and this part of the process was straightforward and enjoyable.

How Does the Bike Ride?

Riding this bike is a completely different experience from my old one. It’s lighter, and the bamboo gives an amazing feel, especially with the Alfine electric shifter, which is incredibly precise. I love the mix of natural bamboo and high-tech elements—it’s a ride like no other. Plus, having the flexibility to adjust the settings has made my rides even more enjoyable.

What Would I Improve About the Build or the Bike?

At some point, I’d like to add a carbon belt to the build. It’s a bit pricey, so I’ll hold off for now, but it’s definitely on my list of upgrades for the future.

In the end, building a bamboo bike was more than just assembling parts—it was a creative process, a learning experience, and a reminder of the satisfaction that comes from crafting something with your own hands.