Custom Trails Bike by Anders
20 Aug 2021
Design: Custom Trials bike
Build: Custom Geometry Home Build Kit
Location: Minneapolis, USA
What made you decide to build a bamboo bike?
I've always enjoyed building things and working with my hands. For a while I wanted to get another bike, but hadn't decided what type I wanted. I hadn't even considered building my own frame since doing so would require specialty tools and skills that I didn't have. That was until I learned that people were making bikes out of bamboo. Realizing I could make something unique and special that I would appreciate more then something store bought, making a bamboo bike was a no brainer. I was initially going to build an aggressive hardtail, but after some convincing from one of my friends I decided to build a trials bike instead since it would get much more use.
Did you enjoy building the bicycle from scratch and would you recommend the experience?
The experience had its ups and downs, but overall I'd say it was positive. I would recommend this to anyone wanting a custom bike, or someone looking to create a rapid prototype for a fraction of the cost of have one custom made. It teaches you valuable skills involved in the design and production of bicycles, and will leave you with a new appreciation for the two wheeled marvels that we all love.
What did you find most difficult about your bike build?
Since I didn't follow the plans that came with the kit and designed my own, there were many hurtles I had get over to complete this build. the process over all was very simple, but the occasional road block prevented me from finishing it in a weekend. A few times I had to go back to the drawing board, and many times I just had to commit and hope for the best.
What was the easiest part of the build?
The easiest part was the design process itself. Having a background in engineering, this step came naturally. I wouldn't recommend doing a custom job if you don't have any CAD experience, but I'm sure it can be done in some rudimentary way if you decide to go that route.
How would you describe the ride of your finished bike?
The bike rode unlike anything I had ridden before. It was a little flexy, but in a good way. The vibration dampening was next level. I have ridden both titanium and steel bikes before and compared to those, the bamboo I'd say feels similar. A trials bike doesn't need comfort, but if you're building something you plan on riding long distance, building a bamboo bike might be your best bet for the money.
What would you improve about the build experience or your finished bike?
I added a layer of carbon tow over the flax because I didn't know how strong the flax composite would be. If I were to do it all again, I'd only use the flax for simplicities sake.
