Gravel Bike by Joe

What made you decide to build a bamboo bike?

I’m an amateur woodworker and have been dreaming about building a wood bike frame for many years. After researching bamboo’s characteristics and relative weight ease to work with, I decided to use it as the medium for my first scratch-made frame build.

Did you enjoy building the bicycle from scratch and would you recommend the experience?

Absolutely. It took time to do it right and required both patience and problem solving skills. But the end result is definitely worth it!

What did you find most difficult about your bike build?

I spent the most time on the rear triangle. I ended up re-doing it after the initial binding and ended up with a triangle that is both stronger and more streamlined. But I’d recommend checking the alignment and angles on a regular basis before you start the binding process.

What was the easiest part of the build?

Finishing the bike’s look and installing the components was relatively easy, particularly with the help of the Bamboo Bicycle Club and YouTube!

How would you describe the ride of your finished bike?

Smooth - like butter.

What would you improve about the build experience or your finished bike?

I’d be willing to pay more to have a jig that is more stable and helps ensure the alignment of all frame parts is set before the binding process happens. Although the laser cut wood jig is environmentally-friendly, the parts could have been more solid.