Other bike frames are made using man-made materials which involve a highly energy intensive manufacturing process, which is unsustainable and contributes to the world’s CO2 emissions.
Bamboo frames are made using natural materials which are both renewable and sustainable, as well as increasing the performance of the bike by absorbing the vibration from the road and creating a smoother ride.
The bamboo frames produced in Africa use no electricity in the manufacturing process.
- What are the advantages of bamboo?
Bamboo is a much more sustainable material to build bikes with than carbon fibre for the following reasons:
- fast growing rate (up to one meter or more a day).
- because it’s a grass, it keeps producing new shoots even after harvest and therefore no need to replant
- only a 4-5 year wait before harvesting (not 20 years as for Northern White Cedar)
- grows tightly together (One clump can produce 200 poles in the three to five years.)
- grows pesticide free
- durable material
- it takes in nearly 5 times the amount of greenhouse gasses (mainly CO2), and produces 35% more oxygen, than an equivalent stand of trees
- Where does the bamboo come from?
The bamboo comes from Yushan ("Bamboo Mountain") in Nantou County, Taiwan. It's not an industrial county but focuses on tourism, Tea and of course, Bamboo.
Here is a link to a site that describes the highlights: http://eng.taiwan.net.tw/lan/Cht/attractions/scenic_spots.asp?id=4194&sid=
As a valuable and revered resource, they have been harvesting it sustainably for many years. The same cannot be said for the big Chinese bamboo forests that are harvested for the bamboo flooring.
- How are the frames joined?
The bamboo tubes are joined using hemp fiber and resin, with a smooth finish.
The frames weigh in at 4 – 5lbs, with a complete bike weighing approximately 16-18lbs, depending on the components used.
The bike is made from Bamboo (smoked and heat treated to prevent splitting). Lugs are made of hemp fiber with tung oil.
- How is the bike finished?
It is coated with satin polyurethane for a smooth sealing finish.
- How do you attach the groupsets/fittings?
A metal component is inserted to enable any bike fitter to build the frame into a complete bike.
- What sizes are available?
Pro Road Racing frame:
46cm, 48, 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62, 64, 66
Tri Time Trial and Triathlon frame:
46 – 60cm
Cross frame:
48 – 64cm
Mountain Bike frame:
13”, 14, 16, 18, 20 – each size available with 26 or 29” wheels.
See Prices
Wholesale pricing available. Further discounts possible if buying more than one bike or frame at the same time – please contact us.
Eco Age, Chiswick High Street, Chiswick, London
Eco Age Website
Neil Orrell Cycles, 395 Hollinwood Avenue, Moston, Manchester
0161 681 1517
Alternatively, contact us to see where the nearest bike is to you!
- How long does it take for me to receive my order?
If we have one already in stock, we can arrange immediate dispatch.
Due to the wide range of designs and sizes available, your frame may need to be ordered into production.
Each frame is unique and built by hand using no electricity - the bamboo stems are selected with the rider's weight and height in mind, and so each bike takes about 3 – 4 weeks to make.
Email: bike@rawbamboobikes.co.uk
Phone: +44 (0) 7970 780514
We can accept cheques or bank transfers.
Alternatively, we have a Paypal account.
Yes.
We offer short or long-term lease options to try the bike properly, or for your employees or family to use on a medium – long term basis.
Contact us to discuss your requirements.
