Bicycle - curved frame?

[Rotch]

I have seen a lot of beautiful bamboo bikes on the internet lately, and that has inspired me to look into making one myself. The problem is that every bike I have seen so far uses perfectly straight tubes. Is it not possible to construct a curved frame? Ideally, I am looking to produce a shape similar to the Basman 346 frame:

http://www.suusbikeshop.nl/2006/img/artikel/B3301.jpg

Is it possible to bend bamboo in such shapes without splitting it? Perhaps multiple thin pieces of bamboo bound together? (similar to rattan) Any input would be greatly appreciated!

- Mike

[bruce rutter]

I saw a sight online- I googled bending bamboo- that shows the process. Basically you start with green bamboo, hollow out the joints with a piece of re-bar then carefully pack the tube with fine dry sand. Then you heat the outer part of the radius with a propane torch and bend the tube on around. I should think that getting curved tubes alinged will provide an added challenge

[CaroleMeckes]

Bamboo does not always grow staight. How about finding some naturally curved pieces?

Carole

[chiapasfix]

I have seen a lot of beautiful bamboo bikes on the internet lately, and that has inspired me to look into making one myself. The problem is that every bike I have seen so far uses perfectly straight tubes. Is it not possible to construct a curved frame? Ideally, I am looking to produce a shape similar to the Basman 346 frame:

http://www.suusbikeshop.nl/2006/img/artikel/B3301.jpg

Is it possible to bend bamboo in such shapes without splitting it? Perhaps multiple thin pieces of bamboo bound together? (similar to rattan) Any input would be greatly appreciated!

- Mike
do you mean something like this?:
http://www.fixedgeargallery.com/reports/handmade2008/exhibitors/calfeedesign/01.jpg

[bruce rutter]

yes you could look for a natuarly curved piece. I've also seen bamboo grown along a form ,giving you the exact bend you want. I have no Idea what happens when you heat treat . I guess you could keep it in a jig until finished.