3D printed bicycle frame breaks records

The original design for the 3D printed bike frame, was supplied by Empire Cycles and Renishaw initially arranged to topologically optimise and manufacture the bike seat post bracket. When this proved successful, Renishaw agreed to embark on a project to additively manufacture the entire bike frame. The final result was a strong, functional bicycle frame that was 33% lighter than the original.

“The metal 3D printed bike was a remarkable project that stirred the imagination and enthusiasm of our engineering team,” explains Robin Weston, Marketing Manager, Renishaw.

“The project was completed about a year ago and the impact it’s had on the popularity of additive manufacturing, also known as metal 3D printing, has been staggering. The bike has travelled the world, been exhibited at trade shows and museums on almost every continent and has now taken its place in the Top Tech section of Guinness World Records."

The world’s first metal 3D printed bike is on display in the UK at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry as part of the 3D: Printing the future exhibition. The free event explores 3D printing technology and will remain open to the public until 19^th April 2015.