Axalko beautiful wood bicycles - Folding Ebike Model - Video

[MitchJi]

Hi,

http://www.axalko.com/ingles/nosotros_en.html
Two models,Yamimoto (Folding Ebike):
http://www.axalko.com/ingles/yamimoto_en.html
I don't like the Y-brakes and the 250 watt motor and 15 mph top speed .

YAMIMOTO

We've started a joint venture with Yamimoto to develop this exclusive frame for an electrical model....

And (Bat):
http://www.axalko.com/ingles/bat_en.html

BAT

Wood and technology is combined in the AXALKO BAT frame to delight bicycle and nature lovers. The superb qualities of wood (its natural character, surface and microporous texture) and the various possibilities arising from the combination of different types of it, make wood a unique material whose fineness and magnificent mechanical properties are there to aid the enjoyment of cycling.

http://www.axalko.com/ingles/tecnologia_en.html

TECHNOLOGY

Wood is an organic material, a natural composite of cellulose fibres (which are strong in tension) embedded in a matrix of lignin which resists compression.

• 
  − THE LIGNIN makes the cell walls rigid with a compressive strength of 2,400 kg/cm2 higher than the concrete.
  
  − CELLULOSE fibres held together by a lignin binder, with tensile strength of 10,000 kg/cm2, that's superior to steel.

These two elements provide a magnificent weight and strength ratio, new materials (composites, epoxy, fibres) appear on the market trying to copy the technology we have already found in nature.

As in the design of any complex structure, the Axalko Bat frame has forced us to undertake an intensive study of the different forces the frame works against while cycling.

http://www.axalko.com/ingles/proceso_en.html

PATENTED PROCESS
1. FRAME DEFINITION

We study customer features (height and weight) to define frame's weight.
2. MATERIAL SELECTION

This is a fundamental task to select the planks to use by checking the wood knots that we reject and select those planks where wood grain is as straight as possible.
3. SHEET CUTTING

Depending where they are used wooden sheets must be cut in thicknesses from 0.5 to 2.5 mm.
4. WOOD PASTING

This is the most delicate task, and where the Axalko team's experience is critical to the successful completion of the monocoque with the wood sheets.

PRICE?

A complete bicycle with high-end components costs in the region of 6.000 euros.

Video is nice but not very much information on why they consider their method innovative:
[youtube]K5bcqjB3Brc[/youtube]

Published on Apr 17, 2012 by McFelices

Six years ago the Tellería brothers (Aitzol and Andoitz), both professionals in the wood industry and fans of bicycle culture and mountain sport, joined up with fellow professional Enrique Ardura. Together, they were inspired to develop a project that combined their knowledge of wood modification technology and all its potential.

Working from their joinery called Txirbil (meaning 'wood shaving' in Euskera, the ancient language of the Basque lands), the design team came to the conclusion that the tubular fibers of wood were perfect for creating a fast, sturdy bicycle frame. As well as having an interesting natural aesthetic, wood is resistant, can absorb a high level of vibration and can result much lighter than generally perceived.
Axalko is the name given to these new wooden bicycles, inspired by a character from the brothers' childhood -- a quick and ingenious fox who appeared in fables their grandmother told them.

An in-depth study was called for, looking at the effect the various forces would have on the bike frame in motion. Its micro-laminated finish allows for the utmost levels of resistance and rigidity. On the other hand, its hollow structure makes it really lightweight.

The core of the frame is made with ash tree wood, a species indigenous to the region and that can also be found all over Europe, including the Britain and Ireland. The bike has been favorably tested by members of professional teams as well as in two demanding races in France - the París-Roubaix and the Flandes Tour.

Like if it were a luthier atelier, most of the Axalko bike's manufacturing process is done by hand, meaning care is taken over every detail, whether technical or aesthetic. Clients can have their model customized by choosing the colors and laminated finish. Durable, practical and elegant, the Axalko bike sets the bar high for stylish commuting.

When asked about their innovative technique, Axalko's creators simply answer that they have bridled a technology already found in nature.
http://www.axalko.com