Dear Lee Valley,

Here is a project I worked on during the summer. The frame was designed using computer-aided drafting (CAD) software and made from four layers of 18mm Russian Baltic birch. There are several hollow sections in non-critical areas of the frame, whereas in the high-stress areas, such as the steering tube and the bottom bracket, the use of custom steel components needed to be designed and machined. The rear chain stay was widened by hydrating the wood, and the use of several jigs and clamps helped to maintain its final shape.

The benefits of a wooden bicycle frame are its ability to absorb road vibration, which it does with great ease, in addition to attracting the attention of onlookers.

Regards,
E.E.
Toronto, Ontario

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