Over the last century, the bicycle as we know it has evolved slowly.
The formula hasnt changed much just two wheels, two pedals, two handles and a crank.
One designer is taking things forward by taking them back.
The main advantage of a wooden frame is the ability to absorb vibrations.
Like a tuning fork, steel keeps vibrating.
Wood doesnt it feels great and solid.
Paul Timmers Wooden Bicycle is different for its material construction and technical roots.
For the most part, wooden bicycles have been seen as a gimmick.
Theyre usually poorly-designed, a series of awkward looking bicycles that are justified by sustainable construction.
Bamboo bikes may be the worst offenders, as they leave plenty to be desired in shape and style.
Paul Timmers wooden bikes are refreshing and progressive by comparisons.
They are visually elegant, fine and modern, presenting an appearance that a rider could straddle with pride.
The artists craftwork and inspiration are the marriage of two separate interest for Timmer.
What inspired you to design a bicycle?
Paul Timmer: Im a fanatic cyclist.
Wooden bikes have been around for quite some time.
It was only a matter of time for me to combine my love for woodworking & cycling.
Also, most of the existing wooden bikes look, well, not so good.
TC: How was the process of designing and building this bicycle different from your other work?
This made the design process quite time-consuming.
Designing a bike is a lot harder than designing a table or cabinet.
But still, Iwanted to keep the bike simple and elegant.
Let the wood make it pretty.
Like my other work.
TC: How does your bicycles solid ash frame compare to conventional metal frames on most bicycles?
PT: A wooden frame is built completely different.
Steel tubes are welded or brazed together.
The joints in a wooden frame need a lot of attention.
I believe wood can be almost as strong and reliable.
Like a tuning fork, steel keeps vibrating.
Wood doesnt it feels great and solid.
TC: For a bike made of a traditional material, your bicycle has a refreshing contemporary design.
What design opportunities does wood present that metal and other materials do not?
PT: Well, wood is very easy to work with.
you could carve the frame in any shape or decoration you want.
But its not my style.
I want it to look strong and modern.
On the other hand, I did make the tubes octagonal.
From a distance it looks like its made from conventional tubes.
These details make wood wonderful to work with.
TC: Are there any other inspiring wooden products youre working on that we should be aware of?
PT: Yes you should, I am working on a windmill.
A wooden windmill off course.
Thanks for taking the time to talk!
you’ve got the option to learn more about Paul Timmers workon his websiteor follow him ontwitter.
Paul Timmer Wooden Bicycle | Gallery
