TT-ID

From sketch to 3D and finally to a whole bicycle. The whole project started with a surfacing-challenge in mind. However, I liked the Roadbike headtube section I designed for the 3D-surfacing quite a lot. So, I decided to design the rest of the bicycle as well. In this case an aerodynamic Roadbike. Frame profiles are throughout the same as in the headtube section. Basically, a teardrop shape with a cut-off rear end. This is considered the state-of-the-art shape for aero-Roadbikes. The most important property of that shape is the curvature. Even minor changes result in a noticeable difference. The width and the length, together with the curvature define the Cd as well as frontal surface and, in the end, also sailing effect. That results in a low as possible drag as well as benefits in power thanks to a low frontal area and the sailing effect.

In the current market, most of the Roadbikes from the bigger manufacturers are UCI-legal. That means they are ready to race but come under a lot of rules and regulations regarding frame design, accessories and driving position. Being aware of these rules, I decided not to go with them. For one simple reason. These rules describe a Roadbike for races and racers. How does that effect the private customer that only wants a nice bike to be able to conquer the roads without a race in mind. Also, Strava doesn’t care about your bike being UCI-legal, or not? So why should you care?

What are the most important features of the bike? We have an aero-seatpost with integrated, removable (for recharging) light.  An integrated stem that keeps the horizontal toptube-line intact and can take a dropbar or a bullhorn. Being compatible with the FSA/Vision system, you are able to direct-mount extensions of the series. Also, both handlebars have integrated cable routing in combination with the stem. You can also rout a drinks tube from the semi-integrated reservoir on the downtube. For sure, being a modern Roadbike, the frame can take tires way up to 30 mm. So, a pair of 28 mm tires in combination with high-volume aero wheels is possible without a clearance issue.
 

The design of the frame is in balance by a clear forward direction by the light-edges pointing forwards and down and the soft, fluent side surfaces of the aero profile curvature. Immediately, the completely flat, horizontal toptube top-surface grabs the attention of your eye. It is the only flat surface of the frame. Downtube, headtube, seattube and the seatstays are aero profiled and keep the frontal surface low while being aerodynamic and providing even some thrust with the help of wind coming in different angles. The drinks reservoir that sits as an option in the cradle between the downtube and the seattube, stays in place by hugging those tube sections and being held by magnets. That way it is easy to install and remove while also being held in place securely.