The Clam-Shell Build Method
Renovo in Portland in the 2010's used a clam shell design and most other builders since then have adopted it, thinking it was "state of the art" in building wood bike frames. I'm going to explain why this building method is weak and prone to failures…
Tools needed for a BYOB, and who makes what.
First, about the bike in the picture (is that what it is?). I'm picturing it in wood. How about you?In the Build Your Own Bike frame program, we make the tops and bottoms of the tubes, and you make the sides of the tubes. I break down the BYOB into…
Finish, Refinishing and Repair
Renovo bike frames are coated in 4 to 6 layers of clear coat automotive finish. This is the same top coat product that goes on your car at the factory. We use Sherwin William Products called "Finish One". It keeps the wood and the environment complet…
Gertie and the Giant Octopus
I live about one mile from the famous suspension bridge that links Tacoma to Gig Harbor. There is of course a story behind it that makes it famous. Back in 1940, the first span was completed, ending the ferry ride to get to Gig Harbor, or a two hour…
Wood Selection Considerations
Our light wood bikes usually have a dark wood middle layer. It doesn't show though in a profile picture so the impression from the picture is of just the light woods. I need to prepare some video that shows more of the contrast. It is hard to get aro…