HI all
I was just reading an interesting article in "Road Bike Action Magazine" about a TDF rider Cadel Evans. He had a bike made by a Belgium manufacturer, Ridley. In the article, they describe a new carbon fiber process:
"Process in which the shape of the the frame is first created using a foam mold. this mold is then wrapped in a rubber bladder. The carbon fiber is then hand laid over the mold. When the frame is cured the foam mold melts and drains from the frame.The rubber sleeve is then pulled from the frame leaving a one-piece monoque frame."
With regard to the Silvio, what are the considerations when determining what to make certain parts out of.... (i.e. either Al, or carbon fiber)? For instance, their was a decision to make the chainstays out of carbon fiber. Are their other parts, other then the frame that might be good to make out of carbon fiber? For instance, the telescoping tube assembly? (Front end is kind of heavy! ) Or how about the seat? Would it be tough to attach to Al frame? Is the consideration just cost?
I am in no way saying "hey why isn't the whole bike carbon fiber?" I realize there is a cost issue.. but is that it? Also tougher to manufacture?
When I read that manufacturing process, it just got me thinking about this...
Thanks
Harold
I was just reading an interesting article in "Road Bike Action Magazine" about a TDF rider Cadel Evans. He had a bike made by a Belgium manufacturer, Ridley. In the article, they describe a new carbon fiber process:
"Process in which the shape of the the frame is first created using a foam mold. this mold is then wrapped in a rubber bladder. The carbon fiber is then hand laid over the mold. When the frame is cured the foam mold melts and drains from the frame.The rubber sleeve is then pulled from the frame leaving a one-piece monoque frame."
With regard to the Silvio, what are the considerations when determining what to make certain parts out of.... (i.e. either Al, or carbon fiber)? For instance, their was a decision to make the chainstays out of carbon fiber. Are their other parts, other then the frame that might be good to make out of carbon fiber? For instance, the telescoping tube assembly? (Front end is kind of heavy! ) Or how about the seat? Would it be tough to attach to Al frame? Is the consideration just cost?
I am in no way saying "hey why isn't the whole bike carbon fiber?" I realize there is a cost issue.. but is that it? Also tougher to manufacture?
When I read that manufacturing process, it just got me thinking about this...
Thanks
Harold
