Filed In: Process
New Project - An Adjustable Bicycle
June 29, 2020 | Chris Blandford
Before I explain the Why, I’ll explain the What. (Nerdy bicycle stuff here--I apologize.) This is the second piece to a puzzle I’m slowly putting together. I’m building an adjustable geometry bicycle. I posted photos of the stem to Instagram few weeks ago, and the fork was next on the to-do list.
You’d think an adjustable rake fork would be easy enough to make. I wanted to accommodate variable headtube angles, however, and so... well... things got a little weird. The fork can be adjusted for use with a frame that has a 65-75 degree head angle. The rake is adjustable from ~20mm to ~90mm (rake is measured perpendicular to the steering axis, so the exact range varies with the head angle). The porteur-style rack was also made to pivot, so as to remain level regardless of head angle. The rack angle and the head angle can only adjust together (not independently), which locks the whole thing down nicely when torqued into place. No front brake. I’m trying to avoid a… umm... cat’s curiosity situation here... and thought braking forces on a sliding front wheel was probably not a great idea. I’m also planning on experimenting with multiple wheel sizes on this bike. It’ll clear up to a 700C x 43mm tire.
...
Continue Reading
