A Bicycle Built of Wood

Michael Thompsons wooden bike has no chain but uses a series of gears to transmit energy from the pedals to the rear wheel.
Photo: Courtesy splinterbike
And now folks, a first in the annals of personal transportation and an inspiration to mechanically minded woodworkers everywhere.
British woodworker Michael Thompson has constructed the first of its kind, all wooden bicycle. Weighing in at 71 pounds, the ingenious two-wheeler is made primarily of birch plywood. Thompson used lignum vitae for the bearings and bushings and a bit old broomstick for part of the handlebar assembly. There is no metal or rubber in it, and no playing cards in the spokes, either.
Thompson built the bicycle to satisfy a bet with a friend, but the pair are seriously hoping to set a speed record (for wooden bikes) once the cycle is up and running. Will it be fair to say the cycle is "lumbering" up the track?
Thompson said it took about 1,000 hours to design and build the bike.
For more photos and a video, check out the splinter bike web page.
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