Velo City: Bicycle Culture and City Life

Nic Roberts’ Wooden Bike

Nic Roberts' Woodie

They may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but there’s nothing like a wooden bike to pique the interest of any onlooker. Most ‘serious cyclists’ are dubious until they discover the advantages of a wooden frame and how it’s made. By then, most ‘serious cyclists’ are nothing short of impressed. At the recent Sydney Classic Bicycle Show, I had the pleasure of meeting Nic Roberts, who built this wooden bike for his final year high school project.

Nic is 18 years old and for his Industrial Technology major, designed, constructed and documented a frame made from Tasmanian Oak, Jarrah and Rock Maple. Built from a series of processes including laminating, weight pressing and vacuum forming, Nic had the frame completed well inside the designated time frame. Dependable components were selected but aesthetic upgrades include wooden rims and handlebars by Italy’s Cherchio Ghisallo.

While there isn’t any plans to go into production, Nic’s wooden bike is a testament to his skill and dedication. I trust he got top marks. Massive thanks to Nic and his dad for the photos and story.

Nic Roberts' Woodie
Nic Roberts' Woodie
Nic Roberts' Woodie
Nic Roberts' Woodie
Nic Roberts' Woodie
Nic Roberts' Woodie
Nic Roberts' Woodie
Nic Roberts' Woodie