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First 3D-Print Functional Motorcycle

Published by Cyril Huze June 4th, 2015 in Builders, Editorial and Events.

1printYou heard about 3D printing, a series of various processes used to make a three-dimensional object. A 3D printer is a type of industrial robot using additive processes to create successive layers of material. Objects created can be of almost any shape or geometry. Using 3D printing, someone already a car. And now a “functional” motorcycle by Charles D. Fry of TE Connectivity. A bike designed on a computer, printed in plastic. Add tires and a motor, then take it for a spin? Almost.

2print3print4printModeled as a Softail type Harley-Davidson, the bike measures 8 feet long, and even though it is made of ABS plastic (250 lb) it can hold an amazing amount of weight (400 lb or 2 riders).

The motorcycle has the ability to drive between 10-15 miles per hour using an all-electric motor (1 hp, 750W) which of course was not actually 3D printed. All parts are ABS plastic, including the wheel bearings, handlebars, frame, seat, and more. The wheel bearings were actually the highest risk 3D printed part that TE had to create. The non-plastic parts are the drive belt, the various electronics, some of the bolts and the braking system. (Sources: TE Connectivity. Gregory Clarke CG Lawrence Photography)

7 Comments

7 Responses to “First 3D-Print Functional Motorcycle”

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  1. 1 nicker Jun 4th, 2015 at 12:18 pm

    OK “…Almost…”

    But think about the ability to make your own accessories when Home Depot starts selling 3D printers.
    That has to be the coolest technology since sliced bread.

    And the only barrier is the will to learn.
    (and saving some of your beer money)

    -nicker-

  2. 2 cafesportytc Jun 4th, 2015 at 12:23 pm

    wheel bearings in plastic…. no thanks, but overall pretty neat

  3. 3 Mike Jun 4th, 2015 at 2:15 pm

    I already have the ability to make 3d parts for my rides, in aluminum and steel. 3d printers will have some applications, but wont’ be replacing my mill, lathe, or welders.

  4. 4 Joe Lomanaco Jun 4th, 2015 at 3:45 pm

    Kinda looks like what Pro-One Mfg. is selling these days. Remember Pro-One or Zerox – One as they were sometimes referred to as

  5. 5 Zenaldo Jun 4th, 2015 at 3:59 pm

    “functional” might be a little loosely used here… Im doubting it actually..but….

  6. 6 calif phil Jun 5th, 2015 at 7:50 am

    They could have spent more than 5 min on the wiring harness .

    Pretty neat technology really, i like the creativity that went into this project.

  7. 7 Blackmax Jun 8th, 2015 at 5:07 pm

    My question is “Why” ????
    Thanks, but No Thanks !!!!

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Cyril Huze