Design & Engineering
Creating the very best wooden frame is at the very heart of WOODALPS.
Why Wood, and Which One?
At WOODALPS, we've chosen wood for our bike frames — and that's no accident. Most of our frames are made from ash wood, one of the toughest local hardwoods in Europe and America. Ash has a rich history of being used in demanding applications: it was used for airplane structures in the early days of aviation, in boat building, and it's still used today in the construction of wooden skis. Today, we've given it a new mission: to be the centerpiece of high-performance, elegant, and durable wooden bike frames.
An Impressive Strength-to-Weight Ratio
Ash offers an excellent strength-to-weight ratio (18 MPa/kg), slightly lower than that of aluminum (25.5 MPa/kg). However, its low density, four times lower than aluminum, allows us to create larger and thicker profiles with increased flexural inertia.
The result? Frames that are lightweight, stiff, and strong, while also giving us the freedom to craft bold shapes and unique design.
How Much Does It Weigh?
Our frames are engineered to balance weight and durability. All weights shown in kilograms (kg).
Light and powerful, a WOODALPS frame will carry you effortlessly
on both asphalt and the toughest trails.
Strength Built for Riding, Not Just for Show
WOODALPS frames aren't meant to hang on the wall above your couch (although that's tempting). They're designed for action: whether you're on a casual ride, racing on the road, or tackling rough trails, our frames are made to last.
Every model undergoes a series of rigorous tests to meet the requirements of ISO 4210-2 — which includes fatigue and impact testing.
Here are some examples of our tests:
- Impact Test: simulating a frame drop.
- Fatigue Tests: with vertical, horizontal, and pedaling forces.
Design and Construction
Each frame is made up of at least 10 wooden pieces, precisely machined using a CNC (computer numerical control) machine.
The hollow tubes that form the frame have thicknesses optimized for local stress points and shock resistance. This clever design also allows for internal cable routing, giving the frame a sleek and streamlined appearance.
Carbon Inserts and Assembly
To ensure maximum durability, we reinforce key interfaces—such as the headset, bottom bracket, and seat post with carbon inserts.
The wooden parts are assembled with a high-strength epoxy adhesive and protected by an extremely durable UV-resistant varnish, which shields the frame from weather and wear.
Durability A Frame for Life - and Beyond
Unlike some composite frames, WOODALPS frames show no signs of premature aging. After 10 years of use, our earliest models remain as strong and beautiful as ever. In other words, with minimal maintenance, your frame could easily last a century.
Maintenance As Easy as It Gets
Here's the best part: WOODALPS frames require no special maintenance! Simply follow standard bike care practices, such as cleaning the derailleurs, periodically replacing the chain, and checking the brake pads.
To clean the frame, use water or a pressure washer. Any water that enters the hollow tubes will drain out through specially designed holes. The internal surfaces, also coated with varnish, guarantee that the frame is completely water-resistant.