The SplinterBike is an invention by Michael Thompson. It is a 100% wooden bicycle which only uses glue to hold everything together. No bolts or screws were used.
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History
On September 16, 2010, during the Tour of Britain, Michael Thompson (a veteran wood joiner) suggested to his friend James Tully (an amateur cyclist) that he could make a 100% wooden bicycle. James responded by saying that if Michael would build it, he would ride it.
To consolidate these bold statements the two made a £1 bet.
100% Wooden Bicycle Land Speed Record
On August 18, 2011 the two made a successful attempt to set the 100% Wooden Bicycle Land Speed Record with an average speed of 11.3 MPH (18.2 KPH). Because this was the first 100% wooden bicycle, all they needed was a successful run to measure the speed.
Due to the use of a soft running track and mechanical failure, James was not able to drive the bike to higher speeds.
SplinterBikeHʌɪbrɪd
The Hʌɪbrɪd is a derivative of the original SplinterBike. The idea behind the bicycle was to build an everyday bicycle with as much wood as possible. Some elements of a bicycle, like the drive section or brakes, are simply not realistic in wood. However, the entire frame and the rims are made of wood (walnut and birch).
Thompson T-Bar Frame
The frame uses a T shape for maximum strength, while maintaining the necessary flexibility. Other wooden framed bicycles use a tubular design, making the Hʌɪbrɪd unique.