The Future of Cycling Wheels: A Glimpse into Forge+Bond's Revolutionary Technique
In the world of cycling, innovation drives performance, aesthetics, and the rider's experience. The recent spotlight has turned to Forge+Bond, a Utah-based company that's revolutionizing bicycle wheel manufacturing with its groundbreaking Fusion Fiber technology. This is far from your run-of-the-mill "lightweight," "durable," "carbon" rhetoric. Forge+Bond is not just another brand in the cycling industry; it's a pioneer at the forefront of sustainable manufacturing and a new cycling culture.
Enter Fusion Fiber: A Leap into the Future
Forge+Bond's introduction of Fusion Fiber technology marks a seismic shift in the production of bicycle wheels. Fusion Fiber utilizes nylon instead of epoxy resin, offering several key advantages: it doesn't require freezing, reducing energy consumption and logistical challenges; and it's a thermosoftening polymer, enabling repeated heating and molding without degrading material integrity.
This innovative material allows Forge+Bond to automate much of the manufacturing process, drastically reducing labor costs and making it feasible to produce high-quality wheels domestically in the U.S. But perhaps most impressively, the waste produced in the Fusion Fiber process is recyclable, demonstrating Forge+Bond's commitment to sustainability.
The Manufacturing Marvel
The process begins with the carbon fiber being cut into precise shapes by a machine reminiscent of a "giant Walkman," then placed with unparalleled precision into molds by an ultrasonically controlled machine. This step is not only quicker but also far more accurate than traditional hand-laying techniques.
The material is then heated, molded, and cooled in a machine dubbed the "Fiberon"—a process that significantly outpaces the traditional autoclave method in both efficiency and energy use. The resultant product is a semi-finished wheel that showcases the material's adaptability and Forge+Bond's innovative approach to overcoming the traditional challenges of wheel manufacturing.
A New Era of Sustainability and Performance
What sets Forge+Bond apart is not just their innovative manufacturing process but also their approach to waste and recycling. Unlike traditional carbon fiber waste, which is largely non-recyclable, Fusion Fiber offcuts are repurposed into other cycling components, like tire levers, showcasing an admirable commitment to environmental sustainability.
Moreover, the final products exhibit superior vibration dampening, thanks to the nylon matrix, enhancing ride quality and comfort. This, combined with the efficient and sustainable production process, places Forge+Bond's wheels in a league of their own.
Conclusion
Forge+Bond is more than just a manufacturer of high-end bicycle wheels. It's a visionary company setting new standards for innovation, sustainability, and quality in the cycling industry. At Pronghorn Bicycles, we're inspired by Forge+Bond's commitment to forging the future of cycling through advanced technology and sustainable practices. Their work not only represents a significant leap forward for cycling enthusiasts but also a stride towards a more sustainable world.
Forge+Bond's journey is a fascinating story of how visionary thinking and technological innovation can revolutionize an industry while respecting our planet. We're excited to see where this journey leads and how it will continue to inspire the cycling community and beyond.