Moccle Keken Katako

Press Kit

Unique Properties

While most high-quality bicycles are developed with speed as the main focus, we made full use of that technology to create a fun bicycle. Focusing on wood, which is a carbon fiber derived from nature, we aimed to develop a comfortable bicycle that takes advantage of its vibration damping and flexibility. High quality and simple functions for everyone, we designed a bicycle that can be displayed in the living room.

Dimensions & Packaging

Width 1740mm x Depth 530mm x Height 970mm

Tags

wooden bicycle, moccle, atelier kinopio

Production Technology

In order to make use of the flexibility of wood, the structure of the frame was designed with a large two-piece structure to avoid cutting of the wood fibers as much as possible. Furthermore, eliminating large changes in the cross-sectional area shape, a smooth and beautiful shape was derived. Wood sheets with carbon fiber is laminated to control shrinkage and cracking due to aging of the wood and improve safety. In addition, it makes balance of flexibility and strength.

Design Challenge

The wisdom of our predecessors is packed into manufacturing. When you study traditional methods, you will find that necessity and coincidence are mixed. That they have been selected according to the times and have reached the present. Bicycles are the easiest and most energy efficient means of transportation that mankind has ever owned. What can we do by using modern technology into traditional manufacturing methods?
1.Traditional Italian bicycle manufacturing + approach of Toyota car manufacturing
2.Composite materials using wood + carbon fiber
3.Traditional metal casting + 3D printing, etc

Think Old+New Hybrid possibilities

Research

A bicycle is a tool that uses human power as a propulsive force. Vibration makes power loss, frame strength transmits driving force. The frame was designed to balance the two contradicting flexibility and strength. For reduce the vibration from the road surface, we examined the route of the vibration and challenged to create a mechanism never before. In general frames are fixed the seat tube to upper members, we invented a free joint using a sliding-bush to the part. Vibration generated from the wheel is not transmitted upward. As the main material, we developed a hybrid material that can easily balance flexibility and strength, and incorporated a structure that absorbs vibrations by bending the entire frame like a bow when weight comes on saddle.

Inspiration

Traditional Japanese wooden buildings that take advantage of the flexibility of wood are strong against earthquakes. And the flexibility of wood and uneven fibers also provide excellent vibration absorption. I wondered if I could make a bicycle that takes advantage of the characteristics of this wood.

Project Duration

The project started in 1999 and the 1st wooden bicycle was made in Osaka, Japan. The 2nd model was made in Nagano and named Moccle in 2012. The 3rd model wooden bicycle started production in 2019, and was exhibited in NAHBS in CA,USA in March, Wood Collection Show in Tokyo in January 2023.

Operation Flow

Moccle is a bicycle that you can easily ride in casual
clothes. A simple design that anyone can ride without a
complicated transmission. Just pedaling with your usual
sneakers, you can spend a relax time at your favorite cafe.
When get home, Moccle's storage space is not a back of a garage with a big flip-up door. By a special display stand, the storage space can be expanded to a living room, and the Moccle becomes a part of your interior.