Renishaw’s metal 3D printing enables bespoke titanium parts for ultra-lightweight Aston Martin .1R road bike.
British engineering firm Renishaw has partnered with bespoke bicycle maker J.Laverack to create what may be the world’s most technologically advanced road bike. The Aston Martin .1R combines carbon fiber framing with precision 3D printed titanium components, resulting in a complete bike weighing just 7.5 kilograms.
Using its RenAM 500Q multi-laser 3D printing system, Renishaw produced complex titanium parts including the headtube, fork dropouts, and bottom bracket shell. The additive manufacturing process allowed for organic, weight-optimized designs impossible to machine traditionally.
J.Laverack co-founder David Clow explained the project originated from Aston Martin’s desire for a bicycle reflecting their automotive design philosophy. “Each frame is completely customized to the rider,” Clow said. “With 3D printing, we can alter geometries and wall thicknesses to millimeter precision without retooling costs.”
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The collaboration highlights how high-end manufacturers are adopting additive techniques not just for prototyping, but finished products. Renishaw’s aerospace-grade titanium manufacturing process ensure the parts meet the most exacting strength and durability requirements, but with the minimum weight.
