Founded in 2013 and based in Silicon Valley, AREVO is a company whose strength lies in its ability to 3D print continuous carbon composite materials, a process that has traditionally required significant time, effort, and craftsmanship. This cutting-edge tech firm has launched an easy-order bicycle campaign via crowdfunding to appeal to a broader audience.

A bicycle unveiled on the international crowdfunding site "INDIEGOGO" (available for order from Japan) is generating significant buzz. Dubbed "Superstrata," this sports bike features a seamless unibody carbon fiber construction. Customers can later input their height, weight, arm and leg lengths on the Superstrata website to easily order a bike perfectly fitted to their body.

The lightweight, rigid, and shock-absorbent carbon fiber frame is a dream model for cycling enthusiasts. However, with prices ranging from ¥5 million to over ¥20 million, it has been largely out of reach. This is the current situation.

Early Bird Discount Available on Crowdfunding!

The sports bike unveiled this time is offered at a surprising price point: starting at $2,799 (approx. ¥300,000) for the standard model "Superstrata C," and $3,999 (approx. ¥430,000) for the electric-assist version "Superstrata E." Furthermore, the ongoing crowdfunding campaign includes an early bird discount, making it even more accessible.

Detailed ordering methods and component information will be provided after the crowdfunding campaign is successfully funded. Here, we will introduce only the specifications that have already been announced. The basic frame design was handled by Bill Stefan Design, known for designing numerous sports-related products, including bicycles, and for being an avid triathlete himself.

Superstrata's most distinctive feature is its construction using 3D printing with continuous carbon composite materials (Note). This means the frame is a unibody, built without any welding or bolts. As a result, a lightweight yet robust frame is produced. The standard "Superstrata C" model weighs approximately 1.3kg, while the electric-assist "Superstrata E" weighs around 1.6kg. The electric battery is housed within the hollow frame, contributing to a sleek appearance. A single 2-hour charge provides approximately 90km of range.

(Note) There are two types of carbon used in 3D printing: chopped fiber and continuous carbon. Chopped fiber is pre-cut carbon fiber, arranged according to shape and solidified with polymer. However, continuous carbon is injected continuously from the printer head, resulting in higher strength and the ability to create complex shapes.

Furthermore, with over 500,000 possible customization options, including choices for body color, wheel material, crank & chainring material, and tire type, combined with a custom fit based on your inputted measurements, the possibilities are vast. Upgrades are also possible after purchase. All products come with a 2-year warranty and are scheduled to ship starting December 2020, on a first-come, first-served basis.

Superstrata Crowdfunding Site
https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/superstrata-bike#/

AREVO's Latest 3D Printer "AQUA"

The reason for offering the carbon frame bicycle "Superstrata" at this price point lies in AREVO's 3D printer, "AQUA." Traditional carbon processing involves numerous steps such as mold design, carbon fiber pattern design and cutting, bonding, curing, and finishing, each requiring specialized craftsmanship.

However, using the "AQUA" 3D printer, AI-driven design algorithms significantly reduce design time. Subsequently, automated 3D printing and finishing by robots achieve speeds 500 times faster and costs 1/20th of traditional methods.

AREVO, a startup with the concept of "Make The World Lighter," can 3D print CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic), which is lighter than aluminum and boasts 60 times the strength of iron. Unlike conventional methods that involve layering while moving the platform, "AQUA" utilizes 6-axis motion, moving the base as well. This overcomes the Z-axis strength limitations typically associated with 3D printers. The software calculates the optimal printing method for each product, creating a seamless, single-line print, resulting in minimal waste and exceptional durability. Moreover, it can produce intricate parts and complex shapes that are impossible to achieve by hand.

Although founded in 2013, AREVO already has major manufacturers in industries such as construction, aerospace, and automotive as partners. In Japan, AGC (formerly Asahi Glass) has invested in the company, and new product development is actively pursued. Incidentally, the Superstrata introduced here is merely a demonstration. This initiative is expected to spark diverse ideas worldwide, bringing us closer to a future where products that transform our lives emerge.