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A Bicycle With a Frame That's CNC-Milled Out of Solid Aluminum

From the "Why Would You Do That" Department

By Rain Noe - November 6, 2020

German bicycle manufacturer Alutech has released an obscenely expensive e-bike called the CNC E-FANES 29/275. The frame is unusual, to say the least: Rather than being composed of welded tubes, it's CNC-milled from solid billets of 6061 aluminum.

The left and right halves are milled as single pieces, and they're then welded together in the center. The welds are left visible except for the one atop the downtube, which has been polished.

You've got your choice of two Shimano batteries: The 504Wh 8035, or the 630Wh 8036. If you go with the 8035, the bike rings in at €15,999.90 (USD $19,000); if you go with the 8036 and order the extra battery option, the price is €17,198.90 (USD $20,448).

Price sound a bit steep? Well, good news if you live where it's manufactured: "For employees in Germany," the product page says, "it is possible to lease this item."

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A Bicycle With a Frame That's CNC-Milled Out of Solid Aluminum

Anthony Towers

5 months ago

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I'm not sure there is a benefit to doing this. There is actually a hell of a lot more welding needed (going by weld seam length) so more heat going into it and more stress

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Gavin Lewis

5 months ago

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The bicycle company Pole (Finland-based) utilized this approach first. Their approach is a bit more interesting, in my opinion. On their "Stamina" series, they glue the two halves together, instead of welding them.

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- Michael Smith
  
  Gavin Lewis
  
  5 months ago
  
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  Yep I think they were the first and it looked very unique and promising but unfortunately seem to be having trouble with frames not holding together very well.
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- Anthony Towers
  
  Gavin Lewis
  
  5 months ago
  
  Z
  
  Z
  
  Reply
  
  ah, Bonded aluminium chassis like the Lotus Elise! thats a better idea
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Gavin Lewis

5 months ago

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Forgot to include the link for Pole Bicycles https://polebicycles.com/

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Rain Noe

I’m a lapsed industrial designer. I was born in NYC and figured I’d die there, but a few years ago I abandoned New York to live on a farm in the countryside with my wife. We have six dogs.