Woodn't you like to try wood?

A friend forwarded a photo of a wooden bike sighting while traveling in Rome which got me to thinking about the market for wooden bikes.  In 1871 the first “bike” was made of wood, but it did not look like bikes of today--it had no chain and was powered by the rider pushing his feet along the ground.  Today there are over 100 companies worldwide making some or part of a bike out of ash, oak, walnut or beech.   The primary advantage is the unique look and bespoke craftsmanship as evidenced by this photographer traveling almost 5000 miles to Rome only to come back with an image of a bike.  But enthusiasts claim they are also sustainable, durable, absorb vibrations, and safe.  Disadvantages are the cost, from $3500 to $11,000 and also the weight.  What was old is new again.  

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People were watching me as if I was driving a wild sports car. – Gregor Cuzak, Co-founder, Woodster Bikes