our MANUFACTURING
At Able Bikes, our frames are precision-crafted to cater to the unique weight and riding style of individual riders.
The heart of an Able Bike is its lightweight and meticulously engineered tubular structure. Our seamless frame tubes are a testament to the artistry of bike construction. Fashioned from solid blocks of versatile steel alloys, they undergo a series of precise stages, including piercing and 'drawing,' to transform into seamless tubes.
These tubes represent a spectrum of quality grades and weights, each meticulously selected to perfectly complement our matched frame sets for crafting specific bike types. Our steel-made frames, in particular, stand out for their exceptional durability and strength. They exhibit remarkable resistance to fatigue, corrosion, and failure. Surprisingly, steel achieves this while retaining a level of compliance, thanks to its elastic properties.
Beyond its mechanical advantages, steel stands as our preferred material due to its environmentally responsible manufacturing process. Constructing an identical frame from aluminum, for example, would consume up to six times more energy, while a titanium frame would result in an energy consumption as much as 22 times higher. Our choice of steel aligns with our commitment to sustainability and a lower carbon footprint.
This revised section highlights the precision and quality of your frame construction, emphasising both its mechanical advantages and the environmentally responsible choice of materials.
Our meticulous frame construction process involves assembling the tubes by hand brazing, a time-honored artisanal technique that ensures precision and durability. As the frames take shape, they are carefully placed into jigs and meticulously inspected for proper alignment. Any necessary adjustments are made while the frame is still hot and malleable, guaranteeing a flawless final product.
The next step in our process is the application of a protective finish. Not only does this enhance the visual appeal of the frame, but it also serves as a shield, preserving its structural integrity. We begin with a primer undercoat, followed by the application of colour enamel, which imparts a striking appearance to our frames.
To fortify our frames against the elements and ensure long-lasting performance, we take a two-pronged approach to protection.
First, a protective coating is applied inside the frame to guarantee corrosion resistance and abrasion resistance. Then, our frames undergo a meticulous process known as powder coating, providing a resilient and even layer of paint. Finally, transfers and/or lacquer are expertly applied, adding the finishing touches to the frame.
Our commitment to excellence extends to the assembly of components, which is conducted by skilled bicycle engineers. They meticulously attach each component to the frame, making the necessary final adjustments to ensure that every Able Bike meets our exacting standards of quality and performance.
The Manufacturing Process:
-Assembling the Frame
-Tailoring the tubes
-Brazing, welding, and gluing
-Aligning and cleaning
-Finishing
-Spraying
-Assembling the Components
-Handlebars, stems, and headsets
-Brakes, Saddles and seat posts
-Wheels, tires, and hubs