The UK-based startup Hummingbird Bike Company selected the carbon fiber reinforced epoxy prepreg from Italian material specialist Microtex Composites, supplied by Total Composite Solutions of the UK for manual laying and vacuum bag/autoclave Carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) tool curing for lightweight folding bike models.
The company said it tried to simplify multimodal transport, avoiding heavy, inconvenient size and uncomfortable "norms". It decided to design a more compact and sturdy composite-integrated folding bike. According to the manufacturer, mainly made of CFRP, the new Hummingbird bike is currently considered to be the world's lightest folding bike, weighing only 6.9 kg.
Key design elements include a lightweight frame and a three-dot fold pattern. The types and layups of composite reinforcement were discussed in detail between the manufacturing and structural analysis teams.
The Microtex X1 Matrix epoxy system was also selected for its structural performance and visual clarity. The loose tool insert is used to create all mating surfaces for the insertion and bonding of the seat/head and bottom bracket during assembly.
The fully cured resin is rated for continuous use at 80 °C. The 2x2 twill weave bi-directional surface pile uses 245 g of fabric, while the unidirectional base fabric layer is 660 g and is also used as a reinforcing reinforcement for high stress areas. The company says it takes about 18.5 hours to produce each bike by hand.
Behind this innovative design, Prodrive continues to specify Microtex, such as motorsport components, among other related products. According to Total Composite Solutions, it has been delighted with Microtex's advanced composite materials and the excellent cooperation provided by UK partner Total Composite Solutions.
Microtex Composites specializes in technology development and customization of wind energy industry, motorsport, automotive, boating, industrial design, interior design and architectural solutions. The company is equipped with modern equipment, chemical laboratories and research units.
The company's product range includes structural composites such as carbon and fiberglass fabrics, binder materials, UD carbon fibers, multiaxial fabrics, resin systems including low temperature, medium and high temperature curing epoxys, FR matrices, phenolic matrices, Auxiliary materials and so on.
