Bamboozled by the Masuelli Woodman
Masuelli hand made in the USA Bamboo Bicycles
The Old Hickory Bicycle Company of N0. 13 Lewis Street Chicago, were creating hand built, made in the USA wood bicycle frames about 120 years ago. Today Masuelli Bicycles are carrying on the tradition of USA craftsman made bicycles. The mantra at Masuelli is sustainability. Each hand made Masuelli bicycle is created using sustainable materials like the bamboo frame we've photographed and presented here. Together with the use of sustainable materials, Masuelli use energy saving techniques in the production of their bespoke bicycle range.
No two Masuelli bikes are alike, you're guaranteed to own a unique machine if you choose to ride a Masuelli.
Masuelli believe their bikes are works of art too, "Our goal is to develop green products that will leave the smallest possible carbon foot-print. We believe that a bike is not just a transportation device, but also a work of art, and, a representation of who the owner is."
The range of bamboo bikes manufactured by Masuelli include a 29er, road bike, and cruiser or townie bike. Available with a choice of disc or caliper brakes, in single speed - fixed gear or freewheel models.
This week I dropped in on Dylan at Soigneur Bicycles at Maroochydore, shot the images of the Masuelli and took the machine for a quick spin.
The bike's geometry is so well sorted, the steering is neutral making it a joy to ride, an easy going urban cruiser. The fat carbon fork compliments the rigid bamboo frame. It's the first time I'd ridden a bamboo bike - the whole package is perfect for it's intended use. The Masuelli has it's own distinctive styling, it's a real standout, and guaranteed to be a talking point wherever you pedal. With Old Hickory bicycles still around today after 100 years, you'd expect the latest handmade in the USA Masuelli to far exceed it's one year warranty.
This bamboo cruiser version was kitted out with wooden mudguards and a twined finish at lug and tube junctions. Avid disc brakes, a Brooks leather saddle, Woodman headset, Maxxis Detonator tires, Knog underseat bag, Shimano Alfine crankset, and a Satori Race Fit stem.
If you think you need to add a bamboo bike to your shed and you're in Australia, give Dylan at Soigneur Bicycles a shout. Thanks to Dylan for providing the Masuelli for my own amusement and yours, by allowing me the opportunity to create and share these images with you.