3D printing vs. clay models for prototyping motorcycle parts

Clay modeling has been used for decades for conceptualizing a motorcycle design. It wasn’t the only part of the design process. But it was an important part of how a design was brought to life. It’s 2021 now, though. Technology is shifting and changing with the times. Clay models have become the last option for most motorcycle engineers. 3D printing companies have been growing in the industry and are seeing partnerships left and right.

Clay models have the advantage of being infinitely customizable. But they take a lot of time to get just right. With 3D printing, you can save time with the design process. 

Honda R&D Europe has teamed up with WASP. They are an Italian 3D printing company. The partnership is focused on creating a brand-new 3D-printed prototyping process that is finished by hand. WASP is no stranger to using its 3D printing processes in the motorcycle world. Back in 2019, they were already making 3D printed carbon fiber parts for bikes in the Italian Speed (CIV) motorcycle racing championship. 

Even with the help of technology, it is still mixed with the traditional way. Creating with the use of hands. This way you still get the best of both worlds. 

The advent of customizable parts

When the pandemic hit most of you adventurers. Why not use the time to design and build an electric mountain bike? 

One rider, in particular, Grice, was determined to create a battery-powered bicycle. All he started with was his knowledge in welding. He gathered his family and friends to help out. As a mechanical engineer, he applied his lifelong love of taking stuff apart and rebuilding it to multiple projects. As with his bike, Grice designed the prototype for the arm in software, SolidWorks. He then used 3D printers to print the parts. 

The latest version of the dirt bike is in its third prototype and is already fully functional. Grice plans to improve the design even more by 3D printing more parts 

You can avail 3D printers at 3D2GO and start a bike of your own!

Flashforge Creator Pro II 

• Has two extruders that support dual-color printing.
• Its enclosed chassis helps protect your printing against cold and heat from the external environment.

Snapmaker Original 

• Suggested for newbies who want all functions. 3D printer, laser engraving, and CNC cutting. 
• A 3-in-1 3D Printer that includes laser engraving and CNC cutting. 

Making your own motorcycle with 3D printed parts

Who knew that 3D printing could do away with motorcycles? All you need is the proper materials and little patience, et voila! You got your own running motorcycle. 

Just like the electric motorcycle, DAYNA, you can custom design your motorcycle with 3D2Go.

DAYNA was developed for the ‘Barcelona Smartmoto Challenge’. Young engineers created smart designs for off-road purposes. It is perfect for navigating difficult terrain. It can even be connected to connectivity systems such as GPS, Bluetooth and proximity sensors. This motorcycle was assembled with 19 3D printed parts. It used the fused filament fabrication (FFF) from specialist printer manufacturers.

We also offer the use of FFF for motorcycle parts.

Just get in touch with us and leave us a quote,

Send us files in .obj or .stil format in our email address management@my3d.com.ph.  You can also reach us through our Facebook and Instagram pages today!