Technology
At CHAPTER2 we are sticklers for detail in every process and design consideration needed to bring a new project from idea to a finely tuned race machine. All CHAPTER2 frames use a mixture of T700 and T800 grade carbon from Toray® and 3K directional reinforcement in all joint areas to ensure stiffness and provide performance.
We only use the finest prepreg carbon available in the market, produced by Toray® of Japan, the leaders in composites for various industries from Sporting Goods to Aerospace, F1 and America’s Cup.
Pre-preg is the process of pre-impregnating epoxy resin with both directional and uni-directional carbon fiber which is carefully laid over a mandrel before being placed into a preheated monocoque clamshell mold. During the heating process the epoxy resin flows between the various layers creating a seamless structure, giving the frame its shape and performance qualities.
The monocoque Blow Moulded construction method used by CHAPTER2 is the best and most consistent process used for production of high-end composite bicycle parts. Whilst other manufacturers extol the virtues of customized geometry, in almost every case this is only possible via the inferior process of tube-to-tube construction where tubes are mitered, bonded and wrapped in carbon creating a less efficient strength to weight ratio frame.
All our frames are designed to strict tolerances using monocoque production methods to ensure quality and performance. We utilise a two part stainless steel clamshell mould for each frame sizes’ front triangle, guaranteeing fiber continuity between the all important BB and head tube. The chainstays and seatstays are then bonded with aerospace grade bonding agents to the front triangle under clinical conditions to avoid dust and contamination, creating a unified frame structure throughout.
Each area of the frame has been carefully considered and engineered for performance. CHAPTER2 frames use molded Polyurethane/Expanded Polystyrene (PU/EPS) mandrels in key areas such as BB, dropouts, head tube, seat tube and chainstays that carefully control the wall thickness to meet the required manufacturing tolerances in dimension, alignment and strength to weight ratio.
Aerodynamics is at the core of CHAPTER2’s performance strategies, with extensive testing at Auckland University’s Wind Tunnel. However, different technologies are employed in different ways to create the desired aerodynamic advantages.
The TERE uses Kamm-tail sections to create a stiff and nimble structure due to the inherent structural qualities of the highly engineered tube sections, delivering a light yet aero frame. However, if out and out aerodynamic performance is what you are searching for, the RERE uses a more conventional yet finely tuned aero profile in specific locations, to slice through the air and have you sipping your flat white at your local cafe long before your buddies arrive.
Lay-up pre-moulding control checks.
Moulding consistency test.
Bonding strength test.
Alignment test.
Weight consistency test.
BB, head tube, front and rear dropout stiffness tests.
Painting inspection.
At CHAPTER2 we LIV2RIDE 24/7 365 and we truly believe that the bicycle is one of the greatest inventions ever. Not only can the humble bicycle solve many of the urban ills of traffic and pollution to support sustainable urban development, but it is also a great way to have an adventure and explore roads less travelled and lose a few pounds whilst you’re at it.
We believe that the environment is worth fighting for and have taken every practical step to minimise the excessive and wasteful packaging typically used in the bike industry. The CHAPTER2 box is designed to protect not only your frameset, but also the environment. No foam padding has been used and the minimal design uses the least amount of materials possible.
Additionally, we are dedicated to developing all our design and technologies at home, here in New Zealand where there is a wealth of knowledge and technology in composites and aerodynamics. New Zealand is home to yachting’s most advanced technologies as used in the America’s Cup and other race winning crafts. Our HQ in Auckland gives us a unique advantage to tap into this valuable R&D resource.
Each CHAPTER2 frame and component has been designed to exceed international safety standards (EN ISO 4210:2014) because not only do we want you to enjoy the bike in complete safety, but we also want you to feel confident that our frames can withstand the rigors of any ride, race, gravel adventure or a Paris Roubaix sportive.
