Debuting this week at the MADE Show, No. 22 Bicycles’ prototype Reactor aero road bike takes full advantage of 3D printing.
Scheduled for a 2025 launch, this prototype is a bit different than what will make it into production, but we’ll get to that. First, let’s look at the details that are likely to carry over…
The No.22 Reactor has been their race bike, and this next version is testing with 30-40% less drag than their current semi-integrated Aurora model. And that’s only with CFD design so far, but they’ll be taking it to the wind tunnel along with 3rd party aerodynamicists they’re working with for final optimizations.
It’s not just about aero. The drivetrain area is stiffer for better power transfer, and the rest of the bike is tuned for better ride quality to accentuate titanium’s naturally good feeling.
Except for the seat tube, this prototype’s frame is 3D printed from Grade 5 titanium powder as a single piece. The seat tube is carbon fiber, similar to their prior Reactor model, but this one upgrades to an aerodynamic profile. It’s made for them by Ride July.
For production bikes, they’ll use a blend of 3D-printed sections with more traditionally bent and shaped titanium tubes, welding everything together and smoothing where necessary. They say that will give them better control of the final product’s tolerances and allow them to do the incredible anodized finishes they’re known for.
If you’re headed to the MADE Show in Portland, OR, August 23-25th, check it out in person. If not, stay tuned for closeup pics and video here on Bikerumor.
