Welcome to the world of 3D printers
This is Tsukuharu from 3D Fit Studio.
I started making my own parts to satisfy niche needs that could not be met with commercially available parts. Today, I would like to tell you the story that led me to make my own parts.
Tail light installation problems
Ever since I started riding road bikes, I've always had trouble with how to attach a tail light. It felt strange to have a tail light attached with a rubber band on an expensive and stylish road bike. Even after trying several different types, I couldn't find the perfect product.
Limitations of saddle rail taillights
Finally, I found a tail light that can be attached to the saddle rail. I thought, "This is it!" and used it for a while, but I gradually started to feel that it restricted my saddle position. I thought that the only way to solve this problem was to make it myself, so I thought of using the bolt holes that can be attached to Specialized power saddles.
First time making something
Fortunately, I have a background as an engineer and am familiar with manufacturing. I knew about 3D printers, but I had little experience using 3D-CAD or designing. Still, I decided to give it a try. I immediately purchased a 3D printer for about 30,000 yen and 1 kg of materials on Amazon and started making things.
After much trial and error
To make something, you first need to model it. The first 3D-CAD I used had a lot of functions, so I learned it little by little by watching YouTube. It took me a month to make my first model. Even though I had worked hard to make the model, it was not easy to print it on a 3D printer.
Still, I was engrossed in the fact that I could give shape to my ideas at home. I finally completed a taillight holder for Specialized's power saddles. I still remember the joy I felt when I finally completed a satisfactory product after repeated prototyping. At that moment, I realized the joy of making things.
Starting to make things with a 3D printer
Through this experience, I was drawn into the world of manufacturing using 3D printers. The joy of giving shape to my ideas and the joy of seeing them actually functioning. This was my driving force, and I decided to continue making original road bike parts.
Now we are developing a range of products with the aim of providing other cyclists with parts that suit their needs in the same way, and most of our products are based on requests from our customers. We will continue to strive to make your rides more comfortable and enjoyable.
Please take a look at our original parts and let us know your thoughts and opinions. Let's continue to enjoy road bike life together!