MAY 2008: NEXT
THE WOOD BIKE
Remember the iconic scene in E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial where
Elliott and his alien friend fly through the air on a bike,
silhouetted by the moon? With a new steed from Portland-based
Renovo, you might just be able to stage a re-enactment —
minus the alien, of course. Last summer, Renovo founder Ken
Wheeler used his background in airplane manufacturing to
develop Renovo’s line of hollow hardwood bicycles. At
just 16.5 to 20 pounds, they’re in the same weight class
as metal racing bikes, and because wood is a natural shock
absorber, they have a smooth ride. Available in more than 53
varieties, from Brazilian cherry to Douglas fir, the bikes also
look like rolling works of art. Wheeler tested the materials
for durability and says they’re every bit as tough as
metal tubes, too. The frames, which made their debut at the
North American Handmade Bicycle Show earlier this year, start
at $2,000 and can be purchased through Renovo’s Portland
workshop or at retailer Gateway Bicycles. JAMIE HARTFORD
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