DIY Friction Brifters and Copper front rack experiment

Built this as part of the #cheapbikebuildoff challenge that’s all over instagram. Great opportunity to test out some ideas I wanted to try out!

For the Friction Brifters, I built off the idea from Hufla who released the CAD files to their version of 3D printed/CNCed solution. I modified it so it works with printed TPU which is almost indestructible but also easy to DIY (no CNC required). TPU comes in a variety of flex so I had to redesign it to account for that. Essentially installed to the brake levers but tapping two holes and bolting it on.

I’ll release the files once I polish it up a bit more but the stiffer I make it for these specific shifters, the les universal it can be so it’s a trade off.

I also designed and 3D printed hoods for these Weismann brake levers (sawed off the suicide levers). Totally not worth the time and effort but good exercise of CAD skills I suppose.

The front rack is soldered copper pipes I had leftover from a bathroom renovation. I know it’s completely the wrong material to use and the welds will probably fail over time but it was fun to use up some scrap. Also the diagonal stays were attached via 3D printed TPU parts because I didn’t want to bother getting all the angles right.

The drop grips are also 3D printed. They were a a previous version I made for flat bars and just had it left over. I fit them on and it’s actually pretty comfortable. Just friction fit but holds well.

Any questions, let me know, l’ll probably make a video about the build later! Follow me on instagram @velocityprintworks if you’re interested!