3D Printed "Dagger" Motorcycle (frame)

3D printing is by no means a new technology, although the possibility of it's application is still in its infancy. As the materials used in 3D printing become more complex, the possibilities for the use of this technology become endless. Today at the Los Angeles Auto Show, a 3D printing company unveiled three vehicles built with some 3D printed parts. Two of them were cars but one was a gorgeous custom motorcycle, "the Dagger". Divergent 3D is a 3D printing company with a focus on using this technology to reduce the need for auto-manufacturing facilities that are harmful to the planet. The production of cars, even electric cars have a seriously negative impact on our environment, for this reason Divergent 3D aims to replace the need for factories by printing auto parts. This isn't just better for the planet but is exponentially cheaper than traditional modern manufacturing techniques. While other companies like APWorks and Energetica (maker of the electric sportbike; Ego) already have bikes built with 3D printed parts on showroom floors, Divergent 3D's aim is to revolutionize the auto industry with the Dagger just being a tangible example of the endless possibilities brought on by the rapidly developing technology.

There is no plans for ever producing this bike, the possibility brought on by 3D printing bike parts is a fascinating concept and with further development could become the norm in the future. Again, ONLY the frame is 3D printed, the representative I spoke with couldn't tell me why this was but the rigidity and flexibility needed from a frame speaks to the possibilities for smaller components in the future. Not only that, but they claim their printed material is actually stronger, making accelerating this naked beast of a bike more stable compared to today's modern frames. The company prints parts using a carbon fiber blend and they claim its 50% lighter than "traditional motorcycle materials" as well.

While the specs beyond the engine on this futuristic custom build are a mystery, as is the identity of its builder, one things for sure; it's a beautiful machine. The Divergent 3D rep wasn't positive but was "pretty sure" that the aggressive looking air intakes were actually functional and not just for show. If this is accurate the bike is even cooler. The combination of the chopped bobber style seat and single sided swing arm really highlight the large "floating" rear wheel. It has Brembo brakes, master and calipers, KYB rear shock and a chain that's visible all the way through. The gas tank deserves a second look, it retains a traditional shape when viewed from above, while having a unique silloutte with an exposed hole running toward the top. The high tech frame houses a supercharged liter engine plucked from a Kawasaki H2 incase this bike wasn't bad ass enough already. The 4-1 exhaust, lack of instrumentation and signals all add to the future/minimalistic look the bike readily achieves. The exposed 3D printed frame was definitely an intentional move in an attempt to showcase the technology used producing the frame, making a naked superbike the perfect platform to display their 3D printed work. The seat height is low for a bike with such an aggressive and sporty stance, but the clip-ons up front keep the (would-be) rider in a semi-tuck. Lastly, this doesn't make the bike any cooler, but it was competed less than 24 hours before going on display.

It will be interesting to see how 3D printing impacts the motorcycling world. Will more manufacturers start 3D printing bikes or parts? Will riders be able to print parts they need from home? So long as bikes being made keep looking like this, I'm not worried either way.

(All photos by me)