As one would expect the near 100 year old rubber grips and pedal platforms are in need of replacement. First thing that comes to mind is “Let Google find it”. Maybe there’s someone with NOS (new old stock) or some period styled replacements for sale? Well Google didn’t disappoint, not much in the way of affordable NOS, but plenty modern knock offs. But who am I kidding, I’ve got a 3D printer and some TPU filament and no fear of using them. Besides, it’s another naming opportunity, or really a way for me not to forget the cause I’m riding for (did someone say memory-loss).
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is a flexible and durable 3D printing filament. It’s used for making items that need to bend or stretch, like phone cases, hoses, gaskets, and wearables. TPU is tough, resists wear and tear, prints well, so it’s perfect for grips and pedal platforms.
Design of the grips was straight forward, mimic the originals add the branding, accommodate the 3D printing process, select a color and print. The pedal platforms however required a little more consideration. The original hard rubber parts from the 30’s were rigid enough not to spin on the support shaft. The extruded rubber platform’s square center hole fit tightly on its shaft, between the snug fit and the stiffness of the material the connection would remain solid until the rubber dried out and failed. The TPU was going to provide a cushioned tackier grip from shoe to pedal, but was far too flexible to not spin on the shaft.
To remedy this an ABS center core would be used. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is a strong and impact-resistant filament. It’s great for making durable parts like, automotive components and industrial tooling jigs. ABS is known for its toughness, rigidity and receptiveness to a wide range of adhesives. The ABS core would prevent any spinning while providing a tight connection to the shaft, as good or better than the original. The printed core is inserted and glued into a TPU shell (see photo). The best of both worlds achieved. All that was needed was the addition of some more shameless branding.
The results are pictured here and I’ll report back on the road feel and comfort of the modern meets vintage design. Enjoy your ride.
