Why wood?
Far more than a matter of aesthetics, it’s a radical choice for comfort, performance and durability. Discover how an age‑old material challenges preconceptions and reinvents the joy of riding.
Comfort through wood’s natural vibration-damping properties
In a conventional steel or aluminium frame, road vibrations partially transmit through the metal, whereas a wooden frame absorbs these vibrations entirely.
Wood’s cellular structure can be likened to an interconnected network of springs and dampers.
This is where wood’s magic unfolds: whilst remaining rigid, the Zafi frame is composed of natural micro‑suspensions that absorb road vibrations and deliver a supremely comfortable ride.
Notable physical properties
With a strength‑to‑weight ratio higher than steel, wood makes it possible to create lightweight bicycles that comply with ISO 4210‑6. This standard simulates ten years of use (three fatigue tests and two impact tests) and ensures “the strength and durability of individual components and the bicycle as a whole”. It demands high quality at every level and incorporates safety considerations from the design phase onwards.
Esthétique incomparable
Beyond its compelling mechanical properties, wood possesses a look that turns heads. One thing is certain: when the sensuality of wood meets performance, riding becomes exhilarating.
Moreover, wood is a versatile material that allows the designer to express full creativity.
Clean lines render each bicycle utterly unique.
Timber sourced from the Sonian Forest and minimal environmental impact
Like trees themselves, we advocate a balanced carbon footprint for each of our bicycles.
Because a beautiful object holds even greater value when its impact on our planet is minimal, we use ash and walnut sourced from Belgium.
“The Sonian Forest is a unique peri‑urban ecosystem of approximately 5,000 hectares on the edge of Brussels. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2017, the forest is home to spectacular broadleaf trees.
Currently, most of the forest’s timber is exported to Asia, generating a negative environmental footprint and almost no local value.”
For these reasons we have chosen to work hand in hand with… Sonian Wood Coop which relocates timber processing and ensures that every stage of transformation is as sustainable, local and fair as possible.
We are a world away from the emissions generated in Asia by the mass production of aluminium, steel or carbon frames.
