Divergent 3D Unveils 3D Printed Motorcycle: The Dagger

If you are a car or motorcycle buff, it’s time to look more seriously in to the technology of 3D printing. What I’ve noticed time and time again regarding car and bike enthusiasts is that while they might be somewhat aware of 3D printing and all the miracles being produced therein, many of them aren’t yet apprised of all it may be able to do for them, whether printing parts that have become obsolete, are of a new design, or 3D printed from a template. Not only that, with 3D printing, once you get the hang of it, you can look forward to customizing designs affordably and quickly—without going through a middleman. These benefits transfer to the world of manufacturing too, and Divergent 3D is showing us exactly how.

With the Dagger, a streetfighter, you can see exactly how well integrated 3D printing technology is, responsible for nearly all of the non-mechanical parts on the motorcycle—even the trellis frame.

The motorcycle will be on display at the Los Angeles Auto Show. As Divergent has been working to perfect their 3D printing game, they have constructed a carbon fiber structure that they promise is 50 percent lighter in weight than more conventional parts. The motorcycle is safe, high quality, and of course—very fast!

The design for the Kawasaki Ninja H2 is responsible for inspiring much of the Dagger, from the engine to other parts such as the traditionally made calipers, rims, brake discs, rear shocks, spring, and more. Looking toward the future, Divergent’s goal is to begin 3D printing auto and motorcycle parts and supplying them to manufacturers.

The Dagger should inspire many enthusiasts at the show in LA, especially as they realize the speed and affordability with which they could work on their own vehicles, allowing for an infinite number of modifications and flashy innovations.

Divergent 3D, headquartered in Los Angeles, has been well-known in the industry as they are famed for creating the 3D printed ‘supercar,’ the Blade. The sleek, futuristic automobile features 3D printed parts made of metal for the chassis, along with other standard and lightweight parts. Divergent 3D has also established a partnership with PSA Group, a Paris-based group with whom they will be working on other high-tech projects.

The Dagger will enter what is still quite a niche marketplace in terms of 3D printed motorcycles although there have been numerous announced so far, from the 3D printed electric motorcycle to one that breaks records and is quite unlike anything you have ever seen. 3D printing would seem to be a natural progression for the automotive world—and especially to include motorcycles—considering this is an industry always perched on the cutting edge, whether that’s due to technology, new features, or speed. Discuss in the 3D Printed Motorcycle forum at 3DPB.com.

[Source: Auto Evolution / Images: Divergent 3D via Facebook; Auto Evolution; Gearheads]