Glenmorangie Original is the first bicycle made from whisky casks. It is result of joined forces of Renovo (known for its eye-catching and functional wood-framed bikes) and Glenmorangie (creators of highland single malt scotch whiskies). Since both brands are renown for their refined expertise in wood, no wonder why this limited edition bike is a rolling testament to the versatility of wood, exceeding expectations on an array of surfaces.
Glenmorangie Original bikes are constructed from Glenmorangie’s retired casks.
The casks are shipped from the distillery in Scotland to Renovo’s workshop in Oregon where each bicycle frame utilizes about 15 staves (of american oak). Each cask is used twice to age Glenmorangie whisky in Scotland before being sent back to Portland, Oregon. The geometry is designed to hold some of the trapezoidal shape of the staves, as well as the curve of the cask, which you’ll see in the down and top tubes – but it’s not all aesthetic. These shapes are combined with Renovo’s smooth-riding hollow frame technology, as well as their “longbow” seatstays, which increase damping.
With hydraulic disc brakes, a compliant carbon fork, and tire clearance for up to 40mm tires, the Glenmorangie Original can be as adventurous as you want to be. The standard build includes a Shimano Ultegra drivetrain and Velocity wheels, while the “Prestige” option comes with with Di2 Dura Ace and Rolf Prima carbon wheels.
Each bike took around 20 hours to create and is available now in a limited, 50-bike run for $6,950 at renovo.com. Each bike comes with assembly tools and a mini-pump.