MADE features a wide variety of bikes, ranging from traditionally built frames to fully CNC-machined designs like the Paladin AM1. Paladin's founders transitioned from robotics machining to applying CNC techniques to bicycle components and ultimately a complete frame. The AM1 front triangle is machined in one operation using a patent-pending multi-axis process that hollows the top tube like an I-beam, drills out the seat tube, and creates a downtube closed with a double-lap shear joint. The frame uses 7075 aluminum for added strength. The suspension evolved from a Horst link to an elevated chainstay and higher pivot for improved strength and reduced chainslap.
According to Paladin, they utilize a new, patent-pending process to machine the frame using multi-axis CNC machines. Their process allows the front triangle to be machined in one go, with the machine touching all sides of the frame without having to move it in the fixture. The top tube is hollowed out from the sides like an I-beam, the seat tube is drilled out, and the downtube is "hollowed out and closed up with a durable double-lap shear joint."
The Paladin team's origin story follows an arc that is somewhat familiar at this point. After establishing themselves as top-notch machinists for a robotics start-up firm, Paladin's founders utilized mountain biking as their escape from work-related stress. That led them to consider using their CNC talents to create bike components, but they realized that they could take it a step further with a complete frame, which eventually resulted in the AM1.
Paladin also points out that the frame is machined from 7075 aluminum, which is stronger and more durable than 6061 aluminum, which is more commonly used for frames that are welded. Starting with a Horst link design originally, the team found that the chain stay design had to be weaker than desired to make that suspension layout work. So they moved to the new design with an elevated chainstay and the pivot farther up the 'chainstay'.
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