Rhapsodic Expedition

Non-sponsored. Branding is used for demonstration purposes only. Not an actual product.

Thomas Ko

Responsibilities:

Rapha Gravel Cycling Shoes

Hyunjae Shin

Responsibilities:

Rapha Gravel Cycling Bib Shorts

*This page will focus on the development of the cycling shoes

Summer 2027

Brand, Sport, Consumer

RAPHA

The Finest Fanatics

To make the cycling the most popular sport in the world, a few fanatics took matters into their own hands. Rapha delivers the finest cycling experience by combining refined aesthetics with high-performance, enticing everyone to ride.

Gravel Cycling

Turbulent Jeopardy

Gravel cycling embodies the unknown, with the unpredictable turbulence of slicing through the wind and the constant threat of the terrain's unexpected jeopardy that could engulf you at any moment.

Consumer

Tectonic Excursionist

Undeterred by the inherent risks, riders fearlessly embrace the challenge. As they navigate the rugged terrain, they embark on a journey to discover new, unexplored places, craving the excitement of the unknown.

Today’s Journey In

BOSTON

34 mi

4.5 Hrs

7 Dismount

60%

What if mayhem unveils elegance?

Let turmoil reveal

the polished experience of Rapha

Turmoil

=

Unaccustomed Transition

In non-traversable sections, riders dismount, carrying their bikes until a rideable path emerges,

then remount to conquer the road again. Pedaling efficiency is a direct trade-off for foot mobility.

THE POLISHED EXPERIENCE

The freedom to explore unimpeded by obstacles

Core Concept

Flowing Feedback - Constant adjustments overtime.

From dismounting and trekking with the bike (turmoil), and then readjusting for optimal riding, ensuring a polished experience unimpeded by obstacles.

Pressurized piezoelectric pad generates electricity.

“Piezoelectric materials produce an electric voltage when they are placed under stress. This may be a result of bending, stretching, or a variety of other means including when they are subjected to vibrations.”

Source: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/piezoelectric-material

Electricity stimulates 4D printed material

“When exposed to a stimulus such as heat, moisture, light, or electric current, structures undergo a change in material properties or shape over a length of time. These characteristics may be tuned and “programed” into the specimen.”

Source: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/aisy.202100019

Piezoelectric PAD Placement

FLOWING FEEDBACK

4D material placement

Clipping in and out of the pedals connects and disconnects the electric current

4D material structure

PIEZOELECTRIC INSOLE

Rearward shift of the pedal joint for improved MTP mobility

“Placing the cleat slightly behind the ball of the foot often decreases compression of nerves and blood vessels under the metatarsal heads, minimizing the chances of foot and toe numbness. Anecdotally, many clients report this feels more powerful and stable.”

Source: https://www.cyclingweekly.com/fitness/bike-fit/cleats-explained-how-to-set-them-up-correctly-23575