We're running a test batch of WiseCracker LITE bottle opener/headset spacers for 1" forks. These will be called WiseCracker SOLO and should be available on the website shortly. Aimed at the popular single-speed/fixed-gear market, I've already received a few dozen pre-orders which bodes well for future production. Here are the key features:
- Machined in the USA from 6061-T6 aluminum
- 1" [25.4mm] headset spacer
- 0.197" [5.0mm] stack height
- Weight 18 grams
- MSRP $14
Here are some pics from the manufacturing process. The part's inside and outside profiles are CNC-machined out of a 1/4" thick sheet of material on one machine. Both surfaces of the sheet are machined to meet the final part thickness requirement of 0.197" [5.0mm].
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDFvYUnVKyiIaPPSSgqWcrl3xv-MFDmrJ_G33s7n78_tt8dnJt97dWzBU83hjhO-jeJ5pGI1e9LvDyJbRXhLb8ZvKZZkslwblP8Iyrdx9NdLgceq-4FCQX2elym8RDS4yQaJcHwQ/s400/WC+Fixie+Blog1.jpg)
Individual parts are then loaded into a second machine to add the chamfer feature onto the lip of the bottle opener. This step is critical to guarantee the bottle opener works every time you want to open a beer!
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAARcUCJlKXNd-wPijVuyh2xGu0ANcHRjoAJUXKq5x3YLY2krXI0MlC1GCsoWJisBx5PN6KDzEuJGSf2kFrvAJ_HcV9N_1xNSFFnmQqbG0Qxoqt2MboPkClnQpQwHiiRz5sHs_QA/s400/WC+Fixie+Blog3.jpg)
Parts are then sanded and deburred to remove any sharp edges left over from the machining process. Damn I love metal working!