Case Study: ClayMoto – An Interview with Nick Graveley
We’d like to introduce you to Nick Graveley, owner of ClayMoto. Nick loves motorcycles and he’s turned that passion into a successful business and decade-long career. At ClayMoto, Nick works with his clients to bring their motorcycle designs to life in the form of three dimensional clay models. In the past, he’s worked with BMW, Audi, and Honda. Earlier this month, we caught up with Nick to hear about his experience with Memmert products.
Watch Nick in action as he works on a project for Motone Customs. ClayMoto provided clay modeling expertise and consulted with the designer to create a modern feeling motorcycle with simple, classic lines. Following the clay, the model was scanned and then reconstructed in CAD, before going on to a limited series of production.
What Memmert products have you purchased and how do they fit into your process?
At my current client Zero Motorcycles, based in California, we ordered a Memmert UF 160 Plus. This is pretty much the ideal size and spec for motorcycle clay model development. However in my own little workshop in Munich, I have an ancient Memmert S10 that I picked up for 50 euros, but it still works fine! Either way, the Memmert ovens are pretty vital for my day-to-day work. I use an industrial modeling clay that is hard at room temperature and softens as you get it up to the ideal temperature of 62 degrees celsius. Once it’s soft and workable, I apply it to the motorcycle frame and begin shaping it to meet my client’s design.
Why have you continued to use Memmert products?
I assume Memmert ovens are an industry standard. I’ve worked in the automotive industry for over ten years, at many of the world’s leading OEMs, in multiple different countries and Memmert ovens have always been a constant. My favorite feature of Memmert ovens is the ability to program them. I set mine to turn on and reach a certain temperature by the time I walk into my shop so I can get straight to work. Similarly, they’re set to turn off at a certain time, which alleviates any safety concerns I might have.
How did you hear about Wisconsin Oven Distributors, LLC and what has your experience been working with them?
When I was researching where to buy a Memmert oven in the United States, Wisconsin Oven Distributors was the only name to pop up and they’ve been great to work with. They’re very friendly and quick to respond to any concerns I might have. I’m running a small business myself and I enjoy working with smaller companies. The service is unparalleled.
Would you recommend Memmert products to professionals in your industry?
I recommend Memmert ovens to others in my industry all the time. I figure they’re so prevalent in our industry for a reason, right?
What’s in the future for you and ClayMoto?
I’m really interested in exploring more custom motorcycle work. Due to certain advancements in technology, it’s become more affordable than ever before to design and build a motorcycle. So we’re seeing more small companies and motorcycle enthusiasts looking for services like ours.
If you’d like to learn more about Nick, ClayMoto, or their modelling services, visit ClayMoto.com.
