Triathlon Forum
Login required to started new threads
Login required to post replies
Maybe we could make rules of the thread that you post your sources so people can find the frames if they dig them?
___________________________________
MS: Exercise Science
Your speed matters a lot, sometimes you need to be very fast, where sometimes you need to breakdown your speed.
Although not everyone's bikes undergo the same tests and have to uphold the same standards re: carbon layup. Ergo, some disintegrate and take out an entire field, others do not ;)
I guess tri bikes aren't as bad, you're really only endangering yourself. (Unless somebody's drafting off you, in which case, they had it coming!)
Eli Curt
I'm Professionally Amateur. Are you? Become an ambassador today!
Chimps in Training!
Although not everyone's bikes undergo the same tests and have to uphold the same standards re: carbon layup. Ergo, some disintegrate and take out an entire field, others do not ;)
I guess tri bikes aren't as bad, you're really only endangering yourself. (Unless somebody's drafting off you, in which case, they had it coming!)
...rolls eyes... Buyers justification?
Have any examples of these disintegrating bikes?
Although not everyone's bikes undergo the same tests and have to uphold the same standards re: carbon layup. Ergo, some disintegrate and take out an entire field, others do not ;)
I guess tri bikes aren't as bad, you're really only endangering yourself. (Unless somebody's drafting off you, in which case, they had it coming!)
...rolls eyes...
Keep on rolling champ.
Eli Curt
I'm Professionally Amateur. Are you? Become an ambassador today!
Chimps in Training!
Almost 2 years old. 3 70.3s, 1 IM, plus several shorter distances, still serves me well.
Advanced Aero TopTube Storage for Road, Gravel, & Tri...ZeroSlip & Direct-mount, made in the USA.
DarkSpeedWorks.com.....Reviews.....Insta.....Facebook
--
Sweet ride!
Long Chile was a silly place.
Almost 2 years old. 3 70.3s, 1 IM, plus several shorter distances, still serves me well.
Serious question, doesn't all that stuff on the back act like a parachute?
___________________________________________
http://en.wikipedia.org/...eoesophageal_fistula
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cerebral_palsy
2020 National Masters Champion - M40-44 - 400m IM
Canadian Record Holder 35-39M & 40-44M - 200 m Butterfly (LCM)
No offense but whoever wrote those Chinese characters did a pretty shit job.
[/img]
[/img]
[/img]
[/img]
< Quitting Isn't An Option >
Although not everyone's bikes undergo the same tests and have to uphold the same standards re: carbon layup. Ergo, some disintegrate and take out an entire field, others do not ;)
I guess tri bikes aren't as bad, you're really only endangering yourself. (Unless somebody's drafting off you, in which case, they had it coming!)
...rolls eyes... Buyers justification?
Have any examples of these disintegrating bikes?
I keep asking the same things and have yet to see it. I only know one person with a Chinese build and it's a road bike. He's coming up on 4 years and rides the snot out of it.
The entire event (IM) is like "death by 1000 cuts" and the best race is minimizing all those cuts and losing less blood than the other guy. - Dev
I guess tri bikes aren't as bad, you're really only endangering yourself. (Unless somebody's drafting off you, in which case, they had it coming!)
That's just dumb.
Here was my first tri bike; rode it a lot for 2+ years w/ nary a problem. Only reason it was replaced was because it didn't fit.
Eli Curt
I'm Professionally Amateur. Are you? Become an ambassador today!
Chimps in Training!
I'd be interested to know what they are and how they differ from any given manufacturer.
What is the difference exactly?
I don't know. I have a Planet X Exocet...someone already posted that same frame here that they got from another place apparently (post#4). So no different standards, really.
They provide state-side customer service at least, but it's not very good IMO.
Really? Because I think they just put a sticker on a frame like most companies.
I have not seen any eivdence of open mold frames being dangerous.
But I have read stuff like this: http://velonews.competitor.com/...steerer-tubes_121389
If anything my open mold frame is over built. After two years on it I have complete confidence in the frame.
The difference, from what I understand, between skilled labor and non-skilled extends further than the knowledge of where stress points in a frame are. That's not to say the non-skilled laborer doesn't know where to lay the carbon differently - he very well may! But there's an equal, if not more probable chance, that without the proper education, he does not.
Heck, I don't.
I can't believe I'm alone on this. I feel like I'm taking crazy pills!
...written on my droid, please excuse corrections.
Eli Curt
I'm Professionally Amateur. Are you? Become an ambassador today!
Chimps in Training!
I stopped reading after that, because there was no point.
The difference, from what I understand, between skilled labor and non-skilled extends further than the knowledge of where stress points in a frame are. That's not to say the non-skilled laborer doesn't know where to lay the carbon differently - he very well may! But there's an equal, if not more probable chance, that without the proper education, he does not.
Heck, I don't.
I can't believe I'm alone on this. I feel like I'm taking crazy pills!
...written on my droid, please excuse corrections.
Ahhhh ok, so you heard it from 'them' who heard it 'from some guy' who saw it?
I hate to feed the troll, but this is the epitome of a Slowtwitch post: know nothing but post anyway. Over on roadbikereview there are a couple of guys who have visited the factories, with pictures, and all of them were amazed by the frame testing. Now do they do wind tunnel tests? - I highly doubt it. Also, many of these frames are produced by the same companies/workers that build your "trusted" name brand bikes. After the work day is over, they switch the molds and build these bikes for extra income - sometimes using the old brand bike molds - illegally of course.
There are over 10,000 posts on roadbikereview about Chinese frames and only 1 guy has ever really had an issue. He is the same guy who sanded down his steerer tube to get a crown race to fit. Meanwhile there are countless posts of guys with branded frames that have had issues with frames/ forks breaking. The Trek debacle comes to mind.
While there probably are factories that produce crappy carbon frames, the bikes most people are buying are from the reputable companies.
Good answer, I like that.
Question: what's more comfortable, steel or ti?
Eli Curt
I'm Professionally Amateur. Are you? Become an ambassador today!
Chimps in Training!
As a point of reference I have been at this silly game since 1986 so have ridden a lot of configs and materials. I have ridden everything from steel to ti to alum to carbon. In general it's an impossible question to answer for anyone except the person riding it. As long as the bike has a carbon fork on it I cannot tell a single bit of difference. I raced a Pinarello Columbus SL tubed road frame for years and when I put a Time carbon fork on it around '91 it rode every bit as comfy as my Madone did. The most comfortable, pleasurable ride I have ever owned was a Merlin Extralight/Kestrel EMS fork.
All these terms like vertical compliance and whatnot. Meh, I wish I was that sophisticated and dialed in to say I noticed such things, but alas I'm not. I do know any time I ride a bike w/o a carbon fork I can immediately feel the difference when the roads are not perfect.
I'm drooling.
NCCP certified Comp coach
"Faced with the choice between changing one's mind and proving there is no need to do so, almost everyone gets busy on the proof." - John Kenneth Galbraith
This goes for several people in this thread rocking Zipps on Chinese carbon.
If I was to buy a $3k complete bike,say a Trek 5.2 they come with Alum. rims,great bike not so great wheels.I do some group rides but most of the time I ride alone and really enjoy the performance of race wheels.I will also use this bike next year for some sprint/Oly tri's.I work in a bike shop and that being said can not afford a $3k bike.
You would be surprised at the ride and quality of these frames.These frames are a great option for people who enjoy building something different and not your typical bike off the showroom floor.
They also sell via Ebay (e_baygoods)
To the other dude, Livetotri, you talk shit. This is my only bike as I don't have room for another in my NYC apartment (esp when GF has 3) and as such I ride it all the time and have hit numerous potholes, etc, on the crappy roads that exist in Manhattan and even hit a SUV head-on, at about 15 mph, on the WSH bike path (it crossed in front to enter one of the ferry piers)....guess what, bike is still perfectly fine.
This goes for several people in this thread rocking Zipps on Chinese carbon.
But I guess I just still don't understand why you would choose the Chinese frame if you are willing to spend a LOT of money elsewhere. You could have gone Ultegra or 105 and made up the cost for a more expensive bike (you could go used since you won't have a warranty either way).
I understand the people that go with a Chinese carbon frame and wheels on a budget, they get the look and a a good bit of performance for very little money. The other guy that responded said he got the used wheels really cheap and the rest of his build was not extravagant. But you are touting the weight of your bike and how awesome your Dura Ace/Red build is with 404/Disc, then you still spent a lot of money, just not on the frame.
Although not everyone's bikes undergo the same tests and have to uphold the same standards re: carbon layup. Ergo, some disintegrate and take out an entire field, others do not ;)
I guess tri bikes aren't as bad, you're really only endangering yourself. (Unless somebody's drafting off you, in which case, they had it coming!)
Just as a question... don't you ride two aluminum bikes? So now you're the self-proclaimed expert on carbon layups on bikes you've never seen... because your roadie buddies told you 3rd hand information? Gotcha.
I have put about 8,000 miles on a Chinese road bike. I've hit potholes that cracked the guy behind me's wheelset, I've ridden 1,000 miles of dirt (a couple of Roubaix-style races), and many of my local rides include dirt that can be anywhere between rattle your teeth out and smooth. Knock on wood, I've never crashed it, but have flown with it four times and done 1,000 miles on small roads in southern California. I've hit 59 mph on it, and race it 2-3 times every weekend (including two seconds, two thirds, several fourths, and even a win).
I know you're a lost cause, but I also know that you've never ridden a unbranded Chinese frame. If you don't like 'em, fine. Please continue to ride a hand-me-down P2K, but stop talking about how much Chinese carbon assplodes when you've never ridden one, much less seen one explode.
That said, I need to go help out a teammate. Apparently, his Cannondale SuperSix just developed a huge crack on the top tube. Huh. How timely.
Thing is, before this bike I had written off my previous 2 brand frames from crashes (road bikes, less than a year apart)...neither my fault, a car and a person...plus when I got this I wasn't sure about tris so wasn't willing to spend. Skiing is my number one thing and that is expensive and takes most of my income, especially when I usually ski outside of the US (bigger and better mountains).
Spending $500 or $5000 is a big difference for not much benefit with a frame. $700 or $2000 on wheels isnt so big for more of a benefit.
Although when I did buy my frame the hidden brakes and stems, etc, weren't common place even on the most espensive frames so the differences were smaller. Nowadays the benefits maybe, probably are, greater until the Chinese catch up...I think some have the bb brakes now but haven't seen any with the stem/fork stuff.
BTW, for those interested the roadbikereview forums have a massive thread on all the different Chinese carbon frames. Currently on the 6th thread.
http://forums.roadbikereview.com/...on-6-0-a-272806.html
I'll tell you where I'm coming from: I was considering riding one of these to save me some money, and when I ran it by my LBS's team, they went crazy on me. Something about a disintegrated fork taking out an entire field and ending their captain's season.
There was an awful lot of yelling and I got hit a few times too.
So no, I have no particular knowledge on the subject, nor am I an expert, nor have I ever even ridden one of these. But nor do I claim to be a maven. I just know a guy who really hates them because of personal experience.
...sheesh.
Eli Curt
I'm Professionally Amateur. Are you? Become an ambassador today!
Chimps in Training!
But I guess I just still don't understand why you would choose the Chinese frame if you are willing to spend a LOT of money elsewhere. You could have gone Ultegra or 105 and made up the cost for a more expensive bike (you could go used since you won't have a warranty either way).
I understand the people that go with a Chinese carbon frame and wheels on a budget, they get the look and a a good bit of performance for very little money. The other guy that responded said he got the used wheels really cheap and the rest of his build was not extravagant. But you are touting the weight of your bike and how awesome your Dura Ace/Red build is with 404/Disc, then you still spent a lot of money, just not on the frame.
Because he wants to. Because he's riding his bike. Yay for him! If more people loved their bikes like this guy, the world would be a better place.
You're operating under the assumption that Chinese frames are lower quality. I will concede two points:
1) Chinese carbon is probably not wind-tunnel tested.
2) They are less quality-controlled. I have witnessed this in that the finer points tend to be less perfect - routing isn't perfect, or my rear brake needed some sanding.
But you're posting on a forum where the accepted wisdom is to buy the nicest tri-bike you can and then slap a $100 plastic wheelcover on your training wheel, because it's essentially as fast or faster than a $1,500 rear wheel. Why? Because people don't hate their money. This is exactly the same case - it has yet to be seen that a $9,800 R5Ca will offer you any real advantage over a $600, 300g heavier Chinese R5 copy. In fact, according to most roadies, the Chinese frame would be MORE RACEABLE, because it's going to be overbuilt and stiff as hell, just like all of the Chinese frames.
This is the same argument as "why spend $2,000 on Zipp wheels when you could just train harder?" The answer to that is "why not train harder AND buy the equipment?"
Let me give you some anecdotal evidence: My teammate spent $1,200 on a used Trek Madone 3 series - a carbon frame with Shimano Tiagra / 105 blend. I built a Chinese frame for $1,300 with Dura-Ace 7800 and Nevuations. Which bike is going to be more raceable? Does it make sense to ride $1,500 wheels on either of those bikes? No. Honestly, it doesn't make sense for Jeff to ride any race wheels. The dude's afraid of riding in groups, so he brakes around corners.
One last thing: Why would triathletes even bother with Red or Dura-Ace? We've already talked ad nauseam about how weight doesn't matter in a tri, so every triathlete, from an economic perspective should be riding Force or lower, since Force shifts just well as Red. And let's talk about Ultegra 6700 - there was talk about how the 2010 version of 6700 was engineered after 7900, so it actually shifted BETTER. So from your perspective, we should all be riding P5s and Shiv Tris with 105/Rival?
Quit whining about how people build their bikes, and build your own how you want to.
BTW, the R5 clone kind of is out 780 grams, T1000 carbon, internal cabling. Model is FM066-SL for around $600. Looks nice. Scroll down the page for pics in the link:
http://forums.roadbikereview.com/...6-0-a-272806-30.html
I'll tell you where I'm coming from: I was considering riding one of these to save me some money, and when I ran it by my LBS's team, they went crazy on me. Something about a disintegrated fork taking out an entire field and ending their captain's season.
There was an awful lot of yelling and I got hit a few times too.
So no, I have no particular knowledge on the subject, nor am I an expert, nor have I ever even ridden one of these. But nor do I claim to be a maven. I just know a guy who really hates them because of personal experience.
...sheesh.
Angry? I suggest you work on your reading comprehension.
I'm sure your LBS' team loved the idea of you building a Chinese frame, since you essentially said, "Hey, I'm going to buy a bike. But don't worry, I'm going to cut you out of the deal entirely; I'll buy the frame direct from the manufacturer, thereby removing your biggest cash cow, and also probably buy the build kit used. Heck, I'll even source the bars and saddle from somewhere online, since it's cheaper than buying from you." There is a gentleman on RBR's forums who owns a bike shop and has ranted and raved at everyone in the forum about how Chinese builds steal his business.
And then, you've got a guy whose fork broke and hurt one of their teammates! And forks ONLY break on cheap Chinese frames, definitely.
You've admitted twice that you're spouting off second-hand information. I'm telling you that 4-5 people here have put serious mileage on these bikes and their frames haven't snapped in half yet. Honestly, if my fork was going to break in half, it probably would have done it sometime in the past 8,000 miles of hard riding.
Exact words from my buddy’s mouth: "You would be blown away by how many Chickens are Crossing the Road." And I said "why?" His reply, "The market is changing. Advertising is being changed by the consumer and in some cases people within the company learned that less is more. There is a market for non-branded articles all across the world. Consumers still want things but they want more things for less. Do you know why the Chickens are Crossing the Road?" I obviously said, "To get to the other side?" He laughed and said, "No dumb ass, to make more money. No advertising. No pro sports team. No mark up. Not extras…just more money and no one will chase them across the road."
Our conversation ended with black and white; the same area that was once grey for me. The Apple's of the industry strategically place their items in and around release dates of others. People weigh their options. Some go low and some go high. He insisted that cycling manufactures purposely set up new shops across the street. They can weigh marketing accounts against each other. The can see how advertising either adversely effects their corp. or enhances it. He said that 100% of the articles that demand "clear visibility for possible high human accidents" are often heavier and over built in a way that makes them much stronger. He said their highest recalls were things like mops, toys and even hospital plastics. He said things like shoulder pads, chest protectors, bike, helmets, wheels, and other sporting equipment were beyond expectations 100% of the time.
Every one of these companies purchase their resins, carbon fiber, and open molds from the same manufacturer. Every bike is essentially a pop-out. Non-branded bikes usually don't offer different fits within a line. Most molds are copied and allowed to do so because the owner sent someone that was highly qualified employee in their ranks across the street so that he didn't leave and start his own company. In the USA, people are suing-happy and would have your neck for a mock-off SHIV. Not in China. Goal #1 is to be the export king. And so they are...
So like it or not and believe what you want, but we are all on the same ride. I have never heard of anyone riding in a pack and then their rear chain stay seemingly broke off...unless of course you’re on a Madone and your name is Lance Armstrong during the Le Tour De France. While climbing at 13.5 MPH and his handlebar clipped a bag, he fell, not hurt, and broke his Chain-stay IN HALF. Oh, that was a Madone made in the USA. Go figure? (Dont HATE ME, I love Lance and Madones)
Anyways, I have been building these "China-Rides" for my High School Triathlon Team. They are great and easy to build. I have some kids building full on China frames, China wheels and micro-shift for 1K. They are XC runners and swimmers. They are loving it and I can't get them a similar hook-up then the better known "name-brands."
Here is my latest build. We just ordered an 88 china-front-wheel and put some black leather tape up top (orange was from his old build)
My problem is I really want one, but the guy who this happened to is currently "training me" (whatever semblance of training you could call it, I don't really lend people much to work with) and he keeps telling me if I want to save money, shell out for a caad9 frame they have lying around in the basement.
He's training me because he wants me to race with the team next year. I can't be riding one of these if I'm on the team I guess...
Especially that one...it's so pretty I really like the R5.
Eli Curt
I'm Professionally Amateur. Are you? Become an ambassador today!
Chimps in Training!
How's your buddy feeling?
Eli Curt
I'm Professionally Amateur. Are you? Become an ambassador today!
Chimps in Training!
My problem is I really want one, but the guy who this happened to is currently "training me" (whatever semblance of training you could call it, I don't really lend people much to work with) and he keeps telling me if I want to save money, shell out for a caad9 frame they have lying around in the basement.
He's training me because he wants me to race with the team next year. I can't be riding one of these if I'm on the team I guess...
Especially that one...it's so pretty I really like the R5.
A CAAD is about the best decision you can make, especially considering that it won't end a friendship. They're about the same price as building a Chinese carbon from the ground up, they're very, very nice frames, and since you're a triathlete-turned-bike-racer, it'll stand up to crit crashes (no offense, but I come from the same lineage).
How's your buddy feeling?
Upset. The shop is deciding whether or not they'll warranty it.
You have a problem in your situation as you definitely cant go the Chinese way without pissing him off.
Eli Curt
I'm Professionally Amateur. Are you? Become an ambassador today!
Chimps in Training!
I really do like that frame. I've compared it with the venge and there are some pretty obvious differences around the head tube / top tube area and I believe that the seat clamp is entirely different. So, from a far it does resemble the venge, but there are some easy-to-spot differences. I'm also not keen on mislabeling this as a specialized, regardless of how close it looks.
If I'm not mistaken, did you buy this during one of the group buys on velobuild? Did that go well (I guess what I'm saying is was it worth it to join a group buy)? I've signed up for the 3rd group buy and we'll see how that unfolds.
However, I think you missed the point of my statement, and in your case when you are trying to penny pinch to get a race worthy bike for $1300 it makes sense. I originally thought one of the bikes had brand new Zipp wheels and I asked why the person decided on that build. I didn't say, "you moron! why!" I just wanted to know.
NCCP certified Comp coach
I have HED wheels. The only thing I have ever ridden in races. I know tons of people riding china-wheels. I must be honest: the entire build is not quite as nice, but they look cool. I have kids that bumped 1-2 mph in tri's and TT's, but they are kids and they get faster just from getting older.
I want to get a pair of 88's for my road bike, but even being cheap, they still cost money. Money I am now spending on a newborn instead. Someday I will try out a pair and see if I can make my own little review.
I would be willing to bet that if I am fitted correctly, the frame and wheels don't mean shit. I would be willing to bet that I could ride Sora just as fast Dura-ace. I will also bet that an aero helmet and proper clothing is a better upgrade then anything else on the bike, yet 90% of people look at it last!
Here's a place that I've seen it.
http://www.gotobike.com.cn/...06&previd=500027
Awesome
TRP
A700
They all seem to be of the same design
They have never been installed but have been banged up a bit in the parts bin. PM me if you are interested in one of them. I am pretty sure that I have a shorter bolt for the T925. I was going to install it on the front of my bike but decided to go with something else.
Shifters are Rival. Crankset is FSA SL-K. Bars are Chinese. Wheels are Hongfu 50mm tubulars with Powertap rear and Sapim CX-Rays (mostly used in crits and road races). Brakes are TRP/Tektros with one of their new models (more to come later). Weight for complete bike is 17.0 lbs (w/pedals). When I get more time, I post complete details. Thanks.
"Most of my heroes don't appear on no stamps"
Blog = http://extrememomentum.com|Photos = http://wheelgoodphotos.com
I have not seen or used the china-aerobars yet?
Report?
Thanks
For folks asking about the aerobars, do a search ST and the RBR forum and you should find several posts about them.
"Most of my heroes don't appear on no stamps"
Blog = http://extrememomentum.com|Photos = http://wheelgoodphotos.com
I'm also interested to know if the back wheel cut out actually covers the tire width?
I'm also interested to know if the back wheel cut out actually covers the tire width?
I am not sure what your frame your talking about, but all of the china-frames I built up cover the tire completley, but, most do not except my HED jet disc. From I have seen, most china-frames do best with a disc cover.
Input, peeps?
Twitter - Instagram
Officially for sale, S5 arrived today.
It's about the same fit as my 58cm p2sl, just 1cm less stack.
I've ridden a half, 3 olys, and several sprints on it. I'm a slow big guy so take my opinions lightly.
Problems:
The rear brake is under the BB and it's hard to make work. I've got a simkins egg brake and it's so-so.
The seat post holder is inadequate for my 195lbs. I put a shim in and got slightly longer bolts and it works well now.
The rear derailleur cable stop likes to slowly snug into the carbon, and this leads to repeated cable adjustments at the beginning to get it right. It shifts fine now.
It looks great, handles well, has a convenient flat toptube (for my darkspeedworks bag), cost me $500ish.
I'm currently going back to my p2sl for more stack (Giving in to my 40 y/o need to sit up more), but I'm looking at the Miracle Trade MC055 Cervelo S5 ripoff frame to sort of follow Tom A's build.
Cheers,
steve
Lisa from Miracle Trade said this model won't be available in 56cm until end of April.
Any information is appreciated since I am trying to pull the trigger on this new frame and I want to do the research first. Thanks!
I had/have a little trouble finding the correct brakes for the frame. Lots of guys have had better luck I, just do your research.
The biggest problem was with the front caliper. I bought the tektro/TRP setup. Rear mounts up fine, though id prefer a center pull. Front, rubbed the tire, ended up using road caliper.
Not a huge deal. Just be diligent.
Also, assuming you are buying from CarbonZone on ebay, get the headset and steerer tube spacers at the same time.
These guys are GREAT to deal with, but any emails will take 12hrs (almost exactly) to respond, and will most likely come at 3am.
I will try to attach a pic of my build......
Apparently I'm too dumb to post pics! :) If you can tell me how, I will.
Michigan Awesome
Hand2Hand Ministries
I'm too dumb to know how to post pics, and Im at work, so it would have to wait til i get home as well.
you can email me if you'd like
krozema2003@gmail.com
Michigan Awesome
Hand2Hand Ministries
Can anyone tell me how much these frames cost and how to go about buying one? I love the look of this frame and would consider building one for fun -
This is where I got mine.
Ask for headset and spacers at the same time. Just easier.
Mine took less than 7 days to arrive USPS. Midwest delivery.
let me know if i can help any further!
Michigan Awesome
Hand2Hand Ministries
Input, peeps?
I have built 9 bikes for friends using the top image. No issues.
like components and such, this will be my first build and i dont want to miss anything.
-Andrew Saar
It is better to do the right thing and be paid poorly,
than to do the wrong thing and be rewarded richly.
Michigan Awesome
Hand2Hand Ministries
-Andrew Saar
It is better to do the right thing and be paid poorly,
than to do the wrong thing and be rewarded richly.
1) since the bike isn't branded is it legal for use in all events?
2) is it better to buy these bikes off of ebay? that way paypal is present in case of failure?
1) since the bike isn't branded is it legal for use in all events?
2) is it better to buy these bikes off of ebay? that way paypal is present in case of failure?
1. I don't see why it can't be used. The website says it's "UCI proven". I don't know enough about the rules to answer that question
2. This frame isn't found an eBay so I had to contact the supplier directly. Transaction went smooth, communication was great, and I received the from in about 7 days.
1) Approx what would be a cheap(ish) total cost to finish the build
2) How much would that compare cost-wise to a name-brand bike of similar-quality components.
Almost 2 years old. 3 70.3s, 1 IM, plus several shorter distances, still serves me well.
Other than all the rubbish hanging off the back of it thats a lovely looking bike. I've never seen one that isnt hanging off the wall in 'The Bike Shop'. I was considering one myself but it has a pretty slack seat tube angle IIRC. something like 75 deg.
I built this in 2008, Taiwanese frame that a guy here in Aus was importing. Cost me about $4k Australian to build which was a good price here at the time with carbon wheels. I got a force road gruppo off ebay for $1k sold the shifters for 400 and bought the bar end shifters from PBK for 150. I used the USE Tula aerobars.
I have ridden it for 1000's of km and never had any issues. I have ridden it in Challenge Cairns last year for a 5:04 split on a course which was 184km instead of 180 so that was sub 5 hour pace for the correct distance. I have ridden under 1 hour for olympic distance and I have the TT club record for the last 3 years for 100km in 2:31. I have also done a 2:22 HIM split. This bike is as fast as any other I reckon. Could build similar a lot cheaper these days though. I like that I have something different from most people :)
I also built up a chinese pinarello last year for $1500 with ultegra. Its a great bike and rides perfect. Finishing was not as good as the TT bike though.In the time I have had my TT bike a lot of my friends have had Branded bikes crack. Im not saying that the chinese ones dont crack but I think the quality is equal. Just my opinion.
I dont earn enough money to line the pockets of the corporations so I go the budget option, If I had a lot more money I would buy a shiv purely because I think they look good, not because I think there would be any performance difference.
Edit to add pic
Almost 2 years old. 3 70.3s, 1 IM, plus several shorter distances, still serves me well.
Serious question, doesn't all that stuff on the back act like a parachute?
Don't know, I'm too slow to notice. :-)
One thing I'm sure of though is that I avoided DNF in one of my 70.3s using those "luggages" . :-)
BTW, I believe the original buyer bought the frame from CarbonZone on eBay.
-----
Blazeman Warrior - so others may live
Live more than your neighbors.... Bark at the moon like the wild dog that you are.... And by all means, whatever you do, get it on film.
If I'm not mistaken, did you buy this during one of the group buys on velobuild? Did that go well (I guess what I'm saying is was it worth it to join a group buy)? I've signed up for the 3rd group buy and we'll see how that unfolds.
I'm in on it too. What are you doing for finish/paint?
I was thinking of just going Matte 3k and then putting on my own decals...likely black glossy decals for the "stealth black" look but I might go grey/while on the inside of the stays/fork and a line down the top of the top tube. Can't decide yet.
The grey accent on the interior parts of the frame are also pretty appealing. I like the way that planet X has done this to some of their frames.
https://plus.google.com/.../5676680232893595217
Mostly the down tube, stays and fork. I think it looks amazing but ELRM means nothing to me so I'd be putting in my own stuff there.
Any information is appreciated since I am trying to pull the trigger on this new frame and I want to do the research first. Thanks!
There is a site (not sure if I can say the name of it on the forum) that sells the Dengfu FM018 (the first one pictured in the grass) complete. It is the same bike as the carbonzone tt01. Here are the components listed.
Components
1.Component Group:~ 2012 Sram Rival 10 speed
~
2.Brake Lever Set: ~Brake Lever Set Aero 500 Pair Red
3.Shifter Set Levers: Shifter Set TT 500 10sp Rear Friction Front
4.Front Derailleur: Front Derailleur Braze-on Rival Black
5.Rear Derailleur: Rear Derailleur Rival Black Short Cage
6.Front Brake:~Tektro R530
7.Rear Brake:~Tektro R725
8.Crankset:~Crank Set Rival OCT MirorBlack w GXP Cups 68 172.5 53-39
9.Pedals: Not included
10.Bottom Bracket: ~BB GXP Team Cups English BB68
11.Cassette: Cassette PG-1050 11-23 10 speed
12.Chain:~Chain PC 1051 114 links PowerLock 10-speed
13.Saddle:~Selle Italia XR Flow(carbon saddle are also available)
14.Handlebar:~ Carbon Aero Bars 31.8*420mm
15.Handlebar Stem:~FSA Aluminum wrapped carbon 4-bolt 100mm~
16.Headset: NECO 1-1/8" Headset
~17.Wheels:~700C Carbon Fiber Clincher Wheelset
~18.Hubs:~Front Hub: Novatec A291SB(77g)
purchased from a manufacturer called Archteks Ltd. on Alibaba.com for $425
Same frame as seen on Page 4 of this thread
Force RD, 1050 cassette, Force Crank 170 53t
Neco tapered headset, KMC x10sl chain, xpedo pedals
HED aerobar (original), cosmic carbone sr's
yokozuna cables/housing
I have yet to find compatible brakes though, I just got a pair of r725's for 50$ on eBay, but the front doesn't fit at all, the rear brake seems to fit fine behind the fork, but obviously i cant mount it because the hardware is different. I tried swapping the mounting bolts, but it just won't work.
As you'll notice the hole on the front of the fork is larger than the one in the back, Tektro's website said somewhere that the r725 was made specifically for this type of setup.
the rear r725 brake fits great under the BB, but the cable noodle extends into the crank no matter what side it's on, and the brakepad bolt slightly interferes with the chainring.
Per Allenpg's posts...(he's got the same frame as me)...looks like i'll be getting a TRP t925.1r for the rear
Allenpg - how did you manage to get the rear r725 onto the fork?
Here is the TRP T925.1R
Yeah I shave my legs, so what? I shave my arms too.........
purchased from a manufacturer called Archteks Ltd. on Alibaba.com for $425
Same frame as seen on Page 4 of this thread
Force RD, 1050 cassette, Force Crank 170 53t
Neco tapered headset, KMC x10sl chain, xpedo pedals
HED aerobar (original), cosmic carbone sr's
yokozuna cables/housing
I have yet to find compatible brakes though, I just got a pair of r725's for 50$ on eBay, but the front doesn't fit at all, the rear brake seems to fit fine behind the fork, but obviously i cant mount it because the hardware is different. I tried swapping the mounting bolts, but it just won't work.
As you'll notice the hole on the front of the fork is larger than the one in the back, Tektro's website said somewhere that the r725 was made specifically for this type of setup.
the rear r725 brake fits great under the BB, but the cable noodle extends into the crank no matter what side it's on, and the brakepad bolt slightly interferes with the chainring.
Per Allenpg's posts...(he's got the same frame as me)...looks like i'll be getting a TRP t925.1r for the rear
Allenpg - how did you manage to get the rear r725 onto the fork?
Here is the TRP T925.1R
I've got one of the above frames on order from Flyxii, looks like I'll be running into the same issues. Has anybody got any info on the Campagnolo lateral pull brakes? They look very similar to the TRP's, but at half the price, although potentially will have the same rear clearance issues.
The T922/822 and T925.1R look designed to have the "noodle" not extend as far laterally, probably because people were running into fit issues when mounting under the BB.
Buy 2 rears? I dunno...
I put the rear caliper under the BB, and used a Road 105 caliper for the front. Not ideal, but it gets me riding til i find what i REALLY want.
I think im going to look into center-pull calipers ft and rear. Check in some other threads to see ideas as to how that works.
Shoot me an addy and I will forward some pics to you
Michigan Awesome
Hand2Hand Ministries
Or... You could just not reply to threads that you have no direct experience with!
(Did your rear derailleur hanger fix work?)
Steve
"If you ain't first, you're last." Reese Bobby Talladega Nights
Eli Curt
I'm Professionally Amateur. Are you? Become an ambassador today!
Chimps in Training!
Rodney
TrainingPeaks | Altra Running | RAD Roller
http://www.goinglong.ca
-Andrew Saar
It is better to do the right thing and be paid poorly,
than to do the wrong thing and be rewarded richly.
BoulderCyclingCoach.com
Heath Dotson
HD Coaching:Website |Twitter: 140 Characters or Less|Facebook:Follow us on Facebook
very interesting, I might get one as well
some people did it on a Scott plasma 3, I don't think it's rocket science to hide a few cables.
Well if you look closely at the chainstay you would see an exit port........
Full internal routing to me means a bike like the Trek Speed Concept where all of the cable are hidden.
This is full internal routing. Not brake noodles sticking out, not brake cables sticking out, not shifter cables sticking out.
Chinese frame not. Depending on the price of the frame and of course how creative you are it might not be that bad for the money. Will just not be that clean of a run using those style of brakes. Look at other bikes that use that design and you will see what I mean.
http://roadbikeaction.com/...gas%20Camp/CDtt5.jpg
I'd imagine setup could be even cleaner than the picture above with some care.
http://www.cyclingnews.com/...-in-colorado-springs
Want: 58cm Cervelo Soloist. PM me if you have one to sell
Vintage Cervelo: A Resource
yeah, pretty damn simple and aero way to run these modified V brakes
Want: 58cm Cervelo Soloist. PM me if you have one to sell
Vintage Cervelo: A Resource
How much is this puppy
How much is this puppy
I'd be interested in knowing the dimensions of that downtube
Want: 58cm Cervelo Soloist. PM me if you have one to sell
Vintage Cervelo: A Resource
Heres a email from Lucky regarding the FM069
good day!
As for new TT frame FM069, it's the toppest design of TT model.
below are some details with this frameset, you can check:
1. This is our newest top design for tt bikes.
2. frameset is Aero style.
3. the fork and and the handlebar is intergrated (please check attached detailed pictures),
4. the brake system is special concealed style with strong ingenious braking adhesion.
5. the weight of the frame is super light! weight of it is about 1320g (based on size 54cm)
6. Di2 and normal derailleur system compatible.
7. full inside cable route.
8. size 50/52/54/56cm will be available.
The size 52cm mould already done, factory is producing the UD, BB30 for size 52cm now. i guess we will have it in stock soon!
other sizes' mould is making and testing by factory at present.
Picked her up for under $100. Disc wheels. All Chinese Components. Bumblebee edition.
Sexy bike tho
For $700 I am in but $1200 not so much
__________________________________________________
Official Polar Ambassador
http://www.google.com/...P7RiWyEVwpunlsc2JtQQ
__________________________________________________
Official Polar Ambassador
http://www.google.com/...P7RiWyEVwpunlsc2JtQQ
I've done some CFD on the shape, and it's the real deal on the downtube. The seat tube toward the top and the seatpost are still an unknown quantity, but the rest looks very solid assuming you are willing to get down and dirty with the cable routing (which you have to do on most bikes anyway).
Chris
I'm interested at 700-800$, but I will pas at 1200$. I would have change the cockpit anyway...
it's still "cheap" for a carbon bike, but kinda expensive since it's not branded.
Anyone with this frame having problems with their seat tube slipping? As I tighten the seat tube wedge, it simply rises out of the frame. I tried shimming the back side of the wedge, but that didn't help at all. Any ideas? I'm not using any carbon paste yet, but I figured I'd check here before throwing money at the problem?
(Idea to use a road bike in this manner shamelessly stolen from TomA)
I'm anxiously awaiting sales of the TriRig Omega brake for both front and rear.
Bike position was perfected on a Cervelo P2sl. Transferred to this frame with no problems.
Full build report:
http://www.velobuild.com/...-first?Itemid=0#2517
Anyone with this frame having problems with their seat tube slipping? As I tighten the seat tube wedge, it simply rises out of the frame. I tried shimming the back side of the wedge, but that didn't help at all. Any ideas? I'm not using any carbon paste yet, but I figured I'd check here before throwing money at the problem?
Yep. Try lots of carbon paste.
"Most of my heroes don't appear on no stamps"
Blog = http://extrememomentum.com|Photos = http://wheelgoodphotos.com
Shifters are Rival. Crankset is FSA SL-K. Bars are Chinese. Wheels are Hongfu 50mm tubulars with Powertap rear and Sapim CX-Rays (mostly used in crits and road races). Brakes are TRP/Tektros with one of their new models (more to come later). Weight for complete bike is 17.0 lbs (w/pedals). When I get more time, I post complete details. Thanks.
I thought I would post an update on my bike after about 300 miles. Overall, it's a great training bike. The frame arrived within about 3 weeks of me ordering it. Not too bad for about $500+. This frame is not for the plug-n-play home mechanic. The crown race fit perfectly on the fork (thanks to the right PVC pipe "tool"), but I had to sand the steerer tube a little in order to get it to fit in the headset bearings. Also, I had to Dremel the rear dropouts to get the wheel straight. Not a big deal to me, especially for the money I spent. I also needed to use liberal amounts of carbon paste on the seatpost clamp to keep it from slipping/creaking (and use a torque wrench at ~8 nM). As posted earlier, you need to use a rear TRP brake on the front. It's kind of weird at first, but works fine. also used the newer TRP 925.1R brake in the rear to keep the noodle from rubbing against the crankset. I've raced this frame once, but can't compare to my Felt B2R, since they were different courses. I do feel like bombing corners on this one though vs my Felt. Also, the cable routing on this frame is great. I'm running a SRAM Rival drivetrain and it ships comparable to the SRAM Red on the Felt. Plus, the TRP brakes work pretty well. Not as good as standard brakes, but not that bad
"Most of my heroes don't appear on no stamps"
Blog = http://extrememomentum.com|Photos = http://wheelgoodphotos.com
I have read your posts about building your own TT bike with parts from China. I´m from Denmark and have been in the sport for a year now and about to start building my own bike.
I´m not interested in running into problems like the ones you had with the brakes, so if you have any usefull info to share before I start shopping on Aliexpress I would be really happy.
I have been looking at the HF-FM052 ( 59 cm ) at Huizhou Hongfu Mould processing store, but I havn’t decided yet.
I want to put on the T925 1R on the bike, but do you know if it will fit this fork without running into trouble ? I´m not really interested in doing modifications to make it fit.
If you’re interested in sharing some of your experiences with a novice builder, let me know . . . .
No - I havent bought the parts yet. I´m trying to do my homework up front to avoid problems when i´m start building. But my mate has done several purchases from China, and he has experienced no problems at all so far. But he´s into MTB and quite an expert on this - but his knowledge about putting a TT together is limited. But he has provided me with a lot of reliable adresses and companies.
Dont know anything about customs in the US,- but in Denmark it´s a rip-off customvise when you buy parts from China. The companies there is quite nice to enclose an alternative invoice with a reduced price when asked.
In a matter of days I´m starting to order. I´ll post my experiences if anyone is interested.
But I´m still interested in hearing about parts and the anoyances to expect ( ?? )
http://stuartwalpole.blogspot.com/
But I see what you mean.
-------------------------------
´Get the most aero and light bike you can get. With the aero advantage you can be saving minutes and with the weight advantage you can be saving seconds. In a race against the clock both matter.´
BMANX
SFT086, saw it over at RBR
$1200. $9xx if you can order 10+. Comes with TRP brakes. That's my quote from Deng Fu.
You're better off just buying a clearance frameset from a real company compared to this particular model.
Because all the other chinese carbon frames are approximately $300-500 w/ fork which gives the buyer a significant $ savings over branded framesets to build up a quality bike which is worth the financial risk associated typically with buying a chinese frame.
At $1200, you've entered the brand name frameset price zone. Clones like the FM098 and the FM066 are cheap (especially at group buy rates) and significantly less than the real frameset and worth the risk, but the FM069... no way.
I'm a fan and supporter of China carbon, but truth is, their warranty and post-sales support is worth less than the paper it's printed on. $1200 on an untested aero frame with no warranty, no post-sale support, and no replacement parts is not worth the unknown aero advantage it offers (if any).
I was so excited when the FM069 came out... until I saw the price tag. Hopefully this is one of the first, and future models will see a significant price drop. My Transition is due for an upgrade.
Chris
---
power2max
http://www.power2max.com/northamerica
official power meter of Movistar Team
ok, our FM086 will open size 50/52/54/56cm, now size 54cm already pass the tes.
can starts produce.
the price is :
Frame + Fork + Seatpost + Stem + Handlebar (FM086+FK086+SP086+ST086+HB086): $1200
headset fit frame: $15
shipping cost: $95
ok, our FM086 will open size 50/52/54/56cm, now size 54cm already pass the tes.
can starts produce.
the price is :
Frame + Fork + Seatpost + Stem + Handlebar (FM086+FK086+SP086+ST086+HB086): $1200
headset fit frame: $15
shipping cost: $95
Nice bike
My TT bike
BMC TM01
Does anyone know if the FM086 is within the UCI-regulations or just suited for triathlon use?
/ Reptil
thanks
The difference, from what I understand, between skilled labor and non-skilled extends further than the knowledge of where stress points in a frame are. That's not to say the non-skilled laborer doesn't know where to lay the carbon differently - he very well may! But there's an equal, if not more probable chance, that without the proper education, he does not.
Heck, I don't.
I can't believe I'm alone on this. I feel like I'm taking crazy pills!
...written on my droid, please excuse corrections.
This is how it works. MOST of these companies (hongfu, dengfu etc) have their own factories. People have actually gone and toured these factories and reported back on forums like roadbikereview. So they actually exist and use the same tools etc that all the other factories use. The difference is not necessarily in QC or layup standards. Often, what will happen is an engineer from an established factory will take their knowledge (often actually including copies of specs and sometimes even molds!) and go start up their own shop. Remember, copyright means basically nothing in China.
Just because a frame has a recognizable name on it doesn't mean it's held to any particular standards of quality. I've been told of a particular brand (I won't name it but you'd recognize it) being cut apart and there being rice paper still stuck to the inside of the tubes. As in, they laid it up by hand using rice paper and just left it in there. I've also heard stories of guys repairing well-known brands, sanding the tubes to prepare for re-painting, and the frames falling apart at the seams because there wasn't enough material along the seam. There are also small 'no-name' shops using high-end carbon with modern layup techniques and very thorough QC processes. Basically there's no correlation between how 'name' a brand is and the quality of the frame you're buying, until you get into the Calfee/ENVE area.
At this point, carbon is proven as a material. Even a bike made in a shoddy fashion isn't likely to 'disintegrate'. I've had a carbon frame crack before - it was a VERY big name brand. Yeah, they warrantied it, but warranty service is what you should be expecting when you pay $2500 for a frame instead of $500.
When you buy the $500 frame you're getting the same frame. You just can't expect any post-sales service (although there are many stories of the better known chinese carbon shops actually being pretty good in this regard too, surprisingly).
thanks
velobuild.com worked for me - it like ordering from freaking Amazon... too easy
http://dengfubikes.com/...mcchk=1&Itemid=1
I emailed the guy a while back and it was around $1100.
I bought my carbon TT frame off of Ebay from a China based seller, and that was very easy. However, I can't find anyone who has any info on this Dengfu FM 069.
Any advice or info is greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
http://dengfubikes.com/...mcchk=1&Itemid=1
I emailed the guy a while back and it was around $1100.
Team Zoot-Texas, and Pickle Juice
in ebay now
http://www.ebay.de/...;hash=item3f1dcb8760
I've seen things you people wouldn't believe. Attack ships on fire off the shoulder of Orion. I watched C-beams glitter in the dark near the Tannhauser Gate. All those moments will be lost in time like tears in rain.
http://www.velobuild.com/fm069-tt-dengfu/4515-fm069-group-buy
there's also a similar frame to the FM069 called the FM086. http://www.velobuild.com/fm086-tt-group-buy/4595-fm086-dengfu-tt-group-buy
http://www.TriScottsdale.org
I know this old, but this type of stuff pisses me off. It isn't the same frame. They use lower grades of carbon (ie most all of these are 100% T700, standard modulus carbon). High end frames use a mixture of different modulus fiber in places where they serve their purpose best. Places of high impact, joints are often times lots of standard modulus. the outer layer maybe entirely standard modulus, but the core of the long sections of tube may be a high modulus fiber to enhance stiffness. (High modulus generally is stiffer but more fragile, standard is very durable but less stiff) This is part of why these frames often are reported to have a muted feel, with all that standard modulus fiber you don't get much if any road feedback. It can also be more impact resistant though. This could partially explain why your name brand frame cracked: high modulus fibers are more likely to do this on impact.
The cost difference may be worth it to you or you may prefer the road feel, but the frames are NOT the same as what other brand name manufacturers are selling.
---------------------
Jordan Oroshiba --- Roadie invading Triathlete space for knowledge access
hmmm... so now there's the FM087 which appears to be just like the FM069 except with a zero rise stem.
and now a Scott Plasma lookalike below...
How do you go about purchasing items from them? I could not find a purchase button for the life of me. Has anyone had any experience using their road handlebars? I am looking at upgrading to a carbon on for my roadie. Does anyone know other brands/ companies that sell cheap/ good carbon road handlebars?
"Most of my heroes don't appear on no stamps"
Blog = http://extrememomentum.com|Photos = http://wheelgoodphotos.com
I am not saying they are not worth it, not saying they are not 'okay', not saying they are worse or better .... any of that. Just saying that they are not the same.
The frames may be the same shape but if you have a 5'7", 110lb wife with 2 legs, 2 arms, and all the relevant fun areas, it does not mean she is Kate Moss.
https://www.pbandjcoaching.com
https://www.thisbigroadtrip.com
hmmm... so now there's the FM087 which appears to be just like the FM069 except with a zero rise stem.
For some reason, I keep tabs on the newer TT frames that appear from the Pacific Rim. My information says that this company makes the FM086
http://www.hz-bikes.com/...;at=read&did=389
and DengFu is a reseller. I can't verify that one way or the other. Don't know if you can purchase direct or not....
Did the rear brakes fit well?
Thanks-
Click on the Stack & Reach link at the top of the page and you can see how it compares to others at least for reach. Who knows how to compare what the stack is like with the integrated stem...
Comparing reach is way better than top tube, so this should help a little.
http://www.hz-bikes.com/...;at=read&did=389
and DengFu is a reseller. I can't verify that one way or the other. Don't know if you can purchase direct or not....
¯\_(ツ)_/¯
http://velobuild.com/...all/catalog/show/109#
Anyone have pricing for a 087 "module".
Thx,JOE
Joe C.
osteomark - Most superbikes and plenty of other tri bikes have a very similar set up; brake below bottom bracket with some sort of covering for it. EDIT: to specifically answer your question - in my experience, very, very little. Then again my tri bikes don't play in the rain.
joec nyc - That's a FM098, with the 'venge' paint scheme (really, it's just that simple. buy the bike, ask for the 'venge' paint scheme, and boom). Available all over the net.
New frame which has just popped up on Velobuild... I like how this one uses standard brakes instead of TRP TTV brakes with their convoluted cable routing.
Anyone have any experience with the fm069 frame? I'm thinking about buying one, but just wanted to get some first hand accounts of how it handles, feels, etc....
One new guy that popped up on Ebay has a slightly different frame than the FM069. Uses a conventional front brake (not crazy about the noodles) amonst a few other details:
http://www.ebay.com/...;hash=item1c34756605
all that booze has skewed your thought process bill, best of luck my friend
Chinese powerbike!
¯\_(ツ)_/¯
We're in the same boat. I've always been faster using a lower cadence. I hover around the 80-85 mark.
Frame from Dengfu, chinese wheels too, built up with mainly Ultegra Di2, Quarq and a Dash saddle. Seems to go OK.
Cheers, Rich
we gonna from them I know but to consiously support that behavior is crazy.. you people are seriously sick in the head
we gonna from them I know but to consiously support that behavior is crazy.. you people are seriously sick in the head
Good luck trying to live a life without buying things built in China.
Dengfu is quoting me $950 for the frameset (FM087) and $700 for the disc wheel. Does this seem consistent with yours? Is that the frame and wheel package that your bike is built on? Anything I need to know before ordering? Did you go through http://www.dengfubikes.com to order?
Great looking rig, by the way!
Dengfu is quoting me $950 for the frameset (FM087) and $700 for the disc wheel. Does this seem consistent with yours? Is that the frame and wheel package that your bike is built on? Anything I need to know before ordering? Did you go through http://www.dengfubikes.com to order?
Great looking rig, by the way!
Mine is an FM086 and I paid about $900 for the frame/forks/bars/post through the Velobuild website group-buy, but that doesn't seem to be running any more. When I contacted Dengfu directly originally they were quoting about $1200 for the frame. I'm not altogether certain that my disc came from Dengfu as it was purchased through eBay, but that was about $700, so it sounds as though you're pretty much on the money.
Be aware that delivery times aren't always particularly fast - Chinese New Year did come soon after I ordered, but the claim that everything was in stock was clearly wrong as I had to wait nearly 3 months until it finally arrived. Quality and value it pretty good though, so overall I'm happy.
Cheers, Rich
Serious question, please ignore my ignorance or call me out on it, but would a TriRig brake in front be more aero than this one behind the fork?
Yeah, the Tririg should in theory at least be faster. The Tririg brake takes up the same or less overall footprint but it's the cable run that's so much cleaner with the center pull Tririg. IOW, even though you can hide the Tektro behind the fork its cable still hangs out in space and cables add a surprising amount of drag for their small cross sectional area.
-Dave
fm098
or
099 style ?
[/quote]
Looks like there is a standard brake mount as well
fm098
or
099 style ?
That looks like an awkward fuji d6.
Frame from Dengfu, chinese wheels too, built up with mainly Ultegra Di2, Quarq and a Dash saddle. Seems to go OK.
Cheers, Rich
how do you like the chinese disk?
One thing I was a little disappointed with is the lack of loud rumble which is typical of many discs. I was looking forward to having an intimidating noise while passing slower riders, but my bike is as stealthy noise-wise as it is looks!
However, it runs true and has survived a fair bit of travel and a few outings still looking brand new, so not too unhappy overall.
Might be interesting to try a decent disc back to back and see if one could detect and difference in stiffness/speed.
Cheers, Rich
Cheers, Rich
Yeah, the Tririg should in theory at least be faster. The Tririg brake takes up the same or less overall footprint but it's the cable run that's so much cleaner with the center pull Tririg. IOW, even though you can hide the Tektro behind the fork its cable still hangs out in space and cables add a surprising amount of drag for their small cross sectional area.
-Dave
fm098
or
099 style ?
I have no idea what the frame model # is. I've got nearly 1500 miles on this baby with no real follow-up issues except that I've upgraded a bunch parts since this photo. The seatpost is creaking a little, so I think I just need to apply a new layer of carbon paste. It was pain to set up, but has worked great since (just don't try to adjust brakes for different rim widths). Not bad for the money.
"Most of my heroes don't appear on no stamps"
Blog = http://extrememomentum.com|Photos = http://wheelgoodphotos.com
They are not a manufacturer. I don't know who is making the Exocet 2 ( and I currently own one) but the Pro Stealth is made by XDS Carbon-Tech http://www.xds-carbon.com/...lass&class_id=17# the X-B14 model.
Here is my Chinese Dengfu bike. Built up for my own education and fun. I think the bike came out good. Have only ridden a couple of times so far but looking forward to putting some miles on it.
I remember seeing pictures of the Exocet 2 at different angles. While I was initially impressed, (If I recall correctly) it has a very fat (not aero looking) head tube and the leading edge of the down tube is pointy (not an aerofoil shape). Probably not my first choice for a generic frame.
I'm really in love with this frame and color. Where do i get it? :)
The FM086 isn't offered now (plenty on ebay if you want one) but the "similar" version with a conventional front brake is for $819:
http://velobuildmall.com/...ent=7&vendorid=3
A vendor sells these on ebay also but they are $998.
http://www.aliexpress.com/...Bike/1300099195.html
http://www.stevensbikes.de/...ou=DE&lang=nl_NL
"Base training is bull shit" - desertdude
Here is my Nebulla TT bike airbrushed by my grandson, it is an FM086 Hongfu frame, with Campy Centaur derailleurs and back to centre Campy shifters, Sinz 145mm crankset, Carbonzone 88 mm rrear wheel, Zipp 303 front and Adamo saddle.
You might want to think about levelling the base bar, if you can do that & still get the extensions how you want them. I'm fairly sure that the main advantages of an airfoil shape on a base bar are lost if it's 15 degs off horizontal.
Hope you enjoy riding it.
-------------------------------
´Get the most aero and light bike you can get. With the aero advantage you can be saving minutes and with the weight advantage you can be saving seconds. In a race against the clock both matter.´
BMANX
Wow, that is an impressive paint job. Did you do it, or hire someone?
Advanced Aero TopTube Storage for Road, Gravel, & Tri...ZeroSlip & Direct-mount, made in the USA.
DarkSpeedWorks.com.....Reviews.....Insta.....Facebook
--
I'm really in love with this frame and color. Where do i get it? :)
From Cervelo.
__________________________
I tweet!
Chris
Frame from Dengfu, chinese wheels too, built up with mainly Ultegra Di2, Quarq and a Dash saddle. Seems to go OK.
Cheers, Rich
I'm about to buy this frame too. What size did you get yours? I'm 174cm tall and inseam of 83cm, what size should i get?
thanks
You can see from this shot taken during IM Zurich, that even on the base bars my back is quite flat.
Overall I'm very pleased with it and it's excellent value for money. All I need to do is work out a cunning internal routing for the front brake.
Cheers, Rich
You can see from this shot taken during IM Zurich, that even on the base bars my back is quite flat.
Overall I'm very pleased with it and it's excellent value for money. All I need to do is work out a cunning internal routing for the front brake.
Cheers, Rich
Rich, thanks for the reply.
I think with the front brake cable you can try what the Fuji Norcom Straight, stuffing the brake cable trough the fork steerer tube.
What make you choose the gloss black over matte?
cheers,
champ
I can't remember why I chose gloss, it may have been a delivery time issue, or matt was a higher cost option, and as a Scotsman, value counts! I will agree that matt would probably look smarter.
Cheers, Rich
This is my fianl Chinese S5 setup. ^^
I met you at bike shop today and recommended this forum to me, thank you.
BTW, your bike is lovely set. :)
Here is my Chinese Dengfu bike. Built up for my own education and fun. I think the bike came out good. Have only ridden a couple of times so far but looking forward to putting some miles on it.
What framesize is this and how tall are you?
Nice! Much better than putting real brand logos on a faux frame.
Note that column D is seatpost length, while A is top tube.
[URL=http://smg.photobucket.com/...vengerTTgeo.jpg.html][/url]
Ex Race Director, put out of business by the Rona
The good:
Shipped fast. 8 days to get from China to San Fran to clear customs, to me here in Kona. All for $90. Amazing. I've had some mainland retailers charge more for something that weighs 2 pounds and arrives in 20 days .
Packaged well. Not a cheap falling apart cardboard box.
Good price.
No guilt, no crazy looks when you decide to paint it.
The bad:
No parts list. Did I get everything? I hope so.
No directions. Am I putting everything where it goes? I hope so.
No torque wrench settings. This is a biggie. You are building a carbon bike. Knowing how much to tighten the parts is absolutely critical. I was shocked that this was not included. It's downright irresponsible.
Seller will be happy to sell you add-ons that don't really work for the bike. 27mm wide aero rims only work if you shave the brake pads alot, only with 23mm tires.
Also I'm not expecting a ton, I'm just looking for a cheap way to build up a carbon bike, will probably use ultegra 6800 groupset.
Also I'm not expecting a ton, I'm just looking for a cheap way to build up a carbon bike, will probably use ultegra 6800 groupset.
Hi,
I think that Carbozone is a reseller of HongFu. I did not deal with them. I bought the FM018 from Denfu in october. I ride it only once, but i'm very happy with the build and the quality so far.
Any thoughts or experiences with these guys are appreciated.
Joe
You do need to use their seatpost (which is included), but not their bars or really anything else.
My recommendation, have them include a headset, additional RD hanger. (especially the RD hanger)
Rear brake takes a little work to get it all figured out, but nothing terrible.
Contact them and they are super easy to work with. I had mine in just over a week, pain free build except for seat clamp. (where the seat attaches to post) Very cheaply made, replaced it with the same style clamp but for Spec. Transition. ~$20.
I've sent other ST'ers pics of my build process, if you'd like to see them I'd be happy to try and find them again.
As with others, mine is now 3 seasons old, very comfy. fast.
Michigan Awesome
Hand2Hand Ministries
from my first post on the 11th page: Frame from Dengfu, chinese wheels too, built up with mainly Ultegra Di2, Quarq and a Dash saddle.
Cheers, Rich
Cheers, Rich
Asking for a friend ;)
I'm really excited with Dengfu framesets and I wanna decide between FM069 and FM086.
Cheers, Rich
That's my doubt the top tube of FM086 for framesize 54 is 551.6 ..
the FM069 size 54 is 535, I think is pretty considerable..
I know from comparing various companies and drawing up comparative drawings in CAD and overlaying them, you do sometimes need to make a few guesses.
Cheers, Rich
Bad frontal photo:
____________________
Rock Chalk!
FM 098
SRAM Red group
Specialized Shiv alloy tt bars
PT rear wheel with aerojacket and 55mm Chinese carbon clincher front wheel
Michael Hebert
Hebertmike.com
Supported by: EnduroPacks | TrainerRoad | Asylum Cycles
I support: Team RWB
You can see from this shot taken during IM Zurich, that even on the base bars my back is quite flat.
Overall I'm very pleased with it and it's excellent value for money. All I need to do is work out a cunning internal routing for the front brake.
Cheers, Rich
Couldn't help myself and looked up your result. We finished within a minute of each other! (I won but don't worry I won't tell anyone....) Tough day at the office, right?!
You saw a pic today of a broken bike with no information on the type of failure, great informative post! Can't wait to hear more of your wisdom!
Btw if you actually researched you'd find hundreds of name brand bikes/forks with the same type of failure.
Also there is a chance that the owner of that bike did not buy it on ebay, so not sure what they have to do with this and your attempt at trolling is a bigger failure than that fork.
Thanks for the heads-up. Can you post a link so that I can learn more about the incident and circumstances?
____________________
Rock Chalk!
"Base training is bull shit" - desertdude
Those are actual 3T aerobars. The Brezza stealth black version. Not a knockoff.
____________________
Rock Chalk!
"Base training is bull shit" - desertdude
____________________
Rock Chalk!
What was your number?
Cheers, Rich
Just trying to spread the word to maybe save someone a crash. And yes, many other companies have had similar issues. Hell I ride Cervelos and know all about their fork issues, Had it been a cannondale/trek/whatever I would have posted as well.
Caption from post shared from a user named Joe Chai:
THE END OF THE CHINA FRAME
The owner of this no name carbon frameset (originally bought on ebay) was racing this bike when the fork steerer separated. he fell and hit his face. from the time he crashed to when the ambulance came, he lost a cup of blood – he was rushed to the hospital for facial reconstruction surgery on his cheek. he will survive, but will have lots of rash and scars. and in perspective, though the crash was bad, it could’ve been much, much worse. imagine if this happened on a descent in a pack of 100 racers or more. some may say that it’s the owner that’s ultimately responsible of their own equipment, but how much can you really know about your own bike? you weren’t the one that did the carbon layup on it, or engineered it to withstand a certain amount of stress before breaking. the fact that these cheap frames are sold to consumers is not only wreckless, it’s heartless and cold. in the grand scheme of things, the company cranking out these cookie cutter pinarellos haven’t done any research and development on their products. they’re in it for the money, and nothing else. it’s horrible to see one broken, and unfortunate that an innocent cyclist had to suffer injury because of it.
—
____________________
Rock Chalk!
Who's upset your post just had no place here.
The source isn't much better, it has no information that shows the failure is related to a manufacturing problem yet blames it on one, heck it blindly condemns an entire nation.
If you were trying to help you should have started a general post about checking your equipment, clearly burying it in a huge thread is the way to make sure everyone is safe....
If a mod wants to delete it or move it so be it. There has been many sources of info that have shown manufacturing issues with the China forks (i.e. the lopsided specialized knock-offs). If I was riding the popular Pinarello Ebay frame, I would want to check the fork after seeing that pic. That is all.
Signing out...
"Base training is bull shit" - desertdude
Signing out...
Good the last thing this site needs is more bs like you've been posting here.
Again if you actually cared you would have posted a general safety reminder as all carbon bikes are capable of failing hat way regardless of brand or country of manufacture.
"The price of this TT framesets is US$625 including fork and seatpost. The order process is very simple, you confirm the details of frame you need, then we will arrange the production after your payment, as for payment, we accept PayPal and bank wires, i think PayPal is easier for small amount."
A bit wary after reading some of the other posts on this thread, but still thinking it over. I am also considering Planet X Exocet 2 and the FM-R833 from Xiamen Top-Fire (http://www.top-fire.com/index.asp).
Michael Hebert
Hebertmike.com
Supported by: EnduroPacks | TrainerRoad | Asylum Cycles
I support: Team RWB
Signing out...
Good the last thing this site needs is more bs like you've been posting here.
Again if you actually cared you would have posted a general safety reminder as all carbon bikes are capable of failing hat way regardless of brand or country of manufacture.
You sure as hell are touchy about these generic knock off frames. Why's it so important to you to defend the honor of Chinese vendors that make blatant ripoffs of well-known frames? Although the quote about the frame failure isn't proof, it sure sounds as if the fork failed while riding: "The owner of this no name carbon frameset (originally bought on ebay) was racing this bike when the fork steerer separated." Hopefully we'll hear more details about this incident but if it's proven to be a failure while just riding, that's cause for serious concern, not something to be laughed off lightly.
You make it sound as if such failures are routine and can be expected from any carbon frame. Sure, in a crash they can fail, but just riding around? It's true there have been occasional failures of this nature with frames from big name brands but such failures have resulted in recalls at huge cost. Good luck holding that Chinese vendor accountable or expecting them to issue a recall.
What was your number?
Cheers, Rich
Helluva way to start long course racing... at least a PB should be a bit easier next year! :)
I was #579. Was my third, and the hardest by some stretch! To complicate matters I'd been hit by a car 6 weeks prior so I was happy just to be fit enough to race. No drip required, but I got the salt intake badly wrong and cramped up pretty bad on the run (probably biked too hard also given the temperature). I tried to take advantage of the finish line free beer while I waited for my friend, but that didn't go down as well as anticipated!
They have the FM086 with a SRAM groupset, but if you remove the wheels, saddle and other items, the cost of the frame goes down to $729. That's way cheaper than Ive been quoted by Dengfu, Hongfu and other sellers of this frame.
Not sure if anyone has dealt with them
You make it sound as if such failures are routine and can be expected from any carbon frame. Sure, in a crash they can fail, but just riding around? It's true there have been occasional failures of this nature with frames from big name brands but such failures have resulted in recalls at huge cost. Good luck holding that Chinese vendor accountable or expecting them to issue a recall.
Yes just riding a long name brand products have failed in exactly this manner, at the same time there is no information that the bike pictured above was not subjected to something unusual and caused the eventual failure.
There is no evidence that the no name brands have a higher failure rate that others HAVE claimed here in the past, no proof.
Sorry when someone comes in and says be careful with only the no name stuff I have concern with their lack of sincerity as they completely ignore the very real risks and failures of name brand parts.
I don't defend the Chinese stuff, I call out people who are ignorant.
What good does accountability do you when are dead? sorry but that is a pathetic reason to put the blinders on regarding failures and it only serves to hurt the entire community not help it. If he meant to help he wouldn't have buried it in this thread and would have posted all the information he had.
KOM Cycling
Exactly my thoughts. Maybe they are legit and order in bulk to get a deal, but for that FM086, $729 is hard to pass up. They say they are local (US), based on their 208 area code. Maybe someone in Idaho could check up on their business.
This has appeared on weightweenies Aug 2011, with a completely different story.
http://weightweenies.starbike.com/...narello&start=90
It appears to be one of those things that snowballs in the retelling and there are 6 different versions of what actually happened based on hearing from a "friend of a friend"
You make it sound as if such failures are routine and can be expected from any carbon frame. Sure, in a crash they can fail, but just riding around? It's true there have been occasional failures of this nature with frames from big name brands but such failures have resulted in recalls at huge cost. Good luck holding that Chinese vendor accountable or expecting them to issue a recall.
Yes just riding a long name brand products have failed in exactly this manner, at the same time there is no information that the bike pictured above was not subjected to something unusual and caused the eventual failure.
There is no evidence that the no name brands have a higher failure rate that others HAVE claimed here in the past, no proof.
Sorry when someone comes in and says be careful with only the no name stuff I have concern with their lack of sincerity as they completely ignore the very real risks and failures of name brand parts.
I don't defend the Chinese stuff, I call out people who are ignorant.
What good does accountability do you when are dead? sorry but that is a pathetic reason to put the blinders on regarding failures and it only serves to hurt the entire community not help it. If he meant to help he wouldn't have buried it in this thread and would have posted all the information he had.
By the same token, you have no way to prove that factory direct Chinese carbon products are as safe as branded products. There are no public stats being kept on this, so all we have to go on are anecdotal internet reports. If someone wants to pass along a report of a failure, they've got every right to, but you seem determined to shout down anyone that has an opinion contrary to yours.
Have a nice day, dude.
Have a nice day, dude.
What proof do you have they aren't safe? You have none so why make shit up to pretend you have a point? what proof do you have that a name brand one is safe in comparison. sorry but there are no public stats for that either so you can't make any claims they are. I didn't come into a thread and make stuff up, I called out someone who did. why should anyone tolerate people doing that?
Lets also consider that you just commentary ignored the fact that this was a regurgitated pic with a fake story from 3 years ago, clearly if they were that much of an issue there wouldn't be a need for it you'd be able to pull up a new story and pic daily but you can't since these bikes have proven to be reliable and not randomly fail any more then a name brand. There are tens of Thousands of them out here were are all these failures? so not sure what you mean by my opinion when it turned out my calling this out was 100% correct.
This is a thread about tt and tri builds which that was not. It had no more relevance in this thread then posting about a broken Schwinn.
How tall are you ? Which size Have you got ?
Did you change the seatclamp ?
Not specific to those handlebars, but carbon stuff in general.
____________________
Rock Chalk!
Caron paste does sound like the best option to try. Let us know if that improves things. You could also try to do the old soda can trick to add some thickness to the bars.
____________________
Rock Chalk!
But slipping parts should not be 'norm', even if it's carbon. I've got lots of carbon stuff and haven't really had problems with slipping, even before I started adding carbon paste (...because it's the prudent thing to do!).
Not specific to those handlebars, but carbon stuff in general.
I wasn't sure if that was the best route to go, but based on the overwhelming response, I'll be buying some today, and report back
You wrote that the base bar have no height adjustability but Could you add pads to increase the height ?
Do you have pictures of the sterm and handbars ?
Thanks,
Ricardo, Brazil
The frame looks fine. The fork is a different story. Any frame that can survive a crash like that is pretty impressive. I'm more suspicious of how the fork broke. It looks more like a bike on the roof rack vs garage, than an actual crash. There are no scratches/scrapes/tears on the fork, frame, or handlebar tape.
Just keep swimming...
SebastianAravena.com | facebook | RODS Racing
Rudy Project | Slick Products | Duro Tires | Globe | Ride Live be. | A3 Bar | Tri-Flow | LifeProof | Totally Local
This is my fianl Chinese S5 setup. ^^
Just keep swimming...
SebastianAravena.com | facebook | RODS Racing
Rudy Project | Slick Products | Duro Tires | Globe | Ride Live be. | A3 Bar | Tri-Flow | LifeProof | Totally Local
I'm headed to china in September for Worlds and was thinking about picking up a TT and Road frame while I'm there and shipping them back. But I can't find any of them that make a large enough frame.
Wow I Am bad at picture taking
Where did you get it and what did it cost you?
__________________________________________________
If it's hit, it's history.
If it's missed, it's mistery.
You're probably Dutch, like me ;-)
Question, what kind of wheels are those? The disc looks a lot like a Flo, but since it's hard to get those, I guess it's something else..?
Cheers,
Martijn
__________________________________________________
If it's hit, it's history.
If it's missed, it's mistery.
I am Dutch indeed ;)
the wheels are Flo wheels. In the picture I am 'test driving' wheels of a friend who actually got them from the first batch. Meanwhile, I have them as well. Only I opted to go for a 60 front wheel, to make it a little less nervous.
Overall a solid wheel set, especially considering the price!
cheers,
Tim
Finished this week ...
Luiz Eng
Jerry
Jacksonville, FL
I could make the rear der with only bare cable , but got unsecure about the cable scretching the carbon inside.
Luiz Eng
And if you don't mind, who was the supplier and how much did you pay?
Luiz Eng
Jerry
Jacksonville, FL
Luiz Eng
Two wheels good. Four wheels bad.
Bike prices were the first thing that surprised me.
Find this Forum and Post, its awesome.
Can you recommend a website to buy these frames?
Thanks all of you for sharing your knowledge.
Greetings from Patagonia.
Welcome.
You can buy the frames from places like Hong Fu, Deng Fu, etc. They usually accept paypal and charge you the 3.2% plus $80-ish shipping to the US. I don't know what it is to South America.
There is a pretty significant thread on these types of bikes over a Road Bike Review forums.
Cheers.
Two wheels good. Four wheels bad.
Thanks all of you!
In my country we have a phrase "The indian is the important thing, not the arrow".
I will start searching on ebay.
Thanks a lot again.
Greetings from Patagonia.
Luiz did you have any problems importing the bike to Brazil? taxes?
I also live in São Paulo and Im thinking of buying a bike from Hong FU...
Thanks
Still a work in progress, but here's my Dengfu FM069 which I'm building up with Ultegra 6770 Di2.
Paint / colour scheme is their standard offering but I've ordered with less decals for a slightly more understated look. There wasn't a suitable place for the external battery so I mounted it on the underside of the non-drive chainstay.
I've attached a link to my Google Drive folder with photos. I'll keep this updated.
https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=0B-M9_HUMG7AZfmtBdERDTVo5VExxUzRId0EtNDZuelVPc0tMNW96Vm1XOEhIeUF1d1R5ZFk&usp=sharing
¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Thanks, but I've been on a Speed Concept 9 for nearly 9 months now :D
Cheers, Rich
http://forum.slowtwitch.com/...gi?post=5457034&
I would be happy to answer any questions.
____________________
Rock Chalk!
I got rid of the bars that came with the bike and put on a set of 3T Brezza bars. Tons of adjustability options with those.
____________________
Rock Chalk!
Yes. You can use just about any standard 31.8 diameter basebar setup.
____________________
Rock Chalk!
True Dengfu. Look up Chicanery's posts about his original build. I bought it from him. It tells you everything you would want to know.
____________________
Rock Chalk!
Can you tell me what kind of aero bars are they? I’ve been looking for ones look just like those.