Awesome thread. Nice bike! Did you go full rival or mixed? Where did you source the frame?

Maybe we could make rules of the thread that you post your sources so people can find the frames if they dig them?

 

Old position, now lower. I also have a disk cover and will have a Flo 60 up front soon!

Not mine, but I built it for a friend (aerobar pads were added later :)

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MS: Exercise Science
Your speed matters a lot, sometimes you need to be very fast, where sometimes you need to breakdown your speed.

I should note that almost everyone's bike here is Chinese, if they admit it or not!

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!)

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Eli Curt

I'm Professionally Amateur. Are you? Become an ambassador today!
Chimps in Training!

...rolls eyes... Buyers justification?

Have any examples of these disintegrating bikes?

Keep on rolling champ.

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Eli Curt

I'm Professionally Amateur. Are you? Become an ambassador today!
Chimps in Training!

The front and rear derailleur and brakes are SRAM force. The crank is SRAM rival because it the only one I could find in 165. The chainring is a FSA 52T. I got the frame from Gotobikes. It should be pretty easy to google search.

Pardon the crappy cellphone pic:




Almost 2 years old. 3 70.3s, 1 IM, plus several shorter distances, still serves me well.

Not a bad paint scheme, I kind of like it ...

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Advanced Aero TopTube Storage for Road, Gravel, & Tri...ZeroSlip & Direct-mount, made in the USA.
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What wheels are those?

Chinese 88mm carbon wheelset as old as the bike

Pics when first assembled, since trimmed down the front end a bit.

Are those characters on the rear wheel Mandarin for "zipp"? =)

Sweet ride!

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Long Chile was a silly place.

Serious question, doesn't all that stuff on the back act like a parachute?

Is that a bike or a luggage rack?

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___________________________________________
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)

Nice frame Bluesman - where did you get it??

To think I thought this thread was going to be about "Giant" road bikes.

No offense but whoever wrote those Chinese characters did a pretty shit job.

It's my Tri Hybrid ;-)

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Ya, there is literally no need for ALL that stuff...I race about ~10 times a year for the past 3 years and have ever had to change flat once.

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< Quitting Isn't An Option >

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.

My friend has a TT one, and love it... (Last two years I think)

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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

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.

Planet X maintains different standards and you know it.

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Eli Curt

I'm Professionally Amateur. Are you? Become an ambassador today!
Chimps in Training!

I do not know it; my statement was based in no way on the fact that I owned a PX. It was based on the fact that you just said "chinese bikes disintegrate," which is dumb.

I'd be interested to know what Planet X does differently in their 'standards' or what exactly standard is?

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.

From what I understand/from what I've heard from roadie buddies...(I understand this isn't any form of concrete evidence nor any evidence for that matter and will therefore hold no water here, but still. This is where I'm coming from) the frames are made in different factories by different employees.

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.

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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.

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.

Not handy no, but I'll see what I can get you when I get to a computer.

Good answer, I like that.

Question: what's more comfortable, steel or ti?

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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.

Not a TT bike, but Chinese nonetheless. 15.8lbs with powertap.

I'd love to see you get some specialized decals and see how many people you can fool! Out of curiosity how much was this frame and do you know what it was called?

I'm drooling.

Nice ride! If I thought carbon in my frame would actually make a difference I would ante up for a Chinese frame. I'm a bit soured after breaking 3 carbon frames and probably won't ever be on another, but who knows.

Some people are doing that, but there are significant differences between this frame and the Venge. Besides, I'm not into counterfeiting. The frame is a Dengfu FM098. I like it a lot, but I have a new cervelo coming and a baby on the way so we'll see where it ends up!

Needs gold Jagwire bar end shifters :)

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KyleKranz.com
Win a pair of SKORA Running Shoes!

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NCCP certified Comp coach

If you end up needing a new home for it...I might be interested. I have a 6 year old specialized and am looking for a new steed. What size is yours?

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"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

Your bike looks pretty good, but I always wonder, what is the justification behind putting $3k wheels on a $400 bike frame. I understand the reality that wheels probably have as much of an impact on aerodynamics and comfort/feel as the frame, but still, it just seems you could have purchased an amazing bike AND a good set of wheels for the price.

This goes for several people in this thread rocking Zipps on Chinese carbon.

I just ordered this frame http://www.flyxii.com/...enuid=330&id=600 and it should be here early next week. Just need to source some aerobars, brakes, brake levers, and shifters and I"ll be swapping most of my other components from my road bike.

I get your point,I have $1k on the wheels(used).I have had the opportunity to ride whole lot of different bikes in the past 20+ years,for me it is about the wheels and the rubber hitting the road,and a smooth drivetrain.
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.

I got my frame and seatpost from them.I think you will be very pleased with their frame and other parts.
They also sell via Ebay (e_baygoods)

Yeah, I used their ebay storefront too. Seemed easier than dealing with their website. It seems like the only carbon TT bars are from the carbonzone store on ebay ($290 with shipping). I'm not seeing many other viable alternatives for integrated bars, so I'll probably be going with those.

How much was the shipping. I would be interesting to hear your experience with this company. I have thought about purchasing one of these Chinese frames and giving it ago. Just didnt want to buy it off ebay.

The frame was $520 + 80 for shipping. I also got the headset through them for another $20 (with free shipping). You can sometimes find the same frame for $600 with no shipping or you can buy it through their UK storefront for $490 with $110 shipping. Either way, you're looking at $600 shipped.

This is where your 'thinking' is letting you down. I have a Chinese TT frame for 3 years, regularly in top 1% or so on bike splits in tris including in big city ones like NYC. My frame is very stiff which is my biggest concern and although it may lose 2-3 seconds in not being as aero as some brand frames, over 40k that is no big deal. The wheels I find are way more important and noticeable and worth spending the money on...hopefully soon they will have cloned the zipp and heds (I don't think they have yet). BTW, my TT bike (large, 58cm tt) with disc and 404, SRAM red/Dura ace mix (red rear der, cassette, shifters and 7900 front der and 7800 cranks (177.5)) weighs only 16.9 pounds as well. I will post pics when I get home.

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.

What brake are you using in the rear?

Actually, that is exactly what I said, "wheels probably have as much of an impact on aerodynamics and comfort/feel as the frame"


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.

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.

Yeah, wasn't clear. Although all my stuff is brand new I probably only paid around 50% of retail at most for it. I got all the SRAM stuff when it was first coming out and on ebay there were some excellent deals e.g. $100 for the Red cassette...you can't even get a used one with a few thousand miles on it for that now. My crankset was cheap cos I guess the longer cranks aren't desirable for most. I did pay top whack for the 7900 front derailleur (I have a red but LBS says it wouldnt fit the frame so they were kind enough to put a 7900 on there and charge full price...how kind of them). Got my integrated Profile carbon bars/stem for less than 50% at about $250 I think it was and so on.

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

Haha why so angry?




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.

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Eli Curt

I'm Professionally Amateur. Are you? Become an ambassador today!
Chimps in Training!

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.

Nice pic. Kind of obvious why a LBS is gonna go apeshit on you for considering this...they lose a lot to these frames.

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

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.

I bought mine about a year ago. I have a little over 3000 miles on it with no problems. I built it for about 1200 bucks.

First off, I have a best friend who works in and out of factories in China for a UK company. He was a so-so triathlete and he does understand bikes. He happens to do some work for another USA based bike company as well as several UK bike companies. I can't tell you the names, but you can do the math. He deals strictly with legal documents that increase safety standards within items/articles that have a clear visibility for possible high human accidents. He basically goes in to factories (I like to call them sweat shops.) They inspect everything from janitorial issues to products and the packages they are shipped in. China has been ridiculed by many but they always adjust to new policies. Many people from the UK and USA are saying, “We want to know how it’s made and the conditions in which its made in.” China is far beyond Korea, Malaysia and other UK/USA imports.

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)

Well yeah you have a point.

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.

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Eli Curt

I'm Professionally Amateur. Are you? Become an ambassador today!
Chimps in Training!

Good suggestion, that's what I'm in school for.

How's your buddy feeling?

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Eli Curt

I'm Professionally Amateur. Are you? Become an ambassador today!
Chimps in Training!

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).


Upset. The shop is deciding whether or not they'll warranty it.

Yeah, this 'R5' is nice and probably my next build as I want to get into crit racing (and road) and I am definitely not spending much on a frame for that stuff in which I know I have a good chance of going through a few.

You have a problem in your situation as you definitely cant go the Chinese way without pissing him off.

I guess I'll just continue quoting his story then!

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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.

Thanks, we're in agreement. I took delivery of this last winter, it was one of the first out of the molds. I haven't seen many built up at this point, but with the group buys they should be popping up. At least it will be easy to spot clones when people try and sell fakes on ebay. I've had it next to a Venge, they are quite different.

Have anyone noticed any difference from the china wheels compared to a cheaper "branded" wheel like planet x's? Or are they basically the same thing?

I'm not questioning the purchase of Chinese Carbon, and ultimately it comes down to me not having ridden one of these yet. I've been a roadie for a long time, so I've been through the era of dead carbon and noodly frames. I have hesitation with anything carbon and ultimately, I probably would choose a CAAD frame over a china carbon bike. That's just personal preference.

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.

A TRP rear. Forget the exact model. Tried the tektro and went with the TRP as it is a much more effective brake on this bike. I could get the tektro to work well, but it was very fiddly. The TRP bolted on a worked well right off the bat.

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NCCP certified Comp coach

Hey where did you pick up that frame

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!

I'm not entire sure where he exactly got it from, but it's the WS01 TT frame.

Here's a place that I've seen it.

http://www.gotobike.com.cn/...06&previd=500027

Awesome

After spending quite a bit of time today searching for the Oval Concepts A700, Tektro R725 and TRP t925, all of which are the recommended rear brakes for these bikes with the rear brake by the bottom bracket. I have not been able to find any of these except for a few on ebay for around $200. Does anyone know of any places to source a rear brake that will not obstruct the chainring?

I have those brakes in my garage I think or at least one of those that you are looking for. Shot me a picture of what you are looking for and I might have one.

tektro





TRP





A700





They all seem to be of the same design

You'd be a lifesaver if you have one. I have my fingers crossed.

$60:
http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/...s.aspx?ModelID=70213

Here is what I had in the garage. The Tektro is marked as a T925 and the Warp is marked as a R725.

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.

How much do you want for the Tektro?

Google search Gotobike.com.cn

aren't they all Chinese......or Taiwanees?

Here's my experimental TT build for training...my Isaac Joule Aerotic frame developed a small crack. This is a new Flyxii frame. There are some subtle nuances for getting this frame. If you're not comfortable sanding carbon, facing bottom brackets, etc., don't get this frame...:) An incredible deal and very high quality for the price. Yes, no warranty or support...then again, the company I bought my frame from went out of business, so it doesn't matter. BTW, my race bike is a Felt. It also has frame issues, but no warranty, since I bought it used.

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.

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"Most of my heroes don't appear on no stamps"
Blog = http://extrememomentum.com|Photos = http://wheelgoodphotos.com

can you post more pictures/ talk about the front brake? It's hidden behind the fork? How do you like that tt frame?

and can you tell me how the fit is on that frame compared to something like a p2 of something? I had a P2 (56) a couple years ago... and it looks like the Medium version of that frame would fit.. but the L would, too... any words of wisdom, my friend?

Very nice! I have the same one coming soon. I too would like some info about the front brake. I finally found a TRP/Tektro 925 for the rear brake. Do I need something special for the front as well?

Allen,

I have not seen or used the china-aerobars yet?

Report?

Thanks

I'll post more once I get some riding in on it. The Tektro R725 front brake WILL NOT WORK with this fork. You actually need to use the R725 rear brake behind the fork. For the rear brake, I used the new TRP T925.1R so the brake noodle would have enough crank clearance.

For folks asking about the aerobars, do a search ST and the RBR forum and you should find several posts about them.

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"Most of my heroes don't appear on no stamps"
Blog = http://extrememomentum.com|Photos = http://wheelgoodphotos.com

Interested in how the fit is, too - in terms of comparing to a specialized transition xl I used to own?? Does the M mean a 56 or a L mean a 56?

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.

was interested in the frame that allen posted the pic of.. the flyxii with the front brake behind the fork

Debating between these two frames..

Input, peeps?

I just got my Chinese rim built up with my PowerTap and went for the first ride with it today. So far so good. It feels and sounds good. It kind of has that hum of a disc which is pretty cool. The LBS messed up the first build and used spokes that were too long so the build took a while which is no good but at least I have it now.[/img]

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Twitter - Instagram

Officially for sale, S5 arrived today.

I have the top frame in large purchased from Carbon Zone on Ebay.
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

Edit: I saw it posted in classifieds!

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Twitter - Instagram

so, a Medium would probably be better for me.. hmmmm

Side note on the Miracle Trade MC-055
Lisa from Miracle Trade said this model won't be available in 56cm until end of April.

Is anyone willing to post more photos (detailed) of their chinese tri bike, more specifically the one from carbonzone with the rear brake under the BB and the cable entry just behind the headset? Or, how is the head tube and seat post width? Is the seat post elongated and narrow like an actual P3?
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 have the first one, and love it!!! Stiff, fast. Crosswinds are tricky coming from an aluminum road frame.

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.

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Michigan Awesome

Hand2Hand Ministries

I just finished building the very bike you are speaking of.

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

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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 -

http://myworld.ebay.com/carbonzone/?_trksid=p4340.l2559


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!

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Michigan Awesome

Hand2Hand Ministries

so if i want to build a bike using one of these frames, can i get a check list of everything ill need.
like components and such, this will be my first build and i dont want to miss anything.

How do people determine their frame size?

How hard was the internal cable run to do? Have you had any issues with tire clearance or the seatpost slipping?

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-Andrew Saar
It is better to do the right thing and be paid poorly,
than to do the wrong thing and be rewarded richly.

there are tubes inside the frame. SUPER EASY!!!!! No cable jackets used!

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Michigan Awesome

Hand2Hand Ministries

Fantastic, have you seen any stack/reach figures for this? Thanks so much for the help!

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-Andrew Saar
It is better to do the right thing and be paid poorly,
than to do the wrong thing and be rewarded richly.

You can buy mine or go right to Dengfu.

Bought the first TT frameset + Tektro R725 brakeset + Neco headset last year from ebay/carbonzone. So far so good, very stiff.

Two questions.
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.

How do you think these Chinese "Superbikes" would compare to a Cervelo Dual. I had no idea these things were even an option and am thinking the old, if it's too good to be true...also

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.

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.

Bump

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

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" . :-)

Here's mine. I bought the frame/fork/post/brakes from a fellow STer (thank you). Most of the components I had already. When this chain is done, I will replace it with the gold KMC chain. Cabling was super quick and easy with this bike. Far easier than my other bikes. And it rides like a dream. Fast and apparently reasonably aero. It's faster than my other brand-name bike, which cost several times more $$ and has wind tunnel data.



BTW, I believe the original buyer bought the frame from CarbonZone on eBay.

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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.

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.

I'm going for the 3k matte finish. Decals would be great, but I don't have anything creative in mind, so I'll likely just leave it like that.

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.

I couldn't find it last night but I did some digging today...this is the design that I was thinking I'd really like to emulate:
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.

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)

Check out this one:

http://johnhirsch.org/?page_id=137

That appears to be a bit of a markup - waiting in the mail for mine to arrive.

Looking forward to seeing the finished product :)

This is mine...
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

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Yeah I shave my legs, so what? I shave my arms too.........

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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 Campy Lateral pull is the SAME BRAKE as the Tektro R925...unsure about TRP, although from their website it looks like the T925 F and R are the same as the others (lateral pull mech looks the same anyway.

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 think I have a rear brake that I am not using at home. Will send you a picture.

Ya i had the same issue.

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

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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?)

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Steve

"If you ain't first, you're last." Reese Bobby Talladega Nights

For now...

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Eli Curt

I'm Professionally Amateur. Are you? Become an ambassador today!
Chimps in Training!

 This is new FM069

Looks sweet

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Nice looking bike but I am pretty sure there is a rule about extensions protruding further than edge of the front wheel.

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Rodney
TrainingPeaks | Altra Running | RAD Roller
http://www.goinglong.ca

I'll be really interested to see what the pricing comes out at for that and if you can swap bars.

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-Andrew Saar
It is better to do the right thing and be paid poorly,
than to do the wrong thing and be rewarded richly.

Now that's a move forward for chinese cheap bikes.

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BoulderCyclingCoach.com

I see sharp angles on the downtube and seat tube. That is a concern.. LOOKS very cool though!

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Heath Dotson
HD Coaching:Website |Twitter: 140 Characters or Less|Facebook:Follow us on Facebook

Finally a less expensive bike that I would be interested in learning more about. If I can us my own basebar on that set up then yes I would be interested.

looks like a standard clamp diameter to me. The only drawback is that you couldn't use full internal routing...

very interesting, I might get one as well

I can assure you that there is no full internal routing on that frame.

how come?

http://dengfubikes.com/...id=50&classid=22

Where do you think the cables from the extensions run.

I don't know... yet
some people did it on a Scott plasma 3, I don't think it's rocket science to hide a few cables.

Also the brakes are not the best with the noodle sticking out the side of the brakes as they are like a V brake

I am sure it can be done but not with that stock set up they are showing.

Do you have a link where I can order from?

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Michigan Awesome

Hand2Hand Ministries

Well if you look closely at the chainstay you would see an exit port........

I have looked very closely and while the main cables like the shifter cables are internal once they enter behind the stem and I would assume most of the rear brake, the front brake will have to be exposed because the cable needs to enter the brake noodle well outside of the frame. Also when I mentioned switching out the aerobars or even using the existing aerobars means that you have to have the cables exit the aerobar extensions and go into the frame.

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.

Hey Bman, you never know; could go through the headset area like the new Superslice and leave out the noodle: http://1.bp.blogspot.com/...s/s1600/IMG_8317.JPG

I would like to see the other side of that fork. I think there is a reason why the picture is always taken on that side.

I don't know which bike you're talking about, but if it's the Cannondale I assure you no noodle is necessary:

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

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Want: 58cm Cervelo Soloist. PM me if you have one to sell

Vintage Cervelo: A Resource

Thanks Jeremy. That makes it very clear. Not sure about the Chinese bike but I honestly doubt that they are running the cables the same way but if they are then that is pretty cool.

yeah, pretty damn simple and aero way to run these modified V brakes

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Want: 58cm Cervelo Soloist. PM me if you have one to sell

Vintage Cervelo: A Resource

  

I'd be interested in knowing the dimensions of that downtube

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Want: 58cm Cervelo Soloist. PM me if you have one to sell

Vintage Cervelo: A Resource

Email from Dengfu to a guy on another forum

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.

Sounds super terrific awesome fun time fast. I do like the aerobar though. They are now one of maybe 3 people making extensions that sit on top of the spacers. I would guess right around $1,000, depending on the the redness of the sun, and General Tso's thoughts.

Picked her up for under $100. Disc wheels. All Chinese Components. Bumblebee edition.

Wow that FM069 looks nice. Since it's my first year doing tri I was thinking of going for a 2nd hand tri-bike or using generic CHN frame + parts. I think going these CHN-TT route seems better as I can add personal decals and the price won't be over the top (thinking $2-3K max). Though the "Five Rings" brand they're selling around the area seems to be CHN-TT with their decals and they're selling it for a bit more, I guess it comes with warranty/support. Oh well, before the year ends I hope to be riding a "new" tri-bike.

I contacted Dengfu and he said that it's $1200 for the framset/seatpost/bars.. and like $14 for a headset.
Sexy bike tho

Are you serious?!?!? Wow I was told $700

My new favorite thread. Been thinking, looking for years. This will get me to start a Summer project. Mahalo!

For $700 I am in but $1200 not so much

$1200 I am getting used P2 or P3 frame but even the used P2 would be better.

The picture is not showing up for me. Anyone have another link or can repost the picture?

EDIT: Now I can see it. Nevermind.

Looks nice!

Looks like that front brake uses a noodle as does the back I think. OH WELL. Just another carbon knock-off.

Those aerobars are pretty dang nice. Wonder if they will be selling them separate? Oh, the bike is good looking too.

Nice sorta looks like a cross between triad and ordu.

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__________________________________________________
Official Polar Ambassador
http://www.google.com/...P7RiWyEVwpunlsc2JtQQ

$1200.... hmmmm seems expensive for a CHN frame... I wonder if they did wind tunnel test on it?

Yah they put it on a roof rack and went through the Peking tunnel :0)

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__________________________________________________
Official Polar Ambassador
http://www.google.com/...P7RiWyEVwpunlsc2JtQQ

Comparing the cross-section on the drawing with the known dimension of the stem (31.8), I get somewhere between 28 and 30mm. Should be narrow enough.

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

same here

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?

Miracle Trade MT-MC055
(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

Yep. Try lots of carbon paste.

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"Most of my heroes don't appear on no stamps"
Blog = http://extrememomentum.com|Photos = http://wheelgoodphotos.com

I do not have this frame but have had a lot of success with carbon paste. Seems to do its job well.

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

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"Most of my heroes don't appear on no stamps"
Blog = http://extrememomentum.com|Photos = http://wheelgoodphotos.com

Hi !!
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 . . . .

I am looking into these same bikes. Did you ever make a purchase?

Here is mine. I have seen this same frame re badged alot, it is a planet x. I have about 500 miles on it and it has been fine. I have a road bike from Dengfu as well. I have easly 10,000 miles on it with chinese wheels and i have had ZERO issues. I think people would be truly amazed if they knew where things were made not assembeled.

Are those also the chinese aerobars? If so, how are they? I remember hearing they needed some sanding to fit but how are they once on the bike?

Hi bhebert.

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 ( ?? )

I find it very intresting that people build cheap frames with amazing components eg zipps ect. when the "heart" of the bike is the frame. I understand the attraction of a cheaper bike tho

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http://stuartwalpole.blogspot.com/

The 'heart' of a bike is the engine, i.e. the rider.
But I see what you mean.

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´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

Wow!! That is probably the closest copy of a plasma I have ever seen! Looks great though. I still like the style of the FM069 though. Anybody have any solid pricing on the 69 yet?

$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.

Why do you say that about 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.

That really is a stellar looking setup compared to most. It's also a 1-1/8" standard fork, so you could put a Cervelo fork on there with an Omega or some such. Interesting options.

Chris

Its probably a better idea to put a standard fork in so you don't have that clusterfuck of the TRP TTV brakes behind the fork.

x2 on the heart is the rider/engine...

If you look closely at the frame it's not the same as the dengfu. Has anybody found out more details?

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power2max
http://www.power2max.com/northamerica
official power meter of Movistar Team

Looks like its been taken down from the Synergysports Alibaba page...

I just asked Hongfu about their FM086 (looks similar to FM069)



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&#65306; $95

Nice bike

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My TT bike
BMC TM01

Where can I find the particular frameset aside from BMC's website!?

where are the best places to buy one of the chinese frames?
thanks

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).

Huge points for style here!!! I love the detail on the cranks too.

velobuild.com worked for me - it like ordering from freaking Amazon... too easy

HAAHA

http://dengfubikes.com/...mcchk=1&Itemid=1

I emailed the guy a while back and it was around $1100.

Do you have to buy this frameset (FM069) directly from Dengfu, or is there someone, or Ebay that has it on hand ready to ship with price and shipping all nicely totalled up and PayPal?
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,

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Team Zoot-Texas, and Pickle Juice

Anyone got the DengFu FM 069 going here :) was the price worth it ($1,200 right)?

in ebay now

http://www.ebay.de/...;hash=item3f1dcb8760

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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.

if anyone is interested in these frames (to buy or to see a review) go over to Velobuild. They do group buys which means you can get a pretty decent price, around $950.

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

What do they mean by "group buy"? Are there a minimum number of pieces you have to order, or can you just order a single frame?

They get a group of interested people to buy in bulk and this reduces the cost. You only need to buy one.

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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.

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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?

The easiest way is to use velobuild.com. Actually cheaper there too.

How did you mount the rear brake? Also, how did you mount the rear brake for the front brake?

I mounted the rear brake just following the enclosed instructions from TRP. For the front brake, I used some parts I had lying around in order to get the rear brake to work there. I honestly don't recall what they were. Good luck!

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"Most of my heroes don't appear on no stamps"
Blog = http://extrememomentum.com|Photos = http://wheelgoodphotos.com

Thought this might be worth repeating. Just in case anyone was under any misapprehension that the Chinese frames are "... seconds / over production models / the result of an overly zealous quality controller binning them from the manufacturers run / use the same moulds etc etc etc etc etc ..."

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.

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https://www.pbandjcoaching.com
https://www.thisbigroadtrip.com

In reference to the rear brake, how did you get the little metal bracket off the bottom of the frame? I unscrewed the bolts, but it doesn't want to budge.

Heres another MC055. I just have to trim the cables and some athoer small stuff the its ready when the snow is gone!

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....

What are you using for the rear brakes?
Did the rear brakes fit well?

Thanks-

I am using a SRAM apex I had no problems with it but I havent tried it outside yet (too much snow here in Sweden)

I'm looking at the FM069 size 56cm. The geometry listed here for the 56cm <http://dengfubikes.com/...mcchk=1&Itemid=1> seems to resemble the geometry of the Trek Speed Concept size XL listed here <http://www.trekbikes.com/...peed_concept_9_9>. They only offer 4 sizes for the FM069 and it looks like they correspond to the speed concept size S,M, L, and XL. They also make a XS speed concept which does not have a FM069 clone. Do these comparisons seem reasonable? I'm 6'3" and I ride a 60cm road bike so I'm hesitant to get a "56 cm" frame. I don't know much about TT geometry, but if Trek makes something with very similar geometry that's called "XL" I'd feel better about it. Just looking for advice. It looks like a nice frame and if I'm confident it's going to fit I think I'm going to go for it.

The deng fu site, interestingly enough has reach but not stack. The reach for the 56 is 434, which is inbetween Trek's L and XL.

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...

I'm not seeing a stack and reach link. One thing I noticed after staring at the FM069 geometry for 20 minutes is that their top tube length is measured from the FRONT of the seat tube to the center of the head tube instead of center to center like most manufacturers measure. This would lengthen the top tube to around 57-57.5 cm which is very close to the speed concept XL. I may just be making up reasons to buy this thing at this point.

how do they ride? i'm curious about the ride quality and etc. of china bikes