IP/FM 056/057 29er Frames

[Sitar_Ned]

One of the more popular Chinese carbon 29er hardtail frames has been the IP or FM 056 and 057 frames.

The "IP" or "FM" in the name doesn't mean anything other than apparently differentiate between different manufacturers and or vendors. Also, the only difference between the "056" and the "057" is that the "057" has the 142 x 12 mm rear axle... Like this: http://www.amazon.com/Shimano-SM-AX65-Rear-Hub-Axle/dp/B007Q4M150 while the "056" uses standard 9mm QR axles.


The frame can be had for about $500 give or take a bit, and that's shipping included.

I'll continue to add to this thread as time goes on. Anyone else that wishes to add some info or ask questions - Feel free!

[Sitar_Ned]

For starters.. When ordering this frame, you're given the option of purchasing the headset with the frame which at first seems ideal.. There's the standard Neko headset that costs about $15, and some vendors give the option to upgrade to a FSA headset that goes for about $25.

Form my research, I recommend passing on both options and buying the Cane Creek 40 series headset that can be found here: http://www.universalcycles.com/shopping/product_details.php?id=39924  and here:  http://www.universalcycles.com/shopping/product_details.php?id=39947

In case those link destinations change.. That's the "Cane Creek 40-Series IS42 Integrated Upper" and the "Cane Creek 40 IS52 1.5" Integrated Lower As"

It seems that some guys are running into some issues with both the Neko and FSA headsets, in that special shims may be required to make the headset fit properly. Now perhaps this problem only affects a small portion of users.. really not sure.. but either way - both of the cheaper headset options seem to wear out prematurely.

Of course, make your own decision, but personally, I read too many negative things about the headsets to want to put it on my super pimp carbon frame.. The Cane Creek for me 100%.

[Sitar_Ned]

As far as tire sizes that will fit the frame.. There are guys running 2.35-2.4 tires out back with no problems. A big volume tire in the rear was a must have for me.. So I'm glad the 057 was willing to accommodate.

Also, here's the geometry charts for the four different sizes:

15.5 inch frame:


17.5 inch frame:


19 inch frame:


21 inch frame:

[Carbon_Dude]

Here is a pic of my IP-057 Chinese Carbon Hard Tail Frame.  Purchased from XMIplay, custom paint color and paint scheme.  Spec'd out a BSA (threaded) bottom bracket, UD Carbon Finish, 12x142 dropouts.

[Andy]

Beautiful paint job job CD...I love your bikes.

SN do you have a pic of your bike? 

[Sitar_Ned]

I wish Andy.. waiting for delivery of frame as we speak. So, I suppose I am a poser for now  since I don't even officially own a Chinese carbon bike yet! Well.. I guess I do own it.. I just don't have possession of it yet. Slightly less poser, yeah?

But don't worry.. When it is fully assembled I'll be doing a very extensive build thread with plenty of pics and even a nice vid! You'll be sick of seeing my bike by the time I'm done lol.

[Carbon_Dude]

Here are a few more pics of my IP-057 after it was completed.  The riser bars look tall in the pictures but the bike rides really well, very comfortable and easy on my back.  The build came out very light, 19.5 lbs when I first weighed it.

[Sitar_Ned]

Nice.. 19.5 lbs? I haven't bothered adding up all the individual weights, but was really hoping to come in under 22lbs. Not sure if I'll make it though.

Hey CD, I realize this is in no way scientific.. but if you had to take a wild guess at what the build in the video above weighs.. What would you guess? Reason I ask is that I'm pretty certain mine will be lighter than that one.

Edit: Well, on second thought.. It may not be lighter as he does have a full carbon cockpit and arch wheels whereas my Charger Experts are more in line with the Flows. Mine will be 1x10 though so that will help.

EDIT: After reading the comments below the video, he says the bike weighs around 22 pounds.

[Carbon_Dude]

The 19.5 lbs for my IP-057 was when I first built it, BTW, that also included the Eggbeater pedals.  Since then, I added my Planet Bike computer, changed out the seat post to an Easton EC90, and changed the rear tire from a Racing Ralph to a Continental X-King.  So the bike last weighed in at 20.5 lbs.  Just those changes added nearly a pound to the build, half a pound from just changing the tires.  The RR are stupid light but very thin and somewhat expensive, particularly since I didn't even get 500 miles out of the tire, for me that's not much tire life.

[copylatte]

Hello,

I just purchased an IP 056 frame and I think the different between it and the FM 056 is actually the bottom bracket.  FM056 is BB30, and I believe IP 056 is threaded.....I'll confirm once the IP 056 arrives...

Anyhow, I was wondering if there is any input on fork length.  I have a 120mm fork that I'd like to use on the build and I think it is ok for the frame from what I've seen, but not sure.  I know 100mm is perfect as my friend uses that on his FM 056, but I prefer a little more travel.  Any thoughts?

Thanks,

[Carbon_Dude]

The IP/FM 056/057 are available in BSA or BB30 bottom bracket options, they type of bottom bracket does not determine the frame model number.  One of the nice things about the Chiner frames are the available options like BB style, carbon type (UD, 3K, 12K), and paint finish (matte, gloss, or painted a color).  You should know which BB your frame will have based on your order so you can match your cranks to the frame.

120mm is the longest travel fork I'd suggest for the IP-057, it's really designed to be XC bike.  I've seen anywhere from 80mm-120mm forks used with this frame and nobody is complaining about issues with the geometry within that range of fork travel.

[Sitar_Ned]

I agree that 120mm fork is max travel. As for what travel fork the frame was designed for, I think it's 100mm. Mine has an 80mm, but apparently Manitou forks have a taller than standard axle to crown measurement. Either way.. so far, so good.

I've personally read reviews by guys saying they liked the 120mm fork on the 056/057 frames so you are good to go.

[Patrick C.]

Which style front derailleur fits best on these frames?  I'm planning to run a 2x10, and not sure which style I need.  I know you guys prefer 1x, but hoping you can point me in the right direction.

[brmeyer135]

34.9 high mount top pull

[manmythlegend]

The tubing at the bottom is deceptively large. I bought a chain guide for my 1x10 setup and it wouldn't fit around lol. Definitely look at all measurements before finalizing part purchase.