VeloBuild VB-R-268 frame

[hazzer19]

VeloBuild's new road frame: https://www.velobuild.com/products/velobuild-2024-vb-r-268-carbon-fiber-aero-road-frame-disc-integrated-cables


Looks like a spec'd up VB-R-168


Highlights for me:


- T1000 carbon frame built using EPS and latex
- Mavic speed release system with axles included (what's everyone's experience with this?)
- zero offset seat post is stock

[joegal]

Good catch!
I checked their website two days ago as Chris teasered a new frame to me a few months back!

looks quite interesting!
I wonder if the zero offset seatpost fits into the 168 frame. I will ask Chris about that!

Geometry is still the same as 168/SL7/SL8, but tube shapes look even deeper/more aero (ik, you cant see aero )

Who is going to buy one?

[shHH]

Indeed it looks like a further development of the 168 frame. If so, it is not, as usual, a replica of western bicycle manufacturers. I wonder if it is really their own design?

[Sebastian]

I think it basically looks like the VB-R099, except for a slightly shorter and deeper headtube.

[some guy]

so.. about that speed release system. i guess it saves a few seconds when exchanging a wheel, but is there any other advantage for "not team car supported" riders? always the same clamping force due to the torque release? what am i missing?

[ENEP]

Great looking frame. I'm impressed they're keeping the 499 USD price point.

[patliean1]

And here I thought I was finished reviewing super affordable frames...

[Sebastian]

so.. about that speed release system. i guess it saves a few seconds when exchanging a wheel, but is there any other advantage for "not team car supported" riders? always the same clamping force due to the torque release? what am i missing?

There's really not much of an advantage there unless you're using Speed Release Axles with a small hand lever so you don't need a tool, IMO. It might be ever so slightly more convenient but it's no wonder really that this system never caught on. Really weird choice to spec this frame with it. I wonder if this used to be an OEM exclusive design but the license has expired so the mold became available? But then again I don't think I've ever seen this before.

I guess you could still use this frame with regular thru axles, as long as the thread pitch is the same.

[OlieSimpson]

As an existing (and happy) VB-R-168 owner it's seems that the 268 will be a lighter, stiffer version of the 168 with a zero set-back post. I would also imagine the inside of the frame is 'cleaner' than the 168 given it's produced with a latex bladder.

Seems like this would build in to a really nice bike given how comfortable the 168 is to ride.

I've got no experience with the axle system (and have never actually heard of it until now), so am interested to hear if others see this as a positive.

Olie

[Cnasta]

What do you guys think about the weight. Looks pretty good to me. Would a cheapish bike around 7,5kilo possible (with 50mm Elite Wheels and Ultegra Di2)?

Anybody had contact about a when to order/deliver?

[jepa83]

Hello guys,

i am quiet new here around. Today i ordered one of these new frames. I intended to buy the 168 but then this one appears. Let’s see how it will work out.

greetings

[patliean1]

The 177 is my favorite road frame from VeloBuild. I really enjoy the riding dynamics for the price and I found it to be much more responsive than my 168. Despite preferring the overall look and geometry of the 168.

For all intent and purpose this new 268 it sounds like it's built very similarly to the 177. If the road feel is the same or better, VeloBuild will have a huge hit on their hands for 2024. Smart move by VeloBuild.

Regarding the weight difference versus the 177...it's about as marginal as the aerodynamic gains from the 268.

[merider]

Speed release axles are double threaded.　It will be difficult to find third party axle

[Cnasta]

Speed release axles are double threaded.　It will be difficult to find third party axle

I guess it's smart to order an extra pair with the frame then.

I'm considering going for this one over the 177 (or maybe the Ican A40, which is a beauty but more expensive). I asked about stock and they have some.

Getting two frames, sharing shipping costs, is tempting

Should I get wheels as well, or is it better to buy them at Elite (looking for 50mm, affordable, lighish (145-/1500gr) wheels).

[Greenred]

Chris on seatpost compatibility with the 168: it doesn’t fit because the 268 seatpost is wider

What a bummer