Chinertown
Chinese Carbon Road Bikes => Cyclocross Frames, Wheels & Components => Topic started by: mila on September 24, 2021, 02:58:45 PM
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Hey all,
I have not find any information on TopCarbon TCGF066 gravel frame nor TopCarbon Technology company.
Links:
https://www.topcarbontech.com/product/tcgf066/ (https://www.topcarbontech.com/product/tcgf066/)
https://topcarbontech.en.alibaba.com/product/1600178396500-824172682/2021_New_High_Quality_Carbon_Fiber_Bike_Frame_Gravel_With_Flat_Mount_Disc_Brake.html?spm=a2700.shop_plgr.41413.13.2c3b4792tRNHDv (https://topcarbontech.en.alibaba.com/product/1600178396500-824172682/2021_New_High_Quality_Carbon_Fiber_Bike_Frame_Gravel_With_Flat_Mount_Disc_Brake.html?spm=a2700.shop_plgr.41413.13.2c3b4792tRNHDv)
(http://tcgf066.jpg)
The geometry looks spot on and only down side for me is that it has only BB86. So I'm considering a purchase.
Does anybody have any experience with this frame, e.g. build quality?
It looks like the frame can be purchased only on Alibaba.
Does anybody have any experience with buying from TopCarbon on Alibaba?
Source: TopCarbon
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Why not just state that you're a rep of TopCarbon and offer to field questions about your company's products. Nobody is going to believe the post you made is legitimate interest from a third party. This just makes your company look dodgy and desperate. Which is a shame as a couple of the road frames actually look interesting.
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Hi,
simply because I'm not (BTW I'm from Czech Republic). I didn't find any relevant information about this frame/company, so I thought there would be someone with experience with them.
I'm new to the forum so I have no experience with buying Chinese stuff. After reading several articles on the forum, I discovered two facts:
1) It is good to buy frame from a trusted seller like Hongfu, Carbonda, Winspace,..
2) All frames are manufactured by a few manufacturers and then resold under various brands.
But back to the topic.
The only information about manufacturer I have found is here: http://chinertown.com/index.php/topic,3316.0.html (http://chinertown.com/index.php/topic,3316.0.html)
To me it looks like the Lexon RIOT frame is made by TopCarbon. But maybe I'm wrong.
Unfortunately, I did not find the frame I'm looking for in offer of Lexon or other brands.
So I will be happy for any advice on where to find relevant information.
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Happy to be wrong if so, but your format was identical to a bunch of the other 'marketing' attempts. Particularly the "source: topcarbon"
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I have to say. This looks very close to a Scott Addict Gravel geometry wise. I like it.
Its refreshing to see a chinese gravel racing bike instead of focusing on adventure.
Let me know if you order one Mila.
EDIT: Found the picture built up. Looks like a CX build.
(https://www.topcarbontech.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/TCGF066-1.jpeg)
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Mila, Did you find any further information about this frame or about the manufacturer? I am interested too. The frame design looks really good and appears to have similar “progressive” geometry as BMC’s URS gravel bike (long reach and 70 degree head tube). The BMC has many good reviews for its geometry and I would think this frame would handle similarly to that.
From what I can tell, Topcarbon seems like a real manufacturer, as they do not appear to just be reselling open mold products…but it is odd there is almost no information about them online, such as reviews. Maybe they are manufacturing for name brand companies and don’t sell much under their own name? Or maybe just haven’t become established yet?
Hey all,
I have not find any information on TopCarbon TCGF066 gravel frame nor TopCarbon Technology company.
Links:
https://www.topcarbontech.com/product/tcgf066/ (https://www.topcarbontech.com/product/tcgf066/)
https://topcarbontech.en.alibaba.com/product/1600178396500-824172682/2021_New_High_Quality_Carbon_Fiber_Bike_Frame_Gravel_With_Flat_Mount_Disc_Brake.html?spm=a2700.shop_plgr.41413.13.2c3b4792tRNHDv (https://topcarbontech.en.alibaba.com/product/1600178396500-824172682/2021_New_High_Quality_Carbon_Fiber_Bike_Frame_Gravel_With_Flat_Mount_Disc_Brake.html?spm=a2700.shop_plgr.41413.13.2c3b4792tRNHDv)
(http://tcgf066.jpg)
The geometry looks spot on and only down side for me is that it has only BB86. So I'm considering a purchase.
Does anybody have any experience with this frame, e.g. build quality?
It looks like the frame can be purchased only on Alibaba.
Does anybody have any experience with buying from TopCarbon on Alibaba?
Source: TopCarbon
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I did have contact with them and they are mostly interested in selling in bulk which probably explains why they don't have a very B2C focused website. That said they were ok selling a single frameset for me for 500$ excluding shipping. However shipping time will be long as they wanted me to wait until they produce my size in bulk for other customers.
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Looks like an interesting frame. I'm a big fan of the straighter tube designs and (what looks like) regular seatpost.
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I thought I would have a go at contacting TopCarbon about this frame too. A single order is clearly not of much interest to them but they would take my money never the less. Best case scenario was 2-3 months before they would make the frame, presumably when the next bulk order is due, per Zdrenka89's post. With possible shipping delays that could easily be 4-6 months or more before the frame arrives...No thank you!
What I shame, this frame looked really good to me and likely is the same as this (if not a clone):
https://www.cxmagazine.com/pro-bike-profile-eric-brunner-new-race-winning-blue-norcross-cyclocross-gravel-bike
I did have contact with them and they are mostly interested in selling in bulk which probably explains why they don't have a very B2C focused website. That said they were ok selling a single frameset for me for 500$ excluding shipping. However shipping time will be long as they wanted me to wait until they produce my size in bulk for other customers.
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It does indeed look like the same bike. Good find!
(https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5b5497f245776e1abae5bbb8/1631435895638-WBY3JTZ4Z24L5S8JUUWE/Bike1.jpg?format=2500w)
(https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5b5497f245776e1abae5bbb8/1631436882596-62S50GANH7S1O068VR8Q/IMG_7577.jpg?format=2500w)
(https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5b5497f245776e1abae5bbb8/1636520232723-93CWAXVFGM1J5OFC4HEK/IMG_9723.jpg?format=2500w)
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Looking for an XS gravel frame, I hope this one fits the bill!
EDIT: Just read all the other posts, bummer it seems like its so far out. I'm debating on this our something like a Surly... only ones that fit that 500 top tube!
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Well I'm about to pull the trigger on this, wish me luck!
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Please let us know how that goes! Thanks.
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still waiting on confirmation for standover, hoping for it to be less than 750, closer to 705-725 or so!
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In the market for a gravel racing bike, this looks like an interesting option! For those that have ordered, what is the shipping like?
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This frame looks like its being sold by Lexon now.
Very funny photoshop picture with Sram and Shimano mix btw ::) I think they literally photoshoped the real handlebar from the Scott Addict Gravel bike onto it. ;D
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005003540978175.html?spm=a2g0o.productlist.0.0.1438620cqB1hQk&algo_pvid=2b088d22-7670-4b33-ba05-923bc8a27c67&algo_exp_id=2b088d22-7670-4b33-ba05-923bc8a27c67-0&pdp_ext_f=%7B%22sku_id%22%3A%2212000026224445234%22%7D
(https://ae04.alicdn.com/kf/H50517b0345d941418aa37a67be8af720W.png_640x640.png)
(https://ae01.alicdn.com/kf/H25823de36f104567bfb187ea8fc0f757p.jpg)
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Im not making this shit up ;D
(https://roadbikeaction.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/GRAVEL_SCOTT_SPORTS_MY22_BY_SEBAS_ROMERO18-scaled.jpg)
(https://ae01.alicdn.com/kf/H995997a46ae9437bb909830f4aec32d8D.gif)
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I'm holding off for now, Gavin from the Alibaba store said the standover is close to 795mm, that doesn't seem right. Shouldn't be more than 750mm, I think. At 4'11 it's super important and thats a big difference!
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Lets see if Lexon can figure out the standover via message... and get in matte black of course :)
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It's interesting that Lexon claims the use of Swedish Textreme https://www.textreme.com/ (https://www.textreme.com/) to reinforce the frame. If that's truly the case, it might be worth the small premium over other builders like Velobuild. I'd be quite keen on this frame if that were truly so!
However their blatant rip-off of Scott's marketing, down to 'Lexon's patented aero tubing' even with a big square downtube, leaves a really bad taste.
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I think I'll get the lexon frame after Xmas. Really like the shape of the frame and lexons paintjob looks decent. Not sure about the Ryet carbon aero bar...wonder if it would work with a standard handlebar setup
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I would buy one too but the size L does not appear to be available :(
You can use a standard stem and handlebar with the right kind of headset and dust cap. I can’t tell what kind of headset the Lexon frame comes with if you do not buy the integral stem/bars. Maybe one of the AliExpress shops can send you a photo? You want a dust cap with a flat top that has a cut out or individual cable ports, but without the special shape and pins to fit a proprietary stem, like this company sells:
https://www.firstcomponents.com/internal-cable-routing/
An example:
(http://)
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ah interesting information thank you.
My dream build is going to be with sensah SRX 1x setup, Zrace crank & BB and some lovely elite gravel wheels i have seen on Ali express.
I'am actually going to buy the above regardless to upgrade my aluminium boardman CX bike in the short term, then come spring time go all in on the lexon/topcarbon frameset and transfer everything across.
I just weighed my boardman CX and its pretty much 11kg with pedals and saddle bag attached, i would like to get a build closer to 9kg in a 56 frame size
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It's interesting that Lexon claims the use of Swedish Textreme https://www.textreme.com/ (https://www.textreme.com/) to reinforce the frame. If that's truly the case, it might be worth the small premium over other builders like Velobuild. I'd be quite keen on this frame if that were truly so!
However their blatant rip-off of Scott's marketing, down to 'Lexon's patented aero tubing' even with a big square downtube, leaves a really bad taste.
I'd be quite surprised if it did use Textreme. Ask Gavin. If he says yes, fair enough. If he doesn't answer or diverts, then it's as suspected.
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Alright, pulled the trigger on the XS! I guess I'll keep updating this thread to keep track of the journey. Not my first China build, so it should be smooth sailing... hopefully! I also got the integrated handlebar, but chose a non-flared option instead.
Will be converting my wifes canti cx bike build to this, so besides a bottom bracket and calipers, I should have everything I need!
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I'm excited to hear your thoughts when it arrives. This seems like a nice frame, lightweight, balanced geometry (modern but not real long like the CFR707), integrated handlebar, etc. Currently a top contender for me.
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For us it seemed to be the only really XS frame we could find, I just hope the geo chart translates into a good fit! Hoping the handlebar works, if not I’ll need to figure out how to use the standard stuff…
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Awesome news, I'm glad to hear they give you a choice of bars as I hate the look of flared ones. Will look forward to a build update 8) 8)
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Does the front brake hose route internally too? I'm assuming so, just not seeing a hole on the fork for the cable exit, and wouldn't it have to go through the top of the stem? Would be nice if they had real build pictures instead of the Lexon frame photoshopped on the Scott pictures lol
Edit: I do now see the hole exit on the inside of the fork leg
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Well I got a tracking number, on its way:
(https://i.imgur.com/xIy3J5a.jpeg)
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Well I got a tracking number, on its way:
(https://i.imgur.com/xIy3J5a.jpeg)
Could you take some close up shots of the the steerer tube in good light? Curious to see the quality and conformity.
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Did you request a black frame? I ended up ordering too, hopefully it's here soon, currently on an airplane.
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These aren’t my photos, they were from the vendor. Once I get in hand I’ll take some more!
Tracking currently says January 24, but who knows how lucky I’ll get!
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@pearl - did you order through TopCarbon or Lexon? If Lexon, how did you convince them to give it to you in black?
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Well I got a tracking number, on its way:
(https://i.imgur.com/xIy3J5a.jpeg)
All the best with the shipping and build! :)
Curious to know if you were able to figure out whether the vendor actually uses Textreme in this frame (I'm assuming you ordered from Lexon), and what the total cost was, if you don't mind sharing! Thanks! :)
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Yes, through AliExpress Lexon Official Store. Total shipped to USA with the handlebar was $764.66.
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Still waiting for tracking, been at "hand over to airline" since December 23rd; I can't stop refreshing!
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Still waiting for tracking, been at "hand over to airline" since December 23rd; I can't stop refreshing!
Same here, mine's had the same "hand over to airline" since December 19th!
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I did reach out and they said to be patient, not my first rodeo but it is tough not knowing when it’s going to be here!
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Hi, i placed an order on a frameset too, orderd from topcarbon but the don't supply any headset bearings as i understand it.
I'm trying to find suitable bearings, drawings and sales rep says 1 1/2" up and down, i assume this is the inner diameter but no outer diameter is speced.
Anyone knows if a 45degree 52*40*7 will fit the frame & steerer assembly ?
/Hakan
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Hi,
it's my first post here so I would like to say hello :)
I also ordered this frame from RYET shop (I think ist spinoff of Lexon shop from aliexpress). The frame set plus handlebar in size S for my long legged girlfriend with handlebar 360mm and 70 mm stem. The package was sent on 6. january and the current status is that is awaiting for flight in Hongkong. I'm from Poland.
Best regards
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Luckily my frame passed China customs today, it had been sitting since December 19th in a warehouse. Hopefully that means it comes soon! There is someone that received there's and posted pictures in the review section on Aliexpress, cool to see pics of a real one painted! I got my wheels from SpeedSafe today, 45mm deep and 25mm internal width, 1400g total. Just need rotors and tires, and I'll be ready to assemble as soon as the frame shows up.
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Man, my tracking still hasn't updated, I feel this is the longest I've had a tracking number not update. Obviously not a knock on the vendor or anything, but just antsy to get to open the box!
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USPS says it should be here Thursday!
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I have ordered mine directly from Topcarbon in November. I like clean design of frame and geometry numbers in size 56 looks good for me.
Frame was made and painted with custom color now. Just waiting for integrated gravel handlebars finished and get shipped together with frame.
Can't wait to start build :-)
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Can you take a photo of where the lower bearing would sit on your fork? I think the fork I received isn’t right.
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Will take more pictures when frame come to me. (still in factory)
Btw. here is short video review of this frame ...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QoV_YZS16Ao
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was able to find your video, certainly no gap like the one i have...
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Not trying to be condescending but is it perchance a molded crown race that doesnt require a metallic race ? i've made that mistake before!
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I don’t have a race installed trying to put this in, just the bottom bearing.
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Maybe the wrong size bearing? Or incorrect contact angle
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Do you have pictures of the lower bearing, and a picture of just the bearing sitting on the fork? That chamfer in your picture in your other thread looks way larger than what would typically be on a crown race. If the bearing is just sitting on the chamfer and not actually bottoming out on the flat part of the fork, then that sounds not too good because the forces would be trying to crush that chamfer inward.
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I will echo the comments made about that steerer. The join line and creases elsewhere look absolutely awful and hint at a potential deathtrap IMO. The hole for the integrated cables is at best a complete mess, at worst as above.
You shouldn't accept it or ride it IMO.
Generally TopCarbon have a decent(ish) reputation but that never should have made it to completion on the production line, let alone QC, let alone been sold to a brand / retailer, let alone been sold to a paying customer.
The workmanship is appalling.
It seems like there are much bigger things to worry about than poorly chased BB threads (on the Riot) with TopCarbon, or at least the stuff that gets sold as Lexon.
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Hi guys, the frame arrived 10. february after one month and 4 days to Poland. I have some problems with it. After first raw assembly there was a play in the headset. I think there was missing a spacer that should be 3 mm of thickness. The integradted cable routing is real pain in ass. I will never get into it next time ;) The size S seem to be ok for 160 cm tall girl with longish legs. We have 360/70 bar stem combo. If you have any questions please ask me :)
(https://scontent-frt3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.15752-9/274118261_1359941001126253_7320938384047708994_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-5&_nc_sid=ae9488&_nc_ohc=vzaONA8xWj4AX8JY_kI&_nc_ht=scontent-frt3-1.xx&oh=03_AVKVv8CNj8HLYOCTwL_MBl4omgOGTzBxYfStsPnff1HTAQ&oe=6238C8D1)
(https://scontent-frt3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.15752-9/273946000_247853277551893_966370692160107177_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-5&_nc_sid=ae9488&_nc_ohc=rmqL2LNiyMMAX8o1JtA&_nc_ht=scontent-frt3-1.xx&oh=03_AVKTKoBnhfXa51TWj4mtImEiYwkkfZrT6aS9M1QxSa6_Mw&oe=623A6710)
(https://scontent-frx5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.15752-9/274181146_319628883520070_8151834194942270876_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-5&_nc_sid=ae9488&_nc_ohc=YENlO6snebAAX-7QZm4&_nc_ht=scontent-frx5-2.xx&oh=03_AVKp0bVm86uXcPDUahDODQajDERVRAAQUJXCNoRSJH-TDQ&oe=623881CF)
(https://scontent-frt3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.15752-9/274185211_1625277104491372_8836494168092674862_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-5&_nc_sid=ae9488&_nc_ohc=AbJXbjh59DcAX9qMcMH&_nc_ht=scontent-frt3-2.xx&oh=03_AVJ8rnY_5GW7Zk7T_F_mJIEDLlSkFxy81HyzpDwdLn7Lag&oe=6237AD3D)
(https://scontent-frt3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.15752-9/273943148_659570148627360_2817146292253345884_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-5&_nc_sid=ae9488&_nc_ohc=orsgkn4wtrYAX_2yUuu&_nc_ht=scontent-frt3-2.xx&oh=03_AVKQ87W6qy-zW8I_Y-recxmoCqXFJrOABhNyA90K8xRY5g&oe=623AFE8D)
(https://scontent-frx5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.15752-9/273842784_1270082166851460_3765572286842354653_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-5&_nc_sid=ae9488&_nc_ohc=T4DrbDAergAAX9oYRHA&_nc_ht=scontent-frx5-1.xx&oh=03_AVI1N-y2FjyoMl9RAqIPZL2D3ZY6YqR5wlwaSoqJTuz_SQ&oe=62396CB2)
(https://scontent-frt3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.15752-9/274046413_512724430279571_5421348989143078272_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-5&_nc_sid=ae9488&_nc_ohc=-sx5As6lRW0AX8FKuqu&_nc_ht=scontent-frt3-1.xx&oh=03_AVKRGtaKfsiOdWg1JAt_sMxH6MOUc1NWGQp2YMgUGZRYdA&oe=6238F55C)
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Do you have any photos of the area on the steerer where your lower bearing would sit?
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Hi guys, the frame arrived 10. february after one month and 4 days to Poland. I have some problems with it. After first raw assembly there was a play in the headset. I think there was missing a spacer that should be 3 mm of thickness. The integradted cable routing is real pain in ass. I will never get into it next time ;) The size S seem to be ok for 160 cm tall girl with longish legs. We have 360/70 bar stem combo. If you have any questions please ask me :)
Photos of the steerer? As I'm sure you noted, Pearl received something that was likely to be extremely dangerous.
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Do you have any photos of the area on the steerer where your lower bearing would sit?
No I did not take any photos of that area as I assumed that everything is ok. The fork has an integraded lower racecrown (its a carbon conical area) and I just placed a bearing on it and that's all. I have the same solution in my Giant TCR ad. 2021.
Yesterday we have first ultra short ride on a bicycle lane. Still got no bar tape and some final touches. Bike feels ok, size I think is spot on.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/CaP9-g7P3M3/?utm_medium=copy_link
I just forgot to add in previous post that tire clearance is max 45c (I think it is no ISO approved) but anything larger than 45C would not fit.
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Got a request from Lexon to pay $0.1 so they can ship out a new headset cap part. I wonder if that's a fix to the 3mm spacer issue above.
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Same thing with me and the fork issue. I guess it allows them to track it and send the order through their system? As long as I get what I need I don’t mind spending the $1.10. Just hope they ship it quickly and not take another 55 days.
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I got the updated headset part, but unfortunately can't use it since my frame is still in Guangzhou :-[ I'm assuming it'll be there a while longer since it's been there since December 19th and they are under Covid lockdowns. May be time to start looking for local frames since gravel racing is starting up soon.
(https://i.imgur.com/gpsNNQvm.jpg)
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I got the updated headset part, but unfortunately can't use it since my frame is still in Guangzhou :-[ I'm assuming it'll be there a while longer since it's been there since December 19th and they are under Covid lockdowns. May be time to start looking for local frames since gravel racing is starting up soon.
(https://i.imgur.com/gpsNNQvm.jpg)
That sounds wrong to me. I'm fairly sure couriers haven't been frozen for 3 months in Guangzhou.
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Yeah I know they haven't been frozen for 3 months, but I think Guangzhou just went on lockdown earlier this week. Lexon has extended buyers protection already, so I have 28 days to open a dispute, although I believe I've read I could dispute now if I wanted, since I'm past the original promised 75 days. They don't seem able to do anything, any time I've contacted them about the shipping, they just respond with a copy/paste response of "we will urge shipping company". Here's the tracking for it...
(https://i.imgur.com/ojqoMKWl.png)
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I suspect it was sent by sea.
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Got my frame today! Ordered December 7th, 123 days ago.
1237g - Frame with seat post wedge and cage bolts
431g - Bare fork
136g - Headset, including upper and lower bearing, aluminum top cap (plastic sent with frame, aluminum was separately shipped as they updated the part), compression ring, upper and lower plastic spacers and 7mm off additional split spacers
351g - 400x90mm handlebar
34/25g - R/F axles
210g - Seatpost
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Now I've got 2 questions.
I'd like your opinions on the lower bearing seat on the fork. Pearl posted about their experience here: http://chinertown.com/index.php/topic,3591.0.html
My bearing seat doesn't look near as bad as pearl's original fork (regarding the chamfer height, bearing height, and thus fork/frame gap), it seems more smooth in general, but does have the big sanding marks/scratches around the cable entry. Looking at pearl's fork/frame gap on the new fork on page 3 of the above linked thread, mine looks the same as that.
I've also never routed a road bike frame internally, I've only done external road bikes or internal 1x MTB's with full cable inner. I'm running a SRAM front derailleur, so the cable housing has to stop inside the frame. There doesn't seem to be any molded parts to seat the cable housing in the frame, just a channel under the BB for housing to go. Does the cable housing just go up until the hole at the channel under the BB, bare cable runs through the channel and up through the seat tube hole? Seems that would work, I was just expecting some sort of housing ferrule molding or something, not just a hole that the housing would sit up against.
Also the way the cable exits the hole in the seat tube, there's not enough clearance for the cable to exit without touching the frame. Is it okay if I just use the cable liner like this? (https://www.amazon.com/Jagwire-Black-Housing-Liner-Cables/dp/B0029LF1XO/ref=asc_df_B0029LF1XO/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312144750238&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=15369331526263894745&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9016832&hvtargid=pla-598861741124&psc=1) The cable liner would have kind of a bend to it, but at least it wouldn't be cable rubbing carbon.
Feel free to let me know if anyone wants any other closeup pictures.
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I'm not sure about the cable routing. But the fork / bearing aren't sitting properly. You can't ride it like that.
It looks to me as if Lexon are buying factory seconds with these. The quality is so appalling.
The head tube, upper bearing seat, seat clamp area are all a total mess. At least the steerer doesn't look quite as bad as the other one posted, but scratched and scored everywhere, terrible sanding job, again a very bad job with the cable hole, and a massive porous void where the hole is. Again, I wouldn't ride this.
That Lexon are selling these and TopCarbon are letting these out of the factory speaks volumes.
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Yeah, thats pretty bad.
I wonder now what the insides of the frames looked like for others. Are these really a drop in quality, or have they all looked like this?
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Yeah, luckily I also ordered a CFR707 a few weeks ago. May just try to get some money back on this one make it a trainer bike. Since it's not "broken" and just "poor quality" I'm not sure how likely it'll be to get money back or a return/refund.
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Just wanted to share the difference in quality between the fork from the Lexon GFX and Carbonda CFR707.
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I custom ordered the frame set with the handlebars from Lexon; unpainted (primer black) frame and with a SP-011 seatpost instead of the standard one (see pic).
Customer service didn't start to well with being unable to provide a working tracking number on month after it was allegedly shipped.
After two months it arrived with;
- A Cracked headtube
- Damaged fork/front axle threads
- Missing handlebars (and headset spacers and the other accessories)
- The wrong seatpost
When I pointed this out to the seller the responses was lacking to say the least.
They only ever wanted to address the fork axle threads and one of the responses was: "it is press fit BB86"
I sent loads of photos but all the responses was like talking to a robot or someone trying to make fun of you.
After having no luck with the seller I escalated my case to AliExpress and that's when Lexon offered me a refund of 15$. The missing handlebar alone is ten times that!!!
AliExpress in the end (after 30 pic, 3 videos and a month of processing) found all my complaints valid but still only refunded me 1/3 of what I had payed.
I will never buy anything ever again from Lexon.
I was offered the option to send it all back, at my on expense of course at approximately 3/8 the purchase price or ~320USD, for a "full refund" and a 30USD AliExpress voucher as compensation for all my troubles and shipping expenses. All that would of course be paid out after it had been received and safely gone through by Lexon to make sure that everything there and as described. Sure...
At this point I have _ZERO_ confidence in Lexon and if I where to send the frame back it would just mysteriously "disappeared" or gotten "damaged" or "pick-a-reason". Anything and everything to not refund me.
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its really starting to seem like we should stick to the main vendors...
Denfu
Hongfu
velobuild
carbonada
longteng
ICAN
yoeleo
winspace
Tantan/seraph
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I custom ordered the frame set with the handlebars from Lexon; unpainted (primer black) frame and with a SP-011 seatpost instead of the standard one (see pic).
Customer service didn't start to well with being unable to provide a working tracking number on month after it was allegedly shipped.
After two months it arrived with;
- A Cracked headtube
- Damaged fork/front axle threads
- Missing handlebars (and headset spacers and the other accessories)
- The wrong seatpost
When I pointed this out to the seller the responses was lacking to say the least.
They only ever wanted to address the fork axle threads and one of the responses was: "it is press fit BB86"
I sent loads of photos but all the responses was like talking to a robot or someone trying to make fun of you.
After having no luck with the seller I escalated my case to AliExpress and that's when Lexon offered me a refund of 15$. The missing handlebar alone is ten times that!!!
AliExpress in the end (after 30 pic, 3 videos and a month of processing) found all my complaints valid but still only refunded me 1/3 of what I had payed.
I will never buy anything ever again from Lexon.
I was offered the option to send it all back, at my on expense of course at approximately 3/8 the purchase price or ~320USD, for a "full refund" and a 30USD AliExpress voucher as compensation for all my troubles and shipping expenses. All that would of course be paid out after it had been received and safely gone through by Lexon to make sure that everything there and as described. Sure...
At this point I have _ZERO_ confidence in Lexon and if I where to send the frame back it would just mysteriously "disappeared" or gotten "damaged" or "pick-a-reason". Anything and everything to not refund me.
It really does seem like the Lexon branded versions of this frame are a dumping-seriously-defective products scam. Of course TopCarbon are also at fault for selling and not destroying these heaps of shit.
I can't recall anything this bad being reported before in recent years on this forum or others. Yes there's been appalling customer service from various sellers, and some defective MTB designs, but build quality that consistently befits the TO BE DESTROYED IMMEDIATELY bin is pretty unique.
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Guys,
what are exact dimensions of fixed axles on your TCGF066 frames please?
On my there are
12x100 P1.5 (119mm) front
and
12x142 P1.5 (165mm) rear
both axles seems to be a bit short.
Thank you
EDIT - photos added
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Guys,
what are exact dimensions of fixed axles on your TCGF066 frames please?
On my there are
12x100 P1.5 (119mm) front
and
12x142 P1.5 (165mm) rear
both axles seems to be a bit short.
Thank you
I've just recived my frame (Direct order from Top-Carbon) no thru-axles were included, i have asked TopCarbon which length they recommend, no reply yet.
But measuring my frame those figures are not to far off, possibly the axles can be a couple of mm longer.
How far are the axles recessed on the threaded side on your frame?
I will report back if/when i get the offical dimensions from top-carbon.
/Hakan
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I have ordered these axles from Aliexpress ... I suppose these dimensions will fit just right ...
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005002998033091.html?spm=a2g0o.order_list.0.0.51911802H0ALlM
Front 122mm
Rear 168mm
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Now I've got 2 questions.
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I've also never routed a road bike frame internally, I've only done external road bikes or internal 1x MTB's with full cable inner. I'm running a SRAM front derailleur, so the cable housing has to stop inside the frame. There doesn't seem to be any molded parts to seat the cable housing in the frame, just a channel under the BB for housing to go. Does the cable housing just go up until the hole at the channel under the BB, bare cable runs through the channel and up through the seat tube hole? Seems that would work, I was just expecting some sort of housing ferrule molding or something, not just a hole that the housing would sit up against.
Also the way the cable exits the hole in the seat tube, there's not enough clearance for the cable to exit without touching the frame. Is it okay if I just use the cable liner like this? (https://www.amazon.com/Jagwire-Black-Housing-Liner-Cables/dp/B0029LF1XO/ref=asc_df_B0029LF1XO/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312144750238&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=15369331526263894745&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9016832&hvtargid=pla-598861741124&psc=1) The cable liner would have kind of a bend to it, but at least it wouldn't be cable rubbing carbon.
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@acedeuce802
I'm trying to wire up my frameset have you finished wiring your frame yet?
I've done a few internaly routed frames before but this one is different.
I assume the housing from the handlebars are supposed to end in the downtube block (pictured)
But i'm a bit reluctant to let the wires run directly against the carbon in the BB-area, did you use the liner you linked to?
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I continue with my questions, i hope there is some one out there that has assembled this frameset before me.
I purchased the integrated handlebar from top-carbon, i has a couple of routing options, full internal or "half" internal im using a Shimano hydraulic/mech groupset, not sure how to route this for best shifting perfomance.
Anyone who can share experiences on shiftwire routing?
/Hakan
Edit:
Looks like i wasn't very clear with what i meant with "half-internal", tricky to describe things in a non-native language :).
There is two different headset spacers, one allows external cables to enter the headtube, i was thinking of routing one pair all internal and the other pair going external for a few centimetres, not sure it will improve any radiuses thou.
Tried to illustrate the half external routing option and added pics of the two available headset spacers (lower) one is for all hidden cables and the other for routing external cables into the headtube
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Unless you have cable ports at the front of the frame which I suspect not, you have to use the full internal.
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@acedeuce802
I'm trying to wire up my frameset have you finished wiring your frame yet?
I've done a few internaly routed frames before but this one is different.
I assume the housing from the handlebars are supposed to end in the downtube block (pictured)
But i'm a bit reluctant to let the wires run directly against the carbon in the BB-area, did you use the liner you linked to?
I haven't built up my frame yet, I'm just going to turn it into a trainer bike because of how poor quality it was, I bought a Carbonda CFR707 instead. My frame didn't come with that block. In the bottom of the BB area there were just 2 holes in some carbon that didn't even have enough epoxy around it (so loose fibers) but no cable housing seat or anything.
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Unless you have cable ports at the front of the frame which I suspect not, you have to use the full internal.
I think you misunderstood my question, i was problably not clear enough i my orignal post :)
I updated the original post with more pics and a sketch trying to explain what i were thinking of.
/Hakan
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I haven't built up my frame yet, I'm just going to turn it into a trainer bike because of how poor quality it was, I bought a Carbonda CFR707 instead. My frame didn't come with that block. In the bottom of the BB area there were just 2 holes in some carbon that didn't even have enough epoxy around it (so loose fibers) but no cable housing seat or anything.
Sorry to hear that you had a poor quality frame, so far the CF on mine looks good. Ive been using a borescope internaly and havn't seen any dry patches. Where did you get your frame from? Ali/Lexcon or TopCarbon?
/Hakan
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Ohhhhhh. In that case I'd definitely go full internal. Seems like you'll have much smoother curves on the cables.
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I've finished the build of the TopCarbon TCGF066 for a friend.
Thought I should leave my build report.
Over all my experience has been good, I ordered directly from topcarbon contact and purchase through Alibaba.
Had an issue with the lower headset bearing when assembling the fork, the bearing I purchased had to much chamfer on the top edge causing the fork to sit to high and bind with the headtube. Seller helped me out and sent the correct bearings with less chamfer.
Routing of the integrated handlebar with a mechanical/hydraulic groupset was the all headache you could expect.
I did make some attempts to use partial outers that ended in the block in the downtube but I couldn't figure out how to avoid the outers from separating from the downtube block when assembling the cockpit. I finally ended up doing full outers to the derailleurs.
Over all the fit and finish of the frame has been good, my head tube looked good with some light sanding marks and the fit of the (correct) bearing is good.
Have no pic of the complete assembly, but only missing the chain in the attached pic.
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There are still a bunch of cracks and voids near the cable hole .... still dangerous to ride IMO, even if it's not as bad as some of the others.
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Another thread about Lexon reminded me about this thread. Any updates on people riding the TCGF066/GFX? Any new builds? Doesn't look like too many people have been ordering the frame on Aliexpress since the last time I checked a few months ago, maybe the issues in this thread is scaring people off. I got my parts ordered to make mine a dedicated trainer bike, haven't build it up yet though.
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Another thread about Lexon reminded me about this thread. Any updates on people riding the TCGF066/GFX? Any new builds? Doesn't look like too many people have been ordering the frame on Aliexpress since the last time I checked a few months ago, maybe the issues in this thread is scaring people off. I got my parts ordered to make mine a dedicated trainer bike, haven't build it up yet though.
I can't imagine too many people are going to buy this crap if they do any research beforehand.
FWIW I contacted LightCarbon about this mold, as Yishun (their OEM / sister company) share several road molds with TCT, and I'm pretty sure the TCGF066 is open mold too, though nobody else seems to have picked it up. I got a reply stating that they were familiar with this mold, but that it has design issues. They didn't comment on the build quality of TCT / Lexon, except to say that they don't comment on competitors' build quality.
They said they'd consider this kind of geo (relatively racey w/ progressive seat / head angles) for a new '23 gravel bike.
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For those still interested in this mold, as opposed to the TC / Lexon shit show of it, someone mentioned to me today that this mold is now available from another retailer / manufacturer ..... TanTan. It's the GR045.