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Re: VeloBuild VB-R-268 frame First impression video is live.

My VeloBuild 268 Is FINISHED - First Ride Impressions
https://youtu.be/-we6CsAEaQY?si=f13auTeXKcUV-wwR

Also, I've had some problems with random creaking. Initially I thought it was the saddle rail clamp. Then the cables being routed into the headset. And finally the bottom bracket. Nope. It was the seatpost clamp. I torqued the clamp a little more than I usually do (7nm instead of 5nm) and it was still creaking. A lot. The solution was adding a bit of electrical tape around seat post clamp where the clamp seats into the frame, and adding another strip of tape along the area of the seatpost that contacts the clamp. Problem solved.



April 16, 2024, 09:44:20 AM
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Re: VeloBuild VB-R-268 frame
There is no standardization in testing here. He compares bike ABC with different groupsets, bars, and wheels (incl tyres type, size, wheel depth, spoke type) plus a whole bunch of variables with what looks to be minimal testing time (first impressions). Unless someone sets up bikes with exactly the same components and A/B tests them back to back in set conditions, then isolating and commenting on the frame's "performance" would be mighty difficult.

Correct. First impression video and then long-term video per usual. Even if I were to conduct standardized test, I would get called out for doing "bro science" as other YouTuber's have. Thankfully the support of this very forum over the years is what allows me to continue and make content. I'm very grateful.

April 16, 2024, 03:38:18 PM
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Re: VeloBuild VB-R-268 frame
Using the same wheels, could you do a NorCal kind of video on a loop you know well, swapping 2 or 3 bikes? You have to use the same wheels for any credible kind of comparison. Your times would be interesting, but equally interesting would be your impression.
I take issue with the "because it's 500usd it can never compete with a 1500usd frame", given the 268 is t800&1000, EPS moulded, proven geometry & shape: it's latest best practice afaik. Now yoeleo or the likes are, afaik, just taking oem frames and branding them for a premium, just less of a premium than western brands. Having looked at their specs sheet, manufacturing methods, reputation for QC, the reason why I don't buy them is because I don't see that my money would go into the frame.
I'd like to be proven wrong, because I can afford to pay 1500 for a frame, or 5000 for that matter, but i care about relative value.
Last, i saw you have a colnago video, any chance you would test ride that with your own wheels for comparison?
Colnago Vs velobuild video would break the internet :D

Based on the hundreds of messages I received over the years, the typical viewer of my channel isn't looking for VeloBuild to be an equal alternative to one of the major brands. What they want is assurance their money won't be stolen, and that their collarbones won't be broken from a random catastrophic failure. Basically is the frame good enough all things considered. I try to keep my videos light-hearted and sensible. Save engineering and race opinions for the engineers and racers.

Confirmation bias and cognitive dissonance is human nature. Whether VeloBuild or Specialized, we all want to believe we've made the best purchase. No harm in that.

April 17, 2024, 10:31:40 AM
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Re: VeloBuild VB-R-268 frame Thanks for the support yall. I appreciate the input over the years.
April 17, 2024, 03:24:36 PM
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Re: Velobuild VB-R-168 Frame For what it's worth, I found the Sram Force eTap groupset 1x on latest my VB-268 for $500 used locally. Just needed rotors and cassette which I already had. The groupset wasn't pristine but it's a $500 frame end of the day.

1.5 years ago at the end of the pandemic, Sram was also offering brand new Force groupsets for like $850. Since then I regularly find deals on the various marketplaces.

If you constantly build new bikes with internal cables you wont wanna touch mechanical groupsets again. However, you if are only dealing with a single forever bike, all the more reason to go electronic  :-X

April 19, 2024, 08:59:24 AM
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Re: VeloBuild VB-R-268 frame
I can see that I am not the only one having issues with rear caliper mount. How do you guys manage it? Do you have any clever tips to align it? Usual methods i.e. tightening mounting bolts with a brake engaged with or without metal shim doesn't work.

Here are my steps, assuming after a fresh and proper brake bleed:

Step 1: Re-seat/Recess the pistons fully back into the caliper. Very important step.
Step 2: Loosen the caliper bolts.
Step 3: Firmly engage the brake to the rotor. I usually squeeze about 4-5 times to fully engage the pistons.
Step 4: Torque calipers bolts while brakes are engaged. Release brakes.
Step 5: Spin the wheel and inspect any rotor imbalances or brake rub. A white strip of paper behind the caliper really helps.
Step 6: Slightly loosen the caliper bolts and use metal shim.
Step 7: If that doesn't work you can also use a very thin plastic/paper one sided shim on either side of the rotor. Rotor shims can also be helpful if the wheel hub in general is too far offset/off-center at either side.

April 19, 2024, 02:58:27 PM
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Re: Seka Spear That thread was a mess because folks have become too comfortable with personal attacks, rude comments, and low value replies. A trend I've also seen grow on this forum in the past year, but we all are free to choose where we spend our time online. No harm no foul.

I'm looking forward to seeing how this SEKA Spear release plays out. Some of the larger hurdles will be availability to the western world, fulfillment times, and post-sales customer support. Among whether or not the frame will actually be any good.

Currently I'm in the market for an SL8, but now I'm just gonna wait until the Spear, Tavelo Arow, and Bross Zenith get launched. $1500 and up Chinese frames can be a hard sell for some people, but I do think there is some value there if packaged correctly.

April 29, 2024, 01:50:22 PM
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Re: VeloBuild VB-R-268 frame Update on my 268

Highs
-I love the Mavic thru-axle system. It's quite convenient actually. Being able to keep the axles in place when both transporting the bike and working on it on a mechanic stand is great.

-The bike is both stiff and nimble enough. I can't say there really is any discernible difference in stiffness compared to other bikes. Unless you are truly sprinting or climbing, there will be plenty of other variables in regards to maintaining any set speed.

-Visually I appreciate the frame design. Obviously because it looks like an SL7/Venge. Well rounded proportions. The sloping top tube gives the visual impression of an extreme saddle-to-handlebar drop versus a more horizontal top tube. More exposed seatpost (should?) also means more comfort as the seatpost has the ability to flex. 32c GP5000 tubeless fits no problem.

Lows
-Zero setback seatpost. It's not fully problematic for me, but I had to move my saddle back far more than I'm accustomed to. If this was my only road bike it would most likely be a deal breaker. A non-issue for most folks however.

-7x9 saddle clamp for carbon rails. On my particular clamp when using my AliExpress carbon saddle (7x9 rails), visually it does not appear as if the clamps are fully engaging with the rails. Other 268 owners with carbon saddles have not experienced this, and so far the saddle has stayed put. However, the saddle clamp bolt is now slightly bent from trying secure to the rails. Also a non-issue if you're using 7x7 rails as VB also supplies clamps for that too. Just something to be aware of.

-While the bike as a whole rides better than my previous VeloBuild frames, it does still suffer some from road chatter at the rear triangle. Rough pavement can upset the back end. Thankfully though still far better than my Dengfu R12 and TanTan x38 in this regard. This is completely subjective and anecdotal of course. Over the past few weeks I've made an effort to rotate riding each of my bikes everyday day to get a good feel on the differences and overall riding dynamics.

Closing
It's a great DIY bike at the price point so far. As always, wheel selection and bike fit/position will do most of the heavy lifting. If I could change anything it would be adding more reach to cockpit to offset the zero setback seatpost. Dear VeloBuild: Please make one for me thanks!

May 02, 2024, 03:06:12 PM
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Re: VeloBuild VB-R-268 frame
@Pat, which expander did you put in yours? I am curious since you did not report slippage at that point.

Neco Headset Expander - Size/length Large.

I never ever use the provided expander plug on any budget frameset.

May 04, 2024, 04:14:37 PM
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Re: Tavelo Aero Frame The overwhelming majority of frames I've been able to review were paid for out of pocket. At full price. I would love to review the new SEKA Spear or Tavelo Arow, but the price point is difficult no matter how excited I am for both of them.

I've actually been saving up to purchase one of these frames or the Bross Zenith. However, earlier this week I was offered a deal on an SL8 Pro (non S-Works) frameset. It wasn't a huge discount, but enough to sway me away from Tavelo/Seka/Bross.

And this is the conundrum I see customers facing. Spend a little more to get local bike shop support and a western brand warranty.

May 09, 2024, 09:43:06 AM
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