Alternative to integrated cockpits

[BRP4HK]

Folks,

All the Chinese frames I’m interested in – like the ICAN FL1 – appear to feature fully integrated cockpits.
I’m wondering if it is possible to set them up with externally routed hoses/cables and a separate bar and stem?

If it is possible, how much work, hassle and/or extra parts is needed to achieve it?
Is it as simple as a clever bottom spacer that lets you run the hoses and cables into the frame through the head tube?
I’ve never worked on a fully integrated bike, so it’s a mystery to me.

I’m happy with internal routing through the frame. But I’d prefer a bit more flexibility in the cockpit to accommodate travel or swapping bars and stems.

Any advice and guidance would be most welcome.

Cheers

[c.etzo]

with a frame for fully internal cable management you can't use an external routing, but if you wanna use a "classic" stem and handlebar , just use a semi internal headset cover like this:

[BRP4HK]

Excellent! That looks just the job.
Thanks for the steer.
Cheers

with a frame for fully internal cable management you can't use an external routing, but if you wanna use a "classic" stem and handlebar , just use a semi internal headset cover like this:

[bichler.bua]

I can not comment on the ICAN FL1 specifically, but there are headset systems that allow integrated or semi-integrated cable routing.
Examples are FSA No.55R or No.69 headsets (some Velobuild customers in this forum have applied these successfully), that can be used with FSA's ACR or SMR stems or traditional stems.
Deda also offers a DCR or S-DCR system with integrated stems or for semi-integrated traditional stems.
Both systems would allow you to swap the stem (effort depends on integrated or semi-integrated cable routing choice) and use your choice of handle bar, both selected and adjustable independently.

[BRP4HK]

Great input and ideas!
I don't mind internal frame cable routing, but integrated cockpits are a new and daunting development for me.
I appreciate the looks and watt-saving potential. But, on balance I think I prefer the flexibility and serviceability of a regular cockpit. However, if the frame ticks all the other boxes, I'll settle for a semi-integrated solution.
Thanks very much!

[bichler.bua]

There's two main challenges with integrated cockpits, one is the internal routing in the cockpit and the other is adjustability.
Both reasons have driven me away from these cockpits, back to separated stems and handlebars.
I have modified my Velobuild VB-R099 for semi-integrated routing
http://chinertown.com/index.php/topic,3102.msg34848.html#msg34848
I am using the FSA SMR stem with a FSA No.55R headset on two (soon three) bikes, one posted here
http://chinertown.com/index.php/topic,3499.msg47700.html#msg47700
and my BMC Roadmachine is also setup with a semi-integrated stem and handlebar setup (BMC ICS stem).

All of them are great and I prefer the ability to change setup and dial fit.

[jonathanf2]

https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256807371085152.html

I ordered this Kocevlo internal cable stem which I might use on my gravel build. It's actually quite nice and comes with all the necessary hardware like bearings and c-ring. My only gripe is the weight. Comes in at like 200g just for the stem not including the steerer spacers, so not exactly great for a weight weenie build. For the FL1, you might be better off just using a semi-internal routed headset and the lightest stem possible. I believe Joe at Panda Podium built his Big Rock Sohtea that way as well. Made for easier travel as well since he could easily remove the stem+handlebar for boxing.

[bichler.bua]

https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256807371085152.html

I ordered this Kocevlo internal cable stem which I might use on my gravel build. It's actually quite nice and comes with all the necessary hardware like bearings and c-ring. My only gripe is the weight. Comes in at like 200g just for the stem not including the steerer spacers, so not exactly great for a weight weenie build. For the FL1, you might be better off just using a semi-internal routed headset and the lightest stem possible. I believe Joe at Panda Podium built his Big Rock Sohtea that way as well. Made for easier travel as well since he could easily remove the stem+handlebar for boxing.

Looks very similar to the Deda Superbox. I had minor issues, again, with my Velobuild VB-R099 headset in one of the last autumn rides.
After trying the third iteration of the Velobuild C compression ring, one of the winter projects is to convert to the Deda Superbox stem and using their C compression ring.

[bichler.bua]

Kocevlo is also doing a FSA ACR stem clone, available on YOPI Sport STore on Aliexpress
https://vi.aliexpress.com/item/1005006102812770.html