Author Topic: HongFu FM138  (Read 202829 times)

jd

Re: HongFu FM138
« Reply #135 on: August 12, 2025, 03:00:37 PM »
Howdy,

Pulled the trigger on this frameset last week in the XL size, black glossy (normally I'd prefer matte but I've heard the clearcoat provides superior durability and easier cleaning).  I'm a hobbyist roadie/gravel rider, but I have an old 2011 GT 29" Full suspension bike that I wanted to upgrade from so here we are...

Doing a cable XT build with SID suspension, 2p remote (wanted to go 3p "magic middle" but 2p is "older" therefore I found some smoking deals on eBay).  Everything sourced except the rear shock hardware and a few other miscellaneous things, though I might upgrade the bar and stem later once I get the fit dialed in. 

On to questions/feedback solicitation...

Shock hardware:  There seems to be quite a bit of confusion about the bushing hardware; I understand 8x16 is solid, but for the other side I see reports of 8x22 and 8x25 (sanding required??)...  There's also an 8x24.4 option which makes me wonder if that's a better fit.  Which way is best here?

Order to delivery: Roughly how long did your orders take once locked in?

Riding feedback: How does this frame compare to "fast" XC bikes like the Epic 8?








mcwarhol

Re: HongFu FM138
« Reply #136 on: October 16, 2025, 08:28:00 AM »
I think this is the exact same frame as Ridley uses for the Ridley Raft and that bike is using 8x16 shaft hardware and a 8x22 body hardware.
https://www.ridley-bikes.com/en_SE/support/folders/63000157885/article/63000275624

danved

Re: HongFu FM138
« Reply #137 on: January 21, 2026, 02:30:00 AM »
Howdy,

Pulled the trigger on this frameset last week in the XL size, black glossy (normally I'd prefer matte but I've heard the clearcoat provides superior durability and easier cleaning).  I'm a hobbyist roadie/gravel rider, but I have an old 2011 GT 29" Full suspension bike that I wanted to upgrade from so here we are...

Doing a cable XT build with SID suspension, 2p remote (wanted to go 3p "magic middle" but 2p is "older" therefore I found some smoking deals on eBay).  Everything sourced except the rear shock hardware and a few other miscellaneous things, though I might upgrade the bar and stem later once I get the fit dialed in. 

On to questions/feedback solicitation...

Shock hardware:  There seems to be quite a bit of confusion about the bushing hardware; I understand 8x16 is solid, but for the other side I see reports of 8x22 and 8x25 (sanding required??)...  There's also an 8x24.4 option which makes me wonder if that's a better fit.  Which way is best here?

Order to delivery: Roughly how long did your orders take once locked in?

Riding feedback: How does this frame compare to "fast" XC bikes like the Epic 8?

Just FYI for other people buying this frame,
I bought these two mounting rear shock mounting hardware and they fit perfectly:

https://worldwidecyclery.com/products/rockshox-rear-shock-mounting-hardware-3-piece-1-2-8-x-16-0
https://worldwidecyclery.com/products/rockshox-rear-shock-mounting-hardware-3-piece-1-2-8-x-25-0

danved

Re: HongFu FM138
« Reply #138 on: January 21, 2026, 03:01:31 AM »
For people using the original headset,
I have created a 3d print design for securing the cables, making it more waterproof.
The two parts are designed for being printed using TPU filament which makes it flexible and gives a really secure fit.

I have designed the two plugs for being used with internal brakes, rear derailleur, and dropper post cable.
DM me if you are interested in links for the STL files

RGO

Re: HongFu FM138
« Reply #139 on: January 28, 2026, 05:18:08 AM »
Hi guys.
Thanks to the posts here, I was able to finish it.
I'll attach a photo of the recording.
I used parts from a hardtail non-boost that I had previously used.
The rear suspension is epic8 190 x 45.
I haven't used it in a race yet, but it feels really good.
Glad I came across this thread. Thanks everyone.

Type SL
Frame Size S
Frame Weight 1920g

conradhughes

Re: HongFu FM138
« Reply #140 on: February 10, 2026, 03:27:59 AM »

darkening

Re: HongFu FM138
« Reply #141 on: February 13, 2026, 12:28:44 AM »
thats a different frame

edo_mtb

Re: HongFu FM138
« Reply #142 on: February 27, 2026, 04:12:40 AM »
Btw, i found this headset is much better that comes with the frame: https://sl.aliexpress.ru/p?key=nEKR3z1

I has much better cable managment.

Did you find other options by chance, from other brands available in European websites? (FSA or similar) My headset has cut my right cables sheath and it’s not good. I saw that many of you have made plugs with 3D printing but I don’t have the chance to make them. Thank you

hw9

Re: HongFu FM138
« Reply #143 on: March 29, 2026, 06:30:02 AM »
Has anyone checked if the SRAM Motive rear brake caliper fits this frame?

girldadcyclist

Re: HongFu FM138
« Reply #144 on: July 31, 2026, 08:36:39 AM »
hey guys, i know this is an older thread but on the off chance anyone sees this ill ask here. I came across this frame researching a new XC/downcountry frame.

Does this frame have a flat mount rear brake caliper mount or is it post mount? I can deal with a pressfit BB even though it’s not preferred.. but a flat mount rear caliper mount might be a deal breaker.

Any insight/ info is much appreciated! thanks!

akuutti247

Re: HongFu FM138
« Reply #145 on: July 31, 2026, 11:50:07 AM »
Hello

It has post mount. I use 160 mm rear disc.

girldadcyclist

Re: HongFu FM138
« Reply #146 on: July 31, 2026, 01:44:26 PM »
Hello

It has post mount. I use 160 mm rear disc.


thank you so much for responding! this is excellent news. thanks!

girldadcyclist

Re: HongFu FM138
« Reply #147 on: August 01, 2026, 10:53:18 PM »
has anyone been in contact with/ purchased from Hongfu recently? I emailed them this past monday to inquire about the frame and never heard back from them. Is that common?

Does anyone by chance have a direct email contact with one of their sales reps?

akuutti247

Re: HongFu FM138
« Reply #148 on: August 02, 2026, 02:14:55 AM »
Hi

When I contacted them using the e-mail my e-mail blocked their message first. When they realized it, they contacted me using WhatsApp. Have you checked the thrash mail inbox?

akuutti247

Re: HongFu FM138
« Reply #149 on: August 02, 2026, 02:19:18 AM »
Try this:

sales05(a)hongfu-bikes.cn

(a) is @