Velobuild Quality Control

[hazzer19]

I wouldn't call the 177 improved at all. It's basically a non-aero version of the 168. Might be lighter but it's not an improvement in my eyes. The 268 is an evolution for sure but that weird quick release thru axle thing is a big step backwards to me. But everybody can have their own opinion. I'd still pick the 168 given the choice of all three.

I've ridden the 168, 177 and 268 now. I would agree with the earlier assessment that the 177 has considerable upgrades over the 168 in terms of stiffness and weight. The 268 is a great combination of the latter two and my favorite frame so far. The new speed release style axles took a little getting used to, but have been totally fine and often more convenient.

[Greenred]

I bought the 168 2 years ago and it's impeccable. I bought the GF002 and it too is impeccable.
I abuse my 168 on the indoor trainer and outdoors. I abused the Gf002 on a an bikepacking trip...

I believe that their quality assurance improved over time, sometimes there may be sloppiness and customer service in these cases seems mind boggling from a western perspective, I agree.

[Coolh2o2]

Posting my experience about Velobuild's customer service. TLDR: IT WAS GOOD. I had a fork develop a hairline crack near the axle hole. It was nowhere near catastrophic. I have the same number of teeth. And I've ridden it a few more hindred km since seeing it. But a crack there was, so I emailed support... they asked me to email photos, which I did... then they asked for a few more to ascertain it wasnt just a paint crack. I emailed again. They agreed it was a carbon fault and told me they'd replace it... I had to follow up after a few weeks of not receiving it only to find that the delay was due to them not having a white carbon fork, and would I be ok with a black one? I said yes. Then radio silence again... but 2 weeks after, a brand spanking new fork arrived.

My observations: was customer service excellent? No. Definitely lapses. Was it good enough and did they stand by their warranty? Yes. Am I happy with the product? Yes. It shouldnt have broken, but I did have it for 2 years and a few thousand km before it gave up. Even the most expensive bikes break here and there, so I'm not angry. I've also had much worse experiences with customer services from so-called "enlightened" countries.