My FM 196 build

[Molothi]

Hi all
and thank you for all the information you are sharing on this forum

this is my turn to share my build - based on a Chiner FM 196 frame (17.5")

I wanted to have a bike with a good balance between weight, cost and reliability
I guess I'm very closed to my expectations 

I'm using a full SRAM 1x11 transmission, Mavic Xmax SLR wheels, Hope brakes (I reused from my previous bike) ans some other components such as Thomson seat post, Ritchey handlebar ...

the picture shows my Winter built with some Continental XKing tires - already replaced by some Rubena ones (lighter and stronger)
since that picture I also added some stickers ( because I found the bike a little too ....black) - I also adjusted the cables and finetuned the position

I'll try to give another picture

the total weight is 9.4 9.3kgs (including pedals, Tires sealant, frame protection (top tube) and speed counter)

I've some options to reduce it to 9.1kgs for a reasonable price... but I'll see that later

I've already ridden it for almost 900km since I've built it - and I've to say that I really like it 
My practice is XC/XC Marathon

I'll test it on some long distance races soon - I'll give you my feedback

 

[cmh]

Hi all
and thank you for all the information you are sharing on this forum

this is my turn to share my build - based on a Chiner FM 196 frame (17.5")

I wanted to have a bike with a good balance between weight, cost and reliability
I guess I'm very closed to my expectations 

I'm using a full SRAM 1x11 transmission, Mavic Xmax SLR wheels, Hope brakes (I reused from my previous bike) ans some other components such as Thomson seat post, Ritchey handlebar ...

the picture shows my Winter built with some Continental XKing tires - already replaced by some Rubena ones (lighter and stronger)
since that picture I also added some stickers ( because I found the bike a little too ....black) - I also adjusted the cables and finetuned the position

I'll try to give another picture

the total weight including pedals ans Tires sealant is 9.4 kgs

I've some option to reduce it to 9.1kgs for a reasonable price... but I'll see that later

I've already ridden it for almost 900km since I've built it - and I've to say that I really like it 
My practice is XC/XC Marathon

I'll test it on some long distance races soon - I'll give you my feedback

 

Looks awesome! I was realizing that my wife doesn't have a backup to her 29er, and I've always thought she should give a 650b a try, so I'm considering getting the 196. It's either that or a full suspension 650b.

Did you happen to weigh the frame before building?

[Molothi]

Hi Cmh

yes I did, in fact I weighted all parts one by one

the frame weights 1056 gr .... and was given for 950+/- 80 gr, so it's almost that 

[RS VR6]

Cool build!

Whats with the tape over the cable opening? Keep moisture out?

[Molothi]

exactly  RS 
I think using a soft plastic to block the cable openning.... I use the tape just as a temporary solution

[cmh]

yes I did, in fact I weighted all parts one by one

the frame weights 1056 gr .... and was given for 950+/- 80 gr, so it's almost that 

That's awesome, that's right on track with her Scott Scale frames! Thanks!

[Reppik]

This is what I am building currently. Right now all that's left is a chain and stem spacers. How did your test rides go?

[bxcc]

What's the sizing like on these? I'm looking for one for my daughter to build with spare parts. By the numbers, they seem pretty small when comparing the 15" to the small Santa Cruz chameleon and 27.5 highball.

[Reppik]

Mine is from hong fu bikes. They have small medium large and extra large. This is a medium 17.5. It goes 15.5,17.5,19,20.5. Here is mine at the bike shop getting brakes bled. I let them do that!!!

[Reppik]

Here she is all 19.5 lbs. mavic wheels, xtr brakes, ks lev dropper, cabon bars, 1x10 sram xx1 and xo.

[Molothi]

it looks good Reppik ;-)

I also wanted to get the new Mavic wheels, but that will be for a second step 

[Reppik]

Yours is awesome and inspiring. Loved the process! I looked at the same wheels you have and if that is what was at the bike shop at the time I would of had them too. First ride this last week and was super stoked. Its a great bike. 

[Reppik]

Building another one for my buddy.

[Carbon_Dude]

That's an interesting work stand.

[cmh]

That's an interesting work stand.

Read this comment and had to do a double-take on the photo. Indeed - that's a damn creative stand. Well, done, sir.