Velobuild VB-R-368 Aeroframe

[lofetin]

I would like to share my thoughts on the frame I received assembled from my local bike shop last week.

My local bike shop reported some problems that arose during the construction of the bike:

1- The frame didn't come with the C clip mentioned in some videos/comments in this forum. This was solved with a spacer made by the shop

2- The chainstay issue is indeed annoying, but as far as I know it was corrected in newer frames.

3- They also said there was a problem with the crankset that they were able to correct with a spacer. I don't have any further details beyond that.

4- The most worrying part is that the seatpost slips when tightened to 5nm with carbon paste. I even tried 9nm as Patrick Lino mentioned in the video and even then the seatpost would lower in any pothole or bump. Even when tightened to 9nm, I could easily move the seatpost from side to side with my hands. For context, I weigh 65kg.

This is just my experience, but if you are interested in this frame, I would wait for all these defects to be corrected before ordering.

The frame is aero and stiff without being uncomfortable. For the price, it is certainly something I would recommend, but not right now.

[Pistonbroke]

Following Lofetin here's our early build/ride thoughts.

Bike builds have gone together with no drama with everything fitting as it should.
Mine is a Sram force crank and needed no washers.
Brothers is Shimano/magene and likewise went on with no issue.
Running gear is Shimano so can't comment on the sram 10t, but no issues here. Gears so worked without issue first time.
Haven't aligned brothers brakes but mine set up fine with no rubbing.
Seatpost... Just a 20k shakedown ride this morning in some crappy weather but no problems with slipping. Maybe because I set up seatpost clamp differently to Lofetins mechanic, but who knows. Certainly not trying to put those guys down.
I greased the sliding faces of the clamp and bolt so they have minimum effect on torque value when nipping it up, and put a strip of self adhesive skateboard grip tape on the curved part of the clamp that interfaces with the seat post. I weigh approx 72kg and did the majority of the distance, but brother weighs 110kg.
Apart from all that we felt the bike was smooth and well damped from road noise.
Pulls up straight on the brakes and descends and corners confidently.
It's very nice to ride
We also think it will be pretty fast.


Do holla if you have specific questions

[pertual]

Following Lofetin here's our early build/ride thoughts.

Bike builds have gone together with no drama with everything fitting as it should.
Mine is a Sram force crank and needed no washers.
Brothers is Shimano/magene and likewise went on with no issue.
Running gear is Shimano so can't comment on the sram 10t, but no issues here. Gears so worked without issue first time.
Haven't aligned brothers brakes but mine set up fine with no rubbing.
Seatpost... Just a 20k shakedown ride this morning in some crappy weather but no problems with slipping. Maybe because I set up seatpost clamp differently to Lofetins mechanic, but who knows. Certainly not trying to put those guys down.
I greased the sliding faces of the clamp and bolt so they have minimum effect on torque value when nipping it up, and put a strip of self adhesive skateboard grip tape on the curved part of the clamp that interfaces with the seat post. I weigh approx 72kg and did the majority of the distance, but brother weighs 110kg.
Apart from all that we felt the bike was smooth and well damped from road noise.
Pulls up straight on the brakes and descends and corners confidently.
It's very nice to ride
We also think it will be pretty fast.


Do holla if you have specific questions

Nice! do you feel like the rear triangle is floppy when standing on the pedals? would you describe the ride as muted (absorbs bumps) or harsh (rattles you)? keep us posted

[Pistonbroke]

Muted for sure with those wheels but will try the wheels off other bike at some point to get a direct comparison.
30/30mm gp5k at back with Michelin pro5  front @ 60psi
It was certainly more compliant than his aluminium winter bike.
Didn't really push it hard today so will only say that it didn't feel floppy initially.  First ride out and weather was cold and wet. Blurghh!
Will get brother to give it some beans next time we're out as that bugger can do 1400+watts seated If the frame is a noodle he'll probably feel it

[Finiesta]

Following Lofetin here's our early build/ride thoughts.

Bike builds have gone together with no drama with everything fitting as it should.
Mine is a Sram force crank and needed no washers.
Brothers is Shimano/magene and likewise went on with no issue.
Running gear is Shimano so can't comment on the sram 10t, but no issues here. Gears so worked without issue first time.
Haven't aligned brothers brakes but mine set up fine with no rubbing.
Seatpost... Just a 20k shakedown ride this morning in some crappy weather but no problems with slipping. Maybe because I set up seatpost clamp differently to Lofetins mechanic, but who knows. Certainly not trying to put those guys down.
I greased the sliding faces of the clamp and bolt so they have minimum effect on torque value when nipping it up, and put a strip of self adhesive skateboard grip tape on the curved part of the clamp that interfaces with the seat post. I weigh approx 72kg and did the majority of the distance, but brother weighs 110kg.
Apart from all that we felt the bike was smooth and well damped from road noise.
Pulls up straight on the brakes and descends and corners confidently.
It's very nice to ride
We also think it will be pretty fast.


Do holla if you have specific questions

Do you think it is possible to fit 32mm with wide rims so a more less measured 33mm? And how wide is the downtube like will it cover trek aero bottles?

[Pistonbroke]

The tyres on my XMCS rims measure up near 35 and they fit, but wouldn't want to go any larger. Can't remember if the tyre is a 30 or 32 but will check tomorrow.
The down tube isn't flat on the bottle side, get a measurement and profile for you but the wide aero bottle cage I got from Ali was too wide.

[patliean1]

Here is my update on the AeroTrace. Conceptually it's good. Functionally it needs a little work going into 2026. I respect VeloBuild's efforts into trying something new versus releasing another SL7/SL8 one-bike-to-clone them all. And VB being mindful of their customers with things like a custom Di2 battery mount, custom 3D spacers for various stem and routing systems is something I wish more brands in this price range offered. On paper you really can't ask for more from VeloBuild. Kudos to them.

It's not for everyone. And that's okay...

The reality is the 368 is a TT frame disguised in road bike geometry clothing. You get the theoretical aero benefits of using a TT bike on the road (for sustain steady efforts), and you also take with you the negatives of using a TT bike for the road (weight and agility). Geometry will be the biggest hurdle for most I reckon.

Jumping back onto my lighter bikes like the Tavelo Arow, it's pretty much night and day in term of dynamics. The Arow is so nimble and dances so well out of the saddle. The AeroTrace on the other does not like to surge. Or climb. Or blast out of an apex. Because...it's a TT bike. To re-emphasis again, it's a TT bike not an aero bike.

But is it fun ride? HECK YES. Arguably the most exciting frame I've ridden in this price range. But it's A LOT to deal with if you're planning to daily this bike. The frame has so much carbon you are reminded of it constantly. Dynamically the ride takes me back to the early-2000s import tuner scene. I've used this analogy before. Ever been in the interior of a 20 year old Japanese car on the highway? Then you know the exact feel (and sounds) I'm referring to. The AeroTrace is fun because of how imperfect and unnecessary it. If the Tarmac SL8 is like a modern day sports car with modern creature comforts, the AeroTrace is like a 2003 Nissan Z with 20" rims. Porky and kind of fast?

You can thank the almost 1500g of carbon for soaking up road imperfections. Because the AeroTrace is also surprisingly more comfortable than you would think. And the rear end doesn't get upset over rough pavement. Like a tank.

What I would like to see from VeloBuild in a perfect world:
-A more subdued and eloquent aero frame design that isn't overtly a TT frame. Scott Foil or Cannondale System Six vibes. This would cut down on weight, offer more crosswind stability, and make the frame more usable for a wider range of riders. This isn't the bike you take to Mallorca or the Dolomites. And, lets be honest, the bike looks proportionally wrong with any set of wheels shallower than 60mm deep.
-Happy VB fixed the Sram derailleur chainstay issue. I'd like to see more thought into preventing the seatpost from slipping. Even if VB just provided a simple metal shim to fit between the wedge and frame.

Just like that 2003 Nissan Z with 20" rims, you could daily drive it all year. It's a blast. However, you WILL run into certain days where you just don't want to deal with the good/bad that comes with driving it daily. And that's okay...

[tovu]

Following Lofetin here's our early build/ride thoughts.

Bike builds have gone together with no drama with everything fitting as it should.
Mine is a Sram force crank and needed no washers.
Brothers is Shimano/magene and likewise went on with no issue.
Running gear is Shimano so can't comment on the sram 10t, but no issues here. Gears so worked without issue first time.
Haven't aligned brothers brakes but mine set up fine with no rubbing.
Seatpost... Just a 20k shakedown ride this morning in some crappy weather but no problems with slipping. Maybe because I set up seatpost clamp differently to Lofetins mechanic, but who knows. Certainly not trying to put those guys down.
I greased the sliding faces of the clamp and bolt so they have minimum effect on torque value when nipping it up, and put a strip of self adhesive skateboard grip tape on the curved part of the clamp that interfaces with the seat post. I weigh approx 72kg and did the majority of the distance, but brother weighs 110kg.
Apart from all that we felt the bike was smooth and well damped from road noise.
Pulls up straight on the brakes and descends and corners confidently.
It's very nice to ride
We also think it will be pretty fast.


Do holla if you have specific questions

What’s the degree/angle and length you’re running on the stem?
I suppose there is no way to integrate the cables inside the stem?

[Pistonbroke]

Pretty sure it's a7 degree 150mm stem. No, no integration but still trying various fit options. Absolutely loving the long stretch on this thing.
I think one of the main things with this frame is the ability to try positions you can't get on other bikes short of the likes of Ridley.

Fini... Can take 35mm measured rear tyre, but wouldn't want any more.
Down tube flat area where water bottle cage sits measures approx 32mm wide

Pertual... My 110kg little brother said he couldn't feel it noodling. That was stood up leaning on pedals and twisting and bouncing and 1450w seated push up the road. Pretty good I think.

He didn't get the seatpost to move either.

[w1ll337]

Here is my update on the AeroTrace. Conceptually it's good. Functionally it needs a little work going into 2026. I respect VeloBuild's efforts into trying something new versus releasing another SL7/SL8 one-bike-to-clone them all. And VB being mindful of their customers with things like a custom Di2 battery mount, custom 3D spacers for various stem and routing systems is something I wish more brands in this price range offered. On paper you really can't ask for more from VeloBuild. Kudos to them.

It's not for everyone. And that's okay...

The reality is the 368 is a TT frame disguised in road bike geometry clothing. You get the theoretical aero benefits of using a TT bike on the road (for sustain steady efforts), and you also take with you the negatives of using a TT bike for the road (weight and agility). Geometry will be the biggest hurdle for most I reckon.

Jumping back onto my lighter bikes like the Tavelo Arow, it's pretty much night and day in term of dynamics. The Arow is so nimble and dances so well out of the saddle. The AeroTrace on the other does not like to surge. Or climb. Or blast out of an apex. Because...it's a TT bike. To re-emphasis again, it's a TT bike not an aero bike.

But is it fun ride? HECK YES. Arguably the most exciting frame I've ridden in this price range. But it's A LOT to deal with if you're planning to daily this bike. The frame has so much carbon you are reminded of it constantly. Dynamically the ride takes me back to the early-2000s import tuner scene. I've used this analogy before. Ever been in the interior of a 20 year old Japanese car on the highway? Then you know the exact feel (and sounds) I'm referring to. The AeroTrace is fun because of how imperfect and unnecessary it. If the Tarmac SL8 is like a modern day sports car with modern creature comforts, the AeroTrace is like a 2003 Nissan Z with 20" rims. Porky and kind of fast?

You can thank the almost 1500g of carbon for soaking up road imperfections. Because the AeroTrace is also surprisingly more comfortable than you would think. And the rear end doesn't get upset over rough pavement. Like a tank.

What I would like to see from VeloBuild in a perfect world:
-A more subdued and eloquent aero frame design that isn't overtly a TT frame. Scott Foil or Cannondale System Six vibes. This would cut down on weight, offer more crosswind stability, and make the frame more usable for a wider range of riders. This isn't the bike you take to Mallorca or the Dolomites. And, lets be honest, the bike looks proportionally wrong with any set of wheels shallower than 60mm deep.
-Happy VB fixed the Sram derailleur chainstay issue. I'd like to see more thought into preventing the seatpost from slipping. Even if VB just provided a simple metal shim to fit between the wedge and frame.

Just like that 2003 Nissan Z with 20" rims, you could daily drive it all year. It's a blast. However, you WILL run into certain days where you just don't want to deal with the good/bad that comes with driving it daily. And that's okay...

Next year I’ll go with my 368 to climb Ventoux, and that will be okay… haha!

Patrick, about the custom 3D spacer: did you make the drawing for them?
I’m asking because I will use a Lexon/Kocvelo handlebar, and Chris asked me for a 3D spacer so they can manufacture it. I don’t know if it’s the same one you used, and I’d like to know if I can request the same model.

[patliean1]

Next year I’ll go with my 368 to climb Ventoux, and that will be okay… haha!

Patrick, about the custom 3D spacer: did you make the drawing for them?
I’m asking because I will use a Lexon/Kocvelo handlebar, and Chris asked me for a 3D spacer so they can manufacture it. I don’t know if it’s the same one you used, and I’d like to know if I can request the same model.

Naw I didn't provide the drawing for VeloBuild, but I did push for them to at least provide an FSA/ACR specific spacer style for its common compatibility.

What wheels are you gonna use going up Ventoux? 

[hazzer19]

Thanks for the thorough first impressions after the first impressions Patrick!


Mine came in yesterday and pretty stoked to build it up, just not sure when it's going to be nice enough to ride outside...

Here is my update on the AeroTrace. Conceptually it's good. Functionally it needs a little work going into 2026. I respect VeloBuild's efforts into trying something new versus releasing another SL7/SL8 one-bike-to-clone them all. And VB being mindful of their customers with things like a custom Di2 battery mount, custom 3D spacers for various stem and routing systems is something I wish more brands in this price range offered. On paper you really can't ask for more from VeloBuild. Kudos to them.

It's not for everyone. And that's okay...

The reality is the 368 is a TT frame disguised in road bike geometry clothing. You get the theoretical aero benefits of using a TT bike on the road (for sustain steady efforts), and you also take with you the negatives of using a TT bike for the road (weight and agility). Geometry will be the biggest hurdle for most I reckon.

Jumping back onto my lighter bikes like the Tavelo Arow, it's pretty much night and day in term of dynamics. The Arow is so nimble and dances so well out of the saddle. The AeroTrace on the other does not like to surge. Or climb. Or blast out of an apex. Because...it's a TT bike. To re-emphasis again, it's a TT bike not an aero bike.

But is it fun ride? HECK YES. Arguably the most exciting frame I've ridden in this price range. But it's A LOT to deal with if you're planning to daily this bike. The frame has so much carbon you are reminded of it constantly. Dynamically the ride takes me back to the early-2000s import tuner scene. I've used this analogy before. Ever been in the interior of a 20 year old Japanese car on the highway? Then you know the exact feel (and sounds) I'm referring to. The AeroTrace is fun because of how imperfect and unnecessary it. If the Tarmac SL8 is like a modern day sports car with modern creature comforts, the AeroTrace is like a 2003 Nissan Z with 20" rims. Porky and kind of fast?

You can thank the almost 1500g of carbon for soaking up road imperfections. Because the AeroTrace is also surprisingly more comfortable than you would think. And the rear end doesn't get upset over rough pavement. Like a tank.

What I would like to see from VeloBuild in a perfect world:
-A more subdued and eloquent aero frame design that isn't overtly a TT frame. Scott Foil or Cannondale System Six vibes. This would cut down on weight, offer more crosswind stability, and make the frame more usable for a wider range of riders. This isn't the bike you take to Mallorca or the Dolomites. And, lets be honest, the bike looks proportionally wrong with any set of wheels shallower than 60mm deep.
-Happy VB fixed the Sram derailleur chainstay issue. I'd like to see more thought into preventing the seatpost from slipping. Even if VB just provided a simple metal shim to fit between the wedge and frame.

Just like that 2003 Nissan Z with 20" rims, you could daily drive it all year. It's a blast. However, you WILL run into certain days where you just don't want to deal with the good/bad that comes with driving it daily. And that's okay...

[Pistonbroke]

Great colour!

Mines two days young and covered in sh1te  :'( 

[w1ll337]

Naw I didn't provide the drawing for VeloBuild, but I did push for them to at least provide an FSA/ACR specific spacer style for its common compatibility.

What wheels are you gonna use going up Ventoux? 

Ok, I think I will request the same one that you used, because if I need to make a new spacer later, I can do it.

I will use XCMS 65 and 54-40T  :'(

[pertual]

Pretty sure it's a7 degree 150mm stem. No, no integration but still trying various fit options. Absolutely loving the long stretch on this thing.
I think one of the main things with this frame is the ability to try positions you can't get on other bikes short of the likes of Ridley.

Fini... Can take 35mm measured rear tyre, but wouldn't want any more.
Down tube flat area where water bottle cage sits measures approx 32mm wide

Pertual... My 110kg little brother said he couldn't feel it noodling. That was stood up leaning on pedals and twisting and bouncing and 1450w seated push up the road. Pretty good I think.

He didn't get the seatpost to move either.

Thanks Pistonbroke, really helpful on the feedback. Good that it's not a noodle and given the weight it would have been a massive oversight by VB if it was, not that i can crack out 1400W anyway