Spcycles R088 build

[Russ68]

Hi there,

I've bought a lot of AliExpress components in the past, but I'm now planning a full build based around the R088 frameset. I was planning on getting the bulk of parts from AliExpress, but see I have potential options to buy direct from Spcycles, Ryet, Lexon etc. As a rule, would we have better protections and support buying direct from the manufacturer or via AliExpress? What do you guys do?

Plus AliExpress keep flashing up vouchers, is it worth getting creative with these and split my build into different orders and use as many vouchers as possible? Or go for the convenience of putting all components on a single AliExpress order? Or mix of big bits from manufacturer and smaller parts from AliExpress etc? :think

I've ended up going pretty high end and it's a compelling proposition, total build inc power meter, pedals, and bottles is coming out at ~£2.7K and 6.6kg, (6.3kg ex pedals and bottles). For a similar spec western brand, I think it would be >£10K!

I'm happy to list my choices, but thought I'd get some advice about the mechanics of ordering everything first, thanks! 

[jonathanf2]

This is the best time of year to buy a frame or any big purchase on AliEx. The general consensus is buying from a known seller with an AliExpress store front gives you an additional layer of buyer protection and the option to use discount coupon. Sometimes it's cheaper to split up your purchases with different coupons, so whatever works for you. Also I don't think these Chinese brands care where you buy their product unless they give you proper support/customer service (ex: Wheeltop groupset warranty applies only if you buy direct from them).

[alfiomotrambo]

I'm happy to list my choices, but thought I'd get some advice about the mechanics of ordering everything first, thanks! 

Oh yess, go on with the list we are happy to see the full components list

[Russ68]

This is the best time of year to buy a frame or any big purchase on AliEx. The general consensus is buying from a known seller with an AliExpress store front gives you an additional layer of buyer protection and the option to use discount coupon. Sometimes it's cheaper to split up your purchases with different coupons, so whatever works for you. Also I don't think these Chinese brands care where you buy their product unless they give you proper support/customer service (ex: Wheeltop groupset warranty applies only if you buy direct from them).

Great advice there! Thanks! I’ll do just that, putting most of the build through AliE, but perhaps with the grupo direct from Wheeltop. As I was planning on using their EDS TX 👍

[Russ68]

Oh yess, go on with the list we are happy to see the full components list

Will do! I’ll check and upload it tomorrow 👍