Hi everyone,
i’m looking for recommendations for a reliable Chinese hardtail frame manufacturer featuring modern XC geometry (around a 68° HA / 74° STA).
Which brands currently have the best QC and fewest reported issues?
I’ve read quite a few bad things about Spcycle (debonding BBs, falling-out caliper thread inserts, generally poor QC). Shame, because some of their designs look quite interesting.
The Meinier Snake is currently my favourite, but its geometry is calculated around a 120 mm fork, whereas I run a 100 mm RockShox SID SL Ultimate. I'm wondering if the geo degrades too much or if the BB drops too low with this fork . . though it should still sit higher than a modern race gravel bike.
For context: I don't do technical XCO or heavy trail riding, but mostly marathon XC style (gravel-adjacent, high-speed forest/gravel tracks, long climbs, easy trails).
Any solid recommendations or long-term experiences from the lurkers here based on experience?
Thanks!
