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Re: VeloBuild VB-R-268 frame I completed my build approximately one month and 1,000 km ago, and I thought I would share some impressions and experiences. Communication with Velobuild went well, as did the tax-included shipping to Europe, which took just under three weeks. The frame size is 49 cm, and I chose the color "glossy pearl white" after seeing some great pictures earlier in the thread. The color looks just as impressive in person, although there are some minor imperfections in the paint (a couple of matte spots and some "orange peel"). Nothing I can't live with for the price.

I ordered the frame without the handlebar but with the stem. I wouldn’t feel comfortable using the stem (nor did I really intend to) based on the quality of workmanship it exhibited. I tossed it in the bin. Instead, I modeled and 3D-printed a custom transition piece in CF-reinforced nylon, between the stock headset dust cap and a genuine SL7 stem with corresponding spacers. It turned out quite well.

I opted to use a DEDA 70 mm expander plug, and the installation almost ended in disaster. It was oversized for the fork steerer’s internal diameter, so I had to turn/sand down the diameter of the end pieces. However, I misjudged the flexibility of the middle piece, and it began to get stuck about three-quarters of the way down during installation. I had to resort to an almost uncomfortable level of force, hammering it down with a rubber mallet, but it got there in the end. On the plus side, I’m sure it will never slip. Be careful if you plan to use this expander—don't repeat my mistake!

While the included headset bearings seemed fine, I installed stainless bearings from the start, hoping they’ll be "set and forget." The brake caliper mount faces were not properly masked during painting, so I had to carefully file/sand them down. To my relief, I haven’t encountered any alignment or rubbing issues so far.

Apart from the issues mentioned above, the build went smoothly without any major concerns. I used 105 Di2 except for the front derailleur and cassette (Ultegra), and rotors and chain (Dura-Ace). Routing the Di2 cables and brake hoses went smoothly after drilling/Dremeling out the hole in the front derailleur port. I bought the 3D-printed battery seatpost wedge that was linked earlier in the thread. The wheels are AR56 from LB, and the handlebar is PRO Vibe aero carbon. The included mounting hardware has worked fine with the PRO Turnix carbon rail saddle.

I had concerns about the speed-release axles, but they’ve worked flawlessly so far, and I would even say they're convenient. The small hex screw holding the derailleur hanger in place needs to be quite loose, though—otherwise, the thru-axle binds in the threads as it misaligns the hanger. I secured it with Loctite, and it hasn’t caused any issues since.

Would I buy again? Yes!
September 24, 2024, 12:20:44 PM 		1
Re: “Inspired by” gravel/CX frames from TT/Seraph? If you didn't fully commit to the X68, you could take the R088 from Sp-Cycle, basically the X68/SL8 geometry without the aero sniffer.

Sp-Cycle has a gravel frame that is inspired by Canyons Grail, the G068/69. That would be my way of going in your situation, if I wanted to save on the shipping.

Disclaimer: I ride a X68 and a G069
March 29, 2026, 03:10:31 AM 		1
Re: Seraph Bikes Superlight 836g X68 - Alternative to SL8 Fakes?
Quote from: FLXer88 on June 11, 2026, 06:40:37 PM
About to pull the trigger one of these X68 frames and had some questions..

-Is it worth shopping around on AliExpress for an upgraded handle bar, such as ones that are compatible with SL8's? Just how flexy are these stock bars? Has anyone tried a different integrated cockpit with success? Worth it to shop outside of AliExpress?

-Recommend upgrading steerer plug or are folks having good luck with the one supplied?

-Out of precaution, any tools or methods to help clear excess carbon out of the seat tube for Di2 battery?

-Should I just book a time at my LBS to have the brake mounts faced or can it reasonably be done yourself with a file and some elbow grease?

Feel free to recommend any other parts or supplies for the build.

How optimistic is it to expect it's arrival to the states by end of July if ordered tomorrow? (6/12)

I use an EXS Aerover bar and have not used the stock bar that came with the frame.  Although not having used it, it does not seem very flexy.

I purchased an oem specialized steerer plug. It was fairly inexpensive and also very similar to the one that came with the frame.

I did not have my LBS face the brake mounts, I did it my self.  If you choose to do it yourself, just go slow and not take off too much material too quickly.

I would say it likely wouldn’t arrive by the end of July.  The first one I ordered took about seven weeks from the date of order, the second one took almost 11 weeks. 
June 11, 2026, 07:08:38 PM 		1
Re: Seraph Bikes Superlight 836g X68 - Alternative to SL8 Fakes?
Quote from: glitch on June 12, 2026, 01:27:17 AM
So what's the latest with these frames - any improvements made quality wise?

I am currently riding a nice steel allroad bike (for comfort) and an older aeroframe (for speed) but I am looking to replace the aero bike with something a bit more allround.

The aero bike is amazing when going really fast, but most of my riding is done solo on rolling terrain with no long steep climbs (except the occasional trip somewhere with real mountains).

For comfort, I will keep my steel bike, but I would like something:

- lighter than the aero frame (which probably sits around 1300 g for the fram painted size 56
- doesn't need to have monster clearance, I don't see myself going above 32C width since I have the other bike for that
- still should have some aero credentials
- slightly more forgiving than the aero bike but again for max comfort I ride my steel bike
- still racey geometry

Basically a Cannondale SuperSix Evo but without the price tag :)

Considering the X68, but somehwat put off reading about fork breaking, BB delaminating .etc.....

Also eyeing the new LightCarbon LCR020 / TanTan TTX-67 but I guess those would be really similar to my current aero bike....Looked att the LCR017 but put off by the boxy downtube / not very aero looking tubes.
Yishun R033D looks pretty sweet too, but not sure if they do 1 pc sale to retail customers.

Any other frams to consider?
You may want to read deeper into this forum as TanTan fixed the X-68 fork issues a while ago, and I have only seen one case of BB issues (but I may have missed something)...
June 12, 2026, 01:51:45 AM 		1
Re: Seraph Bikes Superlight 836g X68 - Alternative to SL8 Fakes?
Quote from: FLXer88 on June 11, 2026, 06:40:37 PM
About to pull the trigger one of these X68 frames and had some questions..

-Is it worth shopping around on AliExpress for an upgraded handle bar, such as ones that are compatible with SL8's? Just how flexy are these stock bars? Has anyone tried a different integrated cockpit with success? Worth it to shop outside of AliExpress?

-Recommend upgrading steerer plug or are folks having good luck with the one supplied?

-Out of precaution, any tools or methods to help clear excess carbon out of the seat tube for Di2 battery?

-Should I just book a time at my LBS to have the brake mounts faced or can it reasonably be done yourself with a file and some elbow grease?

Feel free to recommend any other parts or supplies for the build.

How optimistic is it to expect it's arrival to the states by end of July if ordered tomorrow? (6/12)

I don't have any issue with the stock bars...but I'm light, and have a puny sprint. There is a little flex in the drops but not horrible and none at tops/hoods.

Mine came with a crap expander. I used an extralite anyway. The one that is a Specialized clone is ok but it can be a giant pain to remove the lower wedge, same with oem.

You'll have a better chance of getting one within your timeline if you order a color that they happen to have in stock...
June 12, 2026, 07:58:04 AM 		1
Re: Seraph Bikes Superlight 836g X68 - Alternative to SL8 Fakes? Hey everyone, first time post here.
I have built a X68 frame in August 2025, and I have been riding it since then. To help on anyone looking to buy the current version and next version of the X68. I thought it would be good to share my experience with it. It also help me document my own work for the next build. (Excuse my english, it is not my first language).

To give you a bit of context: this is my 5th frame build. I previously built four other bikes (Elves twice, and an older/shady Eisenbike twice where I had to deal with aero stay / bb issues).

I’ve been riding the X68 mostly in good weather for about 5,000 km, mainly doing heavy climbing/descending in the mountains, I live in the French Alps, a classic weekend ride average 1800-2000m of elevation. (Important note for you to understand my POV)

Here is the full breakdown from ordering to riding.

1. Pre-Purchase, Communication & Custom Paint

Buying process: Contacted Seraph directly via email with Rose. Super responsive.
Custom Painting: Worked with Summer Support on a custom design and logo. Feedback was swift (1-day turnaround for mockups).
Payment: Paid directly via standard PayPal, smooth transaction.
Lead time: Around 3 months total (standard timeframe when requesting custom paint).
Shipping & Unpacking: 10 to 15 days for delivery once shipped. Well packed, no damage on the frame or fork.

2. Build & Mechanical Assembly

Overall, the build process was very clean and straightforward.
Internal Routing & Finishing: I was pleasantly surprised. The inside of the tubes was remarkably clean, almost looked like it had been sanded down internally—very rare at this price point. Routing through the frame, fork, and handlebar went without a hitch.

Hardware & Tolerances:

All missing/damaged parts? None. Everything was supplied.

Classic issue: Brake caliper mounting bolts were a bit too small for the back caliper. And bolts are not rust proof, I suggested to change them from day 0 when mounting the bike. I like to keep my bike clean and even with the blower, some rust started to appear on some few bolts. I replaced them with some titanium bolts.

🔧 Two Critical Tweaks to Watch Out For:
Front Brake Mount Alignment: Due to the custom paint layer, the front brake caliper mount on the fork wasn’t completely flat. I had to use a facing tool (80e from aliexpress) to sand/level the two holes properly. Front alignment was off because of it. (Rear mount was perfectly fine).

Top Cap / Compression Plug: The stock cockpit compression plug cap is a replica of the Specialized Tarmac SL8 cap, but made of cheap/soft material. It bends easily even when torqued well below 10 Nm. Fix: Replaced it with a genuine Specialized top cap (got it for 5e from my local bike shop). Much stiffer, provides proper compression, and keeps the headset play-free.

3. Ride Quality & Performance

The Good:
Paintjob: Insane paintjob, I was surprise by the colors. For the extra US$150, completely worth it. (My motto: If I can't be fast on the bike, I can be at least beautiful 🤣)
Value for money: Exact paid price on August 2025 US$589.00 for the frame kit, it rides surprisingly well. (PS: Got some Tagoola AR Super light wheels, it does add comfort in the ride)
Reliability: No issues with the BB, seatpost slipping, rear brake, or handlebars after 5,000 km.
Flat / Moderate Terrain: On flats and gradients under 8–9%, the bike feels great, responsive enough, and very comfortable.

The Compromises (Rigidity & Mountain Descents):
As expected for a lightweight frame at this price tier, lateral and longitudinal stiffness are limited—particularly in the fork.
Sprinting / Out-of-the-saddle climbing: Under heavy power (putting watts down standing up already around mini 700-800w), there is noticeable flex in the front fork, causing slight disc rotor rub.

High-Speed Mountain Descents: This is the main drawback if you ride in the mountains:

Speeds up to 60–70 km/h on moderate slopes are completely fine.

However, on steep descents with hard braking at high cruising speeds, the front fork lacks longitudinal stiffness and exhibits fore-aft micro-chatter / vibration.

Note: This is a recurring trait, I encountered on light/budget frames (had the exact same issue on my former Eisenbike builds). If you mostly ride flat/rolling terrain, you will likely never experience this.

Summary Verdict
Pros: Great customer service (with Rose), clean internal finishing, custom paint process is top-notch for a cheap frame, of course pretty cheap.

Cons: Soft stock top cap (swap it immediately), replace all bolts provided, front brake facing required if custom paint, front fork lacks stiffness for aggressive mountain descending.

Hope it helps ! Don't forget to Do Your Own Research
Here are some shots of the bike.
August 09, 2026, 03:53:08 AM 		1