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Re: Velobuild VB-R-168 Frame
Despite of all the reported problems, I did a dry run on the headset today. The good thing is that the new version of the headset is delivered with split spcers and that it should eliminate any play without adding micro spacers. On the downside, the compressing ring with the dustcover builds up that high that there is a gap of 2mm between the frame and the dustcover. Thereby, the dustcover has no rubber sealing. So there is no protection for the bearing, which btw is of poor quality as well - the sealing is not worth its name, one can see the balls. I menwhile deeply regret the purchase of the frame. May 30, 2022, 02:43:47 PM |
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Re: Velobuild VB-R-168 Frame
Hello all Thank you for responding. I think if you ask people here, QC is probably the most important aspect Vb needs to focus on. Anecdotally, most of the issues seem to be around: 1) missing or incorrect hardware 2) poor machining of hardware or mounting points on the frame 3) incorrect or sloppy paint job 4) “bait and switch” specifically around handlebars 5) poor after sales service The frames themselves are fine. The customer expectation is that they will receive exactly what they have ordered, and not have to contact for after service support. Because, let’s be honest, after sales support is weak and aside from receiving a broken frame in the mail, the VB warranty is almost useless. It is also in VBs interest to take the extra time to ensure an order is correct and free of defects. Consider how much time and money is wasted dealing with after sale complaints, as well as the loss of reputation when these complaints are shared on forums? Ideally, VB wants to be in a position where you will never hear from a customer again, unless it is to buy another frame. I am not saying this to complain. Rather, I say this because I would like to see VB succeed. And these QC issues are seriously harming your business June 01, 2022, 08:06:42 AM |
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Re: Velobuild VB-R-168 Frame
Hello all We wanted to provide an update on the recent issues some customers have experienced with their frames and let you know we have been working closely with those affected to find a resolution. We are implementing additional QC/QA steps to our process prior to frames being sent for painting and multiple checks before shipping to ensure no issues or parts are missed and can be corrected if needed. We appreciate everyone's feedback and are committed to improving the quality of our products by listening to what you have to say. Happy building and riding! VeloBuild Team June 13, 2022, 01:04:20 PM |
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VB-177 vs VB-168: My Guide To Choosing A Frame
Step One: Frequently Asked Questions 1 - Is the 177 lighter than the 168? YES. 2 - Is the 168 more aero than the 177? YES. 3 - Does the 177 have more flex than the 168? Probably, since it’s lighter… 4 - Is the 168 more stiff than the 177? Probably, since it’s heavier… 5 - Does this mean the 177 is a “flexy” frame overall? NO. 6 - Is the 168 one the stiffest frames you’ve tested? NO. 7 - Are both frames stable at high speeds? Road stability is not exclusive to the frame. Bottom Line: The differences between the two frame are marginal at best. Especially for a $500 frame. There are more important aspects to your overall bike build to consider. 168 does in fact support 32c tires. The 177 (at least mine) does not. Maybe 30c max. This alone might be a deal breaker for the 177. The 177 uses is a standard seatpost which will be wildly easier to find on the open market for replacements. Step Two: Geometry VB 177 Geometry (Size 56/L) Stack: 556 Reach: 395 VB 168 Geometry (Size 56/L) Stack: 556 Reach: 398 VB 177 Geometry (Size 54/M) Stack: 536 Reach: 392 VB 168 Geometry (Size 54/M) Stack: 535 Reach: 388 Bottom Line: You should probably seek a professional bike fit if you’re uncertain. Geometry is similar for both frames, plus/minus a couple of millimeters in reach. I personally am not a fan of zero-degree setback seatposts. Neither frames are intended to fit all body types. I’m also not a fan of integrated handlebars either, since they limit adjustability later. Step Three: Aerodynamics Your wheel choice is one of the most critical areas where aerodynamics can be either saved or loss. The 177 paired with deep sectioned aero wheels will be faster on the flats than the 168 with shallow wheels. And the aerodynamic design of the 168 will inherently trump the lightweight of the 177 on the flats when paired with identical wheels. Bottom Line: DO NOT SKIMP on your wheelset. Step Four: Total System Weight There is not enough emphasis put on total system weight (bike + rider + gear). Nothing wrong with having weight weenie tendencies, but 50-200 gram weight savings isn’t going to make the difference for anything below a World Pro Tour Race. See example below: Bike: 7900g Rider: 74000g 2 Water Bottles: 1400g Helmet/Gear/Ect: 1000g Total System Weight: 84300 grams (84.3kg) Bottom Line: Striving to save even 100-200 grams (regardless of cost) is literally only like 0.25 percent of the total weight. 0.25 PERCENT. One-fourth of one percent. Also when it comes to wheels and frames...you WILL eventually be penalized on stiffness once the weight dips to a certain threshold. Step Five: Road Stability Your stem length and wheel choice play a pivotal role in stability at higher speeds. These aspects should be considered before asking the question of stability in general. Yes both frames are stable...but I run a 130mm stem paired with aero wheels at a depth (60-65mm) that is suitable for my weight (74kg). Final thoughts - For the pursuit of speed (and even climbing) your wheel choice, position on the bike, tire/innertube/tubeless choice, and drivetrain efficiency all matter significantly more than simply comparing weight. The 177 is probably the better choice if bike fit is a concern, you absolutely need a climbing bike, and you don’t need clearance for wider tires. Some people may also prefer the "look" of the 177 which is totally understandable. For everyone else…168 is mostly likely the more reasonable choice. And this actually makes sense, since the Tarmac SL7 is supposed to be the one bike to rule them all. Okay this guide took way longer than I anticipated. Time to suit up my party clothes, get some drinks in me, and hit the clubs. Have a great weekend. August 26, 2022, 07:43:40 PM |
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Re: High end big brand OEM road rims 38/45/50mm on sale!!!
The split page doesn't work for me as well, so I reply here again. We have the hubs customized by Chosen hub factory, the technical drawing and pictures as attached for reference. The custom hubs with 36T rachets are not so stable, so we replace with Chosen ones. September 17, 2022, 08:58:41 PM |
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Re: Groupset News
I got a message on AliEx from the LTwoo store, November release for their hydraulic brake RX groupset. September 27, 2022, 02:05:12 PM |
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Re: trifox x18
I have yet to encounter a truly honest and trustworthy frame seller on Aliexpress...
When I was researching the TFSA frame, I also communicated with Delihea about their frames, and communication was very good. They advised against a fully internal handlebar. August 23, 2023, 04:17:36 AM |
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Re: Groupset News
Just spotted Sensah Empire HRD 11 speed for sale on Aliexpress. Price is $249 for shifters, disc brake calipers, and derailleurs. Looks promising! Thanks for that - I've done a little groupset comparison for anyone interested in the current state of the market for hydraulic groupsets. I have used official store prices for Ltwoo and Sensah. All items are shifters, brakes and derailleurs unless indicated otherwise. All prices include postage where relevant (to Australia - not sure how it differs for other markets). Mechanical Code: [Select] | Groupset Name | USD | Link |Electronic: Code: [Select] | Groupset Name | USD | Link | Notes |Gravel: Code: [Select] | Groupset Name | USD | Link | Notes |
September 09, 2023, 11:41:08 PM |
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Re: Velobuild VB-R-168 Frame
nice built, and nice color. do you have a link for the sl8 compression ring? You have to contact your specialized dealer, they will help you out. Part number is S222500011. September 16, 2023, 06:21:01 AM |
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Re: Velobuild VB-R-168 Frame
@cramy a good alternative is Cane Creek Ancora Expansion Plug (Gold) (1-1/8"). With it in, even if you intend to take it out, just like the specialized ones, you will have to take extra steps to get it out. This thing holds I find, even better than longer plugs offered by Neco
September 16, 2023, 03:04:59 PM |
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