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Re: Eddie's Airwolf YFR066 Build Thread
Cool! I've been following this thread with the greatest interest, as that bike is pretty much all in my Aliexpress cart (airwolf frame, Magene power meter, Elite wheels) If I could redo--I would not buy the Airwolf frame, but I would get something like the Carbonda CFR1056. I realize that frame only goes up to 32c instead of 38c tires, but the frame/fork/etc quality from Airwolf has been really disappointing. I'll try my best to not think about how I wish I had spent the extra on a higher quality frame, but I wouldn't wish my experience on someone else. In general this frame/fork is not very confidence inspiring. Otherwise--I would also not get this specific handlebar or stem. The stem barely fit on the steerer tube (I had to use a flat screwdriver to pry the clamp open a bit to get it to fit), and the handlebar is not as stiff as the others I've used. Wheels, groups, seat, power meter, tires--all of those I've been happy with! January 13, 2024, 02:34:38 PM |
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Re: VeloBuild VB-R-268 frame
There is no standardization in testing here. He compares bike ABC with different groupsets, bars, and wheels (incl tyres type, size, wheel depth, spoke type) plus a whole bunch of variables with what looks to be minimal testing time (first impressions). Unless someone sets up bikes with exactly the same components and A/B tests them back to back in set conditions, then isolating and commenting on the frame's "performance" would be mighty difficult. Correct. First impression video and then long-term video per usual. Even if I were to conduct standardized test, I would get called out for doing "bro science" as other YouTuber's have. Thankfully the support of this very forum over the years is what allows me to continue and make content. I'm very grateful. April 16, 2024, 03:38:18 PM |
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Re: VeloBuild VB-R-268 frame
Correct. First impression video and then long-term video per usual. Even if I were to conduct standardized test, I would get called out for doing "bro science" as other YouTuber's have. Thankfully the support of this very forum over the years is what allows me to continue and make content. I'm very grateful. Using the same wheels, could you do a NorCal kind of video on a loop you know well, swapping 2 or 3 bikes? You have to use the same wheels for any credible kind of comparison. Your times would be interesting, but equally interesting would be your impression. I take issue with the "because it's 500usd it can never compete with a 1500usd frame", given the 268 is t800&1000, EPS moulded, proven geometry & shape: it's latest best practice afaik. Now yoeleo or the likes are, afaik, just taking oem frames and branding them for a premium, just less of a premium than western brands. Having looked at their specs sheet, manufacturing methods, reputation for QC, the reason why I don't buy them is because I don't see that my money would go into the frame. I'd like to be proven wrong, because I can afford to pay 1500 for a frame, or 5000 for that matter, but i care about relative value. Last, i saw you have a colnago video, any chance you would test ride that with your own wheels for comparison? Colnago Vs velobuild video would break the internet 
April 17, 2024, 02:00:09 AM |
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Re: VeloBuild VB-R-268 frame
Using the same wheels, could you do a NorCal kind of video on a loop you know well, swapping 2 or 3 bikes? You have to use the same wheels for any credible kind of comparison. Your times would be interesting, but equally interesting would be your impression. Based on the hundreds of messages I received over the years, the typical viewer of my channel isn't looking for VeloBuild to be an equal alternative to one of the major brands. What they want is assurance their money won't be stolen, and that their collarbones won't be broken from a random catastrophic failure. Basically is the frame good enough all things considered. I try to keep my videos light-hearted and sensible. Save engineering and race opinions for the engineers and racers. Confirmation bias and cognitive dissonance is human nature. Whether VeloBuild or Specialized, we all want to believe we've made the best purchase. No harm in that. April 17, 2024, 10:31:40 AM |
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Re: VeloBuild VB-R-268 frame
Update on my 268 Highs -I love the Mavic thru-axle system. It's quite convenient actually. Being able to keep the axles in place when both transporting the bike and working on it on a mechanic stand is great. -The bike is both stiff and nimble enough. I can't say there really is any discernible difference in stiffness compared to other bikes. Unless you are truly sprinting or climbing, there will be plenty of other variables in regards to maintaining any set speed. -Visually I appreciate the frame design. Obviously because it looks like an SL7/Venge. Well rounded proportions. The sloping top tube gives the visual impression of an extreme saddle-to-handlebar drop versus a more horizontal top tube. More exposed seatpost (should?) also means more comfort as the seatpost has the ability to flex. 32c GP5000 tubeless fits no problem. Lows -Zero setback seatpost. It's not fully problematic for me, but I had to move my saddle back far more than I'm accustomed to. If this was my only road bike it would most likely be a deal breaker. A non-issue for most folks however. -7x9 saddle clamp for carbon rails. On my particular clamp when using my AliExpress carbon saddle (7x9 rails), visually it does not appear as if the clamps are fully engaging with the rails. Other 268 owners with carbon saddles have not experienced this, and so far the saddle has stayed put. However, the saddle clamp bolt is now slightly bent from trying secure to the rails. Also a non-issue if you're using 7x7 rails as VB also supplies clamps for that too. Just something to be aware of. -While the bike as a whole rides better than my previous VeloBuild frames, it does still suffer some from road chatter at the rear triangle. Rough pavement can upset the back end. Thankfully though still far better than my Dengfu R12 and TanTan x38 in this regard. This is completely subjective and anecdotal of course. Over the past few weeks I've made an effort to rotate riding each of my bikes everyday day to get a good feel on the differences and overall riding dynamics. Closing It's a great DIY bike at the price point so far. As always, wheel selection and bike fit/position will do most of the heavy lifting. If I could change anything it would be adding more reach to cockpit to offset the zero setback seatpost. Dear VeloBuild: Please make one for me thanks! May 02, 2024, 03:06:12 PM |
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Re: VeloBuild VB-R-268 frame
Can she go to a bike shop and try a road bike or two? That would take out a lot of guesswork. Cable integration and one piece cockpit are the enemies of an uncertain bike fit, too... And a gf in an uncomfortable position is an unhappy gf. Unhappy gfs are fire breathing dragons. Dragons are scary. Like snakes, but bigger and with fire.
May 06, 2024, 01:19:49 PM |
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Re: New frame: Longteng RD301-D
1) Love the paint job! the candy/pearlescent tone really shine under the sun! 2) The bottle cage holes on top tube and down tube is kind ugly, have that unfinished looks. Not impressive with them. 3) The downtube storage access is nice with the magnetic latch, but the underneath is just cavity expose to the entire inside of the downtube. How am I going store anything inside? what do I need to setup as storage? again sort of unfinished kind of solution that I need to figure out. 4) Front der hanger has 2 rivets to the seat tube, not sure if that's sufficient? 5) I like the rear der hanger, this is the Sram type? 6) Massive squoval downtube, is it really necessary for a stiffer frameset? Aesthetically it's pleasing, not sure if it could make the frame overly stiff. 7) I think I'm going to enjoy the 38c tire clearance.  I'm planning to have the LBS move the 105/12s groups and components from my current Java Fuoco over to the LongTeng. 9) Quick inspection on the inside of the frame tubing, all internal surface seems smooth, has not seen any wrinkles nor any ungodly epoxies or trash. But will take more details photos on the inside tubing. Looks good. What are your initial impressions? September 04, 2024, 06:50:10 PM |
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Re: New frame: Longteng RD301-D
Here's an unboxing video: https://youtu.be/UbQkuAkxCgQ?si=4PachminTt-CH0Nh Hopefully I'll be able to do a build video next, and then some ride review. First impressions: I'm impressed, it's more refined than what I expected! [Edit: in case the URL above doesn't display, here is a link: https://youtu.be/UbQkuAkxCgQ?si=4PachminTt-CH0Nh] September 06, 2024, 03:01:41 PM |
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Re: Lightcarbon: New LCR017-D (or Yishun R1058-D)
Hey all! Thanks to the tips of the internet's favorite 5 year-old, mr Hambini and this thread i've pulled the trigger this summer on the LCR017 (super light frame option) in size M with 400/90 handlebar option. I've been searching for a 2nd bike to complement my Cervelo S5 and replace the alloy BMC Teammachine i have built up, this came up as a very cost effective and what i believe to be a super high quality option. I've opted for pearl white colour (as i'm quite sick of everything being black and matte) despite its weight penalty, and had to test my low creative abilities to come up with a logo and the name. Then it got to me - one of the most favorite things is to try and beat PB on a local hill here in Leuven, Belgium - called Chartreuzenberg, so the font and logo of the strong French spirit was chosen. I've only managed to have a super quick look and i really liked what i saw! The whole thing was 895$ shipped and with all import duties. The communication with Cassie of ProX was super smooth, quick and professional! I believe it would top any of the known brands' customer service easily. The bike arrived roughly 40 days after payment and i got a couple of shots as it was being produced. Customer experience 10/10 With the package came an awesome bike computer mount with a gopro/light attachment below saving the need to spend another 50 euros on it. Bottom bracket T47/DUB looks to be very good - came at a cost of 10$ - so, no brainer until i get a Hambini one. 2 derailleur hangers, headset, spacers, all is in. Splendid! Paint and finish is really very good. It does have one small blemish on one of the letters, probably happened during packing (it was well mummified in foam and put in a very sturdy box), and the overall finish around the masked areas is not jawdropping amazing, but i've seen so much shit from brand-names that i can just be super happy with the comparatively super-cheap frameset (Reminder that even a Winspace SLC3.0 now costs over 2000$ without handlebars or seatpost..., and i truly doubt it's more than twice the bike). Carbon layup looks to be very good, on the headset there is a bit of an uneven finish, but that's below the bearing cone area, so i don't expect any issues at all. Assembly should start sometime next week, and really can't wait to give it a go! It will be put together from the parts i have collected over a period of time: - SRAM Red chainset and rotors - Rival shifters, derailleurs and brake calipers - Fizik Antares R1 carbon saddle - Hunt 50 Aero wheels (currently with Cinturato Velo 28mm bulletproof tyres as winter weather commuter) Hope it will fit around 7kg mark and prove to be a bargain of the century        Will keep you posted Cheers Luka September 12, 2024, 05:37:40 AM |
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Re: Hygge Aero Carbon Frame
Dear friends, My frame arrived last week after a month of anxious waiting and complications. I built it and rode it this weekend—it’s fun, light, fast, and both stiff and compliant. I’m pleased with it! It weighs about 8 kg with bottle cages, Garmin mount, and Look pedals. Note that my Merlin CDR-2 carbon wheels are not the lightest at 1650 g per pair. During assembly, I had some trouble routing the cables through the handlebars, but using a shifter cable as a guide made it easier. The other components were straightforward to install and adjust. The frame is pearl white, and its color truly shines in sunlight, with a sparkling effect and "laser" decals that change hues—definitely a head turner! I haven't had issues with the headset loosening, thanks to the new design C rings, and all bolts, including the seatpost one, remained secure. I'm using a Shimano 105 mechanical groupset, a 3D-printed Ryet saddle (160 g), Supacaz sticky cush bar tape, and Continental GP5000 32 mm tires with RideNow TPU tubes. I installed a chain catcher for frame protection and put Zefal Skin Armor under the downtube and in other key areas. The brakes are Juin F1 hydro-mechs and they fitted by the skin o' my teeth at the rear mount (160 mm rotors). I still need to adjust my hood positions, as they seem angled downwards too much. This frame is size 52 M, and it fits me perfectly (180 cm, 73 kg). I left full stack of alu spacers under the handlebars and will decide if I'll slam it futher down. Here are some photos I took during the ride but they don't do the justice - it's more beautiful in person! (Sorry for the dirty rims and anti-Velominati postioned tires and valve stems!). Hope Hygge won't steal my photos or will at least credit anyone who posts their photos after they put it on their FB or Insta. P.S. I don't know if they've changed the handlebars but they have different graphics and 6 Nm torque written. Handlebars are pretty stiff. Cheers! October 22, 2024, 04:37:55 AM |
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