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Vendor Discussion & Reviews / Re: VB-R-177 in 2026 – still a good buy? Headset issues solved + long-term feedback?
« on: May 23, 2026, 09:24:54 PM »
I used to ride one. Rode it for a couple years, sold it to a family member 2-3 years ago and he's still riding it.
I really liked it, but I was ready for something new at the time. I thought the back end was very soft, if that makes sense. It was definitely a more comfortable ride than my Winspace.
I did have some headset play for a short time with the Velobuild one piece bar, but eventually got it sorted. Switched to "The One Pro" one piece bar shortly before selling it and had zero issues with this setup (afaik it's been free of any issues since). This bar can now be found on Aliexpress for cheap under a handful of different brands/names. If you go through with the purchase, I would definitely recommend ordering your frame without a handlebar and sourcing a better aftermarket option.
Also note that the largest tire I was able to fit in front was a 30mm Panaracer Agilest, but ymmv depending on your wheel setup. I eventually settled on 28mm Panaracers and 29mm Enves. I believe the current owner is using 30mm Panaracers (might be 28, not entirely sure).
I think it's a good purchase for the price. I might be buying back the frame soon as the current owner is looking to sell and build something new.
I really liked it, but I was ready for something new at the time. I thought the back end was very soft, if that makes sense. It was definitely a more comfortable ride than my Winspace.
I did have some headset play for a short time with the Velobuild one piece bar, but eventually got it sorted. Switched to "The One Pro" one piece bar shortly before selling it and had zero issues with this setup (afaik it's been free of any issues since). This bar can now be found on Aliexpress for cheap under a handful of different brands/names. If you go through with the purchase, I would definitely recommend ordering your frame without a handlebar and sourcing a better aftermarket option.
Also note that the largest tire I was able to fit in front was a 30mm Panaracer Agilest, but ymmv depending on your wheel setup. I eventually settled on 28mm Panaracers and 29mm Enves. I believe the current owner is using 30mm Panaracers (might be 28, not entirely sure).
I think it's a good purchase for the price. I might be buying back the frame soon as the current owner is looking to sell and build something new.

