2023 VeloBuild CX-002 Cyclocross Frame

[NoGrip61]

There is a new frame out from VB for cyclocross (and/or lighter gravel use):
http://www.velobuild.com/products/velobuild-2023-new-cx-002-carbon-fiber-cyclocross-frame-full-inner-routing

It looks like a 168 (so slightly aero), but with 42mm tire clearance, more CX friendly geometry, and a horizontal feature above the BB for structural rigidity?   I'm not familiar with other cross bikes outside of the big 3, but it doesn't seem to look like anything else... that BB feature is distinctive though.  (12/21 EDIT: The shape is similar to the 168/Tarmac-SL7, but with Trek Boone-ish Geo)

I added a couple charts to compare to the 168 and the 2 current GF gravel frames.


I'm currently shopping this bike as a road/light-gravel bike with 2 wheelsets.  One with GP5k's/25mm and another with Pathfinder-Pro's in either 32 or 38mm.

[agomezda]

I had the exact same idea, do it all, pseudoaero, reasonable light, big clearance, what is not to like?
Finally went for a road only frame, but please keep us posted on your progress.
It is frame with so many possibilities.

[NoGrip61]

I had the exact same idea, do it all, pseudoaero, reasonable light, big clearance, what is not to like?
Finally went for a road only frame, but please keep us posted on your progress.
It is frame with so many possibilities.

Which frame did you get?  I'm now looking at the Airwolf YFR066 / CW-RF22 as well due to the 38mm tire clearance. 

[agomezda]

I kept my old CX bike (Giant TCX) and went for a new road frame Speeder SC-R52D, that should arrive end of Jan. I am tired of waiting already.
But this frame CX-002 could be close to a do it all one, quiver killer.

[patliean1]

This should probably go under the Gravel/CX section, but the road bike section is more active. And I suppose you could use this frame for all-road versatility.

Size 54/M
Matte Black

Includes rubber seatpost dust cover and, to my surprise, some sort of 3M chrome chainstay protector to prevent scuffs. I suppose the assumption with cyclocross is there is a higher chance of dropped chains. Pretty thoughtful.

The frame is pretty chunky. Weight includes hangers, bottle cage bolts, and plastic grommets. BB area, headtube, and caliper mounts look good. Gonna run SRAM eTap plus a separate bar/stem combo via FSA no69 headset system...per usual.

[patliean1]

Just took delivery of this frame. I posted it in the road bike section. Yeah yeah I know...

https://chinertown.com/index.php/topic,4054.0.html

[Velovelo]

Any idea if it's a "homage" frame or just it's own beast?

[patliean1]

Any idea if it's a "homage" frame of just it's own beast?

Because there are very few affordable Chinese brands offering CX frames it's difficult to say. Not to mention the dropped seat stays and aero seat post makes it that more difficult to pinpoint. It's not really a design choice you see even with the major brands.

[patliean1]

Any idea if it's a "homage" frame or just it's own beast?

Update - This just popped up on my feed today: Cannondale SSE CX

The geometry isn't identical, but it's close.

[poyo]

I like the frame, unfortunately no 0 setback option probably.

[patliean1]

I like the frame, unfortunately no 0 setback option probably.

Cyclocross races require the ability to climb steep hills while being seated, in order maintain traction to the rear wheel. Having a setback seatpost makes sense.

I recommend double checking the geometry chart and comparing it to your current bike. The overall reach is shorter than a comparable road bike.

[patliean1]

My unboxing and first impressions video is live. Actually the bike build is almost finished, because SRAM eTap is so incredibly easy to setup. Just waiting on my bottom bracket and cassette to arrive today then I can take some photos.

YouTube Search: Velobuild CX-002 - Finally An Easy and Budget Cyclocross Frame

[NoGrip61]

Any idea if it's a "homage" frame or just it's own beast?

I think it's its own design.  I've looked at the other aero-gravel, all-road, and newer 2019+ CX bikes with more road-like geo's.  Boone, Crux, Factor Oslo, and they're all similar.  This bike seems to take design elements from each of them, and the result looks like the VB-168/SL7 with more tire clearance and a beefier frame around the BB for structural support.  Kudos to VB here.

I need to make some final checks on the frame size (54 or 56) and colorway, but I should be ordering this weekend or next week.  I'm also waiting on the pathfinder pro tires in 38, which are made of unicorn hairs, reinforced by unobtanium at the moment... but I think one website said early March for stocking, and I have an order in at a LBS. 

Thanks for the good timing on the video, patliean1 !

Attached is a CX-54 vs the Rinasclta/Airwolf-54.

[patliean1]

My build is complete. Went outside in the -13 celsius freezer to quickly snap these.
Weight without pedals or bottle cages: 8.3kg

SRAM eTap + FSA no.69 headset system = easier bike build I've done thus far.
Waiting on some CX tires and I have to swap out the left crank arm for a Quarq/SRAM power meter.

Some tidbits about the frameset...
The frame was designed by Velobuild rather than being a "homage" to one of the major brands. EPS latex like the VB-177.

EDIT: Also I should mention: I’m running a 48/35 chainring up front. However, the front derailleur just BARELY clears the chainring and is mounted at the upper limit of the braze-on hanger. Basically the braze mount is, mounted, really to accommodate a smaller chainring. 46t max probably.

[patliean1]

If VeloBuild can somehow provide a similar level of unique design, QC, fit and finish with future releases as they've done with this CX frame...this will solve a lot headaches and perhaps even regain customer trust.

Bike build and first official ride video below.

YouTube Search Title: My VeloBuild CX-002 Is FINISHED! - Total Winner