All Reviews

The Carbonda CFR-1136 (also FM1136) is a carbon road/endurance frameset praised for its high-quality finish, smooth internal routing, and excellent value. It features a BSA threaded bottom bracket, flat mount disc brakes (140mm rear native, 160mm front with adapter), and is compatible with FSA ACR headsets. The frame is relatively light (around 970-1000g for size XL) and offers a comfortable, stable ride suitable for long distances. Users appreciate the integrated cable routing options and the ability to customize paint. Common issues include tight clearance for tires over 32mm, occasional fitment issues with headsets, and the need for careful Di2 cable routing. The frame is often compared to the CFR1056, with the 1136 being a more refined, stiffer, and lighter evolution.

The Carbonda CFR-1136 (also known as FM1136) is an aero road frame made from T800/T1000 carbon fiber, featuring a BSA threaded bottom bracket, integrated cable routing options, and clearance for up to 35mm tires. It is praised for its lightweight (frame ~1011g, fork ~502g for size S), high-quality workmanship, and good value (frameset ~$690). However, some users note differences in geometry tables between Carbonda and Flybike, potential steerer gap issues, and the integrated handlebar being changed to a model with longer reach. The frame is available directly from Carbonda via email.

The Carbonda CFR-1136 is a Chinese carbon frameset often used for self-builds. Users discuss assembly challenges, particularly with internal cable routing and headset installation. The frame uses a tapered steerer and flat mount brakes. Prices are not explicitly mentioned, but the frame is considered affordable. Quality is generally good, but assembly requires careful attention.

The Velobuild GF-005 is a carbon fiber racing gravel frame set sold directly from China at a very low price (under 500€ including shipping, seatpost, and cockpit). It features a T47/86 bottom bracket, UDH derailleur hanger, and uses a proprietary aero seatpost (non-round). The frame geometry is very similar to the Ridley ASTR, offering a sporty, direct ride feel. It fits tires up to 2.1" (54mm measured). Users appreciate the value for money, but note some quality issues like slipping seatpost and headset play. Delivery times can be long (1-2 months).

The BXT GRAVEL 135 is a budget-friendly carbon gravel frame from AliExpress, typically priced around €540-€570 including shipping. It features a 27.2mm round seatpost, flat mount brakes, and clearance for up to 45mm tires at the rear and 50mm at the front. The frame is well-finished with clean carbon layup. Users appreciate the value but note that the included bottle cages are weak and the frame may require careful tire sizing.

The TanTan GR047 is a carbon gravel frameset praised for its stiffness, good value, and ability to fit wide tires (up to 2.2" front, 2.1" rear with 700c). Users report delivery times around 5 weeks. However, quality control issues include a poorly fitting seatpost clamp, a broken fork after 782 km, defective bottom bracket shell, and headset compatibility problems. Customer service is inconsistent, with some users receiving good support and others being ignored after warranty expiration.

The TanTan GR047 is a Chinese gravel frameset featuring a T47 threaded bottom bracket, which is praised for easier serviceability compared to press-fit. The frame geometry appears similar to the Wilier Jena. Weights are approximately 1.25 kg for the frame and 450 g for the fork. The frame uses a T47 BB, which is a rarity among Chinese frames. Some users reported minor quality issues such as epoxy in threads, buried brake inserts, and rough headset cups. The included seatpost (zero offset, single bolt) was criticized for slipping. Overall, the frame is considered a good value but may require some cleanup and careful assembly.

The TanTan GR044 is a Chinese carbon gravel frame that offers good value for money, with many users reporting positive experiences after building it up. The frame features internal cable routing, a BB386 press-fit bottom bracket, and mounts for fenders and racks. Users praise the geometry, which is similar to the Carbonda CFR696, and the attractive paint options. However, some report issues with sharp edges inside the frame, water ingress, and the integrated headset design. The frame is generally considered stiff and durable, with weights around 1300g for size L. Builds range from 8.2kg to 10.9kg depending on components. Communication with the seller (Ann Tian) is good, but shipping can be slow and customer service after payment may decline.

The Lightcarbon LCR018-D is an aero endurance disc brake road/gravel frameset with integrated handlebar, praised for its excellent value for money (around €840-1300 for frameset with options), high-quality carbon finish, and customizable paint. Users report good customer service from contacts like Wendy and Chloe, but note communication issues with others. The frame accommodates up to 40mm tires and features a downtube storage compartment. Common issues include a slipping seatpost (improved with newer anti-slip coating), a rattling storage door (fixed with updated version), and soft thru-axles. The included derailleur hanger is non-standard (fine thread) and recommended to replace with SRAM UDH. Delivery times vary from 4-12 weeks depending on production batches.

The Airwolf YFR045 is a carbon gravel frameset from China, praised for its value at around €570-600 including shipping. Users report good build quality and customer service, but note potential issues with integrated cockpits, chain vibration, and bottom bracket installation. Tire clearance is up to 45mm (claimed 40mm on website). The frame is suitable for sporty gravel riding and bikepacking.

The Airwolf YFR066 (2023) is a Chinese carbon gravel/all-road frameset, also sold under brands like Cwind RF22 and Rinasclta Granite. It features a D-shaped seatpost, internal cable routing, and a BB86 press-fit bottom bracket. The frame is praised for its attractive design, good ride quality, and value for money, but suffers from quality control issues such as seatpost creaking, slipping, and frame cracks. Compatibility with 40mm tires is possible but tight, and the proprietary seatpost and integrated cockpit limit adjustability. Customer service is inconsistent, with reports of missing parts and slow responses.

The Airwolf YFR066 (2023) is a Chinese open-mold carbon frameset purchased via AliExpress. Users report mixed experiences: the frame is lightweight (around 1120g painted for size 54) and offers a comfortable ride with good agility, but many encountered significant quality issues including poor headset tolerances, flexy front end, loose seatpost fit, stripped bolts, and poor communication from the seller. The frame can accommodate up to 38mm tires (some users fit 40mm). Builders recommend replacing the stock headset with an FSA no.69, using full-length housing for mechanical shifting, and being prepared for extensive fettling. The integrated cockpit version also had fitment problems. Overall, while some users are satisfied after resolving issues, many advise against purchasing due to quality control and customer service problems.

The ELILEE XXE X310 Carbon Crank is a lightweight carbon crankset available with 24mm titanium or DUB aluminum axles. It uses the Easton Cinch interface for spiders and chainrings. Weights vary: 24mm Ti arms ~310g (some reports up to 330g for team version), DUB version ~300-321g; the X260 model can be as light as 251g for 170mm. Compatible with Shimano chainrings via a decorative spider cover. Q-factor is ~149mm (24mm) or ~151.5mm (DUB), but asymmetry of about 1mm (left wider than right) reported. Chainline is 44.5mm (Shimano). Some users report heel clearance issues due to straight arm design. Stiffness is good per independent testing. Power meter options include Sigeyi, Xcadey, and Elilee's own EK-01 (accuracy concerns). Buying from AliExpress or resellers like CycleGears may involve long shipping times, though some European buyers report positive experiences. The X260 offers similar performance at lower cost. Elilee is considered a solid Chinese option, used by WorldTour teams. However, proprietary tools are required for spider and crank maintenance, and some users experience spider squeak that needs regreasing. Installation can be tricky with chainline and front derailleur limits.

The VeloBuild VB-R-268 (2024) is a budget-friendly, T800/T1000 carbon fiber aero road bike frame, heavily inspired by the Specialized Tarmac SL7/Venge design. It features an integrated cockpit, Mavic Speed Release thru-axle system, and a zero-setback aero seatpost. The frame is advertised to weigh around 950g (size M, unpainted), but actual painted weights from users range from ~1040g to 1100g. It is compatible with tires up to 32mm (with some users reporting it can fit wider). Common build standards include a BB86 bottom bracket, flat-mount disc brakes, and internal routing for both electronic and mechanical groupsets. The frame is EPS molded and comes in various custom paint options for an additional fee. User experiences are generally positive regarding ride quality, stiffness, and value for money, though several recurring build and quality control issues are noted.

The ELVES Eglath ARX is an all-road carbon disc frameset marketed as both an endurance and performance bike, with users noting its geometry similarities to endurance bikes like the Specialized Roubaix. Key attributes include a frameset price of EUR 1140, carbon construction using Toray T800/T1000, clearance for 700×38C tires, threaded T47 bottom bracket, UDH hanger, and compatibility with modern groupsets. Users debate its endurance classification due to geometry details like seat tube angles and stack/reach ratios.