All Reviews

The VeloBuild Carbon Fiber Racing Gravel Bike Frame (Aero Grav) is a budget-friendly, open-mould carbon frame inspired by the Ridley ASTR RS, offering similar aggressive, race-oriented geometry. It features a T47 bottom bracket (86.5mm inboard), UDH hanger, and claims 50mm tire clearance (though real-world fit is tighter, with 52mm rear possible with 1x and careful tire selection; 2.1" MTB tires like Thunder Burt may fit on some builds but can cause frame damage at low pressures). The frame includes a proprietary aero seatpost (available in 0mm and 20mm offset options) and integrated or semi-integrated cockpit options. Typical weights are around 1100-1300g for the frame (size-dependent) and 450-500g for the fork. Price is approximately $500 for the frameset, with custom paint available for an extra fee. Users report it as stiff and fast, suitable for all-road and gravel racing, but note compromises in comfort, tire clearance, and build quality. New builds show compatibility with SRAM 13-speed E1, 2.1" MTB tires (e.g., Thunder Burt) on some builds, and 52T 1x chainrings, though front derailleur mounting may limit 2x to 50T max (especially on size S frames where the mount sits too low). Headset bearings are low quality and seatpost can stick. Paint is fragile. Some users have built lightweight bikes (7.7kg) and reported success with 45mm tires measuring 49mm on 32mm internal rims. Recent user experiences highlight persistent headset play issues, often resolved with aftermarket C-rings (e.g., 7.3mm), micro shims, or two-piece expander plugs; the stock C-ring and expander plug are subpar. The integrated cockpit computer mount is 2-bolt and considered bouncy and poorly angled, requiring aftermarket solutions. The handlebar lacks flare, and the frame lacks a downtube storage compartment. The zero-offset seatpost is difficult to adjust and considered junk by some. Paint can chip at the headtube from headset issues and wears inside the chainstays with 50mm tires. Build weights range from 8.1kg (size L) to 9kg (size XL). Despite these issues, users appreciate the value, performance, and responsiveness of Chris from Velobuild. The frame performs well in muddy races and is fast with road wheels, matching a Supersix Evo gen 4 in Chung testing.

The GAScycle Nitrogen is an affordable aluminum road bike frameset made from 6069 alloy, featuring modern design elements like dropped seat stays, internal cable routing, carbon fork, threaded BSA bottom bracket, and flat disc mounts. It offers good value for budget builds, with frame weights around 1340-1365g and complete builds achievable in the 7-8kg range. The frame is praised for its comfort, power transfer, and handling comparable to carbon frames, though it lacks UDH compatibility and has limited size availability. A new UDH-compatible version with high seat stays is now available, priced around 240 euros with improved stiffness and specific accommodations for Di2. This updated model maintains stable handling with geometry similar to the CAAD12 but with a taller stack for a more upright riding position. While customer service is limited, the manufacturer is active on Chinese social media (Red Note) for direct engagement. The frame has some assembly challenges with convoluted cable routing through the chainstay, but overall provides a fun, budget-friendly build option.