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The Velobuild VB-TT-023 is a Chinese carbon fiber time trial/triathlon frameset with a T47 bottom bracket (86.5mm shell width), disc brakes, and fully integrated cable routing. It is often compared to the Trek Speed Concept in geometry. Users report it is very stiff and fast, breaking personal records. The frame weight is not explicitly stated, but complete builds range from approximately 20.75 lbs (9.4 kg) to lighter setups. The material is carbon fiber. It uses a T47 threaded bottom bracket standard. The stock cockpit includes a basebar, stem, and aerobar extensions (described as a copy of Vision TFE/Metron bars) with spacers (5mm, 10mm, 20mm) and a bridge plate for mounting. The frame typically lacks integrated storage but can be requested with threaded rivets on the top tube for a bento box. Delivery times vary, with reports from 4 days to several weeks. Build costs vary widely from around β¬1,800 to over $3,500 depending on component choices.
AI-Generated Forum Summary
Pros
- Excellent value for money, offering high-end TT bike performance at a fraction of the cost of major brands.
- Frame is very stiff and fast, with users reporting personal best times and high average speeds.
- Good build quality and packaging, arrives well-protected with extra hardware.
- Geometry and aesthetics are praised, with clean lines comparable to brands like Trek and Canyon.
- Customer support (Chris) is generally responsive and helpful, sending replacement parts for issues.
- Frame is compatible with aftermarket cockpits (e.g., TriRig Alpha One, Vision Metron) for greater adjustability.
- Customization options are available, including paint, adding bento box rivets, and extra spacers.
Cons
- Stock stem is a common point of failure, cracking under recommended torque or allowing handlebar slippage.
- Cockpit setup and headset assembly can be fiddly, confusing, and prone to user error, leading to play or improper tightening.
- Lack of integrated storage (bento box) on production models, though it can be added as a custom request.
- Stock aerobar extensions are sometimes reported as too short or lacking in adjustability (e.g., fixed angle, need for more stack).
- Potential for quality control issues: missing headset parts, poorly finished fork steerers, wrong saddle clamps, or rough BB threads.
- Internal routing for Di2/hydraulic lines can be very tight and challenging, especially with mechanical shifting.
- Requires a degree of mechanical skill and "tinkering"; not a straightforward out-of-the-box build for beginners.
Key Points
- Frame Material: Carbon fiber
- Bottom Bracket: T47 threaded (86.5mm shell width). Compatible with SRAM DUB (T47-86.5), Shimano 24mm, etc.
- Tire Clearance: Reported to fit 28c tires easily; users speculate it can fit claimed 32c tires.
- Seatpost: Approximately 400mm length, with fore-aft and angle adjustment via a clamp.
- Cockpit: Stock includes basebar (400/420/440mm widths), stem, aerobar extensions (Vision TFE clone), spacers (5,10,20mm), and bridge plate.
- Weight: Complete bike weights reported from ~20.75 lbs (9.4 kg) upwards.
- Geometry: Similar to Trek Speed Concept. Sizes: S, M, L.
- Storage: No integrated bento; can be added via custom rivets on top tube. DIY 3D printed toolboxes and bottle holders are popular.
- Delivery: Times vary from 4 days to 3+ weeks.
- Build Cost: Ranges from ~β¬1,800 to over $3,500 USD.
Frequently Asked Questions
What bottom bracket do I need for a SRAM DUB crankset?
You need a T47 bottom bracket for an 86.5mm shell width. The SRAM DUB T47 Road (85.5mm) model is confirmed to work, as is a T47-86.5 SRAM DUB BB.
Does the frame have mounts for a bento box or top tube storage?
The standard production frame does not have mounts, but you can request Velobuild to add threaded rivets on the top tube when ordering. Some users have done this.
How is the sizing? What size should I get?
Geometry is similar to Trek Speed Concept. Use Trek's size chart or a bike fit as a guide. Users recommend sizing down if between sizes, as it's easier to lengthen a position than shorten it. Contact Chris at Velobuild for advice.
Can I use the stock cockpit, or should I upgrade it?
The stock cockpit works but has limitations. Many users upgrade to systems like TriRig Alpha One, Vision Metron Snakebite, or Winow HB052 for better adjustability, stability, and reach. The stock stem has known issues.
What is the maximum tire clearance?
The frame is claimed to fit 32c tires. Users are running 28c without issue and believe 32c would fit, but definitive measurements are not provided in the thread.
How do I solve handlebar/stem slippage or play in the headset?
Use ample carbon assembly paste on clamping surfaces. Follow correct assembly order: install compression plug, adjust headset bearing play with top cap, then tighten stem bolts crosswise to 4-5 Nm. Do not overtighten. Ensure the fork steerer is cut to the correct length.
What hydraulic brake options are compatible?
Popular options are the RideRever Triva TT brakes (used with SRAM Blips) and SRAM S900 Aero HRD levers. TRP and LTwoo also offer TT brake options. Mechanical disc brakes are possible but not recommended due to routing difficulty.
How do I set up a BTA (Between-the-Arms) hydration system?
The stock bridge plate has limited mounting. Users DIY solutions using carbon/aluminum plates, 3D printed parts, or commercial adapters (e.g., from FastTT, Wattworx3D) to mount a bottle cage and computer between the aerobars.
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