The Dengfu FM098 DISC offers exceptional value with high-performance carbon construction at a fraction of branded bike costs, though quality control, ride harshness, and warranty concerns are noted.
Pros
- Significantly cheaper than comparable branded bikes
- Very lightweight construction
- Large bottom bracket for efficient power transfer
- Di2 electronic shifting compatibility
Cons
- Proprietary seat post sizing issues requiring modification
- Very harsh and stiff ride quality
- Stress fractures can develop in bottom bracket area
- Unfavorable warranty process with high replacement fees
Key Facts
- Fully carbon construction including frame, wheels, and seat post
- Claimed weight approximately 980g for size M frame
- Large bottom bracket design for power transfer
Reviews & Ratings
The reviewer provides a two-year review of the Dengfu FM098 frame, which they purchased directly from Dengfu via a third-party website. They used it as a complete bike for racing and bike packing until it was damaged in a roof rack incident. They discuss the purchase process, initial build, riding experience, and specific issues encountered. The frame is described as a Chinese-made model with geometry similar to an older Venge. The reviewer notes it was used with a Campagnolo Chorus groupset and Dengfu/NovaTec 60mm wheels. The frame ultimately survived the accident better than a companion Giant TCR, but was retired afterward.
AI Summary
Pros
- The bike was very cheap to purchase.
- It performed well for road racing, described as 'kick ass' and a good buy for the money.
- It handled a demanding 9-day bike packing trip in Tasmania with heavy loads, rain, and mountains without any issues.
more pros in the video
Cons
- The purchase process was 'dodgy', requiring payment through a third-party website and a personal PayPal account.
- The proprietary seat post was marginally too small and would slowly slide down during rides. The reviewer had to fix it with sand and epoxy.
- The ride quality is described as 'very harsh' and 'really stiff', which the reviewer did not like as they prefer comfort.
more cons in the video
Key Points
- Frame model is the Dengfu FM098.
- Purchased as a frameset including frame, fork, and seat post.
- Geometry is very similar to an older Specialized Venge, with slight variations.
more key points in the video
The reviewer presents a bicycle built with a frame and wheels from Dengfu, specifically the FM098 model. They state the entire bike, including the carbon frame, wheels, and seat post, was sourced from Dengfu. The bike is described as nice, light, and featuring a large bottom bracket for power transfer. It is equipped with a Shimano 105 groupset (referred to as 'altegra' in the transcript) and is 11-speed. The reviewer notes the frame is ready for Di2 electronic shifting. The owner has done about 1,000 miles with no issues and is very happy with it. The total build cost was just over £2,000.
AI Summary
Pros
- Very light (lighter than the reviewer's TCR)
- Nice and light
- Big bottom bracket for generating power
more pros in the video
Cons
- No specific negative points are raised. The only implied concern is about longevity, mentioned as 'let's see how long it lasts', but this is presented as an open question rather than a reported issue.
Key Points
- Brand: Dengfu
- Model: FM098
- Material: Fully carbon (frame, wheels, seat post)
more key points in the video
Where to Buy
Specifications
Attributes
Included Components
Spotted an error in the specs? Help us correct it — sign in or create an account.
Similar Frames
Performance Road
Performance Road| 49cm → 52 | 51% | Compare |
| 52cm → 52 | 67% | Compare |
| 54cm → 54 | 70% | Compare |
| 56cm → 56 | 82% | Compare |
| 58cm → 58 | 76% | Compare |
| 61cm → 61 | 55% | Compare |
Performance Road
Performance Road
Performance Road
Endurance Road
Questions about Dengfu FM098 DISC
Sign up and share your experience — help other riders decide!
Create Account & Review