ELVES Falath EXP (UCI Approved)

The reviewer discusses building a bike using the ELVES Falath EXP Aero Carbon Road Disc frameset, describing it as an exotic, non-standardized frameset that presented several assembly challenges. He mentions it's UCI approved, hyper-aero, slightly heavy, and required custom modifications during assembly.

The reviewer presents a detailed review of the ELVES Falath EXP Aero Carbon Road Disc Frameset. They state it is the brand's latest addition to the aero road bike category. They were impressed with its aerodynamics, finding it effortless to hold speed in a group, and its stiffness, particularly in power transfer from the bottom bracket area. The frame is noted as being UCI approved, having a threaded T47 bottom bracket (upgraded from press fit), and accommodating up to 32C tires. They mention the frame price is $1,200, and a package with wheels and handlebar is $2,000. The reviewer highlights the option for free custom paint. They note the ride is stiffer than their Tarmac SL8, which is expected for an aero frame, but still enjoyable. They discuss the seat post fit and the need to use adhesive sandpaper to eliminate seat post rock. The frame's design includes a 'massive hole' in the seat stay area intended to aid vertical compliance.

The reviewer provides a detailed first look at the ELVES Falath EXP Aero Carbon Road Disc Frameset. They describe it as the newest aero bike from the Chinese company Elves, noting it is UCI approved and positioned as a road racing aero bike. The specific frame set reviewed is a 52cm model with a T47 bottom bracket, 32mm tire clearance, and a distinctive large hole in the seat tube (a 'speed hole') claimed to improve aerodynamics and comfort. The reviewer discusses the company's background, the frame's value proposition, its aerodynamic performance based on third-party testing, sizing, and their personal experience living with the bike for several months. They conclude they were impressed, especially considering the price, but note specific drawbacks.

The reviewer discusses a bike they refer to as 'El's Falif EXP Aero' or 'L's', which appears to be a phonetic or shorthand reference to the ELVES Falath EXP Aero frameset. They state it is a brand new, wild-looking aero race bike that offers amazing value for money. The reviewer highlights its striking design, including a hole in the seat tube called the 'inverted triangle airflow channel' (ITAC) for drag reduction and compliance, a deep down tube, massive fork blades, and a step-down head tube. They note it comes with a one-piece aero carbon handlebar/stem, internal routing, and an adjustable seat mast. However, they criticize its high weight (8 kg), crosswind instability, and a seat post slipping issue. Performance testing showed it was as fast as a Specialized Tarmac on a flat test and marginally faster than a Giant TCR on a hilly route. The reviewer praises the low price, wide choice of customizable paint finishes, and overall comfort, but cites several significant drawbacks.

The reviewer discusses the ELVES Falath EXP Aero Carbon Road Disc Frameset as part of the complete bike review, noting its UCI approval, unique design with the Inverted Triangle Airflow Channel (ITAC) for comfort and stiffness, and its manufacturing quality using Japanese Toray carbon fibers.