The XMCS GRT is a lightweight aero gravel frameset that offers exceptional value, with a claimed frame weight around 1,025–1,035g (size M), massive 57mm tire clearance, and a geometry that closely mimics premium race bikes. Reviewers and forum members consistently praise its construction quality, compliance, and stability, though the limited 1x chainring clearance (max 46T, 48T with caveats) and a proprietary seatpost are recurring drawbacks. Direct-from-China ordering brings long lead times and customs duties, but the responsive owner and 5-year warranty help offset those concerns.
Pros
- Excellent value: $1,490 frame price undercuts premium competitors like S-Works Crux, Fara GR4, Allied Able, and Tvelo Grow12
- Massive 57mm tire clearance (fits 2.4" MTB tires with 4-5mm clearance) without compromising geometry231
- Lightweight: frame ~1,025–1,035g (size M); complete bike 7.9kg excluding pedals23
- High-quality construction and workmanship: monocoque frame, clean internal routing, no rough edges13
- Compliant and stable ride feel, especially on rough gravel; more planted than some other gravel bikes32
- Aerodynamic performance: only 11W slower than VRT at 35km/h, CdA 0.301 vs 0.2812
- Geometry closely mimics race-oriented bikes like the ENVE MOG, with slightly higher stack and greater range1
- 5-year warranty and responsive customer service; owner personally responds to emails1
- Internal downtube storage and multiple handlebar options (GR: AERO and GR: RISE with 25mm extra stack)12
- Supports both 1X and 2X drivetrains, electronic and mechanical (2x 48/31T now, 50/37T after update)23
Cons
- Limited 1x chainring clearance: max 46T (48T possible with certain chainlines), insufficient for riders needing higher gearing123
- Proprietary aero seatpost limits compatibility and customization options2
- Long lead times: 2.5–3 months for custom builds; delivery May–August 202623
- No dedicated US dealer; customers must order directly from China, incurring customs duties and import VAT31
- Lacks rack and fender mounts; no fork mounting points; early frames lack third bottle cage mount under down tube (updated frame October 2026)23
- Frame does not include internal storage bags; aftermarket sourcing may be necessary2
- Steering less sharp than some competitors, requiring more force to change direction; less suited for twisty singletrack3
- Customer experience and ordering process need improvement; some emails not answered promptly and launch criticized as mishandled2
Key Facts
- Frame weight: claimed ~1,035g (size M); measured 1,025g (size M)23
- Tire clearance: 57mm front and rear; fits 2.4" MTB tires (61mm WAM) with 4-5mm clearance23
- Chainring clearance: 46T fits with 49mm chainline; 48T may fit with wider chainline; 50T unlikely23
- Bottom bracket: T47 85.5mm21
- Headset standard: FSA ACR with OD1 steerer; minimum bearing cover height 10mm23
- Internal storage door: 4x13cm, deepest point 5cm2
- Complete bike weight: 7.9kg excluding pedals; road spec with 65mm wheels and 28c tires: 7.4kg including pedals32
- Geometry (size M): reach 395mm, stack 568mm, STA 74°, effective top tube 558mm3
Reviews & Ratings
13:33The reviewer presents the XMCS GRT as a potential replacement for their Envy Mog, describing it as an aerodynamic race gravel bike with geometry that closely mimics the Mog, plus added aero profile and more tire clearance. They highlight its strong value proposition relative to name-brand competitors, praising its construction quality, low weight, and the responsiveness of the XMCS team, while noting the limited chainring clearance as the main drawback.
21:27The reviewer chose the XMCS GRT gravel frame after considering several premium alternatives, praising its value, tire clearance, aerodynamic profile, downtube storage, and direct customer service from the owner. He built it with a mix of high-end components and planned to test it at Big Sugar Gravel, noting the frame offers professional-level quality at a fraction of the cost of brands like S-Works Crux, Fara GR4, Allied Able, and Tvelo Grow.
The XMCS GRT is a gravel racing frameset from XMCS (formerly associated with the AERYS brand). It is designed for gravel racing with a focus on compliance, stability, and massive tire clearance. The frame fits 2.4" mountain bike tires in the rear with 4-5mm clearance (61mm WAM) and has huge front clearance. It features a slightly sloped top tube for seatpost compliance, a 1x-specific design with max 46T chainring (48T possible with certain chainlines), and internal routing with FSA ACR headset standards. The complete bike weighs 7.9kg excluding pedals. It is available as a frameset or complete build, with complete builds handbuilt in the Netherlands. The frame is offered with XMCS branding or unbranded. A 2027 model may feature a new name like AERYS. An updated frame available in October 2026 will include a third bottle cage mount under the down tube. The GRT is praised for its looks, compliance, and stability, but criticized for limited 1x chainring size and some geometry quirks.
AI Summary
Pros
- Excellent tire clearance: fits 2.4" MTB tires in the rear with 4-5mm clearance (61mm WAM) and huge front clearance.
- Compliant and stable ride feel, especially on rough gravel; more planted and confidence-inspiring than some other gravel bikes.
- Attractive, classical design with a slightly sloped top tube that looks 'right' from every angle.
more pros in the review
Cons
- Limited 1x chainring size: max 46T (48T possible with certain chainlines), which may be insufficient for some riders needing higher gearing.
- Steering is less sharp and requires more force to change direction, making it less suited for very twisty single track.
- Some early frames lack a third bottle cage mount under the down tube; updated frame available October 2026 will include it.
more cons in the review
Key Points
- Fits 2.4" tires in the rear with 4-5mm clearance (61mm WAM).
- Complete bike weight: 7.9kg excluding pedals.
- Frame weight: 1025g (size M).
more key points in the review
The XMCS 2026 Gravel Bike (GRT) is an aero gravel frame designed by Peter, featuring 57mm tire clearance front and rear (confirmed to fit 2.4" tires with 4-5mm clearance). It has a T47 85.5mm bottom bracket, proprietary aero seatpost, in-frame storage, UDH compatibility, and mounting points on the top tube and down tube. The frame weight is approximately 1035g (size M) with a 450g fork. It supports both 1X and 2X drivetrains, though front derailleur mount may be tight with large tires. Two handlebar options are available: GR: AERO and GR: RISE (with 25mm extra stack). The frame is priced at USD 1490, with package deals including handlebars and wheelsets. Delivery is expected from May to August 2026, starting with size M. The design focuses on aero performance and wide tire clearance for racing, rather than adventure or touring features. The first frame has been produced and was displayed at Eurobike in June 2026, receiving significant attention. Recent testing confirmed that a 46T chainring fits with 57mm tires; 48T may be possible with a wider chainline, but 50T is unlikely. The official website currently states 1x 46T only, but they are working on an update for 48T or 50T. The team is investigating small chainstay refinements to allow up to 50T in a future version, though this may require dropping mechanical groupset compatibility. The branding and logo have received mixed feedback; in 2026 the frame will use the latest XMCS logo, with an option to order without decals. The team is working on a new branding concept for 2027. Standard paint is one simple color, with custom colors available at extra cost. The headset is standard FSA ACR with OD1 steerer. Some customers have noted that the ordering process and customer experience need improvement; communication has been criticized, and some feel the launch was mishandled. The bike is now available for purchase on the XMCS website. First ride reports from Tim (Requiem84) indicate excellent comfort and compliance, with stable handling and a praised handlebar design. No toe-overlap was experienced with 2.4" tires on a size M frame. Aerodynamic testing showed the GRT is only 11 watts slower at 35 km/h than the VRT, with a CdA of 0.301 vs 0.281. In road spec with 65mm wheels and 28c tires, the bike weighed 7.4kg including pedals. The frame does not come with internal storage bags, and custom logos are not offered. Recommended bottom brackets include Bikone and Ceramicspeed. The internal storage door is 4x13cm, deepest point 5cm high, and can fit a small pouch. Frame protection must be added by the user; there are mounting holes on the underside of the down tube for a bottle cage. The frame is rugged and suitable for ultra-distance events, though racks and fenders are less ideal. The GRT has been selling well, with coverage on Rennrad news and GCN Global, and XMCS had to hire more sales reps.
AI Summary
Pros
- Excellent 57mm tire clearance front and rear without compromising geometry
- Aero design with modern features like in-frame storage and proprietary seatpost
- Good geometry with racy handling (e.g., 71-71.5° HTA, short chainstays)
more pros in the review
Cons
- High price (USD 1490 for frame) compared to some competitors
- Proprietary aero seatpost limits compatibility and customization options
- Lacks some mounting points (e.g., rack, fender mounts) desired for versatility
more cons in the review
Key Points
- 57mm tire clearance (2.4" fits with 4-5mm clearance)
- T47 85.5mm bottom bracket
- Proprietary aero seatpost
more key points in the review
Where to Buy
XM Carbon Speed XMCS GRT (Gravel Racing Technology) Aero Gravel Frameset (30-50 days lead time now, depends on finish and paint)
XM Carbon Speed Frame | xmcs.nl
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Ordering & delivery
4Price & value
1Sizing & fit
1Compatibility
8Build & setup
6Ride & performance
3Durability & quality
1Finish & options
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