LTK266-D--SL

The LTK266-D-SL is a Chinese carbon frameset from Longteng, often compared to the Evolve Cima. It is popular among weight weenies for its low weight and custom paint options. The frame is priced around $950-$1110 with custom paint. Users note that the stock cockpit and thru-axles may be heavy, and the seatpost dust cap is poor. The frame accepts 32mm tires but the internal rim width of 23mm is considered outdated. Communication with Longteng is praised. The frame is available via US website due to trademark issues in Europe.

The LongTeng LTK266-D-SL is an open-mold, super-lightweight road bike frame with a claimed T1100/T1000/M65 carbon blend, designed for versatile riding including light gravel and road. It features a T47 internal bottom bracket, UDH (Universal Derailleur Hanger), and clearance for up to 35mm tires with 6mm of clearance; some users have fit 38mm tires (43mm WAM) but with tight clearance. However, a user reported that 35mm GP5000 S TR on 32mm internal width rims expanded to 40.7mm and initially fit with ~3mm clearance, but after further expansion clearance became insufficient on the left chainstay, so a 24-26mm internal rim is recommended for 35mm tires. The frame is praised for its low weight (around 760g for the frame, 325g for the fork; painted size L at 866g; XL frame with hangers at 835g, fork uncut 315g, seatpost incl. metal 150g), modern geometry similar to race bikes like the Tarmac SL8, and high value for money, typically costing $800-$950 delivered. Users report a 'delightfully boring' ride feel—responsive, comfortable, and stable, with some comparing it to a TCR; one user noted a quiet, noiseless ride after 550 km. Reliable mechanical performance and easy assembly are common positives, with build weights as low as 6.28 kg achieved; recent builds include 6.645 kg (SRAM Force e1, with pedals/cages/mount) and 6.8-6.9 kg for an XXL with custom paint. Long-term durability reports are positive, with users at 4,970 km and 6,000 km reporting no problems. However, quality control issues persist: poor-fitting components like the headset and seatpost clamp, thin paint prone to scratching, and a stock seatpost clamp that may require shimming and exceeding torque to hold securely. The seatpost clamp bolt is often too long, requiring a 28-30mm M5 replacement; the original bolt can press against internal carbon and cause marks or chips. No setback seatpost option is available from LongTeng. The front derailleur hanger may lack the necessary hole, and no grommet is provided for the FD cable exit (5mm round hole); users have used 4.5mm rubber plugs from AliExpress or Sugru. Some users report a larger-than-normal fork/headtube gap, uneven rear brake mounts, and rough bottom bracket bearing feel with ZTTO T47 BB. The stock thru-axles are low quality and often upgraded, though one user noted they are only 18g heavier than aftermarket options. The ordering process can involve communication delays, especially with custom paint, but recent shipments have been quick (19 days to USA, ~4 weeks to Netherlands with custom paint, 4 days after dispatch to Europe). XL and XXL sizes are now in stock as of April 2026. The weight limit is approximately 100 kg. Some frames have cosmetic imperfections in the seat tube area (carbon fiber interface marks) that may be mistaken for cracks; the manufacturer claims they are harmless, but some users remain concerned. The FSA No.55 headset may not fit perfectly with some integrated cockpits; the supplied LTK bearings often fit better. Assembly of the FSA ACR headset can be confusing; the LS version includes a 45-degree crown race (H2630A) that fits only the 45-degree bearing (MR261A) on top. The correct order is: fork, MR127 bearing (bottom), frame, MR261A bearing (top), H2630A crown race, FSA cover, spacers, (adapter), stem. Recent discussion highlights that the FSA ACR N55 headset may not fit well with common Chinese integrated handlebars (e.g., Kocevlo) due to proprietary compression rings and spacer pins, and the top cover may rub the frame, requiring a 0.5mm spacer. The FSA top bearing has a 45-degree inner camber (or 36-degree for the regular No.55), while the LT bearing has a 36-degree inner camber. Mixing parts is inadvisable without careful measurement. The frame is identical to the Tideace FM-CR266, Permeants ST-09, and 8bar Kronprinz Carbon V3. A new HB266 handlebar is available for around $100, lighter than other models, but has a top stem section not perpendicular to the fork steerer, preventing additional spacers above the stem before cutting. Despite these warts, the frame offers excellent value and performance for those willing to address minor component upgrades. Overall, it's a solid all-rounder for the price, with an easy assembly experience for first-time builders, though attention to component upgrades may be needed.