The SEKA Spear is a lightweight, aerodynamic carbon frameset that offers performance comparable to top-tier Western race bikes like the Specialized Tarmac SL8, but at a lower price. It is praised for its comfort, handling, and build quality, though some users report quality control issues and limited availability. Overall, it is seen as a high-value option for experienced cyclists willing to navigate custom builds and potential fit challenges.
Pros
- Lightweight for an aero frameset, with RDC versions around 800g for medium frames.1
- Performance compares well with top race bikes like Tarmac, Madone, Aeroad, etc., based on wind tunnel and real-world testing.231
- Excellent comfort, especially in the rear, thanks to the 'Wind Eye' design.341
- High-quality build with good tolerances and excellent paint finish.534
- Good value compared to Western brands like Specialized SL8.31
- Customizable fit with choice of handlebar width and stem length, and two geometries.234
- Trouble-free and maintenance-free over long-term use (10,000 km).3
- Lifetime warranty and support from bike shop in London (UK).3
Cons
- Quality control issues reported: fork steerer misalignment, brake mount facing, BB threads, seatpost wedge fit, and handlebar wobble.1
- Limited tire clearance (officially 32mm) may be tight for some riders.1
- Front end can feel harsh or stiff for some riders, while others find it comfortable.31
- Rapier cockpit reported as flexy by some users, with instances of failure at shifter clamps.1
- Limited availability in some regions (e.g., UK) and long delivery times.314
- Custom builds require mechanical knowledge; not ideal for first-time buyers.23
- Not as fast as pure aero bikes like Canyon Aeroad on flat roads.4
- Some colors (e.g., Chronos) weigh about 100g more than others.4
Key Facts
- Claimed frame weight: 685g for RDC version, but actual weights vary: 930g (large, with hardware) and 815g (large, Shadow Black) reported.251
- Available in two geometries (regular and racing) and multiple sizes (8 sizes including racing options).254
- Uses BSA threaded bottom bracket and flat mount disc brakes.531
- Max tire clearance is officially 32mm, but some users have fitted up to 35mm tires on certain rims with tight clearance.1
- Integrated Rapier cockpit with 76mm reach, 127mm drop, and 25mm flare.5
- Frameset price: $3499 (3199€), about half the price of a Specialized Tarmac SL8 frameset.43
- Lifetime warranty on frame, 5 years on fork, 2 years on cockpit and seatpost.4
- WindEye seatstay design is a unique feature claimed to improve aero and comfort, but its actual aerodynamic effect is questioned.34
Sources
- 1Weight-WeeniesIncoming: Seka Spear, '690g' frameset
- 2Cycling WeeklyMy Chinese Custom Build vs Specialized Tarmac SL8 - Superbike KILLER?
- 3David Arthur - Just Ride Bikes10,000km Later: Was My Chinese Superbike Worth It?
- 4Cyclists HubSEKA Spear Review: Is It Worth the Premium?
- 5Luke Michael JamesI waited 5 YEARS to unbox this Chinese bike
Reviews & Ratings
13:37The reviewer discusses the SEKA Spear, a Chinese carbon road bike frameset, after riding it for nearly 10,000 km over 17 months. He praises its performance, comparing it favorably to top Western race bikes like the Specialized Tarmac SL8, and highlights its value at half the price. He notes its excellent comfort, handling, and build quality, but mentions a stiffer front end and limited availability in the UK.
13:29The reviewer built a custom bike around a SEKA Spear RDC frameset to compare against the S-Works Tarmac SL8. He praises the frame's light weight, all-round performance, and aero credentials, while noting minor issues with bottle cages and rear mech hanger alignment. He also discusses the financial and mechanical considerations of a custom build.
13:11The reviewer unboxes and examines the SEKA Spear frame, praising its paint quality, finish, and internal carbon work. He notes the unique sizing system with eight sizes, including racing geometry options. The frame weighs 930g in large with hardware. He also highlights the Rapier handlebar and seatpost design.
The reviewer interviewed Denis, the first SEKA Spear RDC owner in Czechia, who praises the frameset for its sharp responsiveness, playful handling, impressive comfort on long rides, strong climbing performance, and high-quality build. He notes it's a stylish alternative to well-known brands, though questions the actual aerodynamic effect of its unique WindEye seatstays.
The Seka Spear is a lightweight, aero-optimized road frameset from a Chinese brand, gaining popularity for its performance and value. It features a carbon fiber construction with a unique 'Wind Eye' seatstay design for claimed vibration damping and aerodynamics. The frameset includes an integrated Rapier cockpit and is available in standard and RDC (Race Design Carbon) versions, with the latter using higher-modulus carbon for reduced weight. Key attributes noted by users include competitive weights (e.g., ~800g for a medium frame in Chronos color, ~815g for Large Shadow Black, ~910g for XL Cronos), BSA threaded bottom bracket, and a max tire clearance of 32mm (though some users fit up to 35mm tires on specific rims, with tight clearance). Pricing is generally lower than Western brands like Specialized SL8, but availability can be limited with long lead times. Ride impressions highlight a stiff, responsive feel good for climbing and descending, with comfort praised by many, especially in the rear, though some report a harsh front end, disc brake rub, or road buzz. Users have achieved very low build weights, with complete bikes around 6.2kg and extreme RDC builds as low as 4.96kg. Quality control issues include misaligned components, seatpost wedge fit problems, and handlebar wobble in crosswinds, but warranty support is available. The frameset supports various computer mounts, though compatibility may require adapters for devices like Hammerhead Karoo. A new TT frame with Wind Eye design has been released. Sizing advice varies: some users size down with spacers for agility, while others match geometry to existing bikes.
AI Summary
Pros
- Lightweight for an aero frameset, with RDC versions around 800g for medium frames
- Good ride quality: responsive, comfortable, and confidence-inspiring on descents
- Competitive aerodynamics based on wind tunnel data, performing well against premium brands
more pros in the review
Cons
- Limited tire clearance, officially 32mm max, with tight fits reported on wider rims
- Inconsistent quality control: issues with fork steerer alignment, brake mount facing, and BB threads
- Long delivery times and availability challenges, with orders taking months
more cons in the review
Key Points
- Carbon fiber construction with 'Wind Eye' seatstay design
- BSA threaded bottom bracket
- Max tire clearance 32mm (some users fit up to 35mm)
more key points in the review
Where to Buy
Specifications
Attributes
Included Components
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