The Carbonda CFR-696 is a versatile, value-oriented carbon gravel frame praised for its durability, wide tire clearance, and compatibility with various components, though it has notable geometry quirks and quality control issues.
Pros
- Excellent value compared to branded frames
- Proven long-term durability with reports of 3,500-10,000+ miles without major issues
- Versatile design suitable for gravel, road, light singletrack, bikepacking, and commuting
- Wide tire clearance up to 50mm with good component compatibility
Cons
- Significant toe overlap issues in some sizes, especially with larger tires
- Low stack height leads to aggressive riding position
- Seatpost clamp known to fail, requiring aftermarket replacements
- Paint quality criticized as thin and prone to chipping
Key Facts
- Carbon fiber frame with UHD construction, weight 1222g for size S
- Tire clearance up to 50mm with at least 6mm gap
- Chainstay length 43.5cm, compatible with 1x drivetrains and up to 46T chainrings
Reviews & Ratings
The Carbonda CFR-696 is an open-mold Chinese carbon gravel frame that has gained significant popularity among DIY builders. User feedback from a Reddit discussion reveals predominantly positive long-term experiences, with many riders reporting thousands of miles of reliable use across various terrains. The frame is noted for its value, versatility, and as a 'safe' choice within the open-mold market, though some concerns exist regarding paint quality and minor hardware issues.
AI Summary
Pros
- Excellent value for money compared to branded frames
- Proven long-term durability with reports of 3,500-10,000+ miles without major issues
- Versatile design suitable for gravel, road, light singletrack, and bikepacking
- Wide tire clearance and good customization options
- Direct purchase available from Carbonda's website
- Used by multiple reputable brands as their own frame (rebadged)
- Positive customer service experiences reported by some users
Cons
- Paint quality is frequently criticized as thin, prone to chipping (especially glossy), and difficult to clean (matte finish)
- Fork mounting points have low weight capacity (reported as <4 lbs per side)
- Potential for minor manufacturing issues like loose fork eyelets or needing brake/disc mount facing
- Perceived risk due to direct-from-China purchase with uncertain warranty support
- Some users report inconsistent paint shop quality when ordering custom finishes
Key Points
- Frame is an open-mold design used by at least 4-10 other brands (sometimes with significant markup)
- Often described as the 'safest' and most established choice among open-mold carbon frames
- Suitable for riders of various sizes, including heavier riders
- Common build issues include bottom bracket and disc mount facing that may require professional attention
- Purchase typically involves direct ordering from China with shipping to destination countries
The Carbonda CFR-696 is a carbon fiber gravel bike frame sold by Carbonda and also rebranded by various companies like Obed, Bombtrack, Ridley, and others. Users report it's available directly from Carbonda for around $891 with custom paint, while branded versions cost significantly more (e.g., $1949 from Obed). The frame is noted for its low stack height, which some find aggressive, and a BB drop of 67mm that some criticize as too road-like for gravel. Builds can achieve weights around 8.4kg. Key concerns include significant toe overlap issues in certain sizes and a front derailleur mount that requires a sticky plate, which is tricky to set up. Despite these, users praise Carbonda's customer service, paint quality, and overall frame quality.
AI Summary
Pros
- Good value when purchased directly from Carbonda compared to branded versions
- High-quality custom paint options available with skilled painters
- Reliable customer service and smooth ordering process with Carbonda
- Good overall frame quality and build experience
Cons
- Severe toe overlap issue in some sizes, making slow-speed maneuvers difficult
- Very low stack height leads to an aggressive, uncomfortable riding position for some
- BB drop of 67mm is considered too shallow for gravel, reducing off-road stability
- Front derailleur mount requires a sticky plate that is difficult to set up properly
- Frame is not very comfortable compared to other gravel options
Key Points
- Carbon fiber frame
- Sold as Flybike FM696 and rebranded by multiple companies
- Price: ~$891 from Carbonda, ~$1949 from Obed
- BB drop: 67mm
- Available with custom paint
- Uses press-fit bottom bracket
- Internal cable routing on some variants
- Comparable to Carbonda CFR-707 but with different geometry
The Carbonda CFR-696 is a versatile carbon fiber gravel/cyclocross frameset praised for its lightweight construction, excellent tire clearance, and compatibility with various components. Users highlight its ability to serve as a multi-purpose bike for commuting, gravel riding, and even light MTB racing. It supports disc brakes, full fender mounts, and custom paint options, with builds ranging from 7.68kg to 9.5kg depending on size and components. The frame is noted for its durability and performance in technical conditions, though some minor issues like seatpost clamp failures are mentioned.
AI Summary
Pros
- Lightweight carbon frame and fork, with builds as low as 7.68kg for size S
- Excellent tire clearance up to 50mm, with at least 6mm gap, suitable for gravel and off-road use
- Versatile for multiple uses including commuting, gravel riding, and light MTB racing, with full fender mounts
- Custom paint options available from Carbonda, with good durability and finish
- Compatible with various components and standards (e.g., disc brakes, 650b wheels, thru-axles)
Cons
- Seatpost clamp known to fail, requiring aftermarket replacements like Wolftooth
- Potential issues with seatpost fit and damage, especially with carbon posts, due to sharp edges or clamp problems
- Cable routing through frame and bars can be difficult and time-consuming
Key Points
- Carbon fiber frame and fork
- Frame weight: 1222g for size S, fork: 496g
- Tire clearance: up to 50mm
- Disc brake ready
- Full fender mounts
- Custom paint available
- Used by brands like Ridley Kanzo Adventure and Vitus Substance
The Carbonda CFR-696 is a carbon fiber road bike frame designed for training and road use, with UHD construction. It supports tire widths up to 30mm and is compatible with 1x drivetrain setups, accommodating chainrings up to 46 teeth. The frame features a chainstay length of 43.5cm, which users note provides clearance for larger chainrings and tires. It is commonly built with SRAM Force XPLR groupsets and standard road cranksets, with discussions focusing on drivetrain compatibility.
AI Summary
Pros
- Compatible with 1x drivetrain setups and chainrings up to 46 teeth
- Long chainstay length (43.5cm) provides good clearance for chainrings and tires
- Works well with SRAM Force XPLR groupsets and standard road cranksets
Key Points
- Carbon fiber frame with UHD construction
- Tire clearance up to 30mm
- Chainstay length: 43.5cm
- 1x drivetrain compatible with up to 46T chainring
Where to Buy
Specifications
Attributes
Included Components
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