Reviews & Ratings
The Velobuild VB-R-218 is a Chinese carbon fiber road bike frame, a clone of the Pinarello Dogma F, available in rim and disc brake versions. It features a T700 carbon fiber construction, fully internal cable routing, and an integrated handlebar/stem. Typical weights range from 7.5kg to 9kg depending on build, with framesets costing around $500-$700. It uses a BSA threaded bottom bracket and direct mount rim brakes. The frame is praised for its value, aesthetics, and ride quality but has known quality control issues, particularly with seatpost clamping and bottom bracket threads.
AI Summary
Pros
- Excellent value for money, offering high-end aesthetics and performance at a low cost.
- Good ride quality: described as stiff, fast, comfortable, and handles corners well.
- Lightweight builds are achievable, with many users reporting weights around 7.5-8.5kg.
- Velobuild (Chris) generally provides good customer service and honors warranty claims for defective frames.
Cons
- Frequent quality control issues: common problems include paint in threads, misaligned brake mounts, and poor BB shell bonding.
- Prone to cracking in the seat tube area around the clamping bolts, a recurring design/manufacturing flaw.
- Internal cable routing is complex and fiddly, especially for mechanical groupsets and rim brakes.
- Some components (e.g., bottle cages, Garmin mount) are reported as low quality and prone to breaking.
- Requires modification out of the box: often needs drilling of rear brake cable exit hole and facing/filing of BB area.
Key Points
- Material: T700 carbon fiber
- Bottom Bracket: BSA threaded (68mm)
- Brake Options: Rim (direct mount) or Disc
- Cable Routing: Fully internal
- Handlebar: Integrated (proprietary shape)
- Seatpost: Proprietary D-shaped, zero or 25mm setback
- Tire Clearance: Up to ~30mm measured width (rim brake)
- Typical Frameset Weight: ~1200g (frame) + ~450g (fork) for size XXL
- Typical Complete Build Weight: 7.5kg - 9kg
Where to Buy

Velobuild 2022 VB-R-218 Carbon Fiber Aero Road Frame Disc Version Integrated Hidden Cables
Specifications
Attributes
Included Components
Spotted an error in the specs? Help us correct it — sign in or create an account.
Questions about Velobuild VB-R-218
Sign up and share your experience — help other riders decide!
Create Account & Review
