XMCS AERYS:VRT (unreleased)

Reviews & Ratings

Road Bike Frames, Wheels & Components on Chinertown6 days ago

XMCS: 2026 Aero and Allround road frames

The XMCS AERYS:VRT is a new aero road frame from XMCS, initially priced at $1650 USD (frame + hardware) but updated to $1800-$1900 including handlebar and basic custom paint. It weighs approximately 930-994g (size M, unpainted) with a painted size L frame at 961.9g (without derailleur mount/UDH hanger). The frame offers 35mm tire clearance, is made from carbon fiber using a monobloc mold, and features a 2-bolt saddle clamp, zero and 15mm offset seatposts (20mm setback expected soon), and compatibility with mechanical and electronic shifting. It is designed for aerodynamics with a deep headtube, narrow front profile, and planned wind tunnel testing at Silverstone. The frame is available in sizes M and L initially, with S and XXL later; full size range expected Summer 2026. Early reviews highlight excellent straight-line speed, responsive climbing, and comfort slightly better than the Scott Foil and Quick Pro ER:One, but note crosswind sensitivity and fit challenges for riders needing significant saddle setback due to the 74° seat tube angle. The fork design has been critiqued for its upward-angled ridge, but overall quality and engineering are praised. A full review is pending wind tunnel results and availability of a setback seatpost.

AI Summary

Pros

High quality engineering and in-house manufacturing/testing
Lightweight for an aero frame (sub-1000g)
35mm tire clearance
Compatible with mechanical shifting
Zero and 15mm offset seatpost options
2-bolt saddle clamp for easy micro-adjustment
Custom paint included
Wind tunnel testing planned at Silverstone
Feels fast in a straight line, especially in tailwinds; responsive and climbs well out of the saddle
More comfortable than Scott Foil and Quick Pro ER:One, with a slight edge in comfort
Very narrow front profile for improved aerodynamics
Full build can achieve around 6.8kg with lightweight components

Cons

Fork design may have aerodynamic issues (upward-angled ridge)
High price ($1650) compared to other Chinese DTC frames, approaching $2000 with shipping/paint
No aero performance data (CFD or wind tunnel) yet
Head tube bearing cover sits proud, not recessed like some aero frames
Size S and XXL not available at launch
No storage compartment or bento mounts (unlike some competitors)
Price increased to $1800-$1900 including handlebar, which may affect resale value compared to more established brands
74° seat tube angle may cause fit issues for riders needing significant saddle setback; 15mm setback post not yet available
Poor crosswind stability due to deep headtube, especially at 40kph

Key Points

Price: $1650 USD for frameset (frame + hardware); updated to $1800-$1900 including handlebar and basic custom paint
Weight: 930-994g (size M, unpainted); 961.9g (size L painted without derailleur mount/UDH hanger)
Tire clearance: 35mm
Material: Carbon fiber (monobloc mold)
Seatpost: 0mm and 15mm offset available; 20mm setback expected soon
Compatible with mechanical and electronic shifting
Frame sizes: M and L initially; S and XXL later; full range Summer 2026
Wind tunnel testing at Silverstone planned for April; results pending
Custom paint included (1 color)
Fork design features an upward-angled ridge
74° seat tube angle
Deep headtube for aerodynamics but sensitive to crosswinds
Narrow front profile
Full build weight target around 6.8kg