FM296 Gravel

Reviews & Ratings

A Reddit user shares their experience building a custom gravel bike using the Mondince FM296 frame, a full carbon fiber gravel frame that is also used by State Bicycle Co. for their All Road Carbon V2 model. The bike, named 'Midnight,' weighs 8.2 kg and cost $3,816 to build. The user praises the frame's quality, customization options, and value, noting that Mondince manufactures frames for well-known brands like State, Cube, and Argon18.

AI Summary

Pros

Excellent value for money compared to big-brand frames
Highly customizable (color, bolts, seatpost offset)
Good communication with manufacturer via WhatsApp
Lightweight frame (1550g) with ample tire clearance (52.8mm tires with 7mm side clearance)
Manufacturer produces frames for reputable brands, indicating quality
Fast and nimble ride quality for road and gravel

Cons

Website design is 'goofy' and uses AI content, which some may find distasteful
Frame is made to order, so lead time may be longer
No mention of warranty or crash replacement policy
Limited artistic customization (no wild paint splatter or complex designs)

Key Points

Frame: Mondince FM296, full carbon fiber, UDH hanger, 1550g, $718
Wheels: Tangoola, 1450g, $500
Drivetrain: SRAM Force E1 shifters and brake calipers, SRAM Red e1 cranks, Wolftooth 46t chainring, SRAM Eagle XO chain, SRAM Eagle GX rear derailleur, XS-1295 cassette
Tires: Schwalbe Thunder Burt 2.1, tubeless with 60mL sealant each
Total weight: 8.2 kg (including pedals, cages, computer mount)
Total cost: $3,816
Frame clearance: 7mm each side with 52.8mm tires
Ordering: via WhatsApp, payment through PayPal Goods and Services
Manufacturer also produces frames for State, Cube, Argon18, Megamo