The LightCarbon LCR017-D is a direct-to-consumer open-mold carbon frameset that delivers exceptional value and genuine high-end engineering when you get a good one, with reviewers praising its clean EPS-molded internals, T47 bottom bracket, integrated cockpit and sub-1kg frame weight. However, quality control is a lottery: multiple buyers report internal voids, wrinkles, rough threads and paint defects, and customer service ranges from excellent to evasive. It is a compelling budget race frame for experienced builders who can inspect and fettle it, not a risk-free purchase for everyone.
Pros
- Exceptional value for money: a complete high-quality carbon frameset with integrated cockpit for roughly $600–800, far below Western brands123
- Lightweight: frame around 950–970g and complete builds around 7.4–7.5kg345
- Clean internal construction with no stray carbon or imperfections when inspected by endoscope (on good units)35
- Easy to build: faced brake mounts and bottom bracket shell, keyed headset and stem spacer, and neat internal cable routing praised as very easy53
- Comes with a full set of parts: fork, headset bearings, spacers, integrated handlebar/stem, seat post, grommets, derailleur hanger, Di2 battery mount and adjustable computer mount354
- Comfortable ride quality and good stiffness for riders up to ~85kg sprinting at 1300W56
- Responsive customer service and warranty replacement reported by several buyers (though not universal)567
- Custom paint and decal options available at extra cost15
Cons
- Quality control is inconsistent: reports of internal voids, wrinkles in handlebars and fork, rough threads and paint defects864
- Customer service can be slow or unhelpful when defects are reported, with some buyers resorting to PayPal disputes86
- No manufacturer warranty or support in the conventional sense, and no recourse if the frame is damaged1
- Long delivery times (1–3 months) and potential import taxes of around 20% on top of the frame cost15
- Fit and finish issues on some units: sawed-down stem cap, missing Di2 cable plug, dirty handlebar tape, hoods angled too far down2
- Seat post clamp and saddle creaking until carbon paste is applied56
- Front brake hose routing for UK/left-front setups requires crossing hoses and can cause steering resistance54
- Newer 2026 frames are about 100g heavier than earlier ones (1,853g vs 1,729g frameset) while website weights remain unchanged6
Key Facts
- Frame weight measured at 950g (Hambini), 970g for size 56 (Mapdec), and 928g for a 2026 size 49 (Chinertown), while the website still claims lighter figures; a 2024 size 52 frame weighed 844g346
- Complete builds weighed 7.4kg (size 54, Ultegra Di2, with pedals and mounts) and 7.5kg (size 54, with pedals, bottle cages and computer mount)59
- T47-68 threaded bottom bracket shell with good tool engagement345
- Frame is made from Toray T700/T800/T1000 carbon and produced to LightCarbon's Z3 quality tier (3D latex inner mold, enhanced testing) as standard, not a paid upgrade86
- Tire clearance officially 32c but users report fitting up to 35mm measured width (e.g. GP5000 32mm measuring 33.6mm)65
- 2026 frames use a UDH rear derailleur hanger with a left-hand-thread bolt torqued to 25 Nm without grease; a visible gap means the adapter is not fully seated6
- Weight limit is about 100kg for the super-light version and 120kg for the standard version6
- 2026 pricing: about $599 for the frameset, plus ~$120 for a solid paint colour and $142–153 shipping to Germany; earlier buyers paid $782 and ~£700 delivered653
Sources
- 1Berkshire Bike and BoardIs This China Knock-Off Bike Legit!?
- 2Coach Daniel, PhDLightCarbon LCR017-D | $600 Dream Race Bike?
- 3HambiniI bought the HIGHEST quality bike frame from a Chinese OEM for $800 (Lightcarbon LCR017D)
- 4Mapdec Cycle WorksHe watched all the videos and this is what happened.
- 5tsp52My LightCarbon LCR017D review and ordering experience. Crazy value for money.
- 6ChinertownLightcarbon: New LCR017-D (or Yishun R1058-D)
- 7TomGDM on ChinertownHello everyone, I'm finishing assembling my LCR017-D, and everything wen...
- 8Tiago SantosLightCarbon LRC017-D | This is not a Review
- 9Joselu on ChinertownFinally finished the build! Super happy, it rides smooth as silk. Specs:...
Reviews & Ratings
13:34The reviewer bought a LightCarbon LCR017-D frame, which is a homage to the Cannondale SuperSix Evo, for its climbing geometry and lower cost compared to the Cannondale. They note it's their first carbon bike and plan to use it for racing. The bike came with a Wheel Top groupset and heavy wheels, but they expect to reduce weight to around 6.5-6.6 kg with upgrades.
11:13The reviewer discusses their experience building and riding a bike with the LightCarbon LCR017-D frameset. They state they were inspired by Hambini's video to order it. They praise the integrated handlebar design, comfort, and the clever internal cable routing system which was easy to assemble. They mention the frame came well-prepared with faced brake mounts and bottom bracket, and included all necessary components like forks, headset, spacers, handlebars, seatpost, and hardware. They note the frame arrived in good condition after about a month and cost $782 before potential taxes. They are overall incredibly pleased with the frame and the build.
12:32The reviewer discusses their experience with the LCR017-D LightCarbon Super Light Disc Brake Road Carbon Frameset With Integrated Handlebar, focusing on quality issues and customer service. They mention purchasing the frame and wheels from LightCarbon, receiving the frame with visible voids inside, and experiencing poor customer service. The reviewer expresses dissatisfaction with the quality control and feels scammed due to the defects.
32:40The reviewer examines the LCR017-D LightCarbon frameset, noting its clean surfaces, good fitment, and lightweight design, but expresses concerns about its flexibility and rough edges in some areas.
27:55The reviewer discusses the LCR017-D LightCarbon frameset extensively, praising its engineering and value. They highlight that it comes with an integrated handlebar, stem, fork, seat post, and various accessories. The frame is noted for its high-quality machining, immaculate internals, and attention to detail in manufacturing. The reviewer mentions that it is not available through a web shop and must be ordered directly via email. They also address criticisms about the paint job and aesthetics, defending the frame's quality.
24:38The LightCarbon Super Light Disc Brake Road Carbon Frameset With Integrated Handlebar is discussed as part of the reviewer's bike build. The reviewer mentions purchasing the frame at Eurobike and opting for a higher grade of QA/QC and materials, which cost slightly more. They highlight the ease of building the bike, particularly praising the handlebar routing and integrated handlebar/stem combo. The reviewer notes the frame's quality and compares it favorably to more expensive brands like Cannondale and Look. They also mention some personal preferences about handlebar width and graphics.
08:36The reviewer discusses the LCR017-D LightCarbon frameset as an example of an open mold Chinese carbon frame, noting its lightweight construction and affordability compared to branded options.
The LightCarbon LCR017-D is a super-light carbon road disc brake frameset with an integrated handlebar (HBR13), T47 bottom bracket, and claimed UCI certification. It is marketed as an all-rounder with geometry inspired by the Cannondale SuperSix EVO but features a distinctive square/boxy downtube. Prices range from $560-$895 shipped, with weights around 7.3-8.3 kg for complete builds. The frame uses Toray 700/800 carbon (Grade A super light version) and is produced to a Z3 quality standard, though QC issues like voids and cracks have been reported. It supports mechanical and electronic groupsets, has internal cable routing, and tire clearance up to 35mm measured. Customer service experiences vary, with some reporting excellent support and others facing delays or defects. Recent updates include an improved rear derailleur hanger for easier wheel installation and sharper shifting. Frame stiffness is reported to be adequate for sprinters up to 1300W at 85kg. Sizing recommendations for riders around 170-173 cm suggest size 49 or 52 depending on proportions; a bike fit is advised before ordering. The frame uses a 7x7 saddle clamp; compatibility with aftermarket 3D carbon saddles should be verified. Frames delivered in 2026 have UDH and are about 100 g heavier than earlier ones (a 2026 size 49 frameset 1,853 g vs 1,729 g for a 2024 size 52), while the website weights are unchanged. A gap at the new UDH means the adapter is not fully seated. 2026 pricing is about $599 plus $120 for solid paint and $142-153 shipping to Germany.
AI Summary
Pros
- Good value for money with competitive pricing compared to Western brands
- Lightweight and comfortable ride quality, especially with wider tires
- Responsive customer service and warranty support for defective frames
more pros in the review
Cons
- Quality control issues including voids, cracks, and manufacturing defects
- Square/boxy downtube design criticized for aesthetics and potential aero penalty
- Problematic derailleur hanger design that rotates when removing wheel
more cons in the review
Key Points
- Price: $599 frameset in 2026, plus about $120 solid paint and $142-153 shipping to Germany
- Weight: ~7.3-8.3 kg complete
- Material: Toray 700/800 carbon (Grade A super light)
more key points in the review
Finally finished the build! Super happy, it rides smooth as silk.
Specs:
- LCR017-D 54cm
- Shimano Ultegra Di2 12spd
- EliteWheels Edge 2.0 50mm
- Continental GP5000 AS TR 32mm (Tubeless)
- Ryet 3D-printed saddle RT06A
- Onirii PD-06 pedals
- Elite Leggero carbon
7.5KG with pedals, bottleholders and wahoo mount
No major issues during the build or riding so far. Haven’t noticed any drag from the square down tube either. Finger crossed the fame will last.
Hello everyone,
I'm finishing assembling my LCR017-D, and everything went very well. Communication with LC was very good, but this isn't my first bike... I've already assembled a mountain bike for my son and ordered several pairs of wheels, road, CX, and MTB. I've always been very satisfied. I received a product that, to me, was in perfect condition, both inside and out. The paint and stickers were exactly as requested.
All I have to do is clean it, remove one or two spacers depending on my test ride, and install a saddle. So far, the only problem is the customs fees.
This is the version for larger riders , I'll give you the weight with the saddle...
Thank you for this forum's existence and everyone who participated.
Have a nice day!
Where to Buy
lightcarbon.com Price last checked 8 months ago | $650+ $150 shipping | £700 |
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