The TT-X38 is an affordable Chinese carbon aero frame that offers good performance for its price, with a comfortable ride and modern features, though it has some quality control and refinement limitations.
Pros
- Super aero profile
- Lightweight construction
- Affordable price point
- Comfortable ride despite aggressive look
Cons
- Lacks refinement over rough roads
- Not as stiff as more expensive frames
- Geometry may not suit all riders (stack and head tube are tall)
- Requires patience to align components (e.g., calipers)
Key Facts
- Approximately 1100 grams unpainted
- T47 bottom bracket compatibility
- Full hidden cable routing
Reviews & Ratings
The reviewer discusses the Tantan X38 Aero frame set extensively throughout the video. They highlight its super aero profile, lightweight construction (approximately 1100 grams unpainted), and affordable price point of around $700 including shipping. The frame is described as unapologetically aero, resembling the Scott Foil RC Pro, and offers a comfortable ride despite its aggressive look. The reviewer mentions the frame's geometry is suitable for most people but notes it lacks refinement over rough roads compared to more expensive frames. They also discuss the frame's compatibility with various components, including a T47 bottom bracket and hidden cable routing.
AI Summary
Pros
- Super aero profile
- Lightweight (approximately 1100 grams unpainted)
- Affordable price point ($700 including shipping)
- Comfortable ride despite aggressive look
- Suitable geometry for most people
- T47 bottom bracket compatibility
- Full hidden cable routing
- Good sense of speed when pace is fast
- Unique look compared to other Chinese frames
- Chunky but comfortable seat post
Cons
- Lacks refinement over rough roads
- Not as stiff as more expensive frames
- Geometry may not suit all riders (stack and head tube are tall)
- Requires patience to align components (e.g., calipers)
- Unpainted frame may cause headset bearing rattle
- Limited saddle adjustment range
- Not as refined as higher-end frames
Key Points
- Super aero profile resembling Scott Foil RC Pro
- Approximately 1100 grams unpainted
- $700 price including shipping
- T47 bottom bracket compatibility
- Full hidden cable routing
- Chunky but comfortable seat post
- Geometry may not suit all riders
- Requires patience to align components
- Unpainted frame may cause headset bearing rattle
A user built a TanTan TT-X38 road bike with custom modifications including an Erzero dropbar system with tribar mount support, XMCS rims, and a single chainring setup. The bike is being used for bikepacking and touring, with the owner planning a 2.5-month trip to Japan.
AI Summary
Pros
- Can fit 36mm tires for bikepacking comfort
- Erzero dropbar system cleans up cockpit and allows easy tribar attachment/detachment
- XMCS rims are stiff, light, and handle crosswinds well
- Custom frame bag from Hbring fits frame triangle perfectly
- Road bike geometry (similar to Scott Foil RC) suitable for long-distance riding
Cons
- Single chainring setup (48T) may be too large for steep hills
- Aggressive road bike position may be uncomfortable for some bikepackers
- Erzero handlebar availability limited (primarily on Taobao)
- No whoosh sound from XMCS rims compared to other brands
Key Points
- Frame: TanTan TT-X38 (Chinese carbon)
- Tire clearance: Up to 36mm
- Drivetrain: Single chainring (48T) with SRAM Rival AXS RD 12-speed and 11-36 cassette
- Wheels: XMCS 50/50 33ew 26iw rims with 18 spokes and 54T ratchet
- Handlebar: Erzero dropbar with tribar mount support
- Bags: Custom 2-part frame bag from Hbring (~5L capacity), Newboler saddlebag, Rhinowalk top tube bag
Where to Buy
TanTan Aero Road Bike Frame TT-X38 T47 Thread Racing Bicycle Full Hidden Cable Available Size 47/49/52/54/56/58cm
TanTan Chameleon Paint Full Hidden Cable T47 Thread Disc Road Bike Frame TT-X38 Available 47/49/52/54/56/58cm Size
TanTan Red Water Ripple Paint Carbon Fiber Disc Brake Road Bike Frame TT-X38 stem+handlebar Max Tire 700X32C
TanTan Cycling Aero Road Bike carbon Frame TT-X38 T47 Thread Racing Bicycle Full Hidden Cable Available
Specifications
Attributes
Included Components
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