The Evolve CIMA Speed Artist is a lightweight, high-quality carbon frameset praised for its comfortable yet stiff ride, aerodynamic performance, and excellent build quality, though it faces criticism for toe overlap, polarizing branding, and a trademark dispute affecting EU sales.
Pros
- Lightweight frame and overall build
- Excellent ride quality: comfortable yet stiff
- Aerodynamic performance faster than Specialized SL8
- High build quality with meticulous attention to detail
Cons
- Significant toe overlap due to short front center, especially in larger sizes
- Polarizing branding design (slogan, trademark symbol) though removable on most colors
- High price point (~€3,000) compared to some established brands
- Kreuza integrated handlebar shape creates a trough before hoods, disliked by some
Key Facts
- Frame weight: 650-777g (claimed, unpainted); painted ~727-820g depending on size
- Price: $2,299 for frameset; ~€3,000 in EU
- BSA 68mm threaded bottom bracket
Reviews & Ratings
The reviewer discusses the evolve CIMA Speed Artist (referred to as the Evolve 7 or E-Wolf 7) as a high-end Chinese-made frame set that serves as an alternative to Specialized S-Works models. He highlights its lightweight construction, premium components like Ceramic Speed bearings, and excellent build quality. He praises its aerodynamic performance, stiffness in the head tube area, and rear comfort, ultimately preferring it over the S-Works Venge for long-distance riding.
AI Summary
Pros
- Weighs about 1 kg less than the S-Works Venge
- Costs less than half of the S-Works Venge
- Comes with Ceramic Speed headset bearings (Solid Lubrication Technology) that are rust-proof and corrosion-proof
more pros in the video
Cons
- Only available as a frame set, not a complete bike
- The S-Works Venge is described as too stiff and uncomfortable for long rides, implying the evolve is more compliant, but no direct con for the evolve is stated
Key Points
- Frame set costs less than half of S-Works models
- Ceramic Speed headset bearings with Solid Lubrication Technology (never rust or corrode)
- Includes computer mount for Garmin, Karu, and lamp mount
more key points in the video
The reviewer discusses the Evolve CIMA Speed Artist frameset, praising its high-quality construction, extensive included accessories, and competitive pricing compared to established brands. They highlight the use of premium components like CeramicSpeed headset bearings, UDH dropout, and BSA bottom bracket, as well as the thorough documentation and packaging. The reviewer notes the frameset's light weight (772g with paint) and aerodynamic design, developed with wind tunnel testing. They express strong overall approval but mention personal preference regarding the paint scheme and logo design.
AI Summary
Pros
- High-quality carbon construction with EPS mold for smooth internal surfaces
- Includes CeramicSpeed headset bearings and UDH dropout
- BSA bottom bracket (preferred by reviewer)
more pros in the video
Cons
- Paint scheme and logo design are subjective; reviewer personally dislikes the tested color
- Frame design closely resembles Specialized SL8 (not necessarily a con, but noted)
- No Hammerhead mount included (only Garmin/Wahoo)
more cons in the video
Key Points
- Frame weight: 772g painted (size ML)
- Price: $2299 for frameset, $2499 with integrated cockpit
- BSA 68mm bottom bracket
more key points in the video
The reviewer conducts a detailed unboxing and inspection of the Evolve Chima climbing frame. They are highly impressed with the overall quality, noting its extremely lightweight nature, immaculate internal and external finish, and high-quality components. The packaging is praised for being environmentally friendly with minimal plastic. The frame features full internal routing, a BSA 68mm bottom bracket, disc brakes, and what appears to be a UDH hanger. The reviewer uses a boroscope to examine the internal surfaces and finds them flawless, with no fraying, ripples, or layer shifts. They conclude it is a high-quality piece of gear from a premium Chinese brand.
AI Summary
Pros
- Ridiculously lightweight
- Hardly any plastic packaging
- Accessory box feels like a quality product
more pros in the video
Cons
- One of the fork brake mounts looks like it needs a bit of fettling, as it appears to have a bit of spray over
Key Points
- Frame weight: 775g
- Fork weight: 365g (uncut)
- Seat post is an aerodynamic affair
more key points in the video
The reviewer provides a detailed analysis of the Evolve Chima frameset throughout the video. They state it is one of, if not the best all-round road bike from China, though not their personal favorite. The reviewer highlights the extensive R&D, attention to detail, and advanced manufacturing behind the frame. They praise its exceptional ride quality, describing it as the most comfortable yet stiff road bike they've ever ridden, with a 'jackal and hide' personality that excels at both comfort and stiffness. The frame is noted for its lightweight construction (650g unpainted), aerodynamic performance that beats a Specialized SL8, and high-quality accessories. However, the reviewer personally prefers the more visceral feel of the Trigon AR01.
AI Summary
Pros
- Excellent ride quality - most comfortable yet stiff road bike ever ridden
- Lightweight frame (650g unpainted)
- Aerodynamic performance faster than Specialized SL8
more pros in the video
Cons
- High price point ($2,299 for frameset)
- In-house handlebar only available down to 36cm width (no 34cm option)
- Optional accessories not included (timing chip holder, custom number holder, aero bottles)
more cons in the video
Key Points
- Frame weight: 650g unpainted raw medium size
- Painted frame weight: 727g for size small
- Fork weight: 367g uncut
more key points in the video
The reviewer, China Cycling, provides a long-term review of the Evolve CIMA Speed Artist after riding it for 2,800-3,200 km over 7-9 months. He finds it an excellent all-rounder, comfortable, lightweight, and reliable, often choosing it as his go-to bike. He notes it is not the best in any single category but does everything well, making it a top recommendation for an all-round road bike.
AI Summary
Pros
- Very comfortable, soaks up road buzz well
- Super lightweight frame and overall build
- No creaks, bangs, or rubbing sounds after thousands of km
more pros in the video
Cons
- Branding inconsistent (changed logo sizes and text over time)
- Evolve logo on seatpost partially hidden when inserted for shorter riders
- Not stiff enough for very powerful sprinters (2000W+), but fine for 99% of riders
more cons in the video
Key Points
- Frame made in-house by Evolve in Xiamen, sister brand to Elite Wheels
- CeramicSpeed SLT headset bearings used
- Weighs 6.275 kg with pedals, bottle cages, and Garmin mount
more key points in the video
The reviewer discusses the Evolve Chima frameset as the core component of an ultra-lightweight bike build. They state that the frame weighs 650g in a size M unpainted, with the paint job adding approximately 45g, bringing it to just under 700g. They note that while not the absolute lightest (referencing the Athos), it has a more aero profile. The reviewer emphasizes that Evolve paid meticulous attention to lightweight details like the saddle clamp and accessories, which contributed significantly to the overall low system weight. They have been testing the frame since April and state a full review is coming soon, but spoils that it is 'pretty damn good' and among 'the best of the best' of Chinese frames. The frame is described as a lightweight all-rounder, different in ride feel to other bikes like the AR1.
AI Summary
Pros
- Lightweight (650g for size M unpainted)
- Has a more aero profile than some super light frames
- Meticulous attention to lightweight details on accessories
more pros in the video
Cons
- Not super Athos light
Key Points
- Model: Evolve Chima
- Weight: 650g (size M, unpainted)
- Paint adds ~45g
more key points in the video
The Evolve CIMA Frameset is a lightweight carbon road bike frame, with users noting a claimed weight of around 650-777g for the frame. It is priced around 3,000 EUR, positioning it as a premium option, though some users consider it expensive compared to alternatives like the Cannondale Supersix Evo Hi-Mod. The frame is made from carbon fiber, with a seatpost battery holder for Di2 systems, and features a UDH hanger. It is produced by the same company behind Elite Wheels, and is available through various retailers including Mantel and PandaPodium, as well as directly from Evolve with taxes included. The geometry is similar to the Specialized Tarmac SL8, with a short front center and low fork offset, leading to agile handling but potential toe overlap, especially in larger sizes. Initially, frames came with a 'Nature chooses' slogan on the downtube, which was widely criticized; the company now offers 'no quote' paint schemes without the slogan and, later, without the trademark symbol (®) on some colorways, though the Rewind color cannot be ordered without the ®. New colors include 'Navy white', a Raw Carbon option (which is actually a matte black paint) released in May/June 2026, and the Billow white with a deep glossy pearl-like finish. Build quality, packaging, and the included manual are frequently praised as excellent, and customer service has been noted as responsive. The integrated Kreuza handlebar is stiff and performs well, though some users criticize its shape for creating a trough before the hoods. Tire clearance is generous: users have fitted 35mm tires (measuring 35.9mm) with only 2mm clearance on chainstays, making it uncomfortably tight for wet conditions; 32mm tires are recommended. Evolve has launched a new website at evolvebicycles.com and released the Cima GR gravel version, available in Sailfish Pearl and Sahara Nude colors, with 50mm tire clearance, a medium frame weight of 820g painted, and a price $300 lower than the regular Cima (without CeramicSpeed SLT bearings). The GR also introduces the Kreuza Apex riser bar. Bundle deals with wheels and components are available, and the ride is described as comfortable, stiff, and fast, with sharp handling. Notably, Evolve lost a trademark dispute in the EU, leading to deletion of its EU trademark and potential legal issues for EU importers; the website was briefly down for EU visitors but is now accessible again, though intermittent issues persist. Individual customers ordering from China face low risk of seizure. A size Small Cima build with Dura-Ace and Farsport wheels achieved 6.23 kg. For sizing, a rider 181cm with a short torso is recommended to choose Medium over M/L, as the Medium has identical geometry to a Tarmac SL8 size 54.
AI Summary
Pros
- High build quality and attention to detail, with excellent packaging and a detailed manual.
- Comfortable ride quality, described as less harsh than some competitors like Winspace or Pardus, while still being stiff enough.
- Good weight, with frames around 650-777g depending on size, enabling lightweight builds (e.g., 6-6.8 kg complete).
more pros in the review
Cons
- Significant toe overlap due to short front center geometry, especially concerning in larger sizes (e.g., ML, L, XL).
- Initial paint schemes included a widely disliked 'Nature chooses' slogan on the downtube, though 'no quote' options are now available.
- High price point (~3,000 EUR), considered expensive compared to some established brands like Cannondale Supersix Evo Hi-Mod.
more cons in the review
Key Points
- Frame weight: ~650-777g (claimed) for road; Cima GR medium painted 820g
- Price: ~3,000 EUR for road; Cima GR $300 less
- Material: Carbon fiber
more key points in the review
Where to Buy
evolve CIMA Speed Artist Carbon Road bike Frameset
Specifications
Attributes
Included Components
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