The Evolve CIMA Speed Artist is a lightweight, stiff, and comfortable carbon road frameset that offers performance comparable to premium Western brands like the Specialized Tarmac SL8 at a significantly lower price. Reviewers consistently praise its exceptional build quality, meticulous attention to detail, and extensive accessory kit, though some note assembly challenges, limited tire clearance, and potential toe overlap. Concerns exist around EU trademark issues and stock availability, but overall it is considered one of the best Chinese framesets available.
Pros
- Lightweight frame enables complete builds under 7kg, with some achieving 6.23-6.9kg123
- Stiff yet comfortable ride quality, often compared favorably to the Specialized SL8 for soaking up road buzz243
- Exceptional build quality with immaculate internal and external finish, precise machining, and clean carbon layup516
- Comprehensive accessory kit including computer mount, bar tape, spacers, and detailed manual with torque specs61
- Aerodynamic performance: wind tunnel tested at Silverstone, faster than Specialized SL8 in some tests12
- Competitive price compared to Western brands: $2,299 frameset vs. $2,900+ for similar performance164
- Wide fit customization: six frame sizes, three seatpost offsets, multiple handlebar widths and stem lengths167
- Excellent customer service and responsive communication from Evolve representatives43
Cons
- Assembly challenges: fork lacks internal groove for brake hose, compression plug too tight, and internal routing requires care17
- Tire clearance limited to 32mm officially; 35mm fits but with only 2mm clearance, not recommended for wet conditions13
- Significant toe overlap due to short front center, especially in larger sizes13
- EU trademark dispute has led to deletion of EU trademark, creating legal uncertainty for importers3
- Stock availability and communication issues: some customers face up to 60 days lead time with little proactive updates3
- Polarizing branding: initial 'Nature chooses' slogan and large logo, though 'no quote' options now available23
- Kreuza Apex handlebar shape creates a trough before the hoods, which some find uncomfortable3
- Not the absolute lightest: frame weight is competitive but not class-leading compared to some super-light frames2
Key Facts
- Frame weight: claimed 650-666g unpainted, measured 765-775g painted (size ML)165
- Complete frameset weight: 1310g (frame, fork, seatpost)1
- Fork weight: 365-385g uncut15
- Price: $2,299 for frameset, $2,499 with integrated cockpit62
- Tire clearance: 32mm officially; users report 35mm fits but with only 2mm chainstay clearance13
- BSA 68mm threaded bottom bracket and UDH rear derailleur hanger625
- Includes CeramicSpeed SLT headset bearings with solid lubrication technology62
- Frame material: T800, T1100, and M-grade carbon fiber1
Sources
- 1Cyclists Hub | Petr MinarikCan a brand’s first road frame be good? [Evolve CIMA Review]
- 2China Cycling3 sources
- 3Weight-WeeniesEvolve Cima frame
- 4Roller & VéloEvolve CIMA : une bête de course ! [Test]
- 5HambiniEvolve CIMA Frame Review | The Premium Surprise Nobody Saw Coming
- 6Stephan BECHERT vélove Service Course2 sources
- 7Cyclists HubEvolve Cima Review: Close to Perfection? - Cyclists Hub
Reviews & Ratings
17:11The reviewer tested the Evolve CIMA Speed Artist road frame and found it to be a stiff, well-documented, and versatile frame that surprised him with its power transfer compared to the Winspace SLC 5. He noted a few assembly issues and limitations but overall recommended it for riders seeking a balanced, agile bike, and said it would likely become his main bike.
22:00The reviewer bought the Evolve Sima frame after a previous test and has ridden it extensively, including an étape du Tour. He considers it excellent and compares it favorably to the Tarmac SL8 Pro, citing advantages in rigidity, stability, weight, and value for money.
17:04The 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.
01:06:31The 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.
15:21The 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.
27:17The 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.
17:04The 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.
15:46The 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.

The Evolve CIMA is a lightweight road bike frame praised for its stiffness, comfort, and attention to detail. However, assembly is challenging due to internal cable routing and a tight compression plug. Overall, it is a compelling option for performance-oriented riders.
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, including a 'CIMA Bundle 2026 Summer Sale' for $3698 that includes the frameset, Kreuza Apex handlebar, Elitewheels Drive SL 48D CS wheelset, and an Evolve X Cycling Kit. The ride is described as comfortable, stiff, and fast, with sharp handling; a recent direct comparison by an SL-8 owner found the Cima soaks up bumps better and has slightly less nervous steering, leading him to say he would choose the Cima over the SL-8 if buying today. 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. Recent reports indicate stock availability issues, with one customer told after ordering that there was little or no stock and to expect 30-40 days for production plus shipping, potentially totaling up to 60 days; another received wheels in 23 days and frameset in 36 days earlier in the year. Customer service remains responsive, and a user asked about maximum saddle rail incline angle, with Evolve and Panda Podium suggesting rails should be level or slightly down.
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


evolve CIMA Speed – Matte Carbon Gold - evolve
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