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TanTan TT-X68
Frame

TanTan TT-X68

Weight878g
Year2023
CategoryFrame

The TanTan TT-X68 is a lightweight Chinese carbon clone of the Specialized Tarmac SL8, offering excellent value and ride quality but with inconsistent quality control, safety concerns about early fork failures, and ethical debates over counterfeit branding.

Pros

  • Excellent value for money, costing $600-$900 for frameset
  • Lightweight and stiff frame, good ride quality
  • Custom paint options available
  • Compatible with genuine Specialized Tarmac SL8 spare parts (thru axles, hangers, headset parts)

Cons

  • Safety concerns: early fork batches (~330g) prone to failure; later 'enhanced' fork (~400g) recommended but inconsistent supply
  • Poor quality control: brake mounts and bottom bracket often not faced, causing alignment issues
  • Internal cable routing difficult with sharp carbon edges
  • Stock integrated handlebar feels soft and flexy

Key Facts

  • BSA threaded bottom bracket
  • Frame weight: 878-895g (size 56, painted)
  • Fork weight: 399-422g (uncut; early batches ~330g prone to failure)

Reviews & Ratings

I Bought The TanTan X68 So You Don't Have To
00:18:07

The reviewer discusses the TanTan TT-X68 frame, a clone of the Specialized Tarmac SL8, which he purchased for crit racing. He notes the frame is lightweight, rides well, and has good geometry, but criticizes the brand for counterfeit practices, including a seat clamp with Tarmac branding. He does not recommend the frame due to ethical concerns.

AI Summary

Pros

  • Lightweight frame (bare frame 8.6 kg for 58 cm)
  • Good ride quality and race geometry
  • Threaded BSA bottom bracket
  • Generous tire clearance
  • Easy cable routing for integrated bars
  • Well-packaged and functional hardware

Cons

  • Counterfeit branding on seat clamp (Tarmac logo)
  • Rough finish and scabby edges on dropouts and other areas
  • Headset cover fitment is poor
  • No out-front mount included
  • Ethical concerns about supporting counterfeit goods
  • Quality below LightCarbon frames in same price bracket

Key Points

  • Frame is a clone of Specialized Tarmac SL8
  • Price around £700-800 shipped to UK
  • Bare frame weight: 8.6 kg for 58 cm
  • Complete build weight: 6.36 kg without pedals or bar tape
  • Uses threaded BSA bottom bracket
  • Integrated one-piece bar and stem included
  • Seat clamp has Tarmac branding
  • Frame does not support mechanical shifting
  • Clearance for wide tires
Patrick Lino2 videos
TanTan X68 First Look - The ELEPHANT In The Room
00:23:28

The reviewer provides an unboxing and first look at the TanTan X68 frame set, which is a clone/homage of the Specialized Tarmac SL8. They discuss the price point of approximately $800-850 USD including custom paint and shipping, the weight of 895g for a painted size 56 frame, and the overall design which closely mimics the Tarmac SL8. The reviewer examines the frame's construction quality, hardware, and compatibility features, noting both positive aspects like good bottom bracket threading and concerning aspects like past reports of fork failures. They plan to build it with premium components to test its performance against the genuine Tarmac SL8.

AI Summary

Pros

  • Weight of 895g for painted size 56 frame is solid
  • Custom paint option available with nice finish
  • Good bottom bracket threading with no issues
  • Attention given to making brake caliper mounts flat
  • Headset bearing cups are clean with no sharp edges
  • Includes necessary hardware like Di2 battery holder and fork mount for 160mm rotor
  • Uses identical hardware to Tarmac SL8 in many areas
  • Price point is very low compared to Western brands

Cons

  • Headset bearings may not last long in wet conditions
  • Cheap alloy bolts are prone to stripping
  • Past reports of exploding forks due to lightweight construction
  • No installation instructions provided
  • Questionable warranty and aftermarket support
  • Morally controversial as a clone product
  • Seat post too narrow for Shimano Di2 battery
  • Paint durability over time is uncertain

Key Points

  • Clone/homage of Specialized Tarmac SL8
  • Price: $800-850 USD all-in with custom paint and shipping
  • Frame weight: 895g (size 56 painted)
  • Fork weight: 399g (uncut)
  • BSA bottom bracket
  • Uses Tarmac SL8-style hardware and mounting systems
  • Includes Di2 battery holder due to narrow seat post
  • Multiple bottle cage mount positions
  • Front derailleur hanger with internal routing for Di2
  • Tantan has rectified previous fork weight/strength issues
r/ChineseCarbonabout 2 months ago
tantan seraph ttx68

The TanTan TT-X68 is a Chinese carbon road bike frame that closely resembles the Specialized Tarmac SL8. A user built one with Ultegra Di2, XCADEY power meter crankset, and EliteWheels, achieving a total weight of 7.16kg at a cost of $3,222. The frame quality, paint, and components were reported as good, with the bike being light, stiff, and quick to accelerate. Some concerns were raised about safety and quality control of knock-off frames, but the builder experienced no issues over several months of use.

AI Summary

Pros

  • Lightweight frame (878g) and overall build (7.16kg)
  • Aggressive race geometry for quick, responsive handling
  • Good paint quality and overall frame finish
  • Includes integrated cockpit (one-piece bar/stem)
  • Uses common BSA threaded bottom bracket for compatibility
  • No reported creaks or fitment issues
  • All-inclusive pricing with shipping and duties included
  • Comparable power meter performance to established brands (SRAM, Magene)
  • Quick acceleration due to low weight

Cons

  • Limited seat post adjustment range (minimum insertion 100mm vs. Specialized's 75mm)
  • No Universal Derailleur Hanger (UDH) support
  • Long delivery time (approximately 2 months from order)
  • Some concerns about safety and quality control of knock-off frames
  • Aggressive geometry may not suit all riders
  • Mixed reliability reports on XCADEY power meter (one failure reported, but replaced under warranty)
  • Cable routing through integrated cockpit can be challenging

Key Points

  • Frame weight: 878g
  • Fork weight: 422g (uncut)
  • Total bike weight: 7.16kg (15.8 lb)
  • Total cost: $3,222
  • Frame material: T1000 carbon fiber
  • Bottom bracket: BSA threaded
  • Derailleur hanger: Tarmac SL8 compatible
  • Seat post minimum insertion: 100mm
  • Delivery time: ~5 weeks production + ~4 weeks shipping
  • Geometry based on Specialized Tarmac SL8
r/ChineseCarbonabout 2 months ago
tantan seraph ttx68

A user shares their experience building a TanTan/Seraph TT-X68 road bike, detailing the complete build cost, components, and performance after the first ride. The post includes positive feedback on the bike's stiffness and responsiveness, but also mentions controversial decals that mimic a Specialized S-Works design, sparking debate in the comments about counterfeit branding versus 'inspired by' frames.

AI Summary

Pros

  • Stiff and responsive ride quality
  • Good value for money with high-end components like Ultegra Di2 R8170 groupset
  • Positive customer service experience with TanTan (quick responses, helpful communication)
  • Lightweight at 7.57kg/16.7 lbs
  • Useful for others researching similar builds, as intended by the poster

Cons

  • Controversial decals that mimic Specialized branding, seen as counterfeit by some commenters
  • RideWrap application had bubbles (though not highly noticeable)
  • Saddle caused discomfort, prompting a planned replacement
  • Rear derailleur required adjustment by a local bike shop
  • Shipping took nearly two months (ordered Jan 8, delivered Mar 5)

Key Points

  • Frame: TanTan/Seraph TT-X68, 54cm chameleon white with 380x90mm handlebars
  • Groupset: Shimano Ultegra Di2 R8170
  • Wheelset: EliteWheels ENT 2.0 60mm deep
  • Total cost: $3,243 (including $2,191 for complete build without wheelset, plus shipping and additional parts)
  • Weight: 7.57kg/16.7 lbs with accessories
  • First ride: 43-mile night ride with FooChow, described as 'great'
r/ChineseCarbonabout 2 months ago
just another tantan x68

A user built a TanTan TT-X68 carbon road bike with Shimano 105 Di2 groupset and Elitewheels, reporting excellent performance gains over their previous aluminum bike but noting several quality control issues requiring fixes.

AI Summary

Pros

  • Excellent performance-to-price ratio (comparable to bikes twice as expensive)
  • Lightweight (under 7.5kg)
  • Significant speed improvement (3.5km/h average gain on flats)
  • Improved climbing feel
  • Stiff frame
  • Successful DIY build satisfaction
  • Humorous 'S-WOKS' decal appreciated by community

Cons

  • Poor internal cable routing with sharp carbon edges
  • Uneven rear brake mount requiring sanding/adjustment
  • Seatpost slippage requiring excessive carbon paste
  • Front thru-axle loosening regularly (safety concern)
  • Quality control inconsistencies compared to other Chinese brands
  • Counterfeit branding concerns from some users

Key Points

  • Frame: TanTan TT-X68 (Chinese carbon)
  • Groupset: Shimano 105 Di2
  • Wheels: Elitewheels ent-disc 2.0 (60mm depth)
  • Tires: Continental GP5000
  • Saddle: Ryet ultimate carbon
  • Computer: Garmin Edge 540
  • Total cost: ~2200€
  • Weight: <7.5kg (size 56)
  • Mileage tested: 1500km
  • Frame size: 56 (rider height: 180cm)
Seraph Bikes Superlight 836g X68 - Alternative to SL8 Fakes?

The TanTan TT-X68 is a lightweight carbon road bike frame, a clone of the Specialized Tarmac SL8, sold by TanTan/Seraph via their websites or WhatsApp. It features a BSA threaded bottom bracket, integrated handlebar, and is designed for disc brakes with internal cable routing. The frame is noted for its low cost (around $700-$900 for frameset) and custom paint options. However, there are significant concerns about quality control, particularly regarding inconsistent fork weights and failures, with reports of some forks weighing around 330g (considered risky) and others around 400g (an 'enhanced' version). Other common issues include unfaced brake mounts and bottom bracket shells, paint overspray, and variable seatpost fit. New reports highlight difficulties with internal cable routing, especially on the left side of the cockpit, and seat tube irregularities that can prevent proper battery insertion for electronic groupsets. The supplied computer mount is often criticized for poor quality. Additionally, users report that the stock integrated handlebar feels soft and flexy ('noodly'), leading some to consider aftermarket replacements. Genuine SL8 seatposts are not compatible due to diameter differences, and aftermarket options may have fit issues or inferior clamps. Headset components (compression ring, transition spacers, top cap) are often poor quality, causing creaking or deformation; replacing with genuine Specialized parts can resolve issues. Aftermarket zero-offset seatposts from AliExpress may be slightly undersized and have single-bolt clamps that can slip. Many users report good ride quality and value for money when the frame is built correctly, but experiences with customer service and manufacturing consistency are mixed. The 1:1 replica design allows use of genuine SL8 spare parts, which is an advantage. Recently, the frameset was removed from TanTan and Seraph websites, possibly due to legal pressure from Specialized, but it can still be ordered via WhatsApp. A user reported a successful build with a total weight of 6.920 kg including pedals. Another user inquired about a build with SRAM Rival D1 groupset and carbon wheels for €1990, considered a potential bargain.

AI Summary

Pros

  • Excellent value for money, offering a lightweight, aero-inspired carbon frame at a fraction of the cost of major brands.
  • Good ride quality; many users report it feels fast, responsive, and comparable to the original SL8 in terms of handling and comfort.
  • Wide range of custom paint and color options available through TanTan/Seraph.
  • Availability of spare parts from genuine Specialized SL8 (e.g., headset parts, hangers) due to the 1:1 replica design.

Cons

  • Serious fork safety concerns: early batches had lightweight forks (~330g) prone to failure; later 'enhanced' versions (~400g) are recommended but supply is inconsistent.
  • Poor quality control on manufacturing details: brake mounts and bottom bracket shells often not properly faced, leading to brake alignment issues and potential creaking.
  • Variable customer service and communication; reports of wrong parts shipped, long delays, and difficulty resolving issues.
  • Internal routing can be difficult, especially on the left side of the cockpit, with reports of snagging, poorly angled holes, and broken routing tools.
  • Seat tube interior may have excess carbon layup or irregular shape, preventing proper battery insertion for electronic groupsets and potentially causing batteries to get stuck.
  • Supplied computer mount (Deemount) is often reported as low quality, with issues like screws loosening due to vibrations despite using threadlocker.
  • The stock integrated handlebar is reported to feel soft and 'noodly' with noticeable flex, leading some users to consider aftermarket replacements.
  • The supplied seatpost may have a larger diameter than genuine SL8 seatposts, causing compatibility issues with accessories like 3D-printed light mounts.
  • Headset components (compression ring, transition spacers, top cap) are often poor quality, causing creaking or deformation; replacing with genuine Specialized parts can resolve issues.
  • Aftermarket zero-offset seatposts from AliExpress may be slightly undersized and have single-bolt clamps that can slip under load; some users torque to 9 Nm to prevent tilting.
  • The frame may have been pulled from TanTan and Seraph websites, possibly due to legal pressure from Specialized, though it can still be ordered via WhatsApp.

Key Points

  • BSA threaded bottom bracket
  • Integrated handlebar (Roval Rapide clone)
  • Disc brake only, flat mount
  • Internal cable routing
  • Reported max tire clearance: 32mm (may fit 34mm measured)
  • Geometry matches Specialized Tarmac SL8
  • Compatible with SL8 thru axles
  • Front brake requires supplied 140mm to 160mm adapter for 160mm rotors
  • Genuine SL8 seatposts are not compatible
  • Stock integrated handlebar reported to be flexible
  • Headset components often poor quality; genuine Specialized parts fit and solve creaking/deformation
  • Chaser rear derailleur hanger compatible
  • Frameset removed from websites but still available via WhatsApp order
Purchase

Where to Buy

TanTan Superlight 836g Disc Road Bike Frame TT-X68 BSA Bottom Bracket Max Tire 700*28C With Integrated Handlebar

TanTan Superlight 836g Disc Road Bike Frame TT-X68 BSA Bottom Bracket Max Tire 700*28C With Integrated Handlebar

tantanbikes.com
🇺🇸$609.00
Checked about 1 month ago
TanTan Super light Disc road bicycle carbon frame Bike 700*32C Full Toray T1000 Flat mount brake frameset YS9448+YS3073 TT-X68

TanTan Super light Disc road bicycle carbon frame Bike 700*32C Full Toray T1000 Flat mount brake frameset YS9448+YS3073 TT-X68

tantanbikes.com
🇺🇸$799.00
Checked about 2 months ago
TanTan Ultralight 836g disc brake road bike frame TT-X68 unpainted (BSA bottom bracket) – supports tires up to 700*32C.

TanTan Ultralight 836g disc brake road bike frame TT-X68 unpainted (BSA bottom bracket) – supports tires up to 700*32C.

tantanbikes.com
🇺🇸$529.00
Checked 5 days ago
TanTan Superlight carbon frame  836g Disc Road Bike Frame TT-X68 BSA Bottom Bracket Max Tire 700*32C With Integrated Handlebar

TanTan Superlight carbon frame 836g Disc Road Bike Frame TT-X68 BSA Bottom Bracket Max Tire 700*32C With Integrated Handlebar

tantanbikes.com
🇺🇸$629.00
Checked about 1 month ago
$529.00· 4 stores
View Deals

Specifications

Attributes

Frame TypeRoad
Frame MaterialCarbon
Brake MountFlat Mount Disc
Bottom BracketBSA Threaded
SeatpostProprietary
Front Axle12x100mm Thru-Axle
Rear Axle12x142mm Thru-Axle
Max Tire Width (mm)32
Headset Type1.5" Straight
Di2 CompatibleYes
Max Chainring Size56
UDH CompatibleNo
UCI Legal

Included Components

TanTan TT-X68
Frame
878g
Fork
Fork
390g
Seatpost
Seatpost
154g
Headset
Headset
Handlebar
Handlebar
356g
Total Weight1,778g

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