Worth the extra cost? My MOST EXPENSIVE AliExpress bike build

Does spending more money make sense with Aliexpress bike parts? The most expensive Chinese carbon bike build i’ve ever done!

SIROKO CLOTHING – 10% off (automatically applied via link below):
https://srko.co/tracevelo

I’ve built a lot of carbon road bikes in the past. I use parts from AliExpress and direct to consumer brands, and have always tried to make them as cheap as possible. Saving money is fantastic, and I enjoy the challenge of building great bikes on a budget, but it often means dealing with unforeseen problems during the build process.

In this episode, I have decided to change my approach, and see if spending more money on these bike parts will make my life easier, and ultimately build a better bike.

Apart from the cassette and brake disc rotors (which are from Shimano), every major part of this bike was manufactured by a lesser known brand. The carbon frame and integrated handlebars are from OG-EVKIN, the fully hydraulic 12 speed disc brake groupset is from L-TWOO, and the carbon wheelset is from 9Velo.

In this video, I go through the whole build from start to finish, give my thoughts on the parts and the process, discuss the final cost and weight, and compare the final bike to the cheapest build I have ever done.

Please note, I get a small commission via these links:
OG-Evkin HB1300 handlebars:
https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DlhyAPr
9Velo wheelset (code 9VELOTV10):
http://www.9velo.com
Hydraulic bleed kit:
https://amzn.to/3DRRM6S

Bleeding RX Groupset:
https://youtube.com/watch?v=cRrPe0YbDpk&si=EnSIkaIECMiOmarE

Timestamps:
00:00 – Start
01:06 – Intro
02:15 – OG-EVKIN CF-025 frame
04:50 – OG-EVKIN integrated bars
05:26 – Fitting handlebars & cutting steerer tube
08:34 – L-TWOO RX groupset
15:29 – Setting up 9Velo carbon wheelset
19:25 – L-TWOO RX: Setting up & bleeding brakes
20:47 – L-TWOO RX: Rattling shifters
23:14 – BB86 bottom bracket & crankset
25:42 – Bartape, saddle, & pedals
27:13 – L-TWOO RX: Tuning the groupset
29:02 – Total cost & weight
31:44 – Was it worth it?
33:40 – Impressions after 200km
39:05 – Wrap-up

Please note:
I am not a professionally trained bike mechanic. There can be risks associated with using products that are unbranded, untested, or come from sources where the provenance is unknown. Please talk to a qualified bike mechanic if you are in any doubt. In essence, be careful, do your research, and cycle safe!!!

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