I Had Problems With The Worlds Lightest Bike... X-LAB RT9 First Look

CADE Media

May 06, 2026

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Description

close, but no cigar.

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Keywords: cycling,bike,cyclist,race,bicycle,road,francis,cade,x-lab,xds,zipp,enve,shimano,specialized,aethos,cannondale,scott,addict

Parts Mentioned

XDS X-LAB AD9/RT9

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Frame, Fork, Clamp, Seatpost

Complete Bike

XDS X-LAB AD9/RT9

Created: March 25, 2026

1 other review for this part

The reviewer tested the XDS X-LAB AD9/RT9, a lightweight carbon road bike with disc brakes. They praised its low weight (6.39 kg) and stiff frame but criticized the harsh ride quality, which they attributed to the carbon-spoked Branta wheels. The frame finish was easily damaged, though XDS claimed to have addressed this in later batches. The bike's limited size range and the wheels' resemblance to Zipp were also noted as negatives.

AI-Summary

Pros

Extremely light frame (550 g) and overall bike weight (6.39 kg)
Stiff frame with good handling
Round tube design reduces crosswind sensitivity

Cons

Harsh ride quality, especially on rough roads
Carbon-spoked wheels are uncomfortable and feel like 'Flintstones car'
Frame finish is easily scratched or marked (though later batches have improved coating)