MyBike.parts
We review the Chinese-made Dengfu FM098 road frame, based on two years of having ridden the bike 3 to 5 times a week.
We explore how the frameset and Novatec wheelset was purchased, how it rode for both racing and adventure riding, as well as how the bike eventually met its demise.
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Keywords: Dengfu,fm098,fm-098,fm,98,chinese,bike,china,carbon,carbon fibre,fiba,replica,online,road,cycling,novatec
Bike part mentions in this video
FrameDengfu FM098 DISC
Created: February 03, 2026The reviewer provides a two-year review of the Dengfu FM098 frame, which they purchased directly from Dengfu via a third-party website. They used it as a complete bike for racing and bike packing until it was damaged in a roof rack incident. They discuss the purchase process, initial build, riding experience, and specific issues encountered. The frame is described as a Chinese-made model with geometry similar to an older Venge. The reviewer notes it was used with a Campagnolo Chorus groupset and Dengfu/NovaTec 60mm wheels. The frame ultimately survived the accident better than a companion Giant TCR, but was retired afterward.
AI-Summary
Pros
- The bike was very cheap to purchase.
- It performed well for road racing, described as 'kick ass' and a good buy for the money.
- It handled a demanding 9-day bike packing trip in Tasmania with heavy loads, rain, and mountains without any issues.
- The actual frame weight matched the manufacturer's claimed weight very precisely (within a few grams).
- The frame survived a roof rack/car park accident relatively intact, while a legitimate Giant TCR frame broke in the same incident.
Cons
- The purchase process was 'dodgy', requiring payment through a third-party website and a personal PayPal account.
- The proprietary seat post was marginally too small and would slowly slide down during rides. The reviewer had to fix it with sand and epoxy.
- The ride quality is described as 'very harsh' and 'really stiff', which the reviewer did not like as they prefer comfort.
- A stress fracture/crack developed in the bottom bracket area after about a year and a half of riding, likely due to frame flex.
- The warranty process was unfavorable: while a two-year warranty exists, the replacement fee was high (around $300, nearly half the frame's cost), and the process would take over a month, leading the reviewer to not use it.
- The bike (especially with deep wheels) catches the wind considerably in crosswinds.
- The reviewer was initially nervous about buying a Chinese carbon frame, opting for the 'chunkiest most aero' version over a lighter one due to perceived strength concerns.
Key Points
- Frame model is the Dengfu FM098.
- Purchased as a frameset including frame, fork, and seat post.
- Geometry is very similar to an older Specialized Venge, with slight variations.
- Has a two-year warranty, but with a significant replacement fee and lengthy process.
- The proprietary seat post had a common sizing issue requiring modification.
- A stress crack developed at the bottom bracket after extensive use.
- The actual weight matched the claimed weight exactly for the reviewer's sample.
- Used for road racing and a successful, rigorous bike packing trip.
- Ultimately damaged and retired after a roof rack accident, though the frame remained intact.