Too Good To Be True? - ELVES Falath EXP First Look
CADE Media
September 28, 2025
the Elves Falath EXP is a mixed bag, but serious value.
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Keywords: cycling,bike,cyclist,race,bicycle,road,francis,cade,elves,winspace,giant,cervelo,trek,aero,specialized,aliexpress
FrameELVES Falath EXP Aero Carbon Road Disc Framesets UCI Approved
Created: February 19, 2026The reviewer provides a detailed first look at the ELVES Falath EXP Aero Carbon Road Disc Frameset. They describe it as the newest aero bike from the Chinese company Elves, noting it is UCI approved and positioned as a road racing aero bike. The specific frame set reviewed is a 52cm model with a T47 bottom bracket, 32mm tire clearance, and a distinctive large hole in the seat tube (a 'speed hole') claimed to improve aerodynamics and comfort. The reviewer discusses the company's background, the frame's value proposition, its aerodynamic performance based on third-party testing, sizing, and their personal experience living with the bike for several months. They conclude they were impressed, especially considering the price, but note specific drawbacks.
AI-Summary
Pros
- Extremely good value for money in its category
- Frame set price is £888
- Bundle deals available (e.g., free handlebars with frame and wheels)
- Aerodynamic performance is in the 'same realms' as other high-end aero bikes, being mid-table in comparative tests
- Beat the Merida Reacto by 6 seconds in a 40km TT simulation
- External seat post clamp prevents parts falling into the frame
- No issues with seat post slippage experienced by the reviewer
- T47 bottom bracket is user-serviceable with simple tools
Cons
- The bike is not light, weighing 7.83kg for the built-up test bike
- The bike is 'all over the place in the wind' and unpleasant in gusts
- The aesthetic is not to the reviewer's personal taste
- GP5000 tires were extremely difficult to mount and remove from the supplied Elves wheels
- The freehub on the supplied wheels had an engagement issue due to excess grease, causing pedal slippage
- The headset came loose a couple of times (though attributed to user error)
- The oversized T47 bottom bracket shell makes tool placement tricky
- The handlebar position is long and low, requiring flexibility and strength for comfort
Where to Buy
ELVES Falath EXP Aero Carbon Road Disc Framesets UCI Approved
ELVES Falath EXP Aero Carbon Road Disc Framesets UCI Approved