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https://www.pandapodium.cc/product/evolve-cima-speed-artist-carbon-road-bike-frameset
Objectively, this is possibly the best frame coming out of China these days. I'd be so bold as to say it could be the best sub-$3000 frame in the world.I've ridden multiple builds over the last 6 months and have lots to say about the Cima. Lets get into it.
00:00 Intro
00:24 The basics
01:14 Frame Specs
05:20 Attention to Detail
08:35 The Layup
11:50 How I built up the bike
16:50 The Price
18:30 Pros and Cons
23:05 Why isn't it my favourite?
25:37 Should you buy one?
26:40 Closing thoughts
Bike part mentions in this video
Frameevolve CIMA Speed Artist Carbon Road bike Frameset
Created: September 12, 2025The reviewer provides a detailed analysis of the Evolve Chima frameset throughout the video. They state it is one of, if not the best all-round road bike from China, though not their personal favorite. The reviewer highlights the extensive R&D, attention to detail, and advanced manufacturing behind the frame. They praise its exceptional ride quality, describing it as the most comfortable yet stiff road bike they've ever ridden, with a 'jackal and hide' personality that excels at both comfort and stiffness. The frame is noted for its lightweight construction (650g unpainted), aerodynamic performance that beats a Specialized SL8, and high-quality accessories. However, the reviewer personally prefers the more visceral feel of the Trigon AR01.
AI-Summary
Pros
- Excellent ride quality - most comfortable yet stiff road bike ever ridden
- Lightweight frame (650g unpainted)
- Aerodynamic performance faster than Specialized SL8
- High attention to detail in design and accessories
- BSA threaded bottom bracket for easy installation
- UDH rear derailleur hanger for compatibility
- Two fork offsets for consistent handling across sizes
- 32mm tire clearance
- 109kg rider weight limit
- Lightweight accessories (seat post clamp 17.5g, expander plug 15g, through axles 48g)
- Easy to build sub-6.8kg complete bike
- Comparable to high-end western frames at fraction of price
Cons
- High price point ($2,299 for frameset)
- In-house handlebar only available down to 36cm width (no 34cm option)
- Optional accessories not included (timing chip holder, custom number holder, aero bottles)
- Polarizing branding design (large 'R' logo, unusual quotes)
- Doesn't feel as fast as Trigon AR01 despite being objectively faster
- Too refined for reviewer's personal preference (prefers more visceral riding experience)
Key Points
- Frame weight: 650g unpainted raw medium size
- Painted frame weight: 727g for size small
- Fork weight: 367g uncut
- Two fork offsets: 44mm for smaller sizes, 40mm for larger sizes
- BSA threaded bottom bracket
- UDH rear derailleur hanger
- 32mm tire clearance
- 109kg rider weight limit
- Developed with extensive wind tunnel testing and R&D
- 24-page white paper on frame development
- Optional aero bottles provide 48-second advantage over 40km vs SL8
- Ceramic Speed SLT headset included
- Multiple seat post options available
- Sister brand of Elite Wheels, founded by co-founders of Elite Wheels and Cybre
