Why you should choose a Chinese carbon gravel frame

When you're looking for a new gravel bike, you'll probably look at frames from major bike brands or complete bike builds. You'll have to dig deep into your pockets if you want a high-end carbon frame. When looking for more affordable options, you often end up on Alibaba or Aliexpress and looking at a Chinese carbon frame. But are these frames actually any good? Or are they just too good to be true? We've all heard the horror stories of people breaking their Chinese carbon frames. We will give you some explanations.

Is the Chinese carbon frame any good?

If you're interested in a Chinese gravel frame, don't buy the first frame you see online. Certainly it will be very interesting financially, but you have to investigate the origin of the frame more closely, because not all Chinese carbon frames are the same.

There are a few pointers you should keep in mind:

Above all, buy from a trusted and established brand. These manufacturers offer a warranty on their products (sometimes even a lifetime warranty on your frame). A manufacturer that offers a warranty has subjected all of its frames to rigorous testing and quality control; in most cases its frames and other products are even UCI legal. On the manufacturer's website you will also find a frame geometry table to help you find the right bike size.

Secondly, the frames are branded. This is what sets them apart from counterfeit, unbranded frames. You can also find various reviews and experiences from others on the Internet and YouTube.

The X-Gravel Bike frame is a real asphalt and gravel all-rounder, a performance-oriented gravel bike. This fast gravel bike is suitable for racing.

X-Gravel frame

Durability, stiffness, tire clearance, weight?

After you've done your research, you may still have a few questions. How durable is the gravel frame I choose? And what about the stiffness? Of course, a manufacturer will claim that their frame is light and stiff, but keep in mind that the lower the weight of the frame, the lower the limit on the rider's weight. If you are a heavy rider, a lightweight gravel frame will not suit your riding style as the frame can twist under load.

But how can I find out if the frame is durable? Make sure your frame has been extensively tested. Usually the manufacturer will mention this on their website, but again, the internet is your friend: look for customer reviews.

Finally, there are a few other options you need to consider. What tire width can the frame accommodate and what tire width do you expect to use? What type of bottom bracket is used for the frame? Is it a press fit or threaded bottom bracket? Make sure you buy a compatible bottom bracket, or if you already have a bottom bracket, buy a compatible frame.

Which group is the frame compatible with? Can I equip the frame with accessories?

Most modern gravel frames are compatible with any groupset you want: Shimano, Campagnolo, SRAM... And as for accessories, check the bike specs; You can get most information from the manufacturer, and if you are still unsure, contact the manufacturer.

ICAN provides accurate and timely service before and after purchase, with a professional technical team ready to answer your questions. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us. (info@icancycing.com)