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Chinese carbon road bike frames are a tempting alternative to mainstream brands thanks to their lower price and high quality.
But, to find quality and certified carbon products, you have to know where to look… Luckily, you are in the right place!
Based on my in-depth market research and evaluating customer reviews worldwide, I put together the best Chinese road bike frames you can buy for your next build.
This article includes frames compatible with rim or disc brakes, lightweight, aero, and hybrid frames, and also a road bike frame buyer’s guide.
Please, keep in mind that I considered only frames from established and reliable manufacturers. Don’t expect unbranded frames from doubtful resellers.
What Are the Best Chinese Road Bike Frames?
All frames below come from well-established, branded Chinese manufacturers. They are covered by a guarantee and were properly tested. To avoid any damage during transport, they are also well packed.
Please, note that most of the following frames are shipped from China. Their delivery may take several weeks.
If you don’t know where to begin when choosing the best frame for you, check the buyer’s guide section first.
If you prefer a complete bicycle instead, check out the best Chinese road bikes.
YOELEO R21 Aero Frameset
Main Features
- TÜV certified
- Frame Weight: 1050g (54cm size)
- Type: Hybrid (compromise between lightweight and aero)
- Brake Type: Disc
- Tire clearance: up to 28mm tires
- Warranty: 3 years
- Crash replacement: n/a
- Bottom bracket: BB386
Although YOELEO R21 looks like a hybrid (all-rounder) road bike frame, YOELEO markets it as an aero frame. It is my favorite of all YOELEO framesets.
Owners claim it is responsive, quick, but also comfortable. It is perfect for flats, hilly, or mountainous terrain. You can think of it as S-Works SL7 and similar frames.
R21 fits up to 28mm tires ensuring great comfort and thanks to the fully integrated headset, your build will be minimalistic and clean.
The color offer is the same as for other YOELEO frames, but you can also request your own paint job. Just contact YOELEO’s customer support for more info and guidance.
Keep in mind it is available for disc brakes only. You can pick one of the 6 sizes (48, 52, 54, 56, 58, and 61cm) and also the handlebar size (stem length and handlebar width).
Use the following code ‘cyclistshub‘ on yoeleobike.com or yoeleoeurope.com to get 2% off your purchase.
Also available at yoeleoeurope.com
Winspace SLC2 Frameset
Main Features
- Frame Weight: 780g
- Type: Lightweight
- Brake Type: Rim and disc
- Tire clearance: up to 28mm tires
- Warranty: 3 years
- Crash replacement: n/a
- Bottom bracket: BB86
This is exactly the type of road bike frames I like – thin, lightweight tubes and nice blue paint. Yes, the logo could be smaller or have a different font, but this is subjective.
The SLC 2.0 is an improved version of the SLC 1.0. It’s stiffer to squeeze the maximum out of your pedal strokes.
This frameset includes seatpost and fork. You can also opt for handlebars and the version for brake or disc brakes.
The frame weighs just 780g in the size 54. Therefore, it is ideal for climbing or for people who want to build a lightweight road bike.
The color selection is pretty narrow, but you can contact Winspace support for customized options.
Sizes available: 44cm, 47cm, 49cm, 52cm, 55cm, and 58cm
Use the following code ‘cyclistshub10‘ at www.winspace.cc on the 2nd page of checkout to get 10% off your purchase.
YOELEO R12 All-Rounder Frameset
Main Features
- TÜV certified
- Frame Weight: 1000g (54cm size)
- Type: Hybrid (all-rounder)
- Brake Type: Disc
- Tire clearance: up to 32mm tires
- Warranty: 3 years
- Crash replacement: n/a
- Bottom bracket: BB386
This all-rounder frameset is the most popular YOELEO’s frameset. Let me explain why.
R12 can accommodate up to 32mm wide tires. Together with frame properties, your ride will be super comfy.
Although it is available only for disc brakes, this frame is highly versatile. It will handle rough roads even light gravel well.
This frameset is also ready for full internal cable routing making it clean and modern. Additionally, it is compatible with electric and mechanical groupsets.
Of course, you can choose handlebars width + stem length to ensure the best fit possible.
You can choose from up to 7 sizes including those for short women and various colors.
Use the following code ‘cyclistshub‘ on yoeleobike.com or yoeleoeurope.com to get 2% off your purchase.
Also available at yoeleoeurope.com
Trifox X16 Frameset
Main Features
- Frame Weight: 873g / 923g (through-axle)
- Type: Lightweight
- Brake Type: Rim and disc
- Tire clearance: up to 28mm tires
- Warranty: 3 years
- Crash replacement: 12% discount on the retail price
- Bottom bracket: BSA/BB68
Trifox X16 is an affordable, lightweight frame available in multiple cool colors. This frameset also includes a fork (319g) and seatpost (182g). Please, note that the frame weight differs based on the brake type.
X16 frame is compatible with electric and mechanical groupsets, and it has an internal cable routing for minimizing air drag.
A huge benefit is also Trifoxs’ crash replacement program. If you crash, you get a 12% discount on the retail price of your next frame.
X16 is available in multiple colors and sizes – 44cm, 49cm, 52cm, 54cm, 56cm, and 58cm.
Use the following code ‘cyclistshub‘ on www.trifoxbike.com to get 4% off your purchase.
You may also be interested in a pair of the best Chinese carbon wheels for a road bike.
Rinasclta Lightweight Frameset
Main Features
- Frame Weight: 765g
- Type: Lightweight
- Brake Type: Rim
- Tire clearance: up to 27mm tires
- Warranty: 2 years
- Crash replacement: n/a
- Bottom bracket: BB86
If your dream is to build a super lightweight bike, you should consider getting this frame by Rinasclta. It weighs only 765g without compromising its stiffness.
A cool bonus is that you can submit your customized painting, and they will paint the frame for you. Just make sure you contact Rinsclta in advance to discuss the details.
This frameset includes seatpost and fork (345g), and it is ready for internal cable routing, as well as for electrical or mechanical groupsets.
The only main downside is that you won’t fit 28mm tires in this frame. The maximum tire width is limited to 27mm.
Choose from 47cm, 49cm, 51cm, 54cm, 56cm, and 59cm frame sizes, and glossy/matt finish.
Use the following code ‘cyclistshub10‘ at www.rinascltabike.com at the end of the checkout page to get 10 USD off your purchase.
Winspace T1500 Frameset
Main Features
- UCI approved
- Frame Weight: 1050g
- Type: Aero
- Brake Type: Rim and disc
- Tire clearance: up to 28mm tires
- Warranty: 3 years
- Crash replacement: No
- Bottom bracket: BB86
This UCI approved aero frame is ideal for pros or for avid cyclists who love speed. According to Winspace, not only that the frame looks fast, but it also is fast.
I am a huge fan of its chameleon blue color but not of the logo. What about you, do you like it? Let me know in the comments below.
The good news is that the frame is available for both rim and disc brakes. You can also opt for an integrated handlebar before placing your order (contact Winspace customer support for more info).
This frame was, of course, tested in a wind tunnel. Although the results are not publicly available, it has a few features that improve its aerodynamics, like asymmetric frog-leg-muscle chainstay, asymmetrical bottom bracket shaft, or a wide front fork.
Choose from 5 sizes (41cm, 44cm, 47cm, 51cm, or 55cm).
Use the following code ‘cyclistshub10‘ at www.winspace.cc on the 2nd page of checkout to get 10% off your purchase.
YOELEO R11 Super Light Frameset
Main Features
- Frame Weight: 850g
- Type: Lightweight
- Brake Type: Rim and disc
- Tire clearance: up to 30mm tires (rim brakes), up to 32mm tires (disc brakes)
- Warranty: 3 years
- Crash replacement: n/a
- Bottom bracket: BB86
This YOELEO R11 lightweight frameset includes a frame, fork (390g), handlebar, and seat post (204g). It is available as an option for rim or disc brakes.
Of course, it is compatible with mechanical or electrical groupsets. Before your purchase, you can opt for the handlebar width and stem that suit you best.
R11 frameset can also accommodate up to 30mm (32mm) wide tires, which is great if you need wider tires for gravel and dirt roads.
The frame has improved internal cable routing (compared to its previous version) thanks to new EPS+Latex frame molding so that internal cable routing won’t be a hassle.
You can choose from various colors and sizes (49cm, 52cm, 54cm, 56cm and 59cm).
Use the following code ‘cyclistshub‘ on yoeleobike.com or yoeleoeurope.com to get 2% off your purchase.
Also available at yoeleoeurope.com
Also available at yoeleoeurope.com
Triaero (ICAN) A8 Frameset
Main Features
- Frame Weight: 1114g
- Type: Aero
- Brake Type: Rim
- Tire clearance: up to 25mm tires
- Warranty: 3 years
- Crash replacement: 15% discount on the retail price
- Bottom bracket: BB86
ICAN’s bike brand Triaero focuses solely on bike frames. Their A8 provides a good price-value ratio.
It is designed with an internal cable routing in mind, so its installation will be pretty easy for you or your bike builder.
I also like that its tubes are not super thick, so it reminds me of a lightweight climbing bike, although this one is an aero frame.
Triaero A8 is available in a large variety of colors also suitable for women. You can also choose the color of the logo if you like a more decent look of your frame or a complete matt finish without any stickers.
ICAN’s crash replacement program is a cherry on the top of this imaginary cage. The only downside is a limited size selection (51cm, 54cm, 57cm, and 59cm).
If you want an aero frame for a through-axle, you can get the Triaero A9 (frame weight 1090g). It is very simar to A9. There are small design differences, and the frameset also includes handlebars.
Use the following code ‘cyclistshub‘ on www.icancycling.com to get 5% off your purchase.
Rinasclta Aero Frameset
Main Features
- Frame Weight: 1111g
- Type: Aero
- Brake Type: Rim and disc
- Tire clearance: up to 32mm tires
- Warranty: 2 years
- Crash replacement: n/a
- Bottom bracket: BB86
This frame can be characterized with one word – simplicity. I am a big fan of matt black. This frame comes in matt or glossy black finish. Its hidden seatpost clamp is also a pretty nice detail that I appreciate.
Rinasclta frameset includes fork and seatpost. But they manufacture handlebars in various options so that you can order them from Rinasclta as well.
This frame is available for rim or disc brakes. It allows you to use up to 32mm tires and has an internal cable routing.
Of course, it is compatible with mechanical and electric groupsets. The sizing options are pretty limited (4 sizes only – 49cm, 52cm, 54cm, and 56cm).
Use the following code ‘cyclistshub10‘ at www.rinascltabike.com at the end of the checkout page to get 10 USD off your purchase.
| Type | Frame Weight | Brakes | Tire Clearance | BB | Certification | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| YOELEO R21 Frameset | Aero | 1050g | Disc | 28mm | BB386 | TÜV certified | Check Price |
| Winspace SLC2 Frameset | Lightweight | 780g | Rim or disc | 28mm | BB86 | n/a | Check Price (use 'cyclistshub10' code to get 10% off) |
| YOELEO R12 Frameset | Hybrid | 1000g | Disc | 32mm | BB386 | TÜV certified | Check Price |
| Trifox X16 Frameset | Lightweight | 873g (rim) 923g (disc) | Rim or disc | 28mm | BSA/BB68 | n/a | Check Price (disc) Check Price (rim) |
| Rinasclta Lightweight Frameset | Lightweight | 765g | Rim | 27mm | BB86 | n/a | Check Price (use 'cyclistshub10' code to get 10 USD off) |
| Winspace T1500 Frameset | Aero | 1050g | Rim or disc | 28mm | BB86 | UCI approved | Check Price (use 'cyclistshub10' code to get 10% off) |
| YOELEO R11 Super Light Frameset | Lightweight | 850g | Rim or disc | 30mm (rim) 32mm (disc) | BB86 | TÜV certified | Check Price (disc) Check Price (rim) |
| Triaero (ICAN) A8 Frameset | Aero | 1114g | Rim | 25mm | BB86 | n/a | Check Price (disc) Check Price (rim) |
| Rinasclta Aero Frameset | Aero | 1111g | Rim or disc | 32mm | BB86 | n/a | Check Price (use 'cyclistshub10' code to get 10 USD off) |
NOTE: The frame weight is for the 54cm size.
My Verdict
Be careful if you decide to buy a cheap, unbranded frame. But Chinese carbon road bike frames from established manufacturers are safe to ride and are covered by a warranty.
- If you prefer speed and aerodynamics, make sure to check out YOELEO R21 (also available at yoeleoeurope.com). It includes a frame, fork, seatpost, and handlebar.
It combines the best features from aero and lightweight frames creating a well-balanced compromise between speed, weight, and comfort.
This frameset is completely ready for full internal cable routing resulting in a minimalistic and clean build.
I cannot forget to mention that R21 is TÜV certified and covered with a 3-year warranty. - The best lightweight road bike frame in this selection is Winspace SLC2 (use the ‘cyclistshub10’ code at checkout to get 10% off). This frameset consists of a frame, fork, and seatpost.
The M size weighs only 780g. It is not the lightest frame in this selection but it offers the best price-value ratio.
It is available for rim and disc brakes, and you get a 3-year warranty. - The most versatile road bike frameset is YOELEO R12 (also available at yoeleoeurope.com). It includes a frame, fork, seatpost, and handlebar.
This TÜV certified aero frameset has not as aggressive geometry as racing framesets and can accommodate up to 32mm tires. This means it is more comfortable. It is available in plenty of sizes and colors, and you can even order a custom paintjob.
YOELEO covers this frame with a 3-year warranty.
Which frameset do you like the most? Let me know in the comments below.
Did you not choose any road frame? Check out these Chinese carbon gravel bike frames.
How to Choose the Best Chinese Road Bike Frame?
There are countless unbranded Chinese road bike frames out there. It is not an easy task to choose the one that you can 100% rely on.
Therefore, I recommend buying carbon products from trustworthy and reliable Chinese bicycle brands.
All frames in this article passed extensive product testing, are covered by warranty, and come from established manufacturers.
Below, I explain what other features to consider when choosing a new road bike frame.
Disc or Rim Brakes
The first thing to consider is whether you want to build your next bike on rim or disc brakes. These two types of brakes (and wheels, respectively) use different attachment mechanisms to the frame/fork.
If you want a bike with rim brakes, the frame and the fork will be designed for a quick release.
Frames for disc brakes are designed for a thru-axle (also called through-axle). It has to provide threads so the thru-axle can be threaded out of the frame/fork when removing wheels.
Frame Type
There are 8 basic types of road bikes. However, this article focuses only on endurance, performance, and aero frames to keep things simple.
Based on my research, I found out that Chinese manufacturers usually offer performance-oriented (lightweight and aero), sometimes endurance frames.
Performance-Oriented
- Lightweight performance road frames are ideal for climbers, racers, and people who like thinner frame tube profiles.
- Aero frames are suitable for riders who ride in crosswinds, flat sections, eventually hilly roads.
- Hybrid frames combine the best features of the performance and aero frames – they are relatively light and aerodynamic at the same time.
Endurance Oriented
- Endurance road bike frames allow a more upright position that is more comfortable for beginners and people with limited flexibility.
Weight
Depending on the type of frame, size, and even the painting*, frames’ weight will vary. I selected more than 20 frames from various manufacturers to compare their average weight (M size). You can see the results below.
*Complete painting can add around 3.5unces (100g).
Keep in mind that the lightest possible frame may not always be the best choice. Other features like the stiffness of the frame are also important.
Stiffness
“The stiffer the frame, the less energy loss, and the faster you ride,” applies rather theoretically. The reality is a little bit different.
Tom Sturdy, an experienced carbon frame builder, said in an interview for Cycling Weekly that a stiffer frame could result in the rider getting tired faster, for example, on roads with a worse surface. This is because a too rigid frame can’t absorb unevenness.
The stiffness is pretty tricky. It is almost impossible to estimate it without having more detailed data from testing that are usually not available or when you cannot test the frame in person. So you have to rely either on the manufacturer’s claims or on the experience of other people who have tried a frame you are interested in.
In general, however, Chinese carbon frames from trusted manufacturers do not lag behind the frames of more well-known brands in terms of stiffness and weight.
Bottom Bracket and Groupset Compatibility
Another thing to consider is the compatibility of the frame with the bottom bracket (BB). There are 2 basic types of bottom brackets – threaded and press fit. This topic is pretty complex, so if you want to find out more about bottom brackets, feel free to read one of the following resources:
The groupset compatibility is luckily much simpler. Most modern carbon road bike frames are compatible with mechanical and electric groupsets from Shimano, SRAM, Campagnolo, etc.
Technically, you can use an electric groupset for older frames with external cable routing, but it won’t look good.
Size & Color Option
Once you’ve selected a particular frame, all you have to do is choose the right size and color option. Choosing the right bike size is essential to experience comfort on your bike and prevent injuries.
There are several methods (choosing a bike size based on your height, inseam length, etc.). Or, you can use my road bike size chart.
TIP: Use the Bikeinsights tool for comparing geometries of not only road bike frames.
The color option is solely up to your preference. Some manufacturers offer the possibility to upload your own design. This is a paid service and is not included in the price of the frame.
Also, note that the paint may add around 100g to the frame’s weight. So if the weight is important for you, buy a frame without any paint job.
Carbon Road Bike Frames FAQ
This post is regularly updated to provide you with the most up-to-date tips on products. If you find a product that is not up to date, please, contact me.
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