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Chinese carbon road bike frames are a tempting alternative to more expensive frames from established, more popular brands.
Based on my 10+ hours of market research and customer reviews worldwide, I selected the best Chinese road bike frames you can buy for your next build.
- The best Chinese lightweight road bike frame is the YOELEO R11 Super Light Frameset (also available for through-axle). The M size weighs only 850g. The frameset includes frame, fork, seatpost, and handlebars.
- The best Chinese aero road bike frame is the Triaero (ICAN) A8 Frameset (frame, fork, seatpost). The frame weighs 1074g and is available in a large variety of colors. A huge benefit is also ICANs’ crash replacement program.
This selection includes frames suitable for rim & disc brakes, lightweight and aero frames, and a road bike frame buyer’s guide.
Let’s dive in!
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 with when choosing the best frame for you, check the buyer’s guide section first.
YOELEO R11 Super Light Frameset
Main Features
- Frame Weight: 850g
- Type: Lightweight
- Brakes Type: Rim and disc
- Warranty: 3 years
- Crash replacement: n/a
- Bottom bracket: BB86
- Groupset: Mechanical or electric
This YOELEO R11 lightweight frameset is a true champ. It includes frame, fork (390g), handlebar, and seat post (204g). It is available in 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 drop that suits you best.
R11 frameset can also accommodate up to 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, including chameleon, yellow, blue, black, white, pink, red, etc. The available frame sizes are 49cm, 52cm, 54cm, 56cm and 59cm.
Use the following promo code ‘cyclistshub‘ on www.yoeleobike.com to get 2% off your purchase.
Winspace T1500 Frameset
Main Features
- Frame Weight: 1050g
- Type: Aero
- Brakes Type: Rim and disc
- Warranty: 3 years
- Crash replacement: No
- Bottom bracket: BB86
- Groupset: Mechanical or electric
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).
Trifox X16 Frameset
Main Features
- Frame Weight: 873g / 923g (through-axle)
- Type: Lightweight
- Brakes Type: Rim and disc
- 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, including chameleon blue, chameleon purple, black/white, and more.
Sizes available – 44cm, 49cm, 52cm, 54cm, 56cm, and 58cm.
Use the following promo code ‘cyclistshub‘ on www.trifoxbike.com to get 4% off your purchase.
Triaero (ICAN) A8 Frameset
Main Features
- Frame Weight: 1114g
- Type: Aero
- Brakes Type: Rim
- 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 promo code ‘cyclistshub‘ on www.icancycling.com to get 5% off your purchase.
You may also be interested in a pair of the best Chinese carbon wheels for a road bike.
Rinasclta Lightweight Road Bike Frameset
Main Features
- Frame Weight: 765g
- Type: Lightweight
- Brakes Type: Rim
- 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.
YOELEO R12 Aero Frameset
Main Features
- Frame Weight: 950g
- Type: Aero
- Brakes Type: Disc
- Warranty: 3 years
- Crash replacement: n/a
- Bottom bracket: BB386
This full aero frameset (frame, fork, seatpost, handlebars) by YOELEO looks like a premium aero frame but costs much less and weighs under 1 kg!
It can fit up to 32mm wide tires, allows full internal cable routing, is compatible with electric and mechanical groupsets, and you can choose handlebars width + drop.
The collor range is also pretty wide and includes chameleon purple (super cool color in my opinion).
One, and probably the only downside of this frame, is that it is only available for disc brakes. So, rim brakes enthusiasts are unlucky.
Feel free to choose from 7 sizes to ensure the best fit.
Use the following promo code ‘cyclistshub‘ on www.yoeleobike.com to get 2% off your purchase.
Winspace SLC2 Frameset
Main Features
- Frame Weight: 780g
- Type: Lightweight
- Brakes Type: Rim and disc
- 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.
SLC 2.0 frameset includes seatpost and fork. You can also opt for handlebars and the for version for brake or disc brakes.
The color selection is pretty narrow, but you can contact Winspace support for customized options.
There is no discussion that this is a perfect frame for climbers that has no major flaws. The 2.0 is an improved version of the SLC 1.0. It’s stiffer to squeeze the maximum out of your pedal strokes. I am really looking forward to a newer version, 3.0 (if there will be any).
Sizes available: 44cm, 47cm, 49cm, 52cm, 55cm, and 58cm
Triaero (ICAN) 007 Aero Frameset
Main Features
- Frame Weight: 1140g
- Type: Aero
- Brakes Type: Rim
- Warranty: 2 years
- Crash replacement: 15% discount on the retail price
- Bottom bracket: BB86
This is a frame with the most “funky” paint job in this selection. If you like bright colors, this one is for you. Orange is not the only color available. There is also yellow, red, pink, blue, etc.
Triaero 007 is an affordable carbon aero road bike frameset that includes a fork and seatpost. Handlebars are sold separately.
The frame is ready for internal cable routing that is easy to install and mechanical or electric groupsets.
Feel free to choose one of the 6 sizes: 50cm, 52cm, 54 cm, 56 cm, and 60 cm.
Use the following promo code ‘cyclistshub‘ on www.icancycling.com to get 5% off your purchase.
Rinasclta Aero Road Bike Frameset
Main Features
- Frame Weight: 1111g
- Type: Aero
- Brakes Type: Rim and disc
- 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).
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.
In my opinion, the best lightweight road bike frame in this selection is YOELEO R11 Super Light Frameset. This frameset consists of a frame, fork, seatpost, and handlebars.
The M size weighs only 850g which means that this is not the lightest frame in this selection, but I believe its price-value ratio is the best.
You can choose what handlebar width and drop you want, there are plenty of colors to choose from, and you get a 3years warranty. And, the YOELEO R11 frameset is also available for through-axle.
If you prefer speed and aerodynamics, make sure to check the Triaero (ICAN) A8 Frameset. It includes frame, fork, and seatpost.
With just 1074g of weight, this aero frame is pretty light and according to the manufacturer, also very stiff.
It is covered by a 3years warranty, and if you crash, you can also take advantage of ICAN’s crash replacement program that gives you a 15% discount on the retail price of the next frame.
Of course, there are plenty of colors to choose from. Is this going to be your next aero frame?
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, sometimes even endurance-oriented 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.
Endurance Oriented
- Endurance road bike frames allow a more upright position that is more comfortable for beginners and people with limited flexibility.
NOTE: So-called ‘hybrid’ road bike frames also appear on the market. They combine the best features of the performance and aero frames – they are light and at the same time aerodynamic. This does not mean that lightweight frames are not aerodynamic. However, the aerodynamics of hybrid frames is better optimized. An example of such a frame is a Specialized Tarmac SL 7.
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 may be 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 its 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 size, etc.). Or, you can use my road bike size chart.
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 the most up to date tips on products. If you find a product that is not up to date, please, contact me.
