Pictured above is a two-week old work in progress, still waiting for bits and pieces. In the mean time, below is the review on the GaitFXD frameset:
-Shares the same geometry with Leader 721/725. The first thing noticeable about this is the 'Leader' design.
-The seller and manufacturer don't claim it's a Leader, but the frame I got has a serial and model number engraved on the BB shell.
-Seattube angle allows the rider to have a more aggressive position when pedalling
-Headtube angle is not too steep, let's the frame absorb more impact than the rider's shoulders/elbows
-Integrated headtube allows a lower mounting option for the stem.
Build Quality
-Looks and feels solid.
-Materials used are of great quality.
-BB shell and headtube is thicker, unlike other aluminum frames.
-Welds look very good, not sloppy.
-All tubes look symmetric. No unwanted dimples.
-Stainless steel dropouts keeps the rear wheel in place.
-Carbon fork is very stiff, takes a beating.
-I ride hard and usually give my bikes a beating. I've ridden this for around 200kms in two weeks, and it feels solid.
-Rode for 18 hours (Tagaytay ride) and it felt great.
-Very nimble, very responsive. Easier to stop and take-off.
-Frame rides as stiff as steel, but with less vibrations.
-Super light. I got up a VERY steep uphill in Silang, mashed only 10 to 20 meters of flat before attacking the slope. I got to the top without any problems.
-Rider will have a little bit of advantage when faced with headwinds (no pun intended). Since it's so light and is an aero frame, you can easily cut through it.
-Paint can chip off easily on the edges of the frame (headtube, seattube)
-Get's dirty very easy. I ride a glossy white frame.
-Crosswinds are a pain in the butt. Width of the downtube catches most of it, and the weight also becomes a factor as it can be easily swept by the sudden gusts of wind.
Bottomline:
- Very light, yet very solid.
- Bang for the freaking buck!
- Unless you're looking for a bike that cleans itself, there's no reason not to get one.
By aaronspokes
