FC 100 Frame

Carbon Frame

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1200 grams (54 CM) with carbon tubes and alloy lugs. 700C with clearance for 25 mm tires.

Neuvation carbon frames are 100% hand built using the same geometries as my alloy bike. Each tube is specially formed to optimize it’s intended use. The tubing is bulged to increase strength without increasing weight. The oversized downtube and chain stays give a stiff, yet forgiving ride.

I use alloy lugs primarily because I think it’s extremely important that the bike geometries are done correctly. Click here for more on this subject. If I were to go to a monocoque design I would either have to pay for 6 very expensive tools or use off the shelf geometry. Because I believe a good fit is the most important thing on any bicycle, I have opted to go this route.

A case in point, and I won’t mention the brand (because they are almost all the same). I am building up a bike for an industry exec who got the frame from one of the very high end bike companies. It’s a beautiful Pro Tour level bike that weighs below 900 grams. A thing of beauty. It’s a 52 CM frame. I ride a 54 Neuvation frame and it fits like a glove with a 100 mm stem. On the 52 of this other bike company, I need an 80 mm stem to have a similar (but still longer) fit. The bike is too long for me and I am certain it’s going to be way to long for him. Nice bike though but he will never be comfortable on it.

Frame quality is the result of a combination of materials, workmanship, and design (engineering). I first visited my current supplies about 6 years ago when he was supplying one of the high end French bicycle companies with much of their carbon fiber (frames, forks, etc.). He had been one of the key engineers working with the first carbon frames being produced in Taiwan (another big name). He’s been doing carbon as long as anyone on the island. Last June I visited many carbon makers on my frame sourcing trip and it was clear to me his quality is as good as any. Since he has a longer history with carbon he makes better products.

Value. Just like my wheel program, I buy direct from the factory and sell direct to you, the consumer. While this comment is often overused, it’s very hard to argue with the simplicity and clarity of it. People often equate price with quality but the quote from Peter Drucker on my home page is more often than not more accurate. There is nothing wrong with buying Pro Tour bikes but you should be fully aware of what you are paying for.

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	Kiren Racer	May 9, 2008	John Yellow	TORONTO ON CA
	Awesome ride , almost impossible for the price tag . i purchased 2000 of these to bring to japan for Kiren Racing . The Japanese cannot believe the quality... more...