Elves Falath Pro First Ride Review ‼️ 🙂 | RobbArmstrong
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- čas přidán 23. 07. 2024
- The first ride is in the books!! Hopefully I delivered some thorough content and information to you all, 🙂 Please drops some comments, leave some questions, and use my hashtag #RobbArmstrong 😎
#Elves #Cycling #ChinenseCarbonBike
Here are some Time Markers below:
Timecodes
0:00 - Intro
3:06 - Handling & Confidence
5:14 - Speed
14:14 - Bike Feel
22:16 - Conclusion & Recommendations
23:38 - Why I Built This Bike (Elves Falath Pro)
25:24 - Score Review
25:33 - Elves Disc Brake Future Review 👀
Cheap Chinese Carbon Bike Frame - Is it a good idea? 🤔
• Elves 🤔 | Chinese Carb...
Elves Falath Pro Preview 😎
• Elves Falath Pro Previ...
Elves Falath Pro “Unboxing” 😎🤍
• Elves Falath Pro “Unbo...
Elves Falath Pro Frameset “Deep Dive” 👨🏽🔬
• Elves Falath Pro Frame...
Elves Falath Pro, Stem/Swap 😎
• Elves Falath, Stem/Swap 😎
Subscribed immediately after watching this video. This is the review that common cyclists really need. Just like I don't need Ferrari or Lamborghini reviews at all. I own the Elves Vanyar Disc for 3 months and ride for around 1000km. 105 hydraulic groupset, exar pro DB45 wheels, GP5000 tyres, ridenow inner tube, Campagnolo disc rotors, bontrager elite saddle, 105 pedals, "the one" 1-piece handlebar. Weighted 7.62kg with all these components. this is my first road bike. i was riding 406 folding bike and 451 mini velo before. So not much comparison. It sure didn't impress me with super race car feeling. I'm 178 lbs and climb some average 10% hills each time. Some sections are 17-19%. I feel the frame is solid. There is no wired thing, sound, vibration even on full power climb or high speed descend so far. My reasons to get this frame: 1. Price 2. Availability and delivery. I'm in Hong Kong, just 2 hours from their factory. I confirmed my order with the size and color i need then I got it to my door for less than 3 weeks. It's kind of painful today to get a bike with the right size and the color you want. It usually takes 3-6 months at least. Customized colors is almost impossible on the big brands without extra money too. It is surely worth my money. I don't see significant difference compare to my friends' winspace T1500 and giant TCR. Thank you for your effort. Hope to see your long term review soon.
YOOO!!! All the way from Hong Kong, that's what's up! I hear you on the availability of frames especially something *custom. That was the main thing, which attracted me to the Elves. I wanted that custom paint! 🤣 Plus it was at no extra charge! 😳 You can't beat that. *Moreover the paint work is legit! My Trek is two-tone and side-by-side you can't tell the difference in finish or overall quality. For the money I spent I'M EXTREMELY HAPPY with what was delivered.
Are you on social media or anything? I'd love to check out your Elves build. Also, what's the riding like in Hong Kong? 👀
#RobbArmstrong
One of the best first ride impression videos I've seen. Very well thought out scoring and the way you break down your reasoning is easy for all us other cycling enthusiasts to relate too. You keep it REAL which is why I look forward to all your content. Stay safe this winter on the roads Bro and I'm looking forward to some updates on the Elves as you make the tweaks to setup. I also have that Zipp Sprint SL stem and the Zipp SL70 Aero bar and that front end is Stiff and gives great confidence.
Thanks Brother! I saw on your IG you roll that same Stem. The Zipp Sprint SL is NICE!! 🔥Probably one of my favorite stems, 🙂
#RobbArmstrong
As always a great video. You always out do yourself. Awesome , though. Looking forward to more rides and to hear how it does once you tweak it. Miss you bro, ride safe 🤙🏻
I appreciate it Big Bro! Definitely have to log some more miles on this thing and I'm looking forward to it! 🙂
#RobbArmstrong
Thank you for the video Rob. Ride quality seems to describe my last Cervelo. Like riding a hard tail motorcycle. Like you, I’m still going to get one at that price point!!
That’s a good explanation comparing hard tail motor cycle. As you stated, with the current price point you truly can’t beat it so why not, 🤷🏽♂️
#RobbArmstrong
Such a good, clean looking bike. Well done!
Much appreciated! 🙏🏾
#RobbArmstrong
I’m still riding an og dogma 60.1 and i wanna do some local cat 5’s this summer so this will do, Great review though, you’ve got another subscriber
Those Dogma’s are some good looking bikes!! Thanks for the feedback, 🙏🏾
#RobbArmstrong
Great review Rob! I am almost certain I'll be using this frame for my next build. The only thing that concerns me is where to mount the Di2 battery. How did you mount the battery to the frame? Thank you!!
Thanks for the feedback, 🙏🏾 The Di2 batter is mounted *inside the frame. Specifically mine is in the seattube.
#RobbArmstrong
@@robbarmstrong8702 Hi, Robb, just trying to build mine now, how did you secure the battery in the tube?? Did you use a kit for another bike?
I think you're probably right with your analysis I'm going to wait till the 2023 model comes out they want to get the bike UCI certified and that would possibly mean new carbon layup maybe a refresh frame design
I believe CZcamsr cam Nicholas will be one of the first to get the bike to play with.
I agree with you on that one, definitely would prefer the UCI certified one as well.
#RobbArmstrong
My man put out a solid video. Thanks for making it relevant brother. What frame did your pops get? I'm coming from an endurance geometry aluminum frame and made it a bit more aggressive but don't know if I'm ready for aero yet.
Much appreciate the feedback!! 🙏🏾
Dad has the Endurance frame and he says it’s the TRUTH!! Here’s the kicker. I’m going to visit him this week and I’ll give the Endurance Elves a go. If it’s the *truth as he states… I’m gonna buy one as well! ~More2Follow 🙂
#RobbArmstrong
@@robbarmstrong8702 by endurance you mean the Eglath?
Yes, #RobbArmstrong
@@robbarmstrong8702when you going to tell us how you felt about your pops ride?
Too much sauce bruh! Great upload.
Thanks Bro 🙏🏾 I put a lil time into this Video. I wanted to provide thorough feedback and articulate it in a relatable manner. Hopefully it’s well received. Now to send a direct link to Elves, 👀 I need that *DiscBrake Frameset, 😆
#RobbArmstrong
I enjoyed your reveiw.
You need to account for all angles and dimensions of the bike frames , exact dimensional set-up ( fit), with exact same parts , to say apples to apples. The weather has to be the same as well.
Every different set of wheels will give you a different ride.
Cheers
I really appreciate your feedback! I love engaging in conversation with folks and hearing their different viewpoints. One of the best things about YT, (IMO) 🙂
I did state in the Video that in order for it to be “Apples to Apples” all measures would have to be the same, which they weren’t. Definitely need more miles on the bike and more than likely another set of wheels. Been looking at the #Winspace Hypers, 🤔 I wonder if they’ll give me the *Speed I want. We shall see & more to follow 👈🏽
#RobbArmstrong
Ahh man I love my disc stealth black Falath .. gonna shred the miles, went out on my first ride the other day… loved it… the quality I think is insane, compared to your mainstream market, I’ve had Treks with paint and lacquer runs (I must of been unlucky) , and had Giants, Ribble’s and Vitus bikes too (with minimal fuss) but bang for buck I’ll always recommend Elves.. I think this old premise that Chinese products are rubbish is dated and elitist. (Granted… some are, just do the research) Nice video! Keep it up.
Definitely agree with you on the quality. Quality and Price Point really puts it in its own category. Glad it’s working out for you, 🙂 I may need to upgrade to a Falath Disc, 🤔
#RobbArmstrong
What size is your Falath frame? I want to buy one Elves Falath, maybe you could help me with two measures I need to know of the frame...
Maybe I will not buy an elves frame after this video you're a very good come hearing the two bikes the track I have a track as well as just getting a bit old so it's time to upgrade very interesting thanks again mate thank you very much🇦🇺🤗
No problem Brother. I think the Elves is a solid bike but… it’s not a *BigBrand bike. That’s just my 2cents, 🤷🏽♂️
#RobbArmstrong
Nice video thank you 😊
Thanks! I appreciate the feedback! 😎
#RobbArmstrong
Hey "A" ur so rite about that fugi.in 2020 i meet a guy at the TD bike tour.he. had a fugi simular to the one u just displayed.he let me ride it .i luvd it. I tried.finding a 52 and the color no joy
YES!! 🙌🏾 the “Bike Feel” of the Fuji Norcom is an experience in itself!! Finding one is hard but if you do… 🗣️ GET IT‼️ Definitely won’t disappoint, 😎
#RobbArmstrong
Very eye opening and excellent review. I have a Pinarello F10 with Campy Super Record EPS4 and like it but gave so so wheels. Mavic Kryserium aluminum. Maybe before I get a Factor Ostro with Campy EPS4 and maybe Fast-forward wheels, I will just get the wheels for my F10.
I have always ridden Campy and know Shimano is good but in my mind not Campy.
And so glad you didn't play that torturous music this video so I wouldn't have to call the suicide prevention line lol 😆.
Again awesome review 👏.
Bro!! I dunno how I feel about your Music comment, 🤣 Just to let you know. I specifically went out and acquired new music jus for you, 🫶🏾 #YourWelcome, 😎
Now that F10, 👀 those Pinarello’s are SUPER SEXY!! & which Ostro? I really REALLY like the VAM. Also their new one-piece bar/stem that comes on the Gravel Bike is 🔥 The narrowest offer is 360 🤯 I personally like 380 bars but would like to try a 360. If they offer it as an individual option I’ll purchase it for the Trek (360/90) 👈🏽
#RobbArmstrong
@@robbarmstrong8702 Hi Rob: I apologize I was referring to your previous music. Not the music on this video.
And really folks want to see you and hear your opinion not music (in my humble opinion but what do I know). And this video was AWESOME and very well organized and opened my eyes. Thanks for the education.
Oh and I was referring to the Factor Ostro VAM. But that will be down the road ($$$ and I don't have any lol).
Heyo. Where did you put the Di2 Battery?? I am looking for a spot but I dont know where...
In all my builds I put the Di2 Battery in the seatpost. Plenty of space in the Falath seatpost.
#RobbArmstrong
Instant subscribe! Now I am stucked between giant propel advance 2 or this elves falath. I came from a merida reacto 400 which is an aluminum frame. Can you help me decide?
Merida is a brand many don’t know about! A few of my buddies had them when I was in Korea. I was trying to get the Reacto 4000 Blk/Red colorway but could never find one in my size, ☹️
I think the Falath is a solid bike. Additionally for the price, nothing really touches it, IMO.
#RobbArmstrong
Great review! I just built my falath pro disc 2 months ago and I absolutely love it! I upgraded from a Chinese aluminum frame that is so heavy.
Of course my experience overall will be great since i came from an alloy frame. Harsh ride was significantly reduced, gained more speed, comfort is really good. My lower back always hurt on my alloy bike. Guess my saddle also plays a big role on the ride comfort. Im lucky enough to snag a fizik 3d saddle from someone who sold it to me after his iron man last august 😅
What would you recommend for an upgrade on the falath? Im thinking of giant propel or build a climbing bike. Any recommendation? Thanks Rob!
THATS AWESOME! & I'm glad it's working for you. I hear a bad ass Climbing bike is the Supersix EVO. If I ever find an older rim brake frameset I'd be up for building it up! Whenever I watch hill climbing races, there's a lot of folks on the Supersix EVO 😎
#RobbArmstrong
@@robbarmstrong8702 thank you! Will check out the super six. For climbing frames actually I’m checking out the winspace SLC 2.0 or maybe stretch my budget for a regular factor O2 and be done with my build heheh. I’m not really a climber but slowly loving it.
What about on aero frames giant propel or the canyon aeroad is the most logical upgrade budget wise?
I like the Canyon AeroRoad. My buddy has one and LOVES IT! Best of both worlds would be the Factor Ostro VAM, (IMO). The SystemSix is “The AeroBike” four of my friends have one and the all swear by it. There’s this guy on YT who has both bikes: Ostro VAM & the SystemSix EVO who made a video talking about both. Check it out, 👀
#RobbArmstrong
czcams.com/video/GYk7xEQtr4E/video.html
What size is your Falath frame? I want to buy one Elves Falath, maybe you could help me with two measures I need to know of the frame...
@@josepz Mine is size 49 with 120mm stem and I'm 170cm
Thanks for sharing man. Maybe you have to ride it a little bit more. One thing... a slightly heavy bike keeps momentum better than a lightweight one, on descents and on flats. Ride safe
Definitely have to ride it some more! I wish it were summer time already! I miss the warmer weather and longer days, ☹
#RobbArmstrong
@@robbarmstrong8702 I understand you although I'm from the Caribbean... We have sunset at 18:05 here in this season
I’ll take some Caribbean food!! 🤤😆
#RobbArmstrong
Great video! I want to buy this exact frame, but I have a doubt. On the paper, it seems to be shorter than usual, for the stack... is that right? According Elves sizes table, I am between M49 and L52.. maybe you can help me, if you could measure the horizontal distance from the seat tube center to the head tube center, parallel to the ground, and the vertical distance from the wheel quick release (or the ground) to the top of the handlebar, and the frame size, it would be a great help...
All those measurements are on their website. Whether you choose a M49 or a L52 will depend on how you want your bike to fit and that’s all personal preference, 🤷🏽♂️
#RobbArmstrong
@@robbarmstrong8702 THANKS for the answer Yes, I know how the bike must fit me, but I dont know this measures, and in their web aren't... They have reach, but the real distance depends on seat tube angle and head tube angle, so the best way is measure that on a real bike...
I hear you and understand completely what you’re saying. As stated before, those measurements, to include *SeatTube angle & *HeadTube angle are on their site within the Geometry table.
Calculating *YourFit with a setup of personal preference… there are too many variables in that equation for me to provide a solid answer. If you’re currently riding something, compare your bike fit data with the *New Frameset data or seek additional counsel from Elves directly or your local bike shop. That’d be my best advice to you.
#RobbArmstrong
@@robbarmstrong8702 Again, thanks for your answer. I am not asking you about an advice for my bike fit, I really know it. What I asked was the measure on your real frame to be sure the geometry in Elves web is right, because numbers seems too low for reach and top tube length values for the sizes. I really asked Elves about it, but they don't answered me yet...Anyway, thanks for your time and support, I appreciate your advice to go for professional bike fitting, I did it, but it It is of no use to me if the real frame measurements do not correspond with the ones on the paper.
Bro, I’m tracking what you’re saying.
The data you seek, exact numbers, all of that is in the geometry table on their site. The numbers are the numbers, 🤷🏽♂️ If the numbers seem too low, then the Elves frame may not be the frameset for you.
#RobbArmstrong
Agreed. I just subscribed.
THANKS! I appreciate it, 🙏🏾
#RobbArmstrong
Hier is hij dan: de Elves Faalangst. Succes...
Could the 65 mil wheels be the reason why it’s harder to get up to speed.
The wheels were 60mm, but to answer your question, I don’t think it was because of the wheels. Even once up to speed the bike didn’t hold speed week. I have another set of wheel that I’ve rode for a while that I know are fast. They’re a 40/50 depth. I put those on and it still felt the same. On my TT Bike I ride a 56mm tri-spoke up front and a 88mm out back on 25mm tires and it rides FAR better than the Falath did. I guess it jus wasn’t the bike for Me, ☹️
Do you use the same hubs and drivetrain as the Trek?
Hubs, as in Wheelset?
Both bikes are equipped with Di2 and Quarq Powermeters. The Trek has Ultegra components and Quarq Crank. The Falath has DuraAce components and SRAM Red Crank.
#RobbArmstrong
Hey Rob- I'm torn between the Elves Falath and the Eglath. Wondering if you can comment on the difference between the two after your dad has been riding the Eglath. 🙏 Thanks
HEY!! 🙂 Dad has been 🗣️ ABSOLUTELY LOVING HIS Eglath. He says he prefers it over his Project1 Domane SLR! & that says a lot 👈🏽
Regardless which you decide, I’d definitely recommend a disc brake version over a rim brake. To get more granular in the decision making process I would say: Of the two framesets, which geometry suits you the best for the type of riding you enjoy engaging in, 🤔 (Geometry & Fit) is everything, 👀
Lastly, what are you currently riding?
#RobbArmstrong
Thanks for the reply, Rob and glad to hear that your dad is liking the Eglath. Yeah, I'm definitely going to disc brakes, for sure - that's the main reason I'm changing bikes. Right now I'm riding an endurance frame Olmo Zerocinque with full campy and 60mm wheels. I'm looking for more aero, but I'm 42 yrs old (but still pushing a 306 ftp) and don't mind an endurance geometry as long as I have deep wheels...
@@ianhagarty2764 Nice setup!! If you are pushing for more *aero then I would go with the Falath. It is their "Aero Bike".
How do you like Campy groupset? I've always wanted to try their *SuperRecord 13speed. Maybe one day, 🙂
#RobbArmstrong
Hey Rob, did Elves hook you up with a promo code? Any ideas about how to get one? Thanks!
They absolutely did not! ☹️ I haven’t been accepted into the YT “Cool Kids” club yet, 🤷🏽♂️ I did reach out to Elves directly and ask if the would like to work a *future product with me… they didn’t even respond, 🤣 sorry brother.
#RobbArmstrong
This was the BEST bike review I've seen on youtube, and I've watched a TON of bike reviews. so many reviews are just youtubers with 100K subscribers that get a new bike to review (given to them or loaned to them as part of advertising) youtuber saying it is great, and then moves on to the next bike... Or they do a bike build video. I need (we viewers need) more reviews like yours that tell us how the bike feels, handles, accelerates, and holds speed (also how it does with turn-in and if you can adjust your line mid corner). I built up a trifox X18 (based trace velo, and Oz cycling rave reviews of the trifox X10)... the trifox X18 was horrible. I dumped like $2K into that bike and was lucky to be able to sell it for $1600 with about 200 miles on it. You can get an excellent used bike for a little over 2K.
I tried to be as transparent as possible and provide the feedback I know folks want to hear. IMO, many of the YT reviews be watered down and kinda bias, ☹️
#RobbArmstrong
What size is your elves frame
I have a few Video’s on the Elves frame and I’m certain I mentioned the size. I don’t remember off the top of my head. I had that frame so long ago.
#RobbArmstrong
I have one on order...I'll find out what it's all about this Spring.
I’d be interested to hear your feedback on it, 🙂
#RobbArmstrong
@@robbarmstrong8702 I'll hit you up once I get it built and ridden...maybe even do a video. I've always cycled on the cheap, so I don't have anything luxurious to compare it to, but I've been riding and racing the past 17 years, so I got some saddle time.
@@seanwil545 You def have the experience and believe me, folks want to hear what you gotta say about it! *DropTheVideo 👀
#RobbArmstrong
@seanwil545 So how is it?
👀, #RobbArmstrong
Speed is important
Facts, 👈🏽
#RobbArmstrong
what size frame and how tall are you?
I’m 5’6 and sized *down to a “M” sized frame. I should have gotten a “L” frame.
#RobbArmstrong
How can you make a comparison if you're not using the exact same wheels and crank, tires and Air pressure?
Sounds like there should be some sort of reevaluation, 🤔 Everything doesn’t have to be the *exact same in order to form an opinion based off *your personal experiences.
I personally prefer Apples 🍏 over Oranges 🍊. “How can you make a comparison like that?” My personal experience 👈🏽
#RobbArmstrong
Those wheels are too bling
A Perfect Match, 🥹
#RobbArmstrong
Put latex tubes in it and try again
*Heard 👈🏽, Nothing like a fresh pair of Corsa Latex Tubes, 😎
#RobbArmstrong
Nice video but I have to disagree with you because I think the ELVES FALATH ROCKS. I currently own a 2022 Elves Pro disc running 65mm Hyper wheels, gp5000 with Sram rival groups set 10/ 28 cassette with over 2000 miles now in the saddle that I build up myself. czcams.com/users/shortsJm_j8gijZ7Q My other bike is a 2019 Specialized Roubaix with 50mm Superteam wheels, gp5000 and Shimano ultegra 12 speed 11/25 cassette and I must add this was the 3rd Specialized road bike I've owned before the Elves. I ride the flats in South Florida so speed and aero is a must. I found hands down the Elves to be all around a better bike then any of my previous bikes in the areas in comfort, speed, handling and maintaining speeds in a group rides ect. I feel your Elaves was at a disadvantage during your review mainly due to the fact that your Elves had a different set up in one main area such as cheaper wheel set compared to the Trek which makes a HUGE difference whether your coasting, group rides or all in effort. Also during your comparison was there a headwind or tailwind? Were you drafting? My point is to really have a fair bike review you need to test the bike under the same conditions, road, wind, using similar or the same components such as wheel set, tires, psi ect. and not tested in group rides but independently to receive the best data possible to obtain the best comparison. Again, I ride the flats in FL and most all in the riders here have the top tear bikes (Treks, S-Works Pinarello, Bianchi, Cervelo i.e.) with top of the line components on them, my Elaves at half the cost has been a dominating machine regardless if it's a century ride or crit race. I think the more time you have in the saddle along with some upgraded components added you may have a different perspective about your Elves. Sorry for the long winded reply and thanks again for the review.
My Man’s wrote me a small book! 😳 To be honest, I truly appreciate the long comment and I’ll reply in the same manner. There’s so much I wanna address here, 🙂
1. I watched your Falath Build video and… Your color selection is DOPE!! Why did you take the *Short down? 🙁 I’m hearing so much about these *Hyper wheels. I may have to get me a set, 🤔
2 You stated “I feel your Elves was at a disadvantage during your review mainly due to the fact that your Elves had a different set up in one main area such as cheaper wheel set compared to the Trek which makes a HUGE difference whether your coasting, group rides or all in effort. Also during your comparison was there a headwind or tailwind? Were you drafting?”
A few key things, this is the First Ride Review. They’ll be more rides and a long term review of course, 🙂 Now I do believe the wheels on my Trek are better than the Elves but… the wheelset on the Elves isn't jus a knock off. They’re equipped with ceramic bearing’s, CX-Ray spokes etc… I just never mentioned the wheel name (mainly because their customer service was SUPER trash and I wouldn’t want anyone to go through the same thing I did especially when they spend their hard earned money). The HUGE difference here, which folks are overlooking is, the Trek Emonda is a climbing bike, which I built for comfort (23mm internal width rims, 32mm tires etc) that just happens to be fast. The Elves is a *true aero-bike. That’s what made me look into the speed thing. If I had the Endurance Elves frameset, I would have never thought about the speed. As far as the ride. Both rides was jus me and my buddy Kris. No headwinds, no tailwinds, no drafting, we were jus on a casual ride knocking out some miles.
I do agree to an extent about making *fair reviews. Having all control measures the same makes sense but that wasn’t the point of my observation. I’m simply saying that for an Aero-Bike with more aero advantages it should be faster than a Climbing-Bike, 🤷🏾♂️ But I could be wrong though.
*Change Topic
How do you like your SuperTeam wheels? I have a SuperTeam TT Wheelset that I have about 3,500 miles on! & I've had them on three(3) TT Bikes. For the money they are great wheels and have held up great! I really need to do a whole video on them alone.
#RobbArmstrong
@@robbarmstrong8702 Thanks for your response back. My short video actually isn't down, when uploading it went to my other account so it's still posted on CZcams when you search 2022 Elves Falath pro. In regards to the Superteam wheel set they are a very good wheel for the money but are very heavy and do not roll anywhere as fast as the Hyper's. As well my 65mm Hyper's are much lighter than my 50mm Superteam both with GP5000 28's as well as they come equipped with ceramic bearings. The inner workings of the Superteam wheel set are old school tech. compared the Hypers and difficult to services IMO. For $600 more in difference in price after Hyper's 10% discount code it's well worth the extra cost for the befits you received. Again, thanks for you review and great video as for me my set up has proven exceptional, with over 2000 miles now I wouldn't change a thing with my Elves, Hyper's and Sram set up..
@@tcobbster How tall are you and which size of Falath have you chosen?
@@tcobbster That's whats up! I'm glad to hear you are enjoying your build. I put some more miles on the bike today and with the minor adjustments it was definitely an improvement, 🙂
#RobbArmstrong
@@MarianBobolny I am 5'6 and my frame size is M/49.
#RobbArmstrong
I could be the bearings on your rims
Yeah I don’t know because the bearings are ceramic, 🤷🏽♂️
#RobbArmstrong
To many variables with your speed 'test' data
Variables, yes. My stance on the data was, for an *AeroBike it should naturally be faster than a *Climbing bike. According to bike feel, which is completely subjective, it didn’t feel faster. When looking at data from a route a normally ride, it wasn’t faster on any part of the route, 🤷🏽♂️
#RobbArmstrong