TanTan x38 Review - Aero Isn't Everything

Summary

In this video, the reviewer shares their experience with the Tantan X38 Aero frame set, discussing its components, weight, and performance after four to five weeks of use. They highlight the frame's aerodynamics, lightness, and value for money at $700, while addressing minor drawbacks like the need for paint to prevent headset rattling. The reviewer compares its ride feel to higher-priced bikes, noting it's not as refined but suitable for fast rides and sprints, with a comfortable seat post that surprises by absorbing road bumps.

Takeaways

• 🚴 The video introduces a new Tantan X38 Aero frame set, which the reviewer purchased personally for $700 USD.
• 🎨 The frame set is raw carbon without paint, which saves some weight but can cause rattling in the headset bearings.
• 🔢 The bike's total weight is approximately 7.3 kilograms, which is considered light for an aero frame.
• ⚙️ The bike features an integrated cockpit, a 120mm stem, and SRAM eTap AXS Force groupset.
• 💺 A full-on carbon S-Works power saddle with 143mm width and 7x9 carbon rails is used, contributing to the bike's light weight.
• 🚴‍♂️ The reviewer's first experience with a 1x setup, using a 52-tooth chainring and 10-30 cassette for drivetrain efficiency.
• 🔩 The bike uses a ceramic T47 bottom bracket from Panda Podium, which offers smooth performance at a reasonable price.
• 🛠️ The wheels are Machine DB508 XR Ultra, with 50mm front and 58mm rear depth, carbon spokes, and ceramic bearings, weighing around 1380 grams.
• 🌟 The bike's performance is not as refined as higher-priced bikes, especially on rough pavement, but it holds speed well and is suitable for fast group rides.
• 💰 For $600, the Tantan X38 frame set offers good value with its aero profile, comfort, and speed capabilities, though it lacks the refinement of more expensive bikes.

Q & A

What is the main feature of the Tantan X38 frame set discussed in the video?

The main feature of the Tantan X38 frame set is its super aero design, which is unapologetically aero and stands out compared to many other bikes on the market.

How much does the Tantan X38 frame set cost and how long does it take to ship?

The Tantan X38 frame set costs about 700 USD and it takes about three to four weeks to ship due to it coming from China.

What is unique about the paint job on the Tantan X38 frame set?

The Tantan X38 frame set is unique in that it has no paint; it's completely raw carbon unfinished. The rider has added gold decals to enhance its appearance.

What is the weight of the Tantan X38 bike without additional components?

The Tantan X38 bike weighs approximately 7.3 kilograms without a power meter, pedals, or a computer mount.

What components were used to achieve the light weight of the Tantan X38 bike?

The light weight of the Tantan X38 bike is achieved through the use of an integrated cockpit, a full-on carbon saddle, a 1x setup, ceramic T47 bottom bracket, and lightweight wheels.

Why did the reviewer choose to use a 1x setup on the Tantan X38 bike?

The reviewer chose a 1x setup because they are in a flat area where they never use the small ring on their other road bikes, and they wanted to experiment with this setup on an affordable bike.

What is the gear ratio equivalent to the 52 tooth chainring and 10-30 cassette setup on the Tantan X38 bike?

The gear ratio equivalent to the 52 tooth chainring and 10-30 cassette setup is like a 57 by 11 in a Shimano drivetrain setup.

What are the specifications of the Machine DB508 XR Ultra Wheels used on the Tantan X38 bike?

The Machine DB508 XR Ultra Wheels have 50mm depth in the front and 58mm in the rear, carbon spokes, ceramic bearings, an external width of 30mm, and an internal width of 23mm.

What are some of the dislikes the reviewer has about the Tantan X38 frame set?

The reviewer dislikes the rattling noise from the headset bearings due to the unpainted frame, limited saddle adjustment range, and the difficulty in aligning the caliper to the rotor because of the frame's quality.

How does the Tantan X38 frame set perform on the road, especially at higher speeds?

The Tantan X38 frame set performs well on the road, especially when the pace gets fast. It's not the most refined ride but offers a sense of speed and is suitable for fast group rides and sprinting.

What are the reviewer's final thoughts on the Tantan X38 frame set considering its price point?

The reviewer can recommend the Tantan X38 frame set for its aero profile, comfort, and speed capabilities at the price point of 600 USD, but notes it lacks refinement and road composure compared to higher-priced frames.