May I suggest Trace Velo do a Power Meter video series next? The crankset is probably the last thing that hasn’t been upgraded on the fully carbon bike.
The kinda sad part is that chinese manufacturers actually react to problems with their product and solve it when western manufacturer just calculate that the problem is not worthy to be solved and wait just for the next generation.
@@bergerniklas6647 it's likely due to the larger companies having a large stock so it would be a waste to chuck it all away. But I still agree that it is annoying
usually i just skip to the good part but you keep me from skipping cause every second is useful and entertaining too! what an underrated channel. keep it up!
I had the 9 to 10 shifting problem, which I could never figure out. The derailleur seemed well aligned to me. After 6 months, the problem went away, so I had assumed it was a machining problem on the cassette that was worn away with usage. I've been mostly happy with my Sensah gear, and thank you for being a valuable technical resource on their products.
I've had the same problem on my bike a few weeks ago, when i asked my mechanic, he said it was normal because it was new, fresh from the factory and overtime the chain, cassette and rd will eventually adapt to the shifting, which eventually it did
@@nelsonglover3963for their domestic market, very true. For the big world market, they do care enough to make tiny changes that might hold up in court or just plans to change the name of the company at a moments notice. (the latter is still far too common) The easiest, most sustainable and least expensive option is to wait for the patents for core mechanisms to expire, copy them and only make changes to avoid proprietary connectors or other small parts they are unable to source domestically for cheap. The end result is a rolling release of older tech using industrial standard parts - which is awesome for consumers and why patents were intended to expire in the first place.
My 105 right shifter from 2006 finally died. After watching this video I ordered the Sensah Phi (which is the 2x10 non-carbon) version of this shifter. Initial impression is very good. It's actually shifting better than my 16 year old 105 shifter did. To be fair though I can't really remember how smooth it was when it was new. It's been pretty janky the last couple of years. Just wanted to say thanks for doing this review. I never would have gone with a chinese shifter before subscribing to your channel.
As always top shelf old chap and how you put the paid presentation up the front instead of blending it in like certain dubious characters so you can’t g see an what is right an honourable is a true despiction of your depth of character. I take my hat 🎩 off to you sir .
I do my best Richard 🙂 Not everyone can be arsed with the sponsor spot, so I try and keep it brief and to the point these days!!! But glad you appreciate it 🙏🙏🙏
@@abedfo88 Interesting. Now, even for the smallest thing, Aliexpress shows tax for UK sales. I suppose it's a good thing, as long as the tax is sent to UK govt!
Hi Luke, I'm happy your name hasn't changed. Last week I received my sensah empire groupset and a new 11 speed chainset, now I only need to get some specific tools and a clamp for the front derailleur and will perform the jump from 8 speed to 11 speed on my GT ZR 2000 (I'm ready to take the hub's cassette body to a friend that is quite experienced with a lathe if the larger cassette was to present fitting problems). After almost six years with this bike I'm super stoked! Thank you for providing me and others with products reviews, experiences, useful tips and great comedic bits. I hope you keep the videos coming!
Cheers from S. Korea! Although I'm a MTB'er I watch your channel as it has helped me on making purchasing decisions on several occasions. I purchase various products (i.e. electronic amp parts, bike parts, etc.) from China (Ali), sometimes things can be hit or miss but there are a lot of legit items you can get from Ali as most major mnc's around the globe have their manufacturing based in China and technology eventually 'leaks' out. For my bike upgrades I prefer to use budget parts as I don't race DH and not everyone needs $1,000 parts for casual XC riding. Keep up the good work and you my friend deserve waaaaaay more subs, I've recommended your channel to friends here so hopefully you can continue producing good quality, unbiased content for the majority of riders~
Trace Velo: Buy cheaper bike components and save money over alternatives also Trace Velo: LMAO just replaced this component that works fine for the 15th time :P
Ended up getting those titanium chinaplay pedals that you are rocking Luke and gotta say, I'm a fan. Definitely took a bit of getting used to, but I prefer the comfort so much more, esp with the guard on, you can walk about without seeming like a clown. Great video as always though. Has me spending more time on AliExpress than I normally do =V
Nice! Really glad you liked the pedals, a lot of people messaged me to say they had issues clipping in, but glad you managed to get them working for you. I freaking love my set, I've never looked back!
Would love a vid on head units. You're on Garmin, I am leaning towards buying a Karoo 2 because of the mapping quality. Fab stuff as ever, you show more detail than others and never patronise, well done for that.
M2 blackout jersey ftw!! Grandad was wise with the poke in the eye 👀... Love the seamless referencing to your previous work. Shows how much you cover! Can't believe you poked GCN, I love that channel! So glad you're fully honest as I too stopped the potentially wearing section but it shows your attention to detail. Honesty as well, so refreshing that you're humble as well as informative. More funnies!! I think you could have put a Bender reference (bite my shiny metal ass) in somewhere...
I ride both pedals & motorbikes, yet having seen the quality of budget Chinese components for both I can only assume that you are a very brave man indeed to trust so much cheap Chinese kit. I love your quirky, fun videos, but I don't think you will ever tempt me away from my Japanese bikes. I have an old original Sun Tour XC Pro MD Crank set from 1990 (that is probably older that you!) ) and it is still going strong on my MTB along with the XT deraileurs and DX thumbies I paired it with. Shimano kit is great and I am an old dinosaur! Damn I feel old now...
Loving your content, even though I have click on the notifications bell I still goes to your channel to check if new content published. Subscriber from Malaysia
Fantastic channel, has inspired me to build my own. I bought the 2x11 Empire and have almost finished a bike with it. The front derailleur seems to take 1 full and 1 half push (3 clicks) to change up or down the front cogs. Is that normal of have I been an idiot and messed something up ?
Great channel. I did purchase a Sensah SRX Pro group set in an effort to make an ultimate road climber - it failed miserably. The front chain ring could not tolerate the torque and bent. The derailleur would down shift all on it's own. The chain was of very poor quality. All of his installed by a tenured bike mechanic. I threw the entire set out an went with full Sram components. Yes, a few bucks more but the shifting is flawless. By way of mention I did do this build on an Elves frame which seems quie good and wen with ICAN rims that seem to be performing well. Chinese cycling products seem to be hit or miss.
Hey Luke, now time to test chinese gps bike computers and sensors (hrm, cadence, speed), wdt?! Almost no video on yt about it with nice performance and explanation as yours! ) Cheerz!
Yes, this garmin computer kind of doesn't pass to the bike! :p I am using the Cycplus M1 computer from Ali with cadence and heart rate sensor... For the price absolutely fantastic (and would definitely look better on Luke's bike)
I decided to give a try to the 12 speed version of this groupset. I'll give you my impressions of it as soon as it gets installed and after a couple rides.
I really like your videos but have to say that I haven't had a good experience with siroko. I bought a jersey and bibs after seeing the ad in one of your videos. And after a few times of wearing the bibs had a hole in them. I've only hand washed them as it said in the instructions. Siroko did not refund me and there is no way to review the items in their shop so I thought I would share my experience here.
FYI, I never handwash bibs or jerseys (just save that for waterproof jackets and gilets). They go in the front loader washing machine. I wear cheap clothing from Ali Express too: Spexcel, RION, etc and they last for 5+ years easy
@@richardggeorge I've ordered a bib from rion and a jersey from specxel. Both arrived last week and I am impressed! Thank you for the recommendation! Both pieces look and feel great.
I was surprised too when the video shows the Sensah Empire is also Carbon fiber As an owner of a budget aero bike with a Sensah 2x11 groupset, this is really interesting^^
Another great vid Luke! Am absolutely loving the channel; you are head and shoulders more fun and informative than GCN. Thanks to you I'm rocking a new gravel bike build using Sensah's SRX Pro 1x groupset with ZRace crankset (plus an absolute feast of cheap Chinese carbon finishing kit!) I've done about 2,000 miles on the groupset now and it hasn't missed a beat. The downshift is the best I've ever used on any mechanical shifter! I'm not sure how good the clutch mechanism is but that's only because I haven't used any other type; I do get a bit of chain slap though if it's really rough. The only problem I've had has been with the flimsy barrel adjuster on the rear mech which kept loosening as I rode. I've just locked it out and use the downtube adjuster now. I paid less for the entire drivetrain including the bottom bracket than I would have done for a pair of 105 levers. I've recently installed a pair of Juin Tech callipers and so far I'm really impressed compared with the TRP HY/RD's I had on the bike before. I'm looking forward to your review of the brakes. Please, please keep up the great work, everyone I know is watching and loving it!
I've managed to strip the non-drive side crank (Shimano) bolt head hex slot TWICE. Now I put on some anti-seize compound on the crank bolt thread and regular grease on other bolts.
I really like watching your videos. You actually make me think about new bike on 2022 season and I really think about build it on my own. All your content on YT makes me ispired to do it. but firstly i have to collect some wifecoins to be able to start the project :) Greetings from Poland. Keep goin with your stuff and let the Sensah be with you xD
I broke my Tiagra shifters and replaced them with Sensah Quantum shifters (the ten speed version of Empire), which are 100% compatible with Shimano. If anything I prefer them to the original Tiagra shifters. Shifting is very crisp and now I've got used to the SRAM style double-tap system I think I prefer it. In fact I'd say the Sensah shifting system is actually better than SRAM system as you shift with the main brake lever rather than a smaller secondary lever. Recommended...very well made shifters and super cheap.
I suspect the reason why the old rear derailleur could not be removed was a lack of grease in the threads. Aluminum and steel can fuse together over time if not adequately greased.
UPDATE: Today the screw from the above little-wheel of the rear derailleur (IDK how it is called in English) just fell out and I had to stop, take the whole thing out and screw it again into the derailleur
@@daniellopez9622 derailleur jockey wheels should have threadlocking compound to stop screws/bolts from coming loose e.g. Loctite Threadlocker Blue 242. Maybe the Sensah ones didn't come with it, or not enough?
@@richardggeorge UPDATE: The bearings inside the jockey wheel were all broken and the screw didn't match the cage anymore, the cage expanded itself and after replacing the jockey wheels with the Ultegra ones the cage of the derailleur did not hold the screws and it just broke... Luckily I was near home.
@@daniellopez9622 Sorry to hear that. Doesn't sound like the jockey wheels are very durable. I have several shimano ones that are over 10 years old. I have 4 road bikes though
The company Finish Line has an anti-seize assembly lube. Here in Germany you get it for 5€ (22 ml) which should last for quite a while and will prevent any cold welding of screws etc.
Hi trace. I noticed youve changed your calipers to Juin techs from the Pro ones. It will be really interesting if you do a review/comparison between them.
Yeah I recon you're probably right. Galvanic corrosion could def have a played a part, but yeah stuck a bit of high viscosity oil in there this time, should hopefully keep it from happening
Here's another bit of information - the pulley cages on the Sensah derailleur's are not replaceable, they are locked in my rivets. I reached out to both Sensah and Lingmai (who seems to have provided the OSPW for this rear derailleur) and they both confirmed that the derailleur pulley cage is not replacement / interchangeable. I guess that's one way Sensah keeps their cost down. I was looking at replacing the pulley cage as mine was totalled in a rear derailleur hanger issue.
Great video Luke, one suggestion is could you please add 20% VAT to the UK prices in brackets since we have been shafted and things aint so cheap anymore
Hey Luke! Been waiting for this since I was the IG post. I saw in the Aliepexress listing that there's' an option for up to 36t cassette. Is this because of the OSPW rd or can the non OSPW version accommodate 36t as well? Seems like a perfect gs for gravel paired with a subcompact 46/30t crank.
The reason why they don't put on bearing seals on the pulley wheels is because its responsible for around 60% of the bearing drag, that's 20 times more than the effect of the ceramic balls. So they spin nicely without preload when you do the spinning test, which doesn't reflect the conditions while riding. It goes without saying that the seals are majorly important so dirt don't get in and the lubricant doesn't get out....if you replace the bearing with good industry standard bearings(NTN, NSK,SKF) you should be fine though.
Thanks for the comment Felix 👌 Makes alot of sense actually, removing the seals would def reduce drag and make them spin nicely. I wonder if it is also a bit of a cost saving measure aswell...?
@@TraceVelo well that's knowledge out the hambini schoolbook ;-) feel free to visit his video on the matter from 4 years ago. I guess the seals cost 2-3 cents so not really. Interesting sidenote 0 OSPWs in the Top10 of the mens olympic TT if there was marginal gains you would think the worldtour pros would be using them
Yeah totally fair comment. You would also think that if Shimano thought there was a benefit to it, they would have stuck one on their dura ace setup, and charged a few extra bucks...
Hey Luke, what brakeset do you have on your bike? And cassette? Cheers PS, might I suggest Bones skateboard bearings lube and cleaning your bearings with pure acetone?
Seen frozen mount bolts quite often. Generally all the lube leeches out because of poor sealing and you get corrosion. Oil or a rebuild every so often sorts it.
So currely using Juin tech F1’s. Love them tbh, obviously won't come close to a full hydraulic setup in terms of brake feel, but I've had no issues with them!
Trace velo 👏🏻👌🏻👍🏻 please will you do a retro mtb clunker build. Something you can leave locked up outside the shops but that can bring a massive smile to your face! Maybe a bit of an odd ball! Thanks for your videos they’re awesome!
Because my room is quite small, I often find it easier to just flip the bike upside down. To be fair does kinda negate the point of owning a bike stand tho 🤣🤣
Trace,tools are the trick! At 66 yrs I can maneuver, just like you! But I prefer a man's bike stand, no offense but if I don't say something, you might end up with bad habits like getting under the bike! Stay on top with a quality stand!
I bought this groupset from the sensah store on aliexpress, and my front and rear Derailleur was faulty, the chain was not the one advertised and neither was the cassette. Sensah refused to help me and said there was nothing wrong with the items. So I ended up paying £170 on some leavers. 😔
Luke I gave up on the front derailleur, and instead use a 105 shimano. I prefer the Sensah levers ,size and shape,but always have some kind of shifting issues, unless the chain and all are spotless, I have an ongoing problem with 9,10,11 .
So I have found the trick to decent shifting, is keeping the shift cable clean and well lubed within the shifter housing (basically keep the friction on the cable as low as humanly possible). I'm actually playing around with dry chain lube atm, seems to work great. Also make sure the cable is secured correctly on the rear derailleur bolt. You want the cable fed over the top of the clamping bolt (you can check the manual I linked in the description if you need some clarification). Hope that helps 😁
@@TraceVelo ,I am pleased that you responded, I built two f12 from Ali-express, one is basically all China and the other is 105,both wheelsets are Elite,tubeless and 27mm widex38mm and 45mm deep.The framesets are beautiful, if a little heavy at just over 18lbs.I have been a cyclist for 30 years and have ridden almost every thing, I have a high regard for the obscure manufacturers and don't care for the hype about the known ones. My point is that if a man can get the same or comparable product for nearly one tenth the price, where is all that moolah goin.?I don't have buyers remorse, like my previous bike, which I had to finance! Contrarily, I was able to get two bikes for the sale of my Specialized (used),and had money left. Not that I need 2 bikes, but I intended @ 66 yrs. to start a new business in bike sales. Seems like a no brainer?Bikes are flying off the shelves, but the people are not interested in this product. The carbon is world class,the design is iconic and the price is unreal? What is not to like?I now have several thousand miles on these beauties and I love the ride, and handling, the frameset is very tight. I digress, as regards to the shifting issues, I have been using a lightweight Ali-express cassette and I am hoping when I can, I'll try a hyperglide, this and as you suggested a cable reassessment, ( I have all internal cables).I appreciate your input and will continue to enjoy future posts, maybe you can get sponsor to help you, and build one of these beauties for your (Show) .I found the internal routing to be a challenge, but I wonder now why the cables have been outside for so long! Thanks for your indulgence and may the wind be at your back!
@@TraceVelo I've been using the sensah gravel groupset in my gf road bike to make her life easier, now she got pregnant and she won't ride her road bike for a while and I'm planning to buy a gravel frame to fit that groupset for me. It works just faultless all the time.
Another fantastic video luke, As someone new to road cycling, and having built a china carbon fibre bike guided by your videos, id love an in depth exploration on dialling in shifters and groupsets, I've got my sensah running on my bike but it's nowhere near as crisp as yours
Luke must have some serious "guns" cuz I can barely move that front derailleur like he does. I think maybe Sensah sent this to you as replacement for your broken version 2 shifter. Looking forward to the video when Sensah sends you a replacement groupset for the seized derailleur...Sensah Electronic??? Ha, ha...yay!
Would be keen to know how you go with the wear on the carbon shifters over time. I got a pair of carbon Team Pros and running into the same issues with shifter wear.
@@TraceVelo sure will do! Tbh I've only done some quick rides on it and it's started to dig in already. It's like a fine powder residue... So it's just a slow grinding process. Bought some 3M helicopter tape though so hopefully it'll solve the problem :)
This channel is so underrated. You are far better than GCN and other cycling channels. Thanks for the good work!
Agreed! This channel test the budget/sketchy Chinese stuff that most of us want and can afford.
May I suggest Trace Velo do a Power Meter video series next? The crankset is probably the last thing that hasn’t been upgraded on the fully carbon bike.
ive got the sigeyi axo and zrace crankset. its awesome.
@@abedfo88 Hiw reliable has it been?
@takotsubo as long as its consistent with itself what does it matter how it compares to assioma duo 🤔
@@elijahkwon422 100% reliable
@@abedfo88 Have you done any accuracy checks
Trace Velo's videos - always better than a poke in the eye.
Trace Velo: *points out potential issues*
Sensah R&D: Aw shit here we go again...
The kinda sad part is that chinese manufacturers actually react to problems with their product and solve it when western manufacturer just calculate that the problem is not worthy to be solved and wait just for the next generation.
@@bergerniklas6647 This happens when companies get bigger and bigger
@@bergerniklas6647 it's likely due to the larger companies having a large stock so it would be a waste to chuck it all away. But I still agree that it is annoying
Luke, I really enjoy your content. I am using your philosophy in other areas of my life. Cheap does not always mean poor value.
I would advise against following that philosophy if you're paying for female company.
@@ginyamaguchi1421 Thank you for the heads-up.
😂😂😂😂
@@ginyamaguchi1421 odd and offensive thing to say. It's 2021!
@@richardstorer-adam7222 offensive to whom?
usually i just skip to the good part but you keep me from skipping cause every second is useful and entertaining too! what an underrated channel. keep it up!
I had the 9 to 10 shifting problem, which I could never figure out. The derailleur seemed well aligned to me. After 6 months, the problem went away, so I had assumed it was a machining problem on the cassette that was worn away with usage. I've been mostly happy with my Sensah gear, and thank you for being a valuable technical resource on their products.
I've had the same problem on my bike a few weeks ago, when i asked my mechanic, he said it was normal because it was new, fresh from the factory and overtime the chain, cassette and rd will eventually adapt to the shifting, which eventually it did
Luke, would love to see anything on a Chinese di2 or eTap equivalents!
they are likely waiting for specific patents to expire
There are chineese electronic groupsets?
@@anonymoose9038 so far only mtb. See China Cycing's video "Chinese Electronic Groupsets are here! Tech at the Shanghai Bike Show 2021"
@@All4Grogg lol they don't give a shit about infringing patents
@@nelsonglover3963for their domestic market, very true. For the big world market, they do care enough to make tiny changes that might hold up in court or just plans to change the name of the company at a moments notice. (the latter is still far too common)
The easiest, most sustainable and least expensive option is to wait for the patents for core mechanisms to expire, copy them and only make changes to avoid proprietary connectors or other small parts they are unable to source domestically for cheap.
The end result is a rolling release of older tech using industrial standard parts - which is awesome for consumers and why patents were intended to expire in the first place.
Mate you are actually nailing this cycling channel lark. been watching since your first video I'm well impressed.
Thanks James!!!! Yeah I put a shit tonne of effort in, and really try to improve each episode, so glad it's coming across 😊
My 105 right shifter from 2006 finally died. After watching this video I ordered the Sensah Phi (which is the 2x10 non-carbon) version of this shifter. Initial impression is very good. It's actually shifting better than my 16 year old 105 shifter did. To be fair though I can't really remember how smooth it was when it was new. It's been pretty janky the last couple of years. Just wanted to say thanks for doing this review. I never would have gone with a chinese shifter before subscribing to your channel.
As always top shelf old chap and how you put the paid presentation up the front instead of blending it in like certain dubious characters so you can’t g see an what is right an honourable is a true despiction of your depth of character. I take my hat 🎩 off to you sir .
I do my best Richard 🙂 Not everyone can be arsed with the sponsor spot, so I try and keep it brief and to the point these days!!! But glad you appreciate it 🙏🙏🙏
Me: So Trace how many chinese carbon fibre parts do you think you can put on a bike?
Trace: Yes
I think the only parts that arn't cheaper alternatives are the chain, the tyres, and the cable housings 😂
@@TraceVelo indeed, and now ali express ads tax the cost/benefit ratio has gone down slightly imho.
@@abedfo88 Yeah - I noticed that (in UK), this happened after Brexit. Odd.
@@Mango62uk though I did buy something over £200 and I didn't pay any tax (shrugs shoulders)
@@abedfo88 Interesting. Now, even for the smallest thing, Aliexpress shows tax for UK sales. I suppose it's a good thing, as long as the tax is sent to UK govt!
Another excellent vid, and since you're now in Cornwall, one could say a 'Proper Job'. (suggestion for your next brew). Keep them coming.
Yeah I do love a Proper Job. Been on the Korev recently, prob my new favourite 😍
Hi Luke, I'm happy your name hasn't changed. Last week I received my sensah empire groupset and a new 11 speed chainset, now I only need to get some specific tools and a clamp for the front derailleur and will perform the jump from 8 speed to 11 speed on my GT ZR 2000 (I'm ready to take the hub's cassette body to a friend that is quite experienced with a lathe if the larger cassette was to present fitting problems). After almost six years with this bike I'm super stoked!
Thank you for providing me and others with products reviews, experiences, useful tips and great comedic bits. I hope you keep the videos coming!
Cheers from S. Korea! Although I'm a MTB'er I watch your channel as it has helped me on making purchasing decisions on several occasions. I purchase various products (i.e. electronic amp parts, bike parts, etc.) from China (Ali), sometimes things can be hit or miss but there are a lot of legit items you can get from Ali as most major mnc's around the globe have their manufacturing based in China and technology eventually 'leaks' out. For my bike upgrades I prefer to use budget parts as I don't race DH and not everyone needs $1,000 parts for casual XC riding. Keep up the good work and you my friend deserve waaaaaay more subs, I've recommended your channel to friends here so hopefully you can continue producing good quality, unbiased content for the majority of riders~
I imagine his neighbours walking by when doing that sponsor segment and he is just in the living room in full lycra in front of a camera 😂
Looool! That's why I have the curtains drawn, don't want to bring down the house prices 🤣
@@TraceVelo 🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣
Yeah I don't get why most cycling channel have the need to go in a full cyclo disguise when casually in front of camera.
The intros are always classic...love this channel.
15:28 Enjoyed the lava lamp time lapse.
You earned a subscriber, always enjoy content which offers affordable alternatives but value for quality.
plz make a cheap Chinese gravel bike ! Thats youre golden nugget for new content :)
Trace Velo: Buy cheaper bike components and save money over alternatives
also Trace Velo: LMAO just replaced this component that works fine for the 15th time :P
For free.
This is still a good value compared to standard 105 even if the non carbon version does not exist
He can replace the groupset and wheels before he even buys a 105 groupset for 700$
This video was sponsored / paid promotion.
Nice explanation, detail comparison with previous version, all my worries clearly explained here. Thanks a lot!
Ended up getting those titanium chinaplay pedals that you are rocking Luke and gotta say, I'm a fan. Definitely took a bit of getting used to, but I prefer the comfort so much more, esp with the guard on, you can walk about without seeming like a clown. Great video as always though. Has me spending more time on AliExpress than I normally do =V
Nice! Really glad you liked the pedals, a lot of people messaged me to say they had issues clipping in, but glad you managed to get them working for you. I freaking love my set, I've never looked back!
Would love a vid on head units. You're on Garmin, I am leaning towards buying a Karoo 2 because of the mapping quality. Fab stuff as ever, you show more detail than others and never patronise, well done for that.
Yeah ive had a look at a few in the past, but my trusty garmin 520 is more than enough for me :)
I found Interesting discovery on sensah groupset, other will notice when you're shifting.
Keep up good work.
M2 blackout jersey ftw!! Grandad was wise with the poke in the eye 👀... Love the seamless referencing to your previous work. Shows how much you cover! Can't believe you poked GCN, I love that channel! So glad you're fully honest as I too stopped the potentially wearing section but it shows your attention to detail. Honesty as well, so refreshing that you're humble as well as informative. More funnies!! I think you could have put a Bender reference (bite my shiny metal ass) in somewhere...
Your own progress bar that overlaps UA-cam's is a great idea!
monthly trace velo video = cravings satisfied
The Plustek OpticFilm🥰 you a real one!!
Yeah I really need to get my Canon F1 back out again...
I ride both pedals & motorbikes, yet having seen the quality of budget Chinese components for both I can only assume that you are a very brave man indeed to trust so much cheap Chinese kit. I love your quirky, fun videos, but I don't think you will ever tempt me away from my Japanese bikes. I have an old original Sun Tour XC Pro MD Crank set from 1990 (that is probably older that you!) ) and it is still going strong on my MTB along with the XT deraileurs and DX thumbies I paired it with. Shimano kit is great and I am an old dinosaur! Damn I feel old now...
Loving your content, even though I have click on the notifications bell I still goes to your channel to check if new content published. Subscriber from Malaysia
"Ten out of ten with Sensah again" should become their company slogan!
Lukee! Amazing video! I LOL'D at your GCN presemters in the wild comment LMAO!
I love the content man. I am really looking forward to the juin hydraulic brake review.
I have the juin 4 pistons. They're great
Welcome back Luke 😘 100% like ratio on the video. All is right with the universe.
Fantastic channel, has inspired me to build my own. I bought the 2x11 Empire and have almost finished a bike with it. The front derailleur seems to take 1 full and 1 half push (3 clicks) to change up or down the front cogs. Is that normal of have I been an idiot and messed something up ?
Update?
Great channel. I did purchase a Sensah SRX Pro group set in an effort to make an ultimate road climber - it failed miserably. The front chain ring could not tolerate the torque and bent. The derailleur would down shift all on it's own. The chain was of very poor quality. All of his installed by a tenured bike mechanic. I threw the entire set out an went with full Sram components. Yes, a few bucks more but the shifting is flawless. By way of mention I did do this build on an Elves frame which seems quie good and wen with ICAN rims that seem to be performing well. Chinese cycling products seem to be hit or miss.
Sou brasileiro, todavia amo os seus reviews, sua paciência seu trabalho com perfeição sua delicadeza nos detalhes
Hey Luke, now time to test chinese gps bike computers and sensors (hrm, cadence, speed), wdt?! Almost no video on yt about it with nice performance and explanation as yours! ) Cheerz!
Yes, this garmin computer kind of doesn't pass to the bike! :p
I am using the Cycplus M1 computer from Ali with cadence and heart rate sensor... For the price absolutely fantastic (and would definitely look better on Luke's bike)
Great video as always! Well done. Keep 'em coming!
I decided to give a try to the 12 speed version of this groupset. I'll give you my impressions of it as soon as it gets installed and after a couple rides.
Trace, your a legend.
More option and competition to the big 3 will ultimately benefit consumer
I really like your videos but have to say that I haven't had a good experience with siroko. I bought a jersey and bibs after seeing the ad in one of your videos. And after a few times of wearing the bibs had a hole in them. I've only hand washed them as it said in the instructions. Siroko did not refund me and there is no way to review the items in their shop so I thought I would share my experience here.
FYI, I never handwash bibs or jerseys (just save that for waterproof jackets and gilets). They go in the front loader washing machine. I wear cheap clothing from Ali Express too: Spexcel, RION, etc and they last for 5+ years easy
@@richardggeorge I've ordered a bib from rion and a jersey from specxel. Both arrived last week and I am impressed! Thank you for the recommendation! Both pieces look and feel great.
@@annaweitz5353 good to hear. Glad I mentioned it. Happy cycling!
I was surprised too when the video shows the Sensah Empire is also Carbon fiber
As an owner of a budget aero bike with a Sensah 2x11 groupset, this is really interesting^^
Another great vid Luke! Am absolutely loving the channel; you are head and shoulders more fun and informative than GCN.
Thanks to you I'm rocking a new gravel bike build using Sensah's SRX Pro 1x groupset with ZRace crankset (plus an absolute feast of cheap Chinese carbon finishing kit!) I've done about 2,000 miles on the groupset now and it hasn't missed a beat. The downshift is the best I've ever used on any mechanical shifter! I'm not sure how good the clutch mechanism is but that's only because I haven't used any other type; I do get a bit of chain slap though if it's really rough. The only problem I've had has been with the flimsy barrel adjuster on the rear mech which kept loosening as I rode. I've just locked it out and use the downtube adjuster now. I paid less for the entire drivetrain including the bottom bracket than I would have done for a pair of 105 levers. I've recently installed a pair of Juin Tech callipers and so far I'm really impressed compared with the TRP HY/RD's I had on the bike before. I'm looking forward to your review of the brakes.
Please, please keep up the great work, everyone I know is watching and loving it!
I think the screw in the rear derailleur ceased up because of contact corrosion (Alumunium/Steel)
Great video as always!
Yeah, I recon you're probably right. Hopefully the oil I added will help out in this regard....
I've managed to strip the non-drive side crank (Shimano) bolt head hex slot TWICE. Now I put on some anti-seize compound on the crank bolt thread and regular grease on other bolts.
@john lin is right some copper compound will prevent that in the future 👌
Really precise pieces that weld them selves together so you cannot uninstall them...
I really like watching your videos. You actually make me think about new bike on 2022 season and I really think about build it on my own. All your content on YT makes me ispired to do it. but firstly i have to collect some wifecoins to be able to start the project :)
Greetings from Poland. Keep goin with your stuff and let the Sensah be with you xD
I broke my Tiagra shifters and replaced them with Sensah Quantum shifters (the ten speed version of Empire), which are 100% compatible with Shimano. If anything I prefer them to the original Tiagra shifters. Shifting is very crisp and now I've got used to the SRAM style double-tap system I think I prefer it. In fact I'd say the Sensah shifting system is actually better than SRAM system as you shift with the main brake lever rather than a smaller secondary lever. Recommended...very well made shifters and super cheap.
Awesome, glad you like them Simon!
I miss you bro THE OG TRACE VELO, LOVE FROM PHILIPPINES 🇵🇭🇵🇭
I suspect the reason why the old rear derailleur could not be removed was a lack of grease in the threads. Aluminum and steel can fuse together over time if not adequately greased.
I've been using Sensah for the past 2 years, around 40k Kms on it, I only had to replace the right shifter hood cover (4€).
UPDATE: Today the screw from the above little-wheel of the rear derailleur (IDK how it is called in English) just fell out and I had to stop, take the whole thing out and screw it again into the derailleur
@@daniellopez9622 jinxed it mate
@@daniellopez9622 derailleur jockey wheels should have threadlocking compound to stop screws/bolts from coming loose e.g. Loctite Threadlocker Blue 242. Maybe the Sensah ones didn't come with it, or not enough?
@@richardggeorge UPDATE: The bearings inside the jockey wheel were all broken and the screw didn't match the cage anymore, the cage expanded itself and after replacing the jockey wheels with the Ultegra ones the cage of the derailleur did not hold the screws and it just broke... Luckily I was near home.
@@daniellopez9622 Sorry to hear that. Doesn't sound like the jockey wheels are very durable. I have several shimano ones that are over 10 years old. I have 4 road bikes though
The company Finish Line has an anti-seize assembly lube. Here in Germany you get it for 5€ (22 ml) which should last for quite a while and will prevent any cold welding of screws etc.
intro = awesome as always
I'm glad you like it!
You must be so good at bar tape by now 😂
Great content again.
Also, I’m not sure I’d fit anything to my bike whilst on Rattler. Brave man
Hi trace. I noticed youve changed your calipers to Juin techs from the Pro ones. It will be really interesting if you do a review/comparison between them.
Good shout, looking to buy a new frame to replace me discs and the hybrid calipers would mean not having to shell out on new shifters
Love these videos. Please keep up the reviews👍
Add oil or grease into the derailleur hanger articulation. It's potentially a galvanic seizure that wrecked your last one.
Yeah I recon you're probably right. Galvanic corrosion could def have a played a part, but yeah stuck a bit of high viscosity oil in there this time, should hopefully keep it from happening
Thanks Luke. Another great video
Here's another bit of information - the pulley cages on the Sensah derailleur's are not replaceable, they are locked in my rivets. I reached out to both Sensah and Lingmai (who seems to have provided the OSPW for this rear derailleur) and they both confirmed that the derailleur pulley cage is not replacement / interchangeable. I guess that's one way Sensah keeps their cost down.
I was looking at replacing the pulley cage as mine was totalled in a rear derailleur hanger issue.
Please say "Carbon, Lodi! (Lody)"
For cheap carbon. Great stuff bro
Waaay better than GCN man general reviews. 💪
Thank you for your sharing. Awesome groupset. 👍👍👍
Your issue with the rear derailleur is the reason grease is your best friend.
Luke. can you shows how to install them and set up process? Thanks.
So I covered a pretty in depth install process in a previous video: ua-cam.com/video/xUNW7eE5uKA/v-deo.html
Great video Luke, one suggestion is could you please add 20% VAT to the UK prices in brackets since we have been shafted and things aint so cheap anymore
Hey Luke! Been waiting for this since I was the IG post. I saw in the Aliepexress listing that there's' an option for up to 36t cassette. Is this because of the OSPW rd or can the non OSPW version accommodate 36t as well? Seems like a perfect gs for gravel paired with a subcompact 46/30t crank.
Good video! Tempted to just order one due to the lack of any other groupsets in the UK
The reason why they don't put on bearing seals on the pulley wheels is because its responsible for around 60% of the bearing drag, that's 20 times more than the effect of the ceramic balls. So they spin nicely without preload when you do the spinning test, which doesn't reflect the conditions while riding. It goes without saying that the seals are majorly important so dirt don't get in and the lubricant doesn't get out....if you replace the bearing with good industry standard bearings(NTN, NSK,SKF) you should be fine though.
Thanks for the comment Felix 👌
Makes alot of sense actually, removing the seals would def reduce drag and make them spin nicely. I wonder if it is also a bit of a cost saving measure aswell...?
@@TraceVelo well that's knowledge out the hambini schoolbook ;-) feel free to visit his video on the matter from 4 years ago. I guess the seals cost 2-3 cents so not really. Interesting sidenote 0 OSPWs in the Top10 of the mens olympic TT if there was marginal gains you would think the worldtour pros would be using them
Yeah totally fair comment. You would also think that if Shimano thought there was a benefit to it, they would have stuck one on their dura ace setup, and charged a few extra bucks...
Hey Luke, what brakeset do you have on your bike? And cassette? Cheers
PS, might I suggest Bones skateboard bearings lube and cleaning your bearings with pure acetone?
The problem you ran to when unscrewing the previous derailleur is the thread bit the barrel and engaged itself into it.
Better than every SRAM product by far.
Seen frozen mount bolts quite often. Generally all the lube leeches out because of poor sealing and you get corrosion. Oil or a rebuild every so often sorts it.
Nice, thanks for the comment Matt, good to know! I'll definitely keep this part oiled and serviced from now on!
@@TraceVelo copper slip on threaded parts, lifesaver.
@@abedfo88 I'd recommend Loctite 222 (purple) or other similar low strength threadlocker, as it also protects from vibration as well corrosion.
as always entertaining review.... now we wait for carbon crank to drop by
Really relieved that his name is still Luke !
Me too spicypretzel... Me too
It’s not Still Luke, it’s As Always Luke.
@@ridekernow you never know..
Hey Luke, what brakes are you using with the Sensah levers? Any issues?
So currely using Juin tech F1’s. Love them tbh, obviously won't come close to a full hydraulic setup in terms of brake feel, but I've had no issues with them!
Trace velo 👏🏻👌🏻👍🏻 please will you do a retro mtb clunker build. Something you can leave locked up outside the shops but that can bring a massive smile to your face! Maybe a bit of an odd ball! Thanks for your videos they’re awesome!
Trace has a carbon fiber problem....I have a Trace Velo problem...This was another fine production!
Are hydraulic disc brakes compatible with the shifter?
No, AFAIK best brakes for Sensah are Avid BB7
Jockey wheel bearings... I was just cleaning a Shimano 105 rear derailleur and it uses bushings on the jockey wheels.
Yeah the shimabo ones always use a little metal bushing. I guess it probably lasts longer than a sealed bearing....
Great content as always! Just wondering why you choose to kneel and lie down to work in the bike when you have a height adjustable work stand???
Because my room is quite small, I often find it easier to just flip the bike upside down. To be fair does kinda negate the point of owning a bike stand tho 🤣🤣
Trace,tools are the trick! At 66 yrs I can maneuver, just like you! But I prefer a man's bike stand, no offense but if I don't say something, you might end up with bad habits like getting under the bike! Stay on top with a quality stand!
Instead of oil, use grease on the insert threads of the derailleur. It will last a lot longer...
Couldn't agree more! Especially for the dreadful UK climate
Every mating surface on my bike has at least a thin layer of grease. I cringe watching assembly vids where they use nothing😅
I bought this groupset from the sensah store on aliexpress, and my front and rear Derailleur was faulty, the chain was not the one advertised and neither was the cassette. Sensah refused to help me and said there was nothing wrong with the items. So I ended up paying £170 on some leavers. 😔
Luke I gave up on the front derailleur, and instead use a 105 shimano. I prefer the Sensah levers ,size and shape,but always have some kind of shifting issues, unless the chain and all are spotless, I have an ongoing problem with 9,10,11 .
So I have found the trick to decent shifting, is keeping the shift cable clean and well lubed within the shifter housing (basically keep the friction on the cable as low as humanly possible). I'm actually playing around with dry chain lube atm, seems to work great. Also make sure the cable is secured correctly on the rear derailleur bolt. You want the cable fed over the top of the clamping bolt (you can check the manual I linked in the description if you need some clarification). Hope that helps 😁
@@TraceVelo ,I am pleased that you responded, I built two f12 from Ali-express, one is basically all China and the other is 105,both wheelsets are Elite,tubeless and 27mm widex38mm and 45mm deep.The framesets are beautiful, if a little heavy at just over 18lbs.I have been a cyclist for 30 years and have ridden almost every thing, I have a high regard for the obscure manufacturers and don't care for the hype about the known ones. My point is that if a man can get the same or comparable product for nearly one tenth the price, where is all that moolah goin.?I don't have buyers remorse, like my previous bike, which I had to finance! Contrarily, I was able to get two bikes for the sale of my Specialized (used),and had money left. Not that I need 2 bikes, but I intended @ 66 yrs. to start a new business in bike sales. Seems like a no brainer?Bikes are flying off the shelves, but the people are not interested in this product. The carbon is world class,the design is iconic and the price is unreal? What is not to like?I now have several thousand miles on these beauties and I love the ride, and handling, the frameset is very tight. I digress, as regards to the shifting issues, I have been using a lightweight Ali-express cassette and I am hoping when I can, I'll try a hyperglide, this and as you suggested a cable reassessment, ( I have all internal cables).I appreciate your input and will continue to enjoy future posts, maybe you can get sponsor to help you, and build one of these beauties for your (Show) .I found the internal routing to be a challenge, but I wonder now why the cables have been outside for so long! Thanks for your indulgence and may the wind be at your back!
Love your videos!
Did you consider checking sensah gravel wide range groupset?
Yeah I definitely want to check it out, just gotta build that gravel bike first :P
@@TraceVelo I've been using the sensah gravel groupset in my gf road bike to make her life easier, now she got pregnant and she won't ride her road bike for a while and I'm planning to buy a gravel frame to fit that groupset for me. It works just faultless all the time.
@@TraceVelo Luke this new group set isit a 2X11 or a 2X12?? Coz seems new Sensah are 2by12 now? Thanks a million
9:48 I liked and subscribe at this point, and then you mentioned doing it. it was a breaking the 4th wall moment :))
Another fantastic video luke,
As someone new to road cycling, and having built a china carbon fibre bike guided by your videos, id love an in depth exploration on dialling in shifters and groupsets, I've got my sensah running on my bike but it's nowhere near as crisp as yours
Nice video! Might try this one out
Forgot to ask, have you ever tried Sensah cassettes? Ultegra charge silly money now
Yeah ive tried a few in the past. The fully steel ones are great, but the hybrid steel and aluminium ones are a bit hit and miss tbh...
Did you also upgrade your crankset/chainrings? Couldn't help but notice they look like cannondale spiderings
So I replaced the chainrings recently. They are aluminium so dont last forever, but the crank arms and alxe are the same.
Can you make a video solving the carbon trouble you talk abour in min 23:40. Thanks
Finally, another video 🥲
Luke must have some serious "guns" cuz I can barely move that front derailleur like he does. I think maybe Sensah sent this to you as replacement for your broken version 2 shifter. Looking forward to the video when Sensah sends you a replacement groupset for the seized derailleur...Sensah Electronic??? Ha, ha...yay!
5:28 I would venture to believe that the little lever arm is made of die cast zinc and not aluminum.
love the siroko stuff started with their glasses a few years ago after a mate recommended them now i also have the vest jerseys and bibs.
Don't really see how not being able to shift when braking is an issue? If you're pedalling and braking at the same time then something has gone wrong
Perhaps in a crit situation, braking into a corner whilst shifting down the gears
Trace Velo: Official Sensah R&D Department
Would be keen to know how you go with the wear on the carbon shifters over time. I got a pair of carbon Team Pros and running into the same issues with shifter wear.
Recon you could send me a pic of the wear on your set? I've stuck my email in the video description. I'd be really interested to see what it's like!
@@TraceVelo sure will do! Tbh I've only done some quick rides on it and it's started to dig in already. It's like a fine powder residue... So it's just a slow grinding process. Bought some 3M helicopter tape though so hopefully it'll solve the problem :)
Nice video and presentation.
I take that a larger idler wheel isn’t there for efficiency reduction but to reduce wear in link pin.