In the 'ride experience' section you will note we miss talking about "Stiffness" independently. This was due to some audio connectivity issues for a minute or two, so we cut that section out. Ironic, considering this was one of the bikes assets. You will see stiffness in our rating system though. Finally, keen to hear your feedback on this style of review below. Cheers, Cam
I’m glad you continued the review. I was quite disappointed when you revealed the manufacturing defect, especially since I was eagerly waiting for my R12 frameset at that time and didn't know what to expect. However, now I am very satisfied with the bike overall. I assembled it with a SRAM RED AXS groupset and 60mm deep Yoeleo wheels. The handling, stability, and stiffness are superb, including the 44cm wide integrated handlebar. That said, I do feel like it lacks a bit more speed, as you both mentioned. However, I a kind of disagree with your comments about the comfort. I did a 12-hour ride on my fully carbon seat and had no issues with my 85 kg in that regard. Also, the paintwork is awesome. Anyway, thank you for the interesting review and your feedback - unfortunately, I only just saw the video now. We do appreciate your work :)
we extend our heartfelt thanks to Cam and Neil for your thorough and insightful review of the Yoeleo R12. We are grateful for the time and effort you invested in evaluating our bike, providing valuable feedback from two distinct rider perspectives. Your detailed analysis, covering build quality, design, specs, geometry, and personal riding experiences, offers potential customers a comprehensive understanding of what to expect from the Yoeleo R12. We appreciate the constructive criticism and the praises alike, as you serve as crucial indicators for our continuous efforts to improve and innovate. Our mission is to provide high-quality, performance-oriented bicycles that meet the diverse needs and preferences of riders worldwide, and feedback like this is instrumental in guiding our development process. We are particularly thankful for highlighting the aspects of the bike that stood out, such as the frame quality, ease of assembly, and the adjustable seat post feature, which we believe are testament to our commitment to quality and rider satisfaction. We acknowledge the points of improvement mentioned and will consider them closely in our ongoing and future design and development efforts. Thank you, Cam and Neil, for your honesty and professionalism. We look forward to possibly collaborating again in the future and to continue receiving feedback that helps us grow and serve our cycling community better.
Totally agree, the biggest challenge of any review is to try and make it relatable to the millions of different riders and riding styles out there. Having two experienced riders at different ends of the spectrum is a great concept. Well done lads, would love to see something similar on the new Giant TCR (I'm looking at you Giant Australia 😘)
Loved the perspective of two different riders. Also the great explanation as to why it felt different ie. lower seat, more air in tires, heavier rider so harsher, stiffer feeling. Thanks!
Just finished watching your review, and as an owner of the Yoeleo R12, I couldn't agree more with your insights! I've had mine for 7 months now, and it's been nothing short of fantastic. The comfort and all-round capability of this bike are exactly as you described. Also, shoutout to Yoeleo's customer service team they've been incredibly supportive every step of the way.
Love the new format - you are really starting to create a new benchmark for what this kind of content can be. Always highly informative and very entertaining!
I have one. The geometry is perfect for me once it's built. The few times I've had problems with Yoeleo stuff they have made it right, it sometimes takes them awhile. But in the end the did everything I could have possibly asked for, and then some. It is not super light but neither am I. I love the ride feel. I found it incredibly comfortable and I am heavier than Cam and also ride with not a lot of seatpost exposed. But I run 28 mm Pirelli tires which plump up to 30 mm on Elite 50D at 65 psi. I love the seat clamp design. I am not a huge fan of the seat wedge design. $1590 for frame in US. I will soon be building up an R11, which is their light weight frame.
format neatly illustrates the subjectivity of ride quality and experience and the effect of height and weight - well done - this admitted beefcake is keen for more
Great to see old mate in any of your videos! Strongly encourage you to do more of this type of projects as the big cycling manufacturers are just screwing cyclists financially. China Cycling is a great channel for Chinese products and people generally think of Chinese products as cheap and nasty but there are passionate Chinese cyclists and companies wanting to make a genuine product. Thanks Can and Neil !
Respect to you for being honest to your viewers first and not hiding bad reviews (elves video) for the sake of the relationship to the manufacturer or dealer. Not many youtube channels are able or willing to do that. What a breath of fresh wind.
12:15 RIP headphone users... 😅 I agree with most of the points you said, although I have the previous generation (this one should be a bit stiffer). If YOELEO had kept a better eye on quality control and not shot themselves in the foot, I believe they would have had more success with the R12. I, for example, have a slightly misaligned rear wheel. 🤷♂Another annoying thing is the loud hub of the SAT PRO wheels. It is definitely not for everyone, and sometimes I have to soft-pedal to not annoy others. 🤣 On the other hand, I appreciate the ability to choose the exact stem length and handlebar width and the affordable custom paint. The "ice-crack" pattern really looks amazing in person.
I love the loud hub! The R12 was not their best bike. They discontinued their best bike foolishly enough the R21. I have the last R21 they made and the latest R12.
This is terrific how you both describe the nuances of the ride and feel, from two perspectives (stockier and lighter guys, to cover the spectrum). Others on YT barely go one third into this area, yet we bike riders want to know about this (not '6% more aero'). Great video guys!
Super interesting to actually see this done. I've had similar conversations with riding buddies about bikes. I'm the racer/lightweight guy, and some of the fellas are more average pace riders with more kg on their frame. They say that a lot of the expensive/race frames are too stiff, but I'll ride them, and they feel fine to me. I suspect the carbon is engineered to flex and dampen at higher speeds than mortals are holding, so they get this chattery ride feel all the time.
First time a bike review been done with two people. I think this was a great way to go. I have respected Cam the ones you have done on your own. But having Neil involved. Has taking it to another level. would be interesting to do one with two others from the RCA family and you just host the pod cast. Keep up the awesome podcast.
From my R12 build in December (2023 edition). Seatpost has slipped constantly, think I've got it good now but over-torqued with a lot of grip paste. BB tolerance not great with standard SRAM cups but a BBinfinite has resolved it. I run hyper D45s, 28/30mm. Comfortable with that tyre setup. Everything else in keeping with your review.
HAPPY Ending - Glad You stuck with the Project. GREAT Concept to have two different size riders and to hear different experiences. The Review was handled with a very balanced & clear way by two experienced riders coming from two distinct viewpoints. The SeatPost setback adjustment is Brilliant - As someone who rides a 0 setback, I'm tired of too may brands ie; Specialized who automatically offer 20 setback, won't swap for free & force customer to buy a Zero Seatpost for a Frameset purchase - getting stuck with paperweight or selling at a loss on eBay🤬 I was interested because Yoeleo was the first deep wheels I purchased about 5 years ago. NO problems whatsoever. Think their wheel lineup could use a refresh now = external & internal width, etc. Think they are a strong brand and it appears they deliver a solid product at a very reasonable price point - just like their wheels. Frame misstep - not unique to Yoeleo - every brand can have a QC issue, as we have all seen on YT. The true test is how they handle the problem and move forward. Congrats on another Quality & Entertaining Episode. Ride On😎
Happy to see your guys take on the R12. Very much in line with my experience of the R12. Even years in i still enjoy the bike a lot. Its a fun good allrounder that i even once took out on a gravel ride with thick tires 🫣
I only have experiences with Yoeleo and their stock system. I bought their Sat C60 wheelset in December and it took until early March for them to arrive. The main excuse was the Chinese New Year but after that they would not answer questions or emails. Time will tell if the wheelset is any good. It was very easy to set up tubeless as they don't have access holes for spokes. GP5000's took very little effort to put on
I’d check to see if the bearings have been cleanly inserted. After our speed tests and video recording Neill went home and found that the inner sleeve was binding up against the bearings. This no doubt impacted the speed tests. Once Neill fixed up the bearings the wheels felt faster / smoother. According to him. I’d also grease that hub!
I have this bike in XL and over all happy with it. Regarding comfort there is close to no meaningful compliance in the frame like most other aero bikes with long seat tube and deep section seat post. However, I do think it is comfortable as it fits wide tyres. I run it with 30 mm wide tyres (measured) and I am replacing them with 32 mm tubeless GP5000 as there seem to be plenty of space. The sliding adjustment of the seat requires taking of the saddle if it does not have a cut out or via the rails. The angle indexing on the saddle clamp has big jumps which is annoying. That clamping mechanism is actually the only thing I am worried about long term.
Great format and seems like an open transparent honest review ! As a consumer my concerns would be the same as you were saying at that price point, being along the lines of some of the "bigger" brands it would give me more of a sense of security to be aligned with LBS support. As always great video !
Thanks for calling them out on price/ value. Beyond the fact that I wouldn't ride a branded frame from what is essentially not a brand (they're a broker not a factory), and having built 9 Chinese frames at lower price points, there is absolutely nothing telling me these frames are better, so as far as I can tell, they're just more expensive because they're on the radar of more people.
Not exactly true, I have first had experience. Not to be confused with Dengfu R12. If they are a broker show the exact same geo frame elsewhere please.
Great review! I took a while to watch as I’m not interested in buying this particular bike, but I really enjoy this content and will watch and comment on every one hopefully with the mention on Nero, this video will do a bit better.
This is the first time for me I have seen this type of platform bike review and I absolutely love it 👍💪👏 honest to goodness review I think you guys are on to something here….awesome job, great video….more please 🙏
I love this method. I think it’s a great way to contrast different ride styles and allow the bike to succeed in a niche. Fair play on the carbon issue. I think the carbon stuff only needs to happen if the brand doesn’t provide warranties or the warranty could be hard to get.
Its ashame that Yoeleo discontinue the R21 last year. It is definitely faster than this R12. I own both. Im not as versed as you guys. I did a review on both of them. Yoeleo sent my R21 in less than 7 days when they had my size on had. The R12 was longer during the pandemic fiasco. Your review is spot on. Thats why i prefer the R21.
I can concur that my experience is similar. I was a dealer for 2 yrs. Fast but not the fastest out there. Comfortable... absolutely. I personally prefer the R11 made from T1000. Fast but also lighter and had a snappier feel to it. I enjoy it more to ride even though it's not as relaxed in the stack height.
How does it compare to the Polygon Helios, which seems to be a much better value purchase? The frame is too expensive, much rather just buy a Giant frame or the mid spec Merida Reacto.
Neal appeared far more comfortable on this bike. Why, I don’t know. Did I miss Neal offer his eternal love for disc brakes? Now, all you need to do is add an old geyser over 55 or 60 to your team. That would be even more fun. Great effort here guys.
Is there an advantage to buying through Lichtbike (who I assume are the AUS distributor) rather than direcrt from Yoeleo? Buying direct seems to save you about $500 AUD at the moment and pulls it back down to the sort of price range that you'd expect.
I have this frame and I like it. I have mentioned on multiple comments that Yoeleo really screwed themselves on the price! I bought mine factory direct for $1760 just before Australia got locked out of buying direct. For this one reason I'm not recommending this frame. It's too bad because it's actually really good!
When I hear frame size, I also want to hear the height of the rider riding the bike. Especially when the seat is slammed forward as on this bike. (Cam looked a bit big and a little cramped) Just curious. I ride both 54 and 56cm bikes and at 5'10" I need the seat as far back as I can get it on the 54 and almost all the way back on the 56. The 56 gives me more room that I seem to need but when I straddle the bike with my shoes on the ground, there is no room between my testicles and the top tube. It's not comfortable. The 54 cm gives me just enough room. It's like I need a 55 cm.
Yes, good point we missed rider height. We're both similar I believe, 179cm. I just have a longer upper body it seems. I also appear crammed because I've my upper girth, I believe.
The relationship with BMC means I can't really review mainstream bikes. I think that's fair and I don't mind this space. The next one coming is very exciting.
before the brands figured out carbon layup matters in ride feel, even the mainstream brands like Giant had thicker carbon layups. I think that's why alot of older carbon bikes are sought after. I'm pushing 200lbs and my 2014 TCR was made for world tour but it still rides great. It's even been crashed a few times and never cracked.
Thought I’d seen both of you out around the coast on this bike and wondered how soon we’d see a review. Interesting comparo and thoughts from both you Cam and Neal. I do have to agree with you both re the frame price. Whilst the frame is UCI approved and I’ve also seen others review their experiences with this brand of bike, it’s still not really a brand that’s up there with say a Giant or the likes and so for me, it is over priced. As always, great velog and an interesting review. Thanks for sharing 👍🙌🚴♂️
Be interesting to order a frame for the show (they know who you are) and anonymously buy one and compare frame build quality. Clearly that might upset the builder, but are you for the buyer or the seller?
Yes, I did attempt that in the last project but it was a messy sequence. That was explained upfront in this video. Keep in mind, the entire Ad revenue from the three video series has been less than $400 USD. Yes, the frame + groupset + wheels were given to the channel, but Neill is keeping the bike. Yoeleo have not paid us anything direct. So forking out $3000 personally for a frame and making extra content becomes counterintuitive from a commercial standpoint. Yes, you can sell the frame afterwards, but that adds more work to the process and I'd say you'd be lucky to get $2000 back. Plus, these Chinese frames are hard to sell.
I thought it would be complicated and expensive. What are the warrantees like on Chinese frames? I’ve heard that a large part of the price of the big brand light frames is the warrantee due to the increased risk of breakage of the delicate frames. The Chinese frames are more robust (heavier) to protect against failure and thus warrantee issues??
Thank god they haven't dropped the seat stays. If one more bike looks like a bloody SL7/8 the wheels are comin off this cart, and they'll be a calamity. I would consider this bike, the Yeoleo based on the silhouette.
Nice one. The Chinese brands are doing well but I agree they're position in the market are good quality frames for $1000+ cheaper than mainstream western brands. If the Chinese makers start to creep the price up, people will choose to have Giant on the side of the frame.
For less the than 3000$ for the whole bike with Di2... I would choose Reacto 6000 or the Gusto Evo Cobra, Pogacar used to ride one before signing with UAE.
Possible to bring in female riders perspective into testing bikes and frames? Would really help reviews from also a female perspective. A lot of women too that watch this channel. Again another great video made :)
Unfortunately Yoeleo bike frames are hit and miss... there is no quality control on their products. In the past their frames were made by an OEM company. Not sure if this is still the case but the quality is all over the place. I had ordered one in the past in a red/black colour combination. The bike arrived as a faded red and black bike. Thankfully Yoeleo did pay for me to have the whole bike repainted but it just shows that the quality control is off. Also there can be huge delays in getting frames delivered. Some people have waited well over 6 months to get their frames
I have had a R12 for over a year. to be honest Its just ok bike. Im now turning it into a light off road use machine. it has good tyre clearance. if you buy do not expect it to ride like a top end bike.
Fully undersatand why you don't want to do it from a business standpoint but if these companies don't want their frames scanned and exposed maybe they should actually produce better products?
On the 5% chance you're willing to understand,...the channel has made less than $400 Ad revenue from this entire three series project. Yes, the bike is given to the channel, but in this instance, Neill is keeping it as his bike. So the expectation is that I spend $3000 on an anonymous frame, and then spend an additional 20-30 hours creating a piece of content about an anonymous frame scan. Yes, I'll most likely get $2000 back, once it sells. But keep in mind these Chinese brands are hard to sell and it's extra work trying to sell them...it's simply not commercially viable or something I want to continue investing my time into.
@@CamNicholls thats a far better explanation and reason for not doing it. I was more concerned as it sounded like you were being pushed away from doing it as it was creating friction and hurting relationships with your sponsors and vendors due to the results being unfavourable for the manufacturers/sponsors
Just stopping by to remind everyone who created structured training using intervals. Ohh and i wouldn't ride theses gravel bikrs on the road even if you gave it to me for free .
In the 'ride experience' section you will note we miss talking about "Stiffness" independently. This was due to some audio connectivity issues for a minute or two, so we cut that section out. Ironic, considering this was one of the bikes assets. You will see stiffness in our rating system though. Finally, keen to hear your feedback on this style of review below. Cheers, Cam
I would tend to avoid discussing stiffness because it has a very specific engineering context that is not apparent to most cyclists.
Also very subjective based on experience. Hard but generic comparison valuable?
I’m glad you continued the review. I was quite disappointed when you revealed the manufacturing defect, especially since I was eagerly waiting for my R12 frameset at that time and didn't know what to expect. However, now I am very satisfied with the bike overall. I assembled it with a SRAM RED AXS groupset and 60mm deep Yoeleo wheels. The handling, stability, and stiffness are superb, including the 44cm wide integrated handlebar.
That said, I do feel like it lacks a bit more speed, as you both mentioned. However, I a kind of disagree with your comments about the comfort. I did a 12-hour ride on my fully carbon seat and had no issues with my 85 kg in that regard. Also, the paintwork is awesome.
Anyway, thank you for the interesting review and your feedback - unfortunately, I only just saw the video now. We do appreciate your work :)
we extend our heartfelt thanks to Cam and Neil for your thorough and insightful review of the Yoeleo R12. We are grateful for the time and effort you invested in evaluating our bike, providing valuable feedback from two distinct rider perspectives. Your detailed analysis, covering build quality, design, specs, geometry, and personal riding experiences, offers potential customers a comprehensive understanding of what to expect from the Yoeleo R12.
We appreciate the constructive criticism and the praises alike, as you serve as crucial indicators for our continuous efforts to improve and innovate. Our mission is to provide high-quality, performance-oriented bicycles that meet the diverse needs and preferences of riders worldwide, and feedback like this is instrumental in guiding our development process.
We are particularly thankful for highlighting the aspects of the bike that stood out, such as the frame quality, ease of assembly, and the adjustable seat post feature, which we believe are testament to our commitment to quality and rider satisfaction. We acknowledge the points of improvement mentioned and will consider them closely in our ongoing and future design and development efforts.
Thank you, Cam and Neil, for your honesty and professionalism. We look forward to possibly collaborating again in the future and to continue receiving feedback that helps us grow and serve our cycling community better.
Is this chatgpt response lmao
@jacklalalaful so Chinese can't have a good English? 😢
No, I don’t think that’s what he means. It’s a very long response. It’s also a classy response.
@@neilchatterjee7644understand 😊
@@YOELEOthis second response sounds more like a classic Chinese person
This is it. This is the way a bike review should be. Gives me a full indication of how this bike really feels. Thanks guys....
The scores are so high. Too expensive 4 out of 5. No parts availability or local stores to help, 4 out of 5.
Totally agree, the biggest challenge of any review is to try and make it relatable to the millions of different riders and riding styles out there. Having two experienced riders at different ends of the spectrum is a great concept. Well done lads, would love to see something similar on the new Giant TCR (I'm looking at you Giant Australia 😘)
Loved the perspective of two different riders. Also the great explanation as to why it felt different ie. lower seat, more air in tires, heavier rider so harsher, stiffer feeling. Thanks!
Great new concept Cam! Two Blokes, One Bike :P
Just finished watching your review, and as an owner of the Yoeleo R12, I couldn't agree more with your insights! I've had mine for 7 months now, and it's been nothing short of fantastic. The comfort and all-round capability of this bike are exactly as you described. Also, shoutout to Yoeleo's customer service team they've been incredibly supportive every step of the way.
Owner for 3 years. Same same. Love it. Running 32mm’s, done some 7-8 hour days. No dramas. Rate it super high.
Re comfort, are you a beanpole or a beefcake?
Love the new format - you are really starting to create a new benchmark for what this kind of content can be. Always highly informative and very entertaining!
I have one. The geometry is perfect for me once it's built. The few times I've had problems with Yoeleo stuff they have made it right, it sometimes takes them awhile. But in the end the did everything I could have possibly asked for, and then some. It is not super light but neither am I. I love the ride feel. I found it incredibly comfortable and I am heavier than Cam and also ride with not a lot of seatpost exposed. But I run 28 mm Pirelli tires which plump up to 30 mm on Elite 50D at 65 psi. I love the seat clamp design. I am not a huge fan of the seat wedge design. $1590 for frame in US. I will soon be building up an R11, which is their light weight frame.
format neatly illustrates the subjectivity of ride quality and experience and the effect of height and weight - well done - this admitted beefcake is keen for more
I bought my R12 in 2021. Absolutely love it. If you're thinking of buying your first Chinese frame get this one. It's an awesome bike.
Great to see old mate in any of your videos!
Strongly encourage you to do more of this type of projects as the big cycling manufacturers are just screwing cyclists financially.
China Cycling is a great channel for Chinese products and people generally think of Chinese products as cheap and nasty but there are passionate Chinese cyclists and companies wanting to make a genuine product.
Thanks Can and Neil !
Respect to you for being honest to your viewers first and not hiding bad reviews (elves video) for the sake of the relationship to the manufacturer or dealer. Not many youtube channels are able or willing to do that. What a breath of fresh wind.
Glad u got to review this bike in the end. Good review. Thx
Great collaboration, always an enjoyable 10-15 minutes of bike info.
Cheers Glen.
12:15 RIP headphone users... 😅
I agree with most of the points you said, although I have the previous generation (this one should be a bit stiffer). If YOELEO had kept a better eye on quality control and not shot themselves in the foot, I believe they would have had more success with the R12. I, for example, have a slightly misaligned rear wheel. 🤷♂Another annoying thing is the loud hub of the SAT PRO wheels. It is definitely not for everyone, and sometimes I have to soft-pedal to not annoy others. 🤣
On the other hand, I appreciate the ability to choose the exact stem length and handlebar width and the affordable custom paint. The "ice-crack" pattern really looks amazing in person.
I love the loud hub! The R12 was not their best bike. They discontinued their best bike foolishly enough the R21. I have the last R21 they made and the latest R12.
I have this exact frame set with Dura Ace 11 speed and have no issues with it, it’s just an awesome frame set and one of the best I have.
During pricing the frameset includes the integrated handlebar which isn't included in others such as t1500 from winspace
Yes I did think that although they very often run specials which includes the bars. I have seen it many times over the years.
@@CamNicholls yoeleo is a package, winspace you'd have to wait for a special with its only a few times a year.
This is terrific how you both describe the nuances of the ride and feel, from two perspectives (stockier and lighter guys, to cover the spectrum). Others on YT barely go one third into this area, yet we bike riders want to know about this (not '6% more aero').
Great video guys!
Awesome review! Loving the different aspects and the discussion about those points.
Keep it UP!
Great review chaps, reckon the format is a winner.
I really liked this format! Keep it coming!
Really like this format. I’m smack dab in the middle of you two in terms of weight so it’s nice to get two perspectives on the frame feel
Super interesting to actually see this done. I've had similar conversations with riding buddies about bikes. I'm the racer/lightweight guy, and some of the fellas are more average pace riders with more kg on their frame. They say that a lot of the expensive/race frames are too stiff, but I'll ride them, and they feel fine to me. I suspect the carbon is engineered to flex and dampen at higher speeds than mortals are holding, so they get this chattery ride feel all the time.
First time a bike review been done with two people. I think this was a great way to go. I have respected Cam the ones you have done on your own. But having Neil involved. Has taking it to another level. would be interesting to do one with two others from the RCA family and you just host the pod cast. Keep up the awesome podcast.
goated concept ngl, two archetypes on a specific style bike
From my R12 build in December (2023 edition). Seatpost has slipped constantly, think I've got it good now but over-torqued with a lot of grip paste.
BB tolerance not great with standard SRAM cups but a BBinfinite has resolved it.
I run hyper D45s, 28/30mm. Comfortable with that tyre setup. Everything else in keeping with your review.
Also fwiw I've got mine to 7.3kg with a mix of red and force.
Torque of 6nm should have done it with carbon paste, mine never slipped.
Interesting to hear James, thanks for sharing.
I'd totally run this bike, seems like a pretty solid all-rounder.
HAPPY Ending - Glad You stuck with the Project. GREAT Concept to have two different size riders and to hear different experiences. The Review was handled with a very balanced & clear way by two experienced riders coming from two distinct viewpoints.
The SeatPost setback adjustment is Brilliant - As someone who rides a 0 setback, I'm tired of too may brands ie; Specialized who automatically offer 20 setback, won't swap for free & force customer to buy a Zero Seatpost for a Frameset purchase - getting stuck with paperweight or selling at a loss on eBay🤬
I was interested because Yoeleo was the first deep wheels I purchased about 5 years ago. NO problems whatsoever. Think their wheel lineup could use a refresh now = external & internal width, etc.
Think they are a strong brand and it appears they deliver a solid product at a very reasonable price point - just like their wheels.
Frame misstep - not unique to Yoeleo - every brand can have a QC issue, as we have all seen on YT. The true test is how they handle the problem and move forward. Congrats on another Quality & Entertaining Episode. Ride On😎
Very nice review, guys. I really appreciate that there are two of you reviewing the same bike. Cheers.
Happy to see your guys take on the R12. Very much in line with my experience of the R12. Even years in i still enjoy the bike a lot. Its a fun good allrounder that i even once took out on a gravel ride with thick tires 🫣
I only have experiences with Yoeleo and their stock system. I bought their Sat C60 wheelset in December and it took until early March for them to arrive. The main excuse was the Chinese New Year but after that they would not answer questions or emails.
Time will tell if the wheelset is any good. It was very easy to set up tubeless as they don't have access holes for spokes. GP5000's took very little effort to put on
I’d check to see if the bearings have been cleanly inserted. After our speed tests and video recording Neill went home and found that the inner sleeve was binding up against the bearings. This no doubt impacted the speed tests. Once Neill fixed up the bearings the wheels felt faster / smoother. According to him. I’d also grease that hub!
I have this bike in XL and over all happy with it. Regarding comfort there is close to no meaningful compliance in the frame like most other aero bikes with long seat tube and deep section seat post. However, I do think it is comfortable as it fits wide tyres. I run it with 30 mm wide tyres (measured) and I am replacing them with 32 mm tubeless GP5000 as there seem to be plenty of space. The sliding adjustment of the seat requires taking of the saddle if it does not have a cut out or via the rails. The angle indexing on the saddle clamp has big jumps which is annoying. That clamping mechanism is actually the only thing I am worried about long term.
Keep this kind of review coming - two diverse perspectives which covers a broader range of riders. I’m more like a beanpole…
Thumbs up for Shouty Hat Dude.
Love that guy.
Great format and seems like an open transparent honest review ! As a consumer my concerns would be the same as you were saying at that price point, being along the lines of some of the "bigger" brands it would give me more of a sense of security to be aligned with LBS support.
As always great video !
Thanks for calling them out on price/ value. Beyond the fact that I wouldn't ride a branded frame from what is essentially not a brand (they're a broker not a factory), and having built 9 Chinese frames at lower price points, there is absolutely nothing telling me these frames are better, so as far as I can tell, they're just more expensive because they're on the radar of more people.
People would like to hear more. Your picks on road, endurance, choices sans carbon wheels. Interesting.
Not exactly true, I have first had experience. Not to be confused with Dengfu R12. If they are a broker show the exact same geo frame elsewhere please.
The commenter is mistaken. Yoeleo actually build their own frames. They are not a broker. In fact, the R12 is unique.
Great review! I took a while to watch as I’m not interested in buying this particular bike, but I really enjoy this content and will watch and comment on every one hopefully with the mention on Nero, this video will do a bit better.
This is the first time for me I have seen this type of platform bike review and I absolutely love it 👍💪👏 honest to goodness review
I think you guys are on to something here….awesome job, great video….more please 🙏
Well boys long time no see…… great review on bike…. Answered all my questions 👏🏻👏🏻
I love this method. I think it’s a great way to contrast different ride styles and allow the bike to succeed in a niche. Fair play on the carbon issue. I think the carbon stuff only needs to happen if the brand doesn’t provide warranties or the warranty could be hard to get.
EXCELLENT more of these please no other platform are doing this so please keep this going RCA my number 1.
Its ashame that Yoeleo discontinue the R21 last year. It is definitely faster than this R12. I own both. Im not as versed as you guys. I did a review on both of them. Yoeleo sent my R21 in less than 7 days when they had my size on had. The R12 was longer during the pandemic fiasco. Your review is spot on. Thats why i prefer the R21.
Bring back the scan.
Best review yet!
Is there a rim brake version?
I can concur that my experience is similar. I was a dealer for 2 yrs. Fast but not the fastest out there. Comfortable... absolutely. I personally prefer the R11 made from T1000. Fast but also lighter and had a snappier feel to it. I enjoy it more to ride even though it's not as relaxed in the stack height.
Would love to hear your thoughts on the comfort issue if you put wider rubber on it!
Good stuff, Cam! Beefcake and Beanpole rock.
How does it compare to the Polygon Helios, which seems to be a much better value purchase?
The frame is too expensive, much rather just buy a Giant frame or the mid spec Merida Reacto.
Personally I prefer the Polygon. Mainly because it's softer in the rear and a bit lighter.
Neal appeared far more comfortable on this bike. Why, I don’t know. Did I miss Neal offer his eternal love for disc brakes? Now, all you need to do is add an old geyser over 55 or 60 to your team. That would be even more fun. Great effort here guys.
Love that review. Well done 👏
about time, been waiting for months
Glad to see you back on UA-cam
What happen to the silver fox mate?
Great channel!
Much love from France
Silver Fox content coming, just waiting for weather to clear.
Bloody brilliant, love it
Is there an advantage to buying through Lichtbike (who I assume are the AUS distributor) rather than direcrt from Yoeleo? Buying direct seems to save you about $500 AUD at the moment and pulls it back down to the sort of price range that you'd expect.
I have this frame and I like it. I have mentioned on multiple comments that Yoeleo really screwed themselves on the price! I bought mine factory direct for $1760 just before Australia got locked out of buying direct. For this one reason I'm not recommending this frame. It's too bad because it's actually really good!
Well said
Enjoyed the video but I think you missed a trick not trying it with a 28 or 30 mm tyre for Cam specifically.
When I hear frame size, I also want to hear the height of the rider riding the bike. Especially when the seat is slammed forward as on this bike. (Cam looked a bit big and a little cramped) Just curious. I ride both 54 and 56cm bikes and at 5'10" I need the seat as far back as I can get it on the 54 and almost all the way back on the 56. The 56 gives me more room that I seem to need but when I straddle the bike with my shoes on the ground, there is no room between my testicles and the top tube. It's not comfortable. The 54 cm gives me just enough room. It's like I need a 55 cm.
Yes, good point we missed rider height. We're both similar I believe, 179cm. I just have a longer upper body it seems. I also appear crammed because I've my upper girth, I believe.
You guys are my height then. Yes, you look like you have more muscle mass. Even the pros are now supplementing workouts in the gym lol@@CamNicholls
Very Interesting 😎👍 Which brings me to - you really have to find THE bike that fits you and your style of riding.
Great concept, more please.
So is this the go to cheap Chinese bike show or do you do the traditional bikes to
The relationship with BMC means I can't really review mainstream bikes. I think that's fair and I don't mind this space. The next one coming is very exciting.
what is your knee extension value - saddle looks low but that is the trend.
What were you running the 25mm rear tyre at Cam? 80kg might be into 28mm rear territory, keep the 25mm front
I was running it at 70. I don;t liek 28's for some reason! I need to give them another try
before the brands figured out carbon layup matters in ride feel, even the mainstream brands like Giant had thicker carbon layups. I think that's why alot of older carbon bikes are sought after. I'm pushing 200lbs and my 2014 TCR was made for world tour but it still rides great. It's even been crashed a few times and never cracked.
The title is top, guys.
Well...Beefcake&Beanpole sounds better than Beancake&Beefpole. 😄
Enjoyed the review. 👍
Does it hold its speed?
haha, this was mentioned in the video if you caught it...
Would you still recommend the Seka Exceed?
Yep 💯 just not so sure about the companies support. Try buying through a local distributor
Can you please share the total cost for this build?
I'd have to ask Neill for that, did you want to build this up exactly the same?
No it would just be useful info to compare against other mainstream brands with similar groupset / wheel options.
When my TCR dies ill be going China frames tbh, either that or $7000? Would rather a motorbike for that price
Will the TCR die though!? May live forever. Well made those things.
What is the slowest proper road bike you rode though? Because we hear "not the slowest bike" all the time
Thought I’d seen both of you out around the coast on this bike and wondered how soon we’d see a review.
Interesting comparo and thoughts from both you Cam and Neal.
I do have to agree with you both re the frame price. Whilst the frame is UCI approved and I’ve also seen others review their experiences with this brand of bike, it’s still not really a brand that’s up there with say a Giant or the likes and so for me, it is over priced.
As always, great velog and an interesting review.
Thanks for sharing 👍🙌🚴♂️
Great review! No need for a scan.
Great job, fellas.
Be interesting to order a frame for the show (they know who you are) and anonymously buy one and compare frame build quality.
Clearly that might upset the builder, but are you for the buyer or the seller?
Yes, I did attempt that in the last project but it was a messy sequence. That was explained upfront in this video. Keep in mind, the entire Ad revenue from the three video series has been less than $400 USD. Yes, the frame + groupset + wheels were given to the channel, but Neill is keeping the bike. Yoeleo have not paid us anything direct. So forking out $3000 personally for a frame and making extra content becomes counterintuitive from a commercial standpoint. Yes, you can sell the frame afterwards, but that adds more work to the process and I'd say you'd be lucky to get $2000 back. Plus, these Chinese frames are hard to sell.
I thought it would be complicated and expensive.
What are the warrantees like on Chinese frames?
I’ve heard that a large part of the price of the big brand light frames is the warrantee due to the increased risk of breakage of the delicate frames. The Chinese frames are more robust (heavier) to protect against failure and thus warrantee issues??
Great review but not a frame I’d consider.. love the channel guys 👍👍😃🚴🏻Pete
Thank god they haven't dropped the seat stays. If one more bike looks like a bloody SL7/8 the wheels are comin off this cart, and they'll be a calamity. I would consider this bike, the Yeoleo based on the silhouette.
Nice one. The Chinese brands are doing well but I agree they're position in the market are good quality frames for $1000+ cheaper than mainstream western brands. If the Chinese makers start to creep the price up, people will choose to have Giant on the side of the frame.
The R-11 is much lighter. My 59cm rim brake R-11 is 7.5kg with pedals, bottle cages, and computer mount.
For less the than 3000$ for the whole bike with Di2... I would choose Reacto 6000 or the Gusto Evo Cobra, Pogacar used to ride one before signing with UAE.
Somehow the fact that it reads "YO" on the frame really kills the vibe for me.
Do a week podcast!
Polygon helios or yoeleo r12??
Polygon
Good review. Price and weight just seems too high for an 'ok' bike.
Possible to bring in female riders perspective into testing bikes and frames? Would really help reviews from also a female perspective. A lot of women too that watch this channel. Again another great video made :)
My R-12 is sitting in my basement. Need to pay down my credit card before buying an Ultgra Di2 derailleur and brakes. 😥😥
Unfortunately Yoeleo bike frames are hit and miss... there is no quality control on their products. In the past their frames were made by an OEM company. Not sure if this is still the case but the quality is all over the place. I had ordered one in the past in a red/black colour combination. The bike arrived as a faded red and black bike. Thankfully Yoeleo did pay for me to have the whole bike repainted but it just shows that the quality control is off. Also there can be huge delays in getting frames delivered. Some people have waited well over 6 months to get their frames
ya'll should make this a thing name it beefcake vs beanpole and give it a separate intro lol it be an instant hit
Hey Cam, bigger tires.
I have had a R12 for over a year. to be honest Its just ok bike. Im now turning it into a light off road use machine. it has good tyre clearance. if you buy do not expect it to ride like a top end bike.
Doesnt look like you have shorter legs, just looks like you dont extent them.
Probably the hip issues I have
@@CamNicholls I feel your pain😔
Fully undersatand why you don't want to do it from a business standpoint but if these companies don't want their frames scanned and exposed maybe they should actually produce better products?
Sadly no frames for us tall guys, which seems to be a thing for almost all Chinese direct to consumer brands
Two roadies, One bike 😂 I know how this ends
Continental GP 5000 super easy to put on?! I don´t believe you.
Hahaha calling out brands for dodgy manufacturing via the carbon scans results in sponsors and vendors not wanting to work with you - im shocked.
On the 5% chance you're willing to understand,...the channel has made less than $400 Ad revenue from this entire three series project. Yes, the bike is given to the channel, but in this instance, Neill is keeping it as his bike. So the expectation is that I spend $3000 on an anonymous frame, and then spend an additional 20-30 hours creating a piece of content about an anonymous frame scan. Yes, I'll most likely get $2000 back, once it sells. But keep in mind these Chinese brands are hard to sell and it's extra work trying to sell them...it's simply not commercially viable or something I want to continue investing my time into.
@@CamNicholls thats a far better explanation and reason for not doing it. I was more concerned as it sounded like you were being pushed away from doing it as it was creating friction and hurting relationships with your sponsors and vendors due to the results being unfavourable for the manufacturers/sponsors
The frame looks like an orbeya
Just stopping by to remind everyone who created structured training using intervals.
Ohh and i wouldn't ride theses gravel bikrs on the road even if you gave it to me for free .
Great video. The only complaint is when you keep smacking your lips, It's really distracting
haha, Neill and me?
Freehub Jumpscare 💀
Feels a bit like a puff piece
More like an algorithmic puff piece-who actually rides this stuff? never seen it in the wild, only on YT.