Does the SEKA Exceed Weigh-Up to Tier-1 Mainstream? (for 1/2 the price)

[@CamNicholls]

Hope everyone is well out there...just to address some good/constructive feedback from Stevo below, tyre clearance is 30mm (this was discussed in the first impressions but an oversight not to add into this piece), and regarding the real world mechanical bits - moving forward I think it's a great idea to add snippets from the build into the final long term review (to address certain areas). However for now, for those interested, you can watch the build video where bike mechanic Jay Taylor discusses many parts to the build/frame. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qpXUkpiQgbB9edk Cheers. Cam

[@BioStuff415]

I put a deposit on one... The heavier version, and noticed that their FB page has not been touched in Jan 2. and have not received any email acknowledging my deposit. Should I be concerned. Is the SEKA brand still operational?

[@TheLadeef]

@@BioStuff415 just received my shipment after 3 months, just need to be patient.

[@valiantabello]

I just want to thank you for your detailed and balanced review. I very much appreciate it.

[@CamNicholls]

Cheers Valiant

[@bjsr126]

Well.. I fell in love with the Seka from the very first episode, proceeded to gamble (pre long term review) and order it.. should arrive in the next few weeks. Great to hear the gamble was worth it 🙏🏻 Will be running a Sram 1x just like this too. Can't wait

[@CamNicholls]

Nice one Ben. Hope you enjoy the ride as much as I do

[@alkoma4586]

What's benefits with 1x?

[@bjsr126]

@@alkoma4586 cleaner looking drivetrain, Simpler gearing, it also just feels better personally imo.

[@blakebullock9656]

I’ve had the same frame (white version) since February 2022 built up with sram red axs 2x and hunt aeodynamicist 54mm wheels (7.38 kg with pedals, bottle cages and garmin mount) and I absolutely love it! Even compared with other top end brand name bikes I’ve owned in the past.

[@CamNicholls]

Awesome to hear Blake, thanks for sharing on the thread 👍

[@durianriders]

7.38? That's pretty heavy for that price. Are your scales accurate? My CAAD3 in 1999 was 7.4kg with pedals and 2 cages.

[@blakebullock9656]

@@durianriders for a modern disc brake aero bike with 54mm deep wheels, this is quite light. Lots of pros are riding 7.3 kg bikes these days

[@RepsacZ]

@@blakebullock9656 don't take the bait bro

[@RevelCris]

really want to see this in white since everyone has naked carbon color, do u have pics or videos anywhere? how are u liking it. really considering it vs an emonda slr frame thats 4k

[@stevoc123]

I’ll be honest with you. I’ve been holding out for this review for ages in the hope it would answer some real world question about the frame. I’m disappointed that it hasn’t covered things like the tyre clearance “real world”. some close up shots of the mechanical bits like the drop outs, seat clamp system and the headset spacer set up. It’s not sexy stuff but I can’t see it from their website and it’s important to know when you build your own bikes. I know you don’t build your own bikes, but maybe it’s worth getting the mechanic to give their opinion on the frame regarding what it’s like to work on. Some integrated bars are a pain in the hole 😂 as always, keep up the good work.

[@bjsr126]

Cam will only show what people request.. if nobody's ever requested this type of content before, how would he know to show it? I'm sure he'd be more than willing to incorporate it in the videos in the future Weight weenies have a forum going on this bike aswell which will answer some questions of yours.

[@stevoc123]

@@bjsr126 I know about the thread in WW. Info is sketchy at best with a lot of people waiting on this review. I think Cam does a great job but in this instance when these frames are new and hard to obtain, it would be appreciated if there was an extra level of detail. Seka are also partly to blame as the website is pretty limited on data or detailed pictures.

[@404nobrakes]

@@stevoc123 I think if we asked for specific details in a followup video, he might do it.

[@durianriders]

Seka offered me a free bike but I said no thanks as it was disc only. I like fast and easy to live with road bikes. I ride for stress relief and my choice of bike has to support that simple like philosophy.

[@stevoc123]

@@durianriders Hey DR, I guess that’s what I’m getting at here. Newer frames are just a bit shitty with full integration, and are a huge pain in the hole to work on. I have 11 bikes and my custom Cervelo S3 Rim from 2016 ( 6.2 Kg ) probably gets used more than anything else as it’s fun, light, fast and easy to work on. I have newer disc stuff too but they feel blunt in comparison. The new S5 is making inroads on being easier to work on, so hopefully the industry has taken notice of it’s stupidity and is working on improving. Oh, the roads here in Ireland are like farm tracks so I just need more tyre as I’m used to the smooth roads of Switzerland.

[@oliverphilipbabb228]

Been waiting for this video and just happened to check tonight. Perfect timing 😎

[@CamNicholls]

That would be good

[@seblatapie]

Absolutely dream build for me. Love the one by look with axs. So clean

[@aitsch123]

Tanks for all your videos about this frame, whatched them all. I orderd the frameset (RCD) 2 months ago and got it today. It looks stunning. Can´t wait to build it up.

[@Hill_Walker]

A 10 week lead time is still less than most brands at the moment.

[@CamNicholls]

Yes that's a good point

[@BioStuff415]

10-15 - ordered one a few days ago.

[@renegodde5483]

10 weeks for China, probably, but everywhere else this is going to take a lot longer (currently, that is). Ordered mine to EU about 3 months ago and haven‘t even been asked to pay the balance, yet. And don‘t expect cycling100 to answer to emails in a timely manner, or at all more often than not. The product may be up there with high-end frames and bar from premium brands, but service is clearly not. I guess that‘s the price you pay.

[@terencekee270270]

I got a Dogma F and waiting for a Seka Exceed RDC. I think it would be interesting to ride the Seka and confirm Cam's impression that the Seka is at the top end of bikes.

[@cornelhughes6763]

How's the Seka Exceed RDC? How does it compare to your other bikes?

[@michaelapers4569]

Hi Cam, Love the video's about the Seka. I've bought the bike myself and I loved it. My findings about the ride quality align with your thoughts and feelings. However the costumer service of Cyling100 is truly scandalous. When I wanted to buy the bike, i've reached out to them to ask if the frame was available. They told me that if i bought it today it would be shipped within 2 weeks and would be in Europe 2 weeks later. In the end I was waiting almost 4 months for the frame to be delivered. Mails about the delivery were answered 1 out of 5 times. But al that was forgiven when I got the bike. I did the build myself and I loved it. The bike performed really well and I even rode it to a 6e place in a UCI granfondo in France of 180km and 3500 vertical meters. After a few months I noticed that after every ride my saddle started slipping from 0,5 to 2cm. Some carbon paste didn't help. The saddle clamp can hold 8nm and that was always set with a torque wrench. Now i've discovered that a part of the saddle clamp is broken in 2 pieces. So I tried to reach out to them for a solution. 24 days later and several e-mails later there is still no answer... I know this is a long comment but I hope future costumers take the time to read this and think twice before buying something from Cyling100. If they come with a solution i'll be happy to update this comment

[@CamNicholls]

Yes, I have heard bad things about their service and I am sorry that you've encountered this yourself. I will pass your message onto my contact directly. Hopefully they get back to you. Cam

[@michaelapers4569]

As promiced, here is an update on my seatpost problem and the costumer service : After a long wait and countless mails, Cycling100 got in touch with me and sent me replacement parts to fix the seatpost clamp issue. I only had to pay €7,15 import taxes, but thats ok. The solution they offered works well and i’m able to ride the bike without problems now. If only there costumer service was better at replying mails and questions,… Clearly something to work on foR Cycling100

[@wsbygt]

Great video! That SystemSix still looks amazing after all these years. ... wheres me "ol m8" though? Cheers!!

[@CamNicholls]

haha, he is reserved for Friday videos.

[@sprintkick9793]

Cam, your transparency is always much appreciated.

[@CamNicholls]

Cheers Sprint

[@RichChh]

Cam, you are respected and your opinion is respected. Thanks for the time and energy put into this project.

[@CamNicholls]

Cheers Richard, appreciate that. Cam

[@TommySaucierPlourde0]

Your content is so good and I'm so happy you have many many bikes and wheels to review. Keep on the good work.

[@CamNicholls]

Cheers Tommy, appreciate that mate.

[@ilittleflyingboy]

Will be super interested to see a review of the new Seka Spear

[@richardmoeller7296]

Nice job! Glad you are back!

[@neilmckenna236]

Been waiting for some time for that review as very interested in possible purchase. The bike looks fantastic and would appear to ride well too. Very good comprehensive review (over all the videos) ...... is definitely right up there in my consideration list!

[@toms2jz464]

Cam love your channel! Whats the width of your handlebar? You said you should’ve gotten a longer stem. I’m 5’9 I usually run a 90mm on my Bikes. I’m ordering an RDC this week thanks to your videos cheers!

[@durianriders]

I just cant get over how heavy, hard to work on and expensive most road bikes are today for people getting into the sport. Ive got over 40 high end bikes and can afford anything but Id not buy a new complete bike in 2022. I bought the 12spd dura ace but as soon as I weighed it and look how fragile the cranks and chain are I sold it next day before I even put it on my gravel bike. I got my first UCI license in 1997 and the new bikes back from the big brands back then are WAY better than the new stuff today these brands put out. Im a performance based rider though. I understand most want to keep up with the Jones so fair enough.

[@CamNicholls]

We need some proper wind tunnel and external on road speed tests to assess new VS old I reckon. Do any exist online?

[@durianriders]

@@CamNicholls GCN showed that the extra watts of disc wheels need about 12w more to maintain speed at 30kph I think it was. A riders jersey is the biggest thing but most people wear snug jersey's in 2022.. Next is bike position - being lower and more narrow. Road disc is definitely slower aero wise because of the extra spokes and rotors. Imagine what the bike industry would say if road disc was the old and rim was the new. It would be an easy sell. Lighter, better modulation because the rim pads sit further away, cheaper, easier to build and maintain and way more aero as less spokes and better balanced frames because the spokes on the front wheel are the same tension and yaw.

[@crbondur]

Thanks for the honest review. I appreciate that you talk about both the plusses AND the minuses of the frame and wheelset. The frame and wheels sound pretty awesome! Based on your review though, these would probably not work well for me. :)

[@CamNicholls]

Cheers Chris

[@cornelhughes6763]

Cam Nicholls enjoyed your review. Question though would your observations also apply to the Non RDC version considering RDC is different(eg.uses a higher quality of carbon)?

[@stevelong9178]

Another top notch review Cam,

[@davidtyler5129]

Great review Cam. As always enjoy your content and analysis. See you out there on the tarmac pushing pedals 🚴🏼🤙

[@CamNicholls]

Cheers David

[@liamoconnor279]

Hi Cam, thanks for your reviews on this frame. I ordered an Exceed RDC from Cycling100 and paid them the final balance some time ago but have not, as yet, received my frame. I see a number of stories on the internet of other people having similar difficulties with this company and they are no longer answering their emails. Have you had any recent contact with Cycling100? Cheers.

[@iang2868]

Hi Liam I was thinking of ordering a frame set I’m just checking have you received yours yet … I’m just wondering how long you actually had to wait and was the Communication any good

[@norsangkelsang7939]

I have one... not built yet. Will have some time in a few weeks. It is well built, certainly well packaged for shipping. Far better than my DOGMA packaging. Moreover, adding the Bars is $200 not $950. The seat post is far lighter as well. I'm switching from the DOGMA because the head tube height on the DOGMA is too aggressive. I prefer an old school geometry and position. This frame offers that in an aero frame. Most aero frames are too short in the head tube. To get this geo - one has to get endurance frames with round tubes.

[@robertwhyte3435]

Thanks for the review. I think that your PRs on those descents are interesting because I think descending is a combination of how the bike handles and how it inspires confidence. My personal thinking is that an aero bike, with aero wheels, needs to fall on the stability, confidence, side of the curve. For me, having to work to hold a line and constantly responding to the bike doing something I didn't ask it to do, takes more energy than putting a little more effort into making the corner. Again, my personal preference. Here's the question that matters to me. When you look at the Seka does it make you want to ride? Anyway, great review. I'm looking forward to some race videos and seeing the levers in the right position. All the best.

[@EJD200]

Hey Cam, are you still riding the Seka? Would you still rate it with the current bikes?

[@joeldurbridge2718]

Very well constructed and explained. 👌🏻

[@CamNicholls]

Thank you Joel.

[@blastx]

Hey Cam, I remember you building up this Seka with a left side rival power crank and a right side force crank. From what you’ve experienced, does the difference in weight cause any imbalance when riding? Asking this as I too am looking for an affordable route to adding a power meter to my setup, but currently running SRAM red crankset. Just worried that the difference in weight on each side causing issues when riding. Hope to hear from you!

[@jk2302]

Enough said for me at @12:30 thank you! But...Do you think if you didn't go with the RDC version, would it be a stiffer layup?

[@chrisfusco2802]

I’m thinking about ordering a frame, did cycling100 give you a code to help out the channel?

[@averageaaron1]

Merida Reacto is the best bike ever! Affordable in both rim and disc brakes. Very underrated brand! I wish more people would pay attention to Merida.

[@CamNicholls]

Yes, great bikes! Always excellent on many levels.

[@hawkeyelikesbikes]

@@CamNicholls Unfortunately Advance Traders Australia P/L who support Merida in this country are on my black list due to the way they treated a few mates of mine with warranty issues. It's a shame so few follow the Giant approach to customer support, who are outstanding.

[@alexharris222]

Great review Cam

[@CamNicholls]

Cheers Alex

[@GooglyMooglyOne]

How does the bike handle fast decents and how stable does it feel. I have have a no name Chinese aero frame and I experienced a speed wobble around 38mph and it was not the best feeling. I plan to do more climbing and naturally that would include more decending so I would like to know how stable you would rate this frame going downhill at 40+

[@CamNicholls]

Ive done close to 90km ph on the bike and no issues.

[@bikenliftdad9983]

I picked up a canyon aeroad cf slx on the canyon website for less than the seka. Would be curious to see how those too compare. I love my aeroad

[@CamNicholls]

Is the CF their tier 2 layup? Looks like their CFR is the tier 1. But I would be interested to trying/comparing for sure. It’s just a matter of getting your hands on these things!

[@bikenliftdad9983]

@@CamNicholls yes I believe tier 2. Cfr is their top, cf is bottom. Had to strike while the iron was hot! Cheers

[@yaboinugnug5066]

@@CamNicholls Canyon uses 3 layups, CF SL, CF SLX, and CFR in ascending price and performance.

[@Numeriwar]

The aeroad is worth 0$ with the faulty seatpost/frame

[@ouyangtimothy9164]

I had a 2017 Ultimate and really liked it, looking to buy a new Aeroad but the seatpost problem is holding me back.

[@davidgeorge9233]

Really like the look of the Seka and your review was great. I’m in the market for another road bike but I’m finding none of the Chinese brands do much in the endurance geometry category, (I can’t ride race or aero geometry) with prices having risen so much the brand I keep coming back to is Giant who seem to do a good job of producing a quality product with sound engineering for a fair price. I think unless anything else turns up it will be a Defy for me!

[@Jcauto-t4r]

Thanks for the vid. Soooo now I’m more confused than never. If I wish to build an aero bike for fast rides In Florida USA, what frame would should I go for ? WinSpace or a SEKA and is it is a SEKA wich frame ? Thanks

[@AdamEwart]

Surprised to see the Reacto coming out on top here...but given its more mid tier pricing and excellent after sales, I guess it stands to reason. Great content once again mate...and I guess when you have Durianrider commenting on your vids, you know you're doing something right 😁👌

[@CamNicholls]

haha, cheers mate. Yes, the Merida was solid on value for money and practicality which is rare!

[@dddreeeeeee]

this video is uploaded 6 month ago, but when did you actually shoot and buy all the components? because it sound quite expensive for a force etap axs with 8000usd, because at the moment i want to build it, and after all my calculation i can get a full build with sram red axs, elite drive 65d, OSPW and even ceramic BB with only around 6250USD.

[@rli6951]

the founder of SEKA is a renowned Bike fitter in China, this bike is no “cheap” made product, its properly developed and well designed, I own one along with a foil premium and Emonda slr, I love the bike, its as good as any top notch Aero bikes(very similar to a venge feel). And I have to say that one piece bar is one of the better looking bars in the market, and MUCH BETTER than my RSL piece of shit bar that cracked and got recalled.( trek owners! Get this bar over your stock rsl) it fits perfect and looks perfect on a red Emonda SLR 7 frame.

[@cornelhughes6763]

Any improvement? Really wonder about the Non RDC performance since RDC uses a higher carbon quaintly. Can we really apply the observations re RDC to the non RDC version?

[@treyhorn5645]

Good job brother. I've been following for sure that is a really cool bike. If it had wider tire clearance that would be so much fun for what I ride little out of my budget. But I can still dream. I'm still riding aluminum. I don't really have a problem with it.

[@MarvinSauer]

Great Video I could get my hands on a Seeka in the frame Size 57 withe a 120 mm Bar and also a 15 mm Setback. I am 183cm high. But when you say you ride withe 178 cm a 55 and a 110mm Bar, I’m not sure if it’s not too big!

[@rizzlerforthergyatt]

What's the song name at the ending??I appreciate comparison and review on the bike!

[@CamNicholls]

Falling in Love Cody Fry

[@GrouEEf]

Hey Cam, I really love the SEKA, but I can get the BMC Teammachine SLR01 Five for 40% discount. I want a dream bike tho- how much faster would you consider the SEKA to be if any? I really need to decide soon ... 🙈

[@CamNicholls]

I don't know the answer to that question, but if you can buy the BMC through a local shop and be supported there I would say that's an added benefit. I have a long term review of the BMC coming out soon

[@richardggeorge]

As always a good review. However, this proposition doesn't make sense to me as there are too many unknowns. At this price I would buy a name brand like Merida Reacto or the new Merida Scultura (a bit of aero) as it has race proven geometry and aero performance and is stil a relatively affordable brand in Australia (prices have jumped $500-$1000+ since covid though 😥). If going Chinese "up-and-coming/new" brands....I would get something super risky/cheap like Velobuild VB-R-168 (throw away crit pig) or Yoeleo R12 (if you want a bit more perceived quality/reputation). I would be curious how you think this stacks up versus the Merida's you have tested (I don't care about 500g weight saving as it doesn't make a difference if it breaks the first time you drop it). Cheers from chilly Melbourne

[@CamNicholls]

Cheers Richard, appreciate the comment and it actually aligns to the final comparison rating system at the very very end of the video. The Merida Reacto does rate better by some way. However, i reckon this would ultimately come down to aesthetics for most. They are much different looking beasts, however, ride quality is borderline equally as good.

[@Frontman936]

I watch for the aero frames / carbon wheel sets and stay for the sale of the century theme

[@EpiKego]

Hi Cam, just searched for videos about the Seka Exceed and I have found a channel which copied your videos, the channel is named RATATA. Hopefully you see my comment… greetings from Switzerland! I‘m still not sure about the Exceed (non RDC) as a heavy rider… even after the checkup of the frame 😅 ride safe!

[@marcus_velo_9970]

great review very convincing, you're the sort of bloke that could sell square wheels to a triathlete. Here's what I think, why would I go no-name bike, no race pedigree, less warranty, email type service, than a mainstream brand? I don't want any doubts when doing 70+k down an alpine descent, moreover cycling is my passion so cost is not driving my decision. I have the $sss ... so I buy a bike based on performance, weight, components, brand trust/warranty and back up etc, etc, guess I'm just not a SEKA kind of guy.

[@CamNicholls]

Fair enough Marcus and thanks for sharing on the thread

[@RealMeatyBalls]

given your passion you'll no doubt be aware of hambini's roasts and so also aware of how shit the manufacture process of bigger , safer, mainstream brands can be...

[@marcus_velo_9970]

@@RealMeatyBalls true ... , that's why I buy bikes with a 'lifetime frame warranty' just go back to the shop if there's an issue; I've done this once with a 1 week turnaround on a frame replacement. you need to think about longer term ownership - big brands have the r&d, quality control and of course a greater legal responsibility under Australian law for example. as mentioned if its only about saving dollars, not worth it in consideration of what I've mentioned above. but guess what you're free to buy whatever you want do it bro!

[@marcus_velo_9970]

@@CamNicholls can you do a review as the bloke with a hat, no he knows his stuff!😀

[@davemellor4697]

Cam...it looks like an excellent build,the frame looks really aero and comfy. Your rating stacks up well against the big boys who seem to be pricing themselves out of the market nowdays. A friend of mine has a Cannondale system six and although very fast over a longer distance it kills him so the Seka may well be a better bet. I expect you heard the disgusting news thats rife on UK channels about oz cycling,so sad a most of us are big animal lovers. Great review Cam....

[@CamNicholls]

Cheers Dave, much appreciated.

[@harrymaguire1831]

DAVE! YOU AGAIN? HOWS ANTONIA?

[@mpgunawan]

Are you using 54 size for Merida Scultura as well?

[@naca139]

Consider sending the frame to Hambini for an engineering assessment. He has assessed a winspace to have better manufacturing prowess than other name brands.

[@pedalpatrol]

For what? I mean for real the carbon struckture is the main part and as you can clearly see from other videos they certainly did really some homework on the frame...

[@Abhitips224]

Golden samples. That’s what winspace and seka are sending these guys to review. Do you really think these companies are taking so much care and paying attention to detail in maintaining great tolerances for all their frames? Nope.

[@terrillford7784]

Cam, any reason why you went with the 1x over 2x setup?

[@TheChindoboi]

Cycling 100 has now closed shop

[@limwiching2277]

I'm also looking on SEKA, but i'm 180cm height, hard to select M or L size frame. also handle bar select 420/100mm or 420/110mm.

[@thomasforshaw8396]

Hi Cam, Have any of your channels been hacked? I've had a message supposed to be from you saying that I've been randomly selected for an e-bike giveaway from your channel

[@CamNicholls]

Looks like a hack. Seems to be going around! Francis Cade had a similar thing recently

[@SichardRamuels]

Reminds me of my Vitus ZX-1 Evo quite a lot (I also have 60mm rims from a company called Scribe). I don't know whether you have access to either of these brands in Oz as they're both UK based (Northern Ireland, to be precise) but, at £4500 (c. USD 5500) all-in, my setup is all the fast bike I will ever need! I highly recommend checking them out if you can.

[@jessekriesel1537]

I think in 2021 they were a great deal, but prices have gone up by about $1K per model in 2022. Also, that bike is more in the 8kg range.

[@SichardRamuels]

@@jessekriesel1537 True, my mid-range one with the 2x Rival AXS groupset is 8.3kg (with R7000 105 pedals and carbon bottle cage) comes in at 8.3kg. At today's exchange rate, the top-end 2x Red AXS version is over £600 cheaper than what Cam spent on this SEKA build and is 7.8kg with wheels that could definitely be switched for a lighter option. Anyway, all I'm trying to say is that, in the UK at least, it's definitely not "spend £10k+ on something ridiculously overpriced from Specialized, Trek etc. or buy direct from China". There are pretty well known brands like Vitus and Orro knocking out quality stuff for much more palatable money. Even if these particular brands are hard to access outside of the UK, I would hope that other countries have their equivalents. Then there's always Giant and/or Merida wherever you are...

[@4466ssss4]

Am I the only one to find the Systemsix (HM) comfortable ? I did many rides over 100km, one over 200km, lots of climbing, I found it very smooth with fulcrum wind wheels (and tube tyres)

[@CamNicholls]

You tend to get used to a riding experience after a while. What are you comparing it to? I am sure if you went on the SuperSix directly after the SystemSix you would feel a monster difference. But glad you enjoy the ride. I loved the SPEED of that thing. Amazing

[@lookatpalacios]

I tried to contact cycling 100 but no response... the colours of the frames are aweosme!

[@markj.a351]

I really get Merida reacto vibes looking at this bike.

[@CamNicholls]

Hey Mark, it actually looks VERY similar to the Factor Ostro. Cheers, Cam

[@pedalpatrol]

I really get Seka vibes looking at it... always these hey this looks like this or this i dont get it

[@jeffv103]

It's a great looking frame but they're not going sell a bunch of the XL size because of 57.5cm tt... that's ridiculously short.

[@CamNicholls]

Yes it's common for these Chinese brands actually.

[@joshualennox5798]

Jay Taylor fan club checking in!

[@narongchaichaiyanon7404]

Please someone explain why practicality is 6/10, does it mean it limit to use? Sorry for my poor english

[@vladipp2850]

What kind of safety standards does this frame meet, if any? (e.g EN 14781 Road Racing Bicycles in Europe + UCI requirements)

[@CamNicholls]

It’s UCI approved

[@yeyo9664]

Nice one Cam!, Would like to see some comment on how it climbs. Remember you didn´t had good first impressions on climbing despite the weight in your prev video...Also i guess it´s more an all rounder like the ostro VAm than a pure aero bike to compare with a systemsix maybe? (hilly area in here so aero is really not for me)

[@bjsr126]

With the 1x Setup it has, probably isn't capable of giving a fair judgement on its climbing abilities. Not saying it can't climb with that setup, however it's just not optimised for it.

[@CamNicholls]

Yes, the bike isn't really set up for climbing with the the group-set and the wheels. I would be interested to see how it performs with a lower rim profile, but I was a little hand-tied with this project given it was a wheel + frameset sponsored combo. Cheers.

[@dih1125]

I want to build with this frame, can I just buy any part to build or are there some incompatible parts with this frame?

[@CamNicholls]

The BB is a bit funky kzbin.info/www/bejne/qpXUkpiQgbB9edk

[@Tiles36]

is anyone having an issue in the rain with their seka? i.e. it fills with water when riding and when you stand the bike on its rear wheel the water pours out? also the initial seka garmin mount broke, they have a new improved design which seems to be much better

[@404nobrakes]

I agree with Richard and Marcus that the Seka frame is neither here nor there. Doesn't have the bargain cost of hongfu etc and doesn't have the pedigree of mainstream tier 1 bikes. But I think some people make the assumption that mainstream tier 1 bikes are extremely high quality, well engineered, etc. The previous S5 had a design flaw that gouged out its headtube. The SL7 ate its steerer. The Aeroad... had issues. The Seka seems to be the same quality, if not higher quality than many top tier brands. It's definitely near the top of my list. Once I see a few more anecdotes float around the internet, I think my decision will be made.

[@KarlRahn]

I bought Seka, I owned several s works bikes, Cannondale Hi Mods, Advanced SL giants. this bike is as good or better than all of them. for sure aero, and as for the product support, I feel shops are digging their own grave there. Shit or good service starts and finishes with a good shop mechanic and good customer service, if you can find that good for you, it is rare and eventually sold me a good at home tool kit. as for recalls I feel the record from the big brands is evident and shop dependant.

[@cornelhughes6763]

Did you get the RDC or just the Exceed

[@KarlRahn]

@@cornelhughes6763 RDC I am six feet, I size is a bit diff from Specialized I ended up getting a 130 stem with a 38 bar from them, the bars are insanely good BTW. also the BB is nice I hate press fit.

[@andriwijaya2104]

how does the feel when you ride seka exceed rdc? @Cornel Hughes

[@cornelhughes6763]

@@KarlRahn no idea as yet. Still deciding between Winspace t1500 (new version i have read coming soon) and seka RDC. Leaning towards the winspace new version (before sale customer service response is better than seka) and I doubt there will be some 3 month or more wait time

[@seanwil545]

Looks like a pretty interesting frame, but I'm not familiar with T47 Bottom Brackets. Appears to compatible with Shimano BB86 Cranksets via the Token/Praxis BB. Problem is I would like to run an EVO 386 crankset I have, but I don't think it'll work given the larger spindle of EVO 386. Great frame, but man is the BB market a mess =/

[@davidnicholson6680]

Almost every major brands has started using T47 (exception: Specialized, who is sticking with BSA). It's a threaded standard and easy to work with. The bearings are larger than a BSA BB, so they should probably be longer lasting and stiffer. I think T47 is probably the best BB standard out there.

[@jacklim1262]

I had build up a seka exceed non rdc version and currently running it with zipp firecrest 303 with Ultegra di2. I am wondering should change to higher profile as I found it hard to sustain abv 40km/h

[@rli6951]

That 303’s problem…. Shit set of wheel for roads, perfect for AR and gravel. 40+ take me 350w, while on a set of enve 5.6 is about 280

[@jacklim1262]

@@rli6951 are you sure?

[@housepfhoopz]

Seka is decent bike however the Quality control isnt up to bar the integrated bar gps mount is completely off center on my unit the mount holes is drilled off to the center the replacement arrived the same issues since its from the similar mold the tappered screws once tighten completely leans to the left cycling100 refuse to reply to email after i updated them that the replacement have the same issue Update cycling 100 warranty the new bar hope to rebuild it soon

[@CamNicholls]

That’s very frustrating for you and disappointing to hear that feedback.

[@housepfhoopz]

@@CamNicholls appreciate your hard works with all these video and bike reviews/comparison regardless :)

[@RealMeatyBalls]

did you get this resolved?

[@housepfhoopz]

@@RealMeatyBalls yep seka warranty thru cycling 100 have stepped up and sent out replacement bar. I did have to get them to measure the replacement before they ship it out from China

[@RealMeatyBalls]

@@housepfhoopz good to know. enjoy the bike

[@davidnicholson6680]

This frame looks like a good, practical option if you can stand having questionable after-sale support. The more relaxed geometry and higher level of comfort is a good fit with most people's riding and you're still getting the looks and (putative) aero benefit. I would actually just get the regular Exceed which is only 150g more in weight, fully $500US cheaper than the RDC version and has that "margin of error" the carbon expert here mentions. I don't like these wheels, they are too expensive and I stay away from proprietary hubs and spokes. I think the way to go with Chinese wheels is to get a Chinese rim, regular steel spokes and a mainstream brand hub. Every problem I've ever seen with Chinese wheels is with the rear hub. Also, I know these brands typically include extra spokes but it's best just to use spokes that any bike shop in the world has in stock.

[@glennoc8585]

You could get the weight down to 7.2 with a lower profile wheelset, tubes and tyres. Very hard to get disc Aero bikes that are light and Under 15k right now

[@pedalpatrol]

Be aware for the European people on top of the 2k Euro Frame Cost you will have to pay min 300 Euros Shipping, btw reading the comments kinda funny how many ordered a frame after the video :D still not sure if M was to small for me will see but L looked to big

[@zhiminglaw8695]

How does this compare to chapter2 rere u reviewed before?

[@RevelCris]

Wonder how this bike would do with my hyper 35s

[@FaigMir]

I'm still waiting for my order, the frame should also be white, I offered them to pay for the frame to be yellow, but they refuse because other colors are faceless, especially black))), the seller said 10-12 weeks. I also think that this bike does not need 28 mm tires, 25mm will be enough, at the moment I am communicating with the manufacturer ELITE that they would make 25mm wheels DRIVE in 50mm height, I think if I get consent, then this will be the lightest pair of wheels produced at all. by the way, as for the Rigidity, I did not understand the rigidity 8.5 refers to the frame itself? although I think with my 180 height and 56 kg weight, this rigidity will be enough for me behind my eyes. I immediately ordered the steering wheel 110 mm 420 mm, although I think I should have taken 440mm. thanks for the review.

[@pedalpatrol]

420 is to big go for 400! most people buy them to wide this results in sleepy hands kzbin.info/www/bejne/eXLcdq2HmbaJb6s&ab_channel=FrancisCade

[@BioStuff415]

I wonder if the heavier version frame s stiffer.

[@NickelPlateRoad57]

At 5:20, the question of durability is raised re heavier riders. If someone is 195 cm tall they may well be over 90 kg, so wouldn't the XL frame be engineered to handle a heavier rider? You were evaluating a midsize frame.

[@CamNicholls]

No because size doesn't change the thickness of the carbon walls.

[@pavlos..]

@ 4:05 should be 'If I WERE you I would'.... → subjunctive mood

[@CamNicholls]

Yes I agree. I lot of words to spit out perfectly, and as a low budget channel, I wasn't reshooting! LOL. Hopefully most know what I'm trying to say.

[@Cheesyfruitball]

How’s their customer support though? I’ve Instagram messaged Seka and emailed them directly using the email on their website and no answer on either one

[@CamNicholls]

Yes, I did discuss support in the video and provided a 6/10 on practicality because of this. Cheers

[@terencekee270270]

Write to cycling 100 as they are the one doing the commercial interactions. The replied are prompt.

[@montymelville6135]

First! Love your content keep it up 👍

[@CamNicholls]

Cheers Monty

[@user-nu5fx6en9h]

i broke my seka after 1000km, the carbon used was kinda weak i guess

[@robbeelsas]

TLDR, frame is amazing just get Winspace Hyper wheels instead

[@orisaadele5852]

Blogger, can I consult your business?

[@Stoffendous]

Deep diving in 12 minutes Cam? And five minutes in were still not diving... I'd call this a shallow splasherino.

[@CamNicholls]

Probably should have said focusing on riding experience upfront. Not 'deep diving'. That has been done in previous videos linked to in the description. My bad.

[@JuvoII]

Your value for money ranking really skews the end result to let the Cannondale score low and be perceived as a dud, when it is actually the fastest of the bikes. Likewise, the Zeka fails in your opinion on practicality. So a red Ferrari to work, but not a Porsche 911 turbo? Those 3 points you deducted from Zeka would have put them on top. They even remedied the hub problem based on your feedback, then send you a longer Aero Stem as you prefer. Maybe you didn't mean 6 out of 10 but actually 11 out of 10? Cause you are not getting the princess treatment from Specialized are you? What was so impractical with your dealings with them? It's like you punish with the 2 scores that matter the least, way below your other scores, in your comparison of expensive aero bikes. You should write the price and the concerns of buying from China, and keep those out of your ranking system, they are outside of the bike things. We all understand $8000 and $10000. People should take another look only factoring in the first 4 of your scores.

[@dannykwan7494]

a pair of vortex wheel i can buy bora in local but not ultra

[@CamNicholls]

Yes, that puts a question mark over these rims. Buy solid mainstream wheels or these.

[@dannykwan7494]

@@CamNicholls personally will go for the solid mainstream reason being when I want to change wheelset, I can sell with decent 2nd hand price but china no way man.

[@jakethesnake1976]

Without the support/warranty and for approx the same £££ I'll still be shopping for giant frameset 😐

[@CamNicholls]

Yes, I can appreciate that. Giant and Merida are super solid value for money!

[@kuzzzzzzzzzzzz7511]

The Chinese brand is overpricing 🔥 that too much price i will go it for another brand that well known 💯

[@permutationlab]

So if I understand correctly, this 'sponsored review' is, essentially Cycling 100 buying your 'air time'? Because if you said you have full freedom in giving the review (and i hope they dont get to see the video before you publish to the public), then it's actually buying an airtime rather than calling it a 'sponsored review'. Sorry for being pedantic but sponsored review term is loaded, and not in a good way. I know you work hard for your credibility but using that kind of term can rub people off the wrong way.

[@CamNicholls]

I sent them the video after it had gone LIVE. Did you see the video about the Vortex wheel issue? This was not pretty for them. But that is transparency for you. I won't commit to a project unless I have full freedom. I have lost deals because of this, but I'm not here to lose credibility on one or two projects when I have worked my butt off for years to build a channel up. Cheers

[@built2last409]

Now get your hands on a Factor Ostro Vam and do the head to head comparison!!

[@Abhitips224]

It’s very common for the brands to send reviewers carefully made golden samples. This does not present reality.

[@tonyg3091]

Why do all (well almost) bikes look the same nowadays? Slap an SWorks sticker on this and people couldn’t tell it isn’t.

[@EllisPedersen]

I’ve been racing one of these at the Dutch elite and UCI .2 level and it’s not even an RDC. I’ve crashed this bike I’ve done sprints on this bike and there are zero problems. Also with the 380x130 stem on a size down frame this actually came out more aggressive than my tarmac sl6.

[@CamNicholls]

Interesting to hear, thanks for sharing on the thread Ellis.

[@Stoffendous]

Doesnt such a long stem negatively influence the handling of the bike?

[@EllisPedersen]

@@Stoffendous nope makes it super stable actually. As long as you get used to turning it there are no problems.

[@RickRubinesque]

If I'm serving food to a critic for review I'm cherry picking the very best of what I have available and working to standards beyond what I do usually. As would anyone. Yeah, I'm not sure how useful sponsored product reviews are in reality.

[@onenotesolo256]

I treat this kind of content as a well-meant infomercial / paid demo, and a good way of learning about new brands / gear, and digest the conclusions in the context of the creator receiving free equipment and payment to talk about it. GCN, Bikeradar etc are the same and I still really enjoy their content. I’m a massive fan of Cam’s videos and his sense of humour, so am more than happy to watch a paid demo to support the channel (even this comment helps the statistics that Seka will be getting to measure their RoI). I won’t be buying the bike, but I still enjoy supporting Cam and the channel.

[@RickRubinesque]

@@onenotesolo256 Well said, sir. I agree entirely.

[@DanTuber]

Would you buy the whole thing with your own money?

[@CamNicholls]

No, but I’d buy the frame and put other things on it. I also don’t think I’d buy the rdc I’d just go the standard and use it as a Crit pig 🐷

[@RepsacZ]

There seems no way to buy these anymore, at least in Europe.

[@81antiloop]

Factor replica?