Looking for aluminum frame suggestions to replace a CAAD10

[savechief]

I have a gray 2014 Cannondale caad10, built up with ultegra 6800 di2, that I use as a commuter bike and on the trainer. I'm looking for a new aluminum frame that is something more unique, interesting, or at least different. Since this is not an everyday bike, I'd like to spend $800 or less on the frame. I would extend that up to $1,000 for something that's really cool. Ideally, it would be something that is Di2 compatible. Just looking for ideas at this point.

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[Cicli]

Rock Lobster.

[FlashUNC]

Used Lobster.

[Bentley]

I'm thinking of checking him out. He welds up the Spooky frame. Seems to know what he is doing

[jtbadge]

Big fan of Rock Lobster, love mine.

https://www.pedalroom.com/p/rock-lobster-team-al-road-33845_14.jpg

You'll also have great luck with brands such as Spooky, VNYL, LOW, Gaulzetti, and Zanconato. I'd probably get a Spooky if I needed something right away.

These can all probably be found in the classifieds (or somewhere else preowned) under $1000 for a frameset. My Lobster was half of that.



http://www.cycleexif.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/spooky-mulholland-1-3.jpg

http://www.cycleexif.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/vynl-race-bikes-1.jpg

https://www.pedalroom.com/p/low-mki-road-27397_1.jpg

https://www.pedalroom.com/p/gaulzetti-corsa-34362_4.jpg

https://www.pedalroom.com/p/zanconato-aluminum-road-35509_1.jpg

[mtechnica]

I hate to be that guy but I really think you should at least try a carbon frame, I don't know how much better any other aluminum frame will actually be than a caad10. At any rate the post above covers all the good aluminum frames I'm aware of.

[dbnm]

Is it possible to weld aluminum frames as clean as a Moots?

[savechief]

I hate to be that guy but I really think you should at least try a carbon frame, I don't know how much better any other aluminum frame will actually be than a caad10. At any rate the post above covers all the good aluminum frames I'm aware of.I already have a carbon fiber road bike. Never said I was necessarily looking for better, just said I was looking for different.

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[BobO]

BMC just brought a new alloy bike to market;

https://www.bmc-switzerland.com/us-en/bikes/road/altitude-teammachine-alr-one/

[stev0]

lots of good options named so far. adding two to the mix:

Canyon Endurace AL (i think you can get a new frameset around your price range)
https://zdjecia.bikeworld.pl/produkty/medium/rowery_szosowe_canyon_endurace_al_disc_6_0_2e362.j pg

Stoemper - builds some very nice alu bikes, could find a nice used one.
https://cdn.road.cc/sites/default/files/styles/main_width/public/images/Stoemper%20Darrell/stoemper%20darrell.JPG?itok=OmBVQYP_

And I suppose you've already considered the CAAD 12? I think if I wanted value for money an Alu bike, I'd be looking at one of these
https://cdn.roadcyclinguk.com/rcuk_100_widget/5ad89a4827ab0.jpeg

[cribbit]

Lynskey titanium frames are only $800 brand new with lifetime warranty and modern things like di2 ready (and others you don't need, like thru axle flat mount disc)

If you want unique/interesting lynskey has "Helix" tubing.

[dk2ck]

I've heard nothing but good things about the Allez Sprints. Not that "special" per say but has more aero design features than a CAAD10 and a bit more aggressive geometry. I currently have a 2014 CAAD10 as well and I think my next bike will be the (rumored) Allez Sprint Disc next year.

https://www.pedalroom.com/p/specialized-allez-sprint-1x-35428_2.jpg

[dave thompson]

Tsunami.

[jumphigher]

I've heard nothing but good things about the Allez Sprints. Not that "special" per say but has more aero design features than a CAAD10 and a bit more aggressive geometry. I currently have a 2014 CAAD10 as well and I think my next bike will be the (rumored) Allez Sprint Disc next year.

https://www.pedalroom.com/p/specialized-allez-sprint-1x-35428_2.jpg

I want one of these really bad. :)

[GonaSovereign]

Tsunami is probably the sweet spot of affordable and interesting.

Getting an interesting/less common aluminum frame (set?) for 800-1000 is going to be tough or require patience. All the lovely small builders above do nice work, but they're more than your price point, even used. Vynl is somewhat less expensive, but there probably aren't a lot of used ones around.

I own a 2nd-hand, di2-specific Spooky Mulholland and it's great.

Another Cannondale would be a fine choice.

[Peter B]

Tsunami--terrific frames--is Joe still building?



Stoemper--Todd does outstanding work for a bit higher $$--worth every penny.

[rustychisel]

God almighty. Those welds are not inspiring.

[Ralph]

Hard to beat a CAAD 10 or 12.....as you know.

[StanleySteamer]

Rock Lobster or Zanc.

[.RJ]

Is it possible to weld aluminum frames as clean as a Moots?

The big brand (specialized, trek, cannondale) aluminum frames are really clean at the welds these days.

I have one of the purple allez sprints - love it. Probably not unique enough for the OP, but it rides well and feels fast.

[Burnette]

I've heard nothing but good things about the Allez Sprints. Not that "special" per say but has more aero design features than a CAAD10 and a bit more aggressive geometry. I currently have a 2014 CAAD10 as well and I think my next bike will be the (rumored) Allez Sprint Disc next year.

https://www.pedalroom.com/p/specialized-allez-sprint-1x-35428_2.jpg

That is a hot looking bike! Will be even better with disc, nice.

[dancinkozmo]

caad 12

[ducati2]

Bowman?

https://forums.thepaceline.net/showthread.php?t=220709&highlight=Bowman

[GonaSovereign]

People are selling Colnago Dreams w/ Star carbon forks for 800 on ebay. Those are relatively unique and also awesome.

Edit: there are a ton of older Italian aluminum bikes for sale on Ebay. Pinarello, Coppi, etc. Those are nice frames.

[T-Crush]

People are selling Colnago Dreams w/ Star carbon forks for 800 on ebay. Those are relatively unique and also awesome.

Edit: there are a ton of older Italian aluminum bikes for sale on Ebay. Pinarello, Coppi, etc. Those are nice frames.

There are a lot of these on the 'bay, either in the full alu or alu with carbon stays, in the $250 to $500 price range. One point to consider is in those days, 25's were considered FAT and most won't take anything larger. I had an alloy Pinarello Paris and 24mm Open Pave's on Open Pros rubbed. Depending on your preferences, something to keep in mind.

[timto]

Is it possible to weld aluminum frames as clean as a Moots?

In aluminum these guys do it prettiest https://instagram.com/p/BPGQQ97DSpG/

[stev0]

Not new, but this Yeti Road Project (ebay - 55 ETT (https://www.ebay.com/itm/Yeti-Cycles-Road-Project-Road-Bike-Frame-55cm-Black-Good-Condition/323350700437)) is certainly unique and interesting. Said to have been a very nice riding bike (no personal experience)

[stev0]

Another cool used option (ebay - 54 ETT (https://www.ebay.com/itm/2017-Kelly-Bedford-Al-Comp-Frame/142870837197?hash=item2143c3f7cd%3Ag%3AgBQAAOSwOqB bTTiK&_sacat=22679&_nkw=kelly&_from=R40&rt=nc&LH_TitleDesc=0%7C0))

[Shoeman]

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
That Bedford is Really Sweet I'd consider that if it were my size!!!!

[savechief]

Allez Sprint and CAAD12 (especially the purple version) definitely on the list. The used Bowman is also very nice, and my size.

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[beeatnik]

BMC just brought a new alloy bike to market;

https://www.bmc-switzerland.com/us-en/bikes/road/altitude-teammachine-alr-one/

That's the sexiest Alu bike, but the CAAD12 is still the answer.

[Lee Rob]

Have you looked at the Van Dessel Hellafaster?

Their geo is pretty much the same as the CAAD 12 and competitive in weight. $1500 for a new frame, so not all that cheap but I think it checks the boxes.

https://www.vandesselcycles.com/product/hellafaster/

Good write up about Dan Chabanov's setup here.
https://theradavist.com/2015/02/dan-chabanovs-van-dessel-hellafaster-frame-made-usa/

I'm in the same boat as the OP. I had a CAAD 12 and managed to smash it up the first weekend I rode it, been on the hunt since.

I would suggest looking for an aluminum frame that is hydroformed. It generally allows for a higher stiffness to weight ratio and more flexibility in design. Some of the newer aluminum frames you see out there only use straight tubes and I haven't heard the best things about their ride quality.

Also, I have one of the BMC aluminum team machines and it was a great bike! Tight geo, stiff but not all that forgiving. I suggest carbon touchpoints to soften it up.

FWIW - I don't think you can beat the CAAD 12 value.

[fignon's barber]

Is it possible to weld aluminum frames as clean as a Moots?


My Cyfac welds are pretty smooth:

[BobO]

Also, I have one of the BMC aluminum team machines and it was a great bike! Tight geo, stiff but not all that forgiving. I suggest carbon touchpoints to soften it up.

FWIW - I don't think you can beat the CAAD 12 value.

FWIW, the new alloy BMC SLR introduced last month is a different animal. The frame appears to have better ride compliance than it's predecessor, but the main thing is that it takes their proprietary D shaped seatpost. I have this on my Roadmachine and it's a phenomenal piece.

I haven't had a chance to ride the new alloy one yet, and am admittedly a huge BMC fanboy, but I think there's reason to believe this new bike will be something special.

The big catch may be finding just the frameset.

[romalor]

Hey guys
After a caad12 nice bike but get dented easily and ****ty tolerance over bottom bracket . I've tried an allez sprint from specialized , great crit bike but ride quality is no that great , routing isn't super clean and I had to drill a few little holes to use DI2 . The bottom bracket tolerance are also there not great and after 8000km and many races it's a little loosy so I should use an alloy insert and then put the BSA3024 to bottom bracket . Not so happy with that and Specialized doesn't have any frameset for warranties ...

Next on my list is the standert kreissage
Scandium Tubing
Threadfit 47 !
Direct mount brakes
Three paints including team color
It's not yet available but it looks great on paper

All I wanted in a alloy package
I am in Europe so it's close to me
May not be as easy or cheap for you ...

[.RJ]

I use these on all my pressfit BB bikes -

https://wheelsmfg.com/bottom-brackets/bb30-to-outboard-bottom-bracket-for-24mm-cranks-shimano-black.html

no issues.

[romalor]

Thanks
Not pressfit
BB30 ;)

i am using an hope PF30 bottom bracket on my PF30 frame
It's quiet as ****

[.RJ]

they have PF options, too.

[Lee Rob]

Those Standert's look nice but based on this article, they're pretty heavy.

"The new frames are said to weigh 1690g for a medium, plus the 350g Columbus carbon fork."

https://bikerumor.com/2018/05/09/standert-treibwerk-mach3-modern-steel-road-bike-updated-special-ltd-pricing/

A CAAD 12 frame is about 1050g with a 325g fork for comparison.

[Shoeman]

If you can find one a Salsa Podio is great Frame, very light Scandium custom drawn tubeset with nice welds. To me it rides better than my Look 585 ultra & my old steel Trek.
https://goo.gl/images/i3QP3Z

[texbike]

How about one of the Pegoretti aluminum bikes? I had a Fina Estampa for several years and it was a fantastic bike!

Texbike

[54ny77]

I have a 54.5 cm Tsunami that I really, really like--truly one of, if not the, most confidence inspiring and rock solid frames I own. That said, I've come to the realization that 10cm of drop just doesn't work for me anymore. If you're ever in SoCal, look me up, you're welcome to take it out for a test ride. Will sell for a really good price. I've been thinning the herd. Will still have one custom Tsunami left though. Both frames are almost identical geo to a Parlee Z4, fyi.

[Devotion]

I used to see loads of SPOOKY frames racing in NYC. Heard lots of good stuff, though I never rode one myself.

[jumphigher]

I'd bear in mind the CAAD12 if I'm not mistaken, has the BB30a bottom bracket. Personally I avoid press-fit style BBs, period..

[mktng]

Colnago Strada SL.
They are great frames.
Really nothing fancy about it besides having the name Colnago on it.

Threaded BB .. so... naturally.. its better than the CAAD's :)

[Lee Rob]

I'm in agreement on avoiding press fit style BBs when possible!

[romalor]

Those Standert's look nice but based on this article, they're pretty heavy.

"The new frames are said to weigh 1690g for a medium, plus the 350g Columbus carbon fork."

https://bikerumor.com/2018/05/09/standert-treibwerk-mach3-modern-steel-road-bike-updated-special-ltd-pricing/

A CAAD 12 frame is about 1050g with a 325g fork for comparison.

Maybe you should read more carefully
That's the weight of the steel one ...

And the one I am talking about is the aluminum one and it isn't out yet , only a few teases here and there

[Lee Rob]

Good catch, apologies!

[Neves]

Can't believe no one's mentioned Frank the Welder. Builds a hella bike and may have laid down a bead or two for some of the brands in this tread.

http://www.cycleexif.com/frank-wadelton-road

https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/1031467895/frank-the-welder/?hl=en

[jtbadge]

OP: what size CAAD are you riding? I guarantee someone reading this thread has a bike for you.

Can't believe no one's mentioned Frank the Welder. Builds a hella bike and may have laid down a bead or two for some of the brands in this tread.

http://www.cycleexif.com/frank-wadelton-road

https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/1031467895/frank-the-welder/?hl=en

He was mentioned in literally the third reply. And also he does the new Spookys and VNYLs.

[Neves]

Whoops I missed that...good luck with your search savechief

OP: what size CAAD are you riding? I guarantee someone reading this thread has a bike for you.



He was mentioned in literally the third reply. And also he does the new Spookys.

[Fivethumbs]

Which of the previously mentioned frames can be had for $800? Cuz I want in.

[jtbadge]

Which of the previously mentioned frames can be had for $800? Cuz I want in.

Most of them, on the Paceline classifieds. My Lobster was $500 - only a little more than a CAAD.

[Clean39T]

Hopefully someone here got this:

https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F14 2870837197

K. Bedford aluminum went for $699 tonight on the Bay...

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[Peter B]

Hopefully someone here got this:

https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F14 2870837197

K. Bedford aluminum went for $699 tonight on the Bay...

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That would be me!

[velofinds]

Since the OP isn't looking for one, someone sell me their (small frame) CAAD12 Disc :)

[weisan]

That would be me!

Well done Peter pal.

[Peter B]

God almighty. Those welds are not inspiring.

Hey Rusty--are these better? Bedford AL Comp. Welding by Andy Keech.

[velofinds]

^^^ Nice welds.

[Clean39T]

That would be me!Sweet! Congrats - build pics soon puhleeze :)

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