This post is part of our "Custom Bike Frameset Manifesto". It's a longer read, sorry, but bear with me - Rob at Pedal Passion.
Choosing a frameset is the point at which a custom bike begins to take on its identity. Groupsets and wheels can be replaced relatively easily, but the frame determines fit, handling, tyre clearance, component compatibility and much of the bike’s long-term character.
Pedal Passion’s carefully selected frameset portfolio covers an unusually broad range of priorities, but we believe there is a very considered reason why we carry "Brand X" not "Brand Y", the selection is based not only on many years of riding, working on bikes and working with riders, but also how strongly we stand behind the brand's long-term ownership outlook, reliability, serviceability and whether the brand will continue "fuelling the rider's passion for cycling" for years to come.
Here is a quick brief: Evolve and INCOLOR concentrate on high performance at an aggressive price. Cannondale offers proven race geometry and a large international ownership ecosystem. ENVE focuses on integrated aerodynamic performance. TIME appeals through distinctive European carbon manufacturing and refined ride quality. Wilier contributes Italian design, professional racing experience and a choice between specialist road and all-road platforms.
The important question is not which brand is universally best. It is which frameset best supports the rider’s goals, preferred terrain, position, budget and intended components.
What Riders Should Decide Before Selecting a Frameset
The first consideration should be fit rather than weight.
Two frames with similar listed sizes can place the handlebar at substantially different heights and distances from the saddle. A low aerodynamic frame may look faster, but it will not produce its intended benefit if the rider cannot maintain the position. Excessive reach can also compromise control by placing too much weight on the hands, while insufficient reach may crowd the rider and reduce stability.
Stack, reach, head-tube length, seat angle and cockpit dimensions should all be considered together. Integrated handlebars make this really important because changing stem length or handlebar width can be a hassle and may require disconnecting hydraulic hoses.
The second decision is the intended riding environment. A dedicated road racer has different requirements from a rider seeking one bike for fondos, rough roads and occasional gravel. Tyre clearance, geometry, gearing and wheel choice should reflect the actual terrain (and fit) rather than an image of how the bike might be used.
The third decision is the complete-build budget. A premium frame paired with compromised components is not automatically faster or more enjoyable. This is a bit tricky, here is Pedal Passion Rob's personal take on talking about money spent on bikes:
If we wanted to sell the cheapest bikes, we would select different brands, if we wanted to build the most exclusive rigs, we would also select a different portfolio. You may notice we are missing "the latest acclaimed brand you never heard of a week ago, highly promoted on social media, or that we carry only one out of the "Big Four" brands. There is a good reason for that. Kin and myself discuss this at length and focus on a few key aspects: Will the complete bike be fit for purpose and really built with intent? Will Pedal Passion continue standing behind long-term reliability? Would we personally invest in one of these bike builds (if we were to build it for ourselves)?
Custom-build budgets include:
- Frameset
- Handlebar and stem or integrated cockpit
- Seatpost, if not supplied
- Groupset and bottom bracket (Bikone wink-wink)
- Wheels
- Tyres, sealant and valves
- Saddle, bar tape and pedals
- Hydraulic hoses and small parts
- Potential replacement cockpit components
A final consideration is ownership support. Proprietary seatposts, unusual headset parts and fully internal routing can create complications years after purchase. Brand history, local (or global) brand support and replacement-part availability are therefore as relevant as frame weight.
Evolve: Lightweight Performance and Aggressive Value
Evolve is one of the newest brands in the comparison. Or is it really? Evolve is part of the same group that brought you Elitewheels, which by now is truly established.
(Source: Evolve)
The CIMA road frame’s defining feature is weight. Approximately 650 grams for an unpainted medium frame is crazy-light. Our own measurements of painted production frames have been higher, with one medium frame weighing approximately 725 grams. The difference is understandable because paint, mounting hardware and production variation affect the final figure.
Even using the higher measurement, the CIMA remains exceptionally light. It is a logical candidate for a sub-7 kg bike without requiring a collection of fragile or impractical components.
The frame uses several grades of Toray carbon, including T1100, T800 and M40 fibres. Evolve told us that development involved 12 major layup revisions. An earlier, lighter prototype reportedly failed to meet the company’s stiffness and durability objectives, leading engineers to add and redistribute material.
This is a useful illustration of responsible lightweight development. The lowest possible prototype weight is not necessarily appropriate for production.
The CIMA also incorporates modern features such as a UDH rear interface, fully concealed routing, electronic drivetrain compatibility and a threaded BSA bottom bracket. The threaded shell is attractive for custom builds because suitable bottom brackets are widely available and relatively straightforward to service.
Performance
The CIMA is most convincing as a climbing and all-round racing platform. Low mass gives it an immediate response during accelerations, while independent reviews (we read, as of late 2026) describe a stiff bottom-bracket region and direct steering.
The geometry is race-focused without appearing unusually unstable. Evolve uses different fork offsets and bottom-bracket drops across the size range to maintain more consistent handling. This is more sophisticated than simply scaling every tube around one geometry concept.
Tests describe the bike as accurate in corners and settled on descents. The frame is firm, but the proprietary carbon seatpost introduces compliance. Tyre choice and pressure will remain important because a lightweight competition frame cannot be expected to isolate the rider like an endurance bike.
Aerodynamic development has included wind-tunnel work at the Silverstone. An important note here: real-World results may often vary from wind-tunnel tests, but this is a topic for another time.
Ownership and Reliability
Evolve was founded in 2024, so it cannot offer the decades of consumer history available from Cannondale, TIME or Wilier.
Evolve offers a limited lifetime warranty for frames and forks against material and manufacturing defects for the original owner. Seatposts and Kreuza handlebars have shorter coverage.
Pedal Passion’s role as an authorised retailer and service centre improves the ownership proposition for Australian riders. Local claim assistance is materially better than attempting to resolve a problem with an unfamiliar overseas marketplace seller. This is a big deal for us, a big potential risk we are taking on, therefore it is so important we stand behind Evolve and CIma.
Best For
The CIMA suits climbers, weight-conscious racers and buyers seeking maximum measurable performance for the money.
The CIMA GR suits gravel racers who want low weight and modern compatibility rather than a heavily reinforced expedition bike.
Suggested Build
- A Shimano Ultegra Di2 or SRAM Force AXS groupset provides a sensible balance of weight and durability. Pair the CIMA with 40 to 50 mm carbon wheels for mixed terrain, or a lighter 35 to 45 mm set for climbing.
- Tyres around 30 mm suit fast road use. The CIMA GR should be paired according to course conditions, with lighter race tyres for maintained gravel and more protective casings for rocky terrain.
Cannondale: Proven All-Round Race Performance
We started our collection from Gen 5 EVO. It is solid, proven and well iterated.
(Source: Cannondale)
Rob's personal take:
I am biased. I raced EVO, rode it for 6-8 hours at a time and was the early adopter of the first generation. I like the brand's ethos, it's distribution and servicing options are super reliable. A big Tick of approval from my end.
The standard SuperSix EVO Gen 5 at $3,999.99 AUD is truly great value, while the Hi-MOD version is a solid step-up at $5,499.99 AUD. LAB71 sits at the top at approximately $8,999.99 AUD. The SuperX LAB71 gravel is also exciting.
This tiered approach allows riders to choose broadly similar geometry and design intent at different weights and prices.
Performance Character
The SuperSix EVO is one of the most balanced race platforms available. It combines low weight, aerodynamic shaping, predictable handling and sufficient tyre clearance for modern road riding.
The fifth generation does not radically change the concept. It refines the previous platform with lower weight, reduced drag, a lower front end on most sizes and a broader size range.
The standard carbon frame has a claimed painted weight of approximately 910 grams in size 56. Hi-MOD and LAB71 reduce that mass through more advanced carbon layups. The premium versions make sub-7 kg complete builds easier, but the standard frame retains the same essential handling philosophy.
On climbs, the SuperSix responds quickly without feeling nervous (twitchy). Its strongest attribute is not simply stiffness but the relationship between steering accuracy and composure (or position - in saddle and out of saddle). It changes direction promptly but remains trustworthy at descends.
The reduced stack of the Gen 5 suits flexible riders seeking a low bar position.
Ride Quality
The SuperSix is firm rather than harsh. It is not designed to reproduce an endurance bike’s isolation (dampening), but appropriate 28 to 32 mm tyres should make it suitable for long races and rides.
Cannondale uses size-specific construction principles to maintain more consistent characteristics across the range. Smaller riders should not receive an excessively stiff frame merely because the tubes are short, while larger sizes require enough material to preserve steering and pedalling accuracy.
Ownership and Reliability
Cannondale has decades of high-volume production, professional race use and dealer-supported ownership. That does not make every frame immune to problems, but it provides a mature parts and warranty system. Big Tick!
The integrated front end remains more complicated than an externally routed bike. Brake-hose changes and headset servicing can require additional labour, but these days it is common practice, we don't see brands going back to external wiring anytime soon.
Best For
- The standard SuperSix EVO frameset is arguably the best all-round value for a rider who races, climbs and completes fast group rides.
- Hi-MOD suits riders seeking a lighter premium build without paying the full LAB71 price. LAB71 makes sense for a cost-no-object build where every gram and finish detail matters.
Suggested Build
The standard frame paired with Ultegra Di2 or Force AXS and 45 to 55 mm wheelset would make a highly capable race bike.
A lightweight wheelset can emphasise climbing, while deeper wheels bring the bike closer to a dedicated aero platform. Tyres between 28 and 30 mm will suit most road racing, with 32 mm appropriate for rough courses.
ENVE: Integrated Aerodynamic Performance
ENVE Melee currently sits around $5,999.99 to $6,249.99, depending on finish and promotional status. Check with us on latest price updates.
(Source: ENVE Events)
The original Melee is a premium all-round race chassis developed around ENVE’s system approach. Frame, cockpit, wheels and tyres are intended to work together rather than being designed as independent products.
A new Melee V2 has since been announced internationally, with a claimed frame weight below 800 grams in size 56 and a stated 17-watt aerodynamic improvement over the first-generation Melee.
This is exciting. At the time we write this, we are still awaiting local stock availability and initial rider feedback, so watch this space.
Performance Character
The original Melee is an aero-influenced all-round racer. Its painted frame weighs approximately 900 grams, with a tolerance around 50 grams, before hardware. That is competitive but not exceptionally light.
Its appeal lies in its balance. The Melee is stiff enough for sprinting, aerodynamically developed for fast racing and stable enough for long descents. It also accepts tyres up to approximately 35 mm, creating greater versatility than many older aero frames.
The v2 advances the concept through lower weight and more comprehensive rider-on-bike aerodynamic development. It should be considered separately from discounted original-generation inventory.
System Integration
ENVE’s strong argument is its ecosystem.
A Melee can be paired with an ENVE cockpit, SES wheels and ENVE tyres to create a coherent package. Different SES depths allow the same frame to be tuned toward climbing, all-round racing or maximum aerodynamic performance.
This approach simplifies aesthetic and technical matching, but it can also increase cost. ENVE components sit in the premium category, and proprietary integration may reduce economical replacement choices.
Ownership and Reliability
ENVE provides a limited lifetime warranty for frames, rims and components to the original owner. Its crash-replacement program offers the original owner a discounted replacement frame after accidental damage.
ENVE has a well-established reputation in carbon wheels and components. Frame manufacturing is a newer part of its history, but the brand has significant composite engineering experience.
Best For
- The Melee suits racers who prioritise aerodynamic performance, high-speed stability and a cohesive premium system.
- It is less suitable for buyers trying to maximise value per dollar or avoid proprietary integration, however the investment holds resale value very well. "Resale value" is a topic for another time.
Suggested Build
As in previous build suggestions, Force AXS or Ultegra Di2 offers a strong performance balance. SES 4.5 wheels are the natural all-round pairing, while shallower SES wheels suit climbing and deeper options suit flat racing.
INCOLOR: Aggressive Aerodynamics and the Emerging "Chinese Hyperbike" Category
INCOLOR fits in the portfolio by offering low claimed weights, aerodynamic development, modern component standards and dramatic frame design at prices still below many established premium competitors.
(Source: INCOLOR)
SR and SR+ Performance
The SR is claimed at approximately 785 grams in size 54 without paint or accessories. The SR+ reduces that to approximately 720 grams through higher-grade carbon, including T1100 and pitch-based fibres.
These numbers place both frames in serious lightweight territory despite their aerodynamic shaping.
The SR platform uses a narrow head tube, offset steerer concept, integrated cockpit, UDH interface and T47A threaded bottom bracket. Clearance is stated for broad road or all-road tyres, although this may vary between 36 and 38 mm depending on the actual tyre and rim combination.
INCOLOR claims the SR is three watts faster than a Specialized Tarmac SL8 at 45 km/h and has a smaller frontal area than a Cervélo S5 and Tarmac SL8. These are manufacturer-published comparisons, so our take on these numbers is: INCOLOR has designed the SR with serious aerodynamic intent, not that it has conclusively become faster than every established WorldTour platform.
Ride Quality and Handling
The SR and lighter SR+ are aimed at racing. Their high stiffness-to-weight targets suggest a direct response under power, while the wide tyre clearance allows compliance to be tuned through tyre volume and pressure.
Comprehensive independent long-term ride evidence is limited. Information about handling after multiple seasons, high-mileage headset behaviour and long-term proprietary cockpit availability is not yet sufficient for firm conclusions. If you are reading this, chances are you came across Nero show's testing and review of the SSR, we believe that is enough to get excited about the brand and the potential (love the show, big shoutout!)
A note on Gravel: The Voyager provides a more affordable route into a carbon gravel build. However, we will stop here. More of our own research is needed here. At the time of writing, we are more excited about the Evolve CIMA GR.
Ownership and Reliability
INCOLOR is less established internationally than Cannondale, ENVE, TIME or Wilier. This does not prove poor reliability. It means the evidence base is smaller.
Local supply through Pedal Passion reduces several risks. Kin can confirm correct hardware, build compatibility, torque requirements and claim procedures. That support is particularly important for special-order frames with integrated components.
Best For
- The SR suits riders wanting a lightweight aero race frame that stands apart from mainstream brands.
- The SR+ is aimed at buyers willing to pay more to reduce weight and increase the exclusivity of the carbon construction.
Suggested Build
The SR+ and SSR can support a very light Dura-Ace or Red AXS build. Careful cockpit sizing is essential before hoses are cut.
TIME: Carbon Craftsmanship and Refined Ride Quality
TIME is the outlier in this group because its primary appeal is not the lowest weight, the lowest price or the strongest aerodynamic headline. It is the manufacturing process. And it is mind-blowing and really beautiful.
(Source: TIME)
Rob's take:
No comparisons, no side-by-side, no spec sheets. You are buying a piece of manufacturing art. TIME integrates Dyneema into the frame and Kevlar reinforcement into the fork. These materials provide tensile strength, impact management and vibration control.
TIME uses Braided Carbon Structure and Resin Transfer Moulding. Dry fibres are braided into tubular forms before resin is injected under controlled conditions. This differs from conventional frames assembled predominantly from sheets of pre-impregnated carbon.
NXR Performance
The NXR is TIME’s balanced Pure Road platform. Its unpainted medium frame is at approximately 920 grams, so not the lightest, but very respectable. It accepts 32 mm tyres, uses a standard 27.2 mm seatpost, supports electronic shifting and incorporates UDH. Tick, tick, tick!
The NXR’s geometry sits between aggressive racing and endurance. It is intended to respond quickly without forcing every rider into a professional-level position.
The frame is likely to appeal most strongly through feel. TIME frames are regularly praised for combining drivetrain response with controlled vibration rather than feeling dead or excessively rigid.
Scylon Performance
The Scylon is the aero-focused choice. It uses deeper profiles and more aggressive integration while retaining TIME’s manufacturing approach.
At its price, the Scylon competes with flagship race frames from other brands. It makes sense for a buyer who specifically values TIME’s construction and wants a faster, more assertive platform than the NXR. A the time of writing, we are not heavily invested in the Scylon, we believe the NXR offers something more unique (this may change, watch this space)
Ownership and Reliability
TIME has one of the strongest craftsmanship narratives in the industry. Its older frames are frequently praised by long-term owners, and the company’s control over production is extensive.
TIME offers a lifetime warranty to the original owner.
Best For
- The NXR suits riders seeking a distinctive, refined road frame for climbing, long rides and fast group riding without extreme geometry.
Wilier: Italian Racing Identity
Wilier has been producing bicycles since 1906 and brings one of the strongest heritage stories in the comparison. Its current range includes aerodynamic road, lightweight climbing, endurance, gravel and all-road platforms.
(Source: Wilier)
This section is much shorter, as we write more about Wilier in other articles and write-ups in the Willier Collection
Wilier Framesets
The Filante SLR and newer Filante SLR ID2 represent Wilier’s aerodynamic road category. These bikes are designed for professional racing, high-speed efficiency and integrated component systems.
The Verticale SLR is the lightweight climbing-oriented option. It better suits riders prioritising mass, elevation and an immediate response on steep roads.
The Rave SLR is an especially interesting custom-build platform because it can be configured for road or gravel. Earlier versions accept approximately 32 mm tyres in road form and up to 42 mm for gravel use. The frameset has been sold in Australia with an integrated Wilier cockpit and proprietary seatpost.
The new Rapida is where the sweet-spot is. We will write more about it in the Willier Collection
Performance and Ride Quality
Wilier generally tunes its premium frames around racing response with controlled handling. The Filante is aerodynamic and fast, while the Verticale places greater emphasis on climbing and low weight.
The Rave SLR’s slightly taller and shorter position makes it more accessible than a pure race bike while retaining quick steering. Its ability to switch between road and gravel wheels can make it financially attractive for riders who would otherwise buy two bicycles.
Ownership and Reliability
Wilier has a long professional racing history and established distribution.
Best For
- Filante suits aero-focused racers.
- Verticale suits climbers.
- Rave SLR suits riders seeking one premium frame for road and fast gravel.
How the Brands Compare
Best Weight and Climbing Value
Evolve CIMA is the strongest option. Its exceptionally low frame weight and accessible price leave more budget for wheels and drivetrain.
Best Proven All-Round Race Platform
Cannondale SuperSix EVO is the safest recommendation. It combines mature geometry, broad sizing, good service access and balanced performance.
Best Integrated Aero System
ENVE Melee offers the most coherent relationship between frame, cockpit, wheels and tyres. The premium price is partially justified by this system approach and strong warranty.
Best Emerging Aero Value
INCOLOR SR provides an unusually light and aerodynamic-looking platform for the money. Its main limitation is the smaller body of independent and long-term evidence.
Best Craftsmanship and Ride Character
TIME NXR is the clear choice. Its construction is genuinely different, while the standard seatpost and balanced geometry add practical value.
Best Italian Identity and Platform Variety
Wilier offers the broadest emotional and stylistic appeal, particularly through Filante, Verticale and Rave. Current availability through Pedal Passion must be confirmed.
Groupset Pairing Strategy
- Shimano Ultegra Di2 is arguably the most rational premium road groupset across these frames. It offers fast shifting and strong braking without the cost of Dura-Ace.
- SRAM Force AXS suits riders who prefer wireless installation, simple shift logic and easy battery replacement. It is especially attractive on frames with UDH because future drivetrain options are likely to remain broad.
- Dura-Ace and Red AXS make the most sense on CIMA, SuperSix LAB71, Scylon or another build where the frame and wheels are already exceptionally light.
- For gravel, Shimano GRX Di2 2x suits riders combining road and gravel. Wide-range GRX 1x suits steep or technical terrain. SRAM Rival or Force XPLR 13-speed provides a clean racing system but requires a UDH-compatible frame.
Wheel Pairing Strategy
Frame and wheel character should complement rather than duplicate one another.
A firm frame with deep carbon wheels and rigid spokes can become unnecessarily demanding on rough roads. A lightweight frame paired with stable, moderately deep wheels may produce a faster and more confidence-inspiring complete bike.
- For climbing, 35 to 45 mm wheels are generally appropriate.
- For all-round racing, 45 to 55 mm is the practical sweet spot.
- For flat and fast racing, 55 to 65 mm can provide greater aerodynamic benefit, assuming the rider is comfortable in crosswinds.
Gravel racing wheels should be selected around tyre width and terrain. Fast compact gravel may reward deeper aerodynamic rims. Rocky or technical riding places more value on impact strength, serviceability and tyre volume.
Is There a Final Verdict?
Simply, no. At Pedal Passion we don't have one clear winner because the brands represent fundamentally different priorities, but if you find yourself nodding or getting excited when reading about one of the brands above - perhaps this is where you should start and don't forget to reach out to us for more info.
- The Evolve CIMA offers the strongest combination of low weight and price. It is the logical foundation for a lightweight custom road bike, although its young brand history leaves long-term ownership questions unanswered.
- Cannondale’s SuperSix EVO provides the strongest overall balance. It is light, aerodynamic, stable and supported by a mature international network. For a rider who wants one race bike without taking a major risk on fit, ride character or parts support, it is the most straightforward recommendation.
- The ENVE Melee is the premium system choice. Its value becomes clearer when the buyer intends to use ENVE wheels, cockpit and tyres rather than mixing unrelated parts.
- INCOLOR offers some of the most aggressive design and specification claims in the collection. The SR and SR+ are exciting choices for riders prepared to adopt a younger platform in exchange for low weight, modern integration and competitive pricing.
- TIME appeals at a deeper level than specification comparison. Its braided construction, resin-injection process and refined ride character provide an ownership experience that cannot be reduced to grams or watts.
- Wilier brings history, distinctive styling and a wide spread of race and all-road options. Its relevance remains strong, but current Pedal Passion availability could not be verified and should be confirmed directly.
The best custom bike will ultimately be the one built around you. Fit should come first, followed by intended terrain, handling preferences and complete-build budget. Frame weight and aerodynamic claims matter, but only after the bicycle allows you, as the the rider to remain comfortable, controlled and powerful.
That is the real advantage of beginning with a frameset. No manufacturer’s compromises. Every component can be selected to suit the intended experience, producing a bike that is not merely expensive or technically impressive, but genuinely personal.
