Carbon frames alone are usually expensive.

This indicates that it is a market with high demands for products.

In such a market, ICAN offers frames alone at relatively reasonable prices. This is certainly due to a combination of various favorable conditions, but above all, it is because they have a strong belief in competing with the finished product, rather than relying on brand image or price.

The latest A22 carbon frame is a noteworthy work.

1. Verifying the A22 Carbon Frame

There are some things about excellent products that are apparent at first glance. Even for eyes that have seen ICAN frames before, this A22 frame is even more deeply impressive.

Above all, it looks cool.

Let's take a closer look at the details to understand why I feel this way.

① Overall silhouette

The design has a distinct rhythm.

The strengths and weaknesses of the frame are clear and unwavering.

Why did they intentionally make the top tube less slanted and closer to horizontal? The designer modestly mentioned that it "relates to aerodynamics," but it seems there's more to it than that.

From a rigidity standpoint, slanting the top tube and making the front triangle smaller would be advantageous. However, the fact that they intentionally did not do so indicates that it was the designer's preference, and at the same time, they had accumulated the design expertise to achieve it. Moreover, as if to emphasize this, the top tube extends in a strikingly straight line.

② Head tube

This section experiences significant torsional loads. To effectively withstand these, even for an aero design, there's a limit to how slim it can be. Rather, it gives the impression of being solidly built.

ICAN's unique technology is leveraged in the carbon layup and pattern.

③ Front Fork

This is the part of a road frame that requires the most strength. While the frame weighs 1119g, the fork weighs 388g, accounting for 1/4 of the total frame weight. Strength tests are conducted at unbelievably severe levels.

④ Down tube

This section is subjected to heavy loads from various angles. Therefore, it is naturally thick, but in the case of the A22 frame, the cross-sectional shape is subtly aero-shaped, achieving both strength and aerodynamics.

⑤ Top tube

As mentioned at the beginning, the designer's message is also embedded here. While ensuring sufficient lateral rigidity, to allow for vertical flexibility, you will see a beautiful slender straight line when viewed from the side.

⑥ Bottom Bracket Area

The BB area is also a critical part, as stress is applied from various directions, significantly affecting the frame's characteristics. Rather than simply making it thick, it has a shaped design that shows evidence of meticulous engineering.

High precision, rigidity, and strength are required for the bearing housing. Shimano's BB86 standard is specified.

⑦ Seat Tube, Seat Stay, Chain Stay

Let's include the seat tube when discussing the rear triangle. The joints are quite robust, and you can see a design aimed at shortening the wheelbase to the extreme. The short, elegant chainstays have ample strength and successfully allow the rear tire to sink into the seat tube. The entire rear forms a boldly small triangle, contributing to both rigidity and beautiful styling.

2. A22 Carbon Frame Specifications

① Price

After reviewing such a thorough design, the price of 68,785 JPY (tax included, shipping included) is surprising. The version with an aero carbon handlebar costs 79,380 JPY (tax included, shipping included).

② Brakes and Wheels

Both rim and disc brake specifications are available. Both are specified with thru-axles, and tires are set for 700-25C or 28C.

③ Weight

Rim brake specifications: 1430g ± 70g (frame 1080g ± 50g, fork 350g ± 20g)

Disc brake specifications: 1507g ± 70g (frame 1119g ± 50g, fork 388g ± 20g)

④ Size

Available in a wide range of sizes: 45/48/51/54/57 cm, suitable for most Japanese body types.

3. Tips for Custom Builds

For those who have come this far to read this article, it probably goes without saying, but the beauty of a custom build is that you can assemble a road bike exactly as you envision it. Therefore, it might be a bit challenging for first-time road bike enthusiasts, but the following approach offers a good chance of success.

One approach is to equip Shimano 105 components and use entry-level parts for everything else.

The seat and stem are parts that can be adjusted or replaced later, so there's no need to use expensive ones from the start. The issue is the wheels, for which there are two options: either cut costs with inexpensive aluminum wheels or boldly choose ones in the 50,000 to 70,000 yen range.

If you keep the wheel costs down, you can build your own road bike for about 150,000 yen plus the frame cost, and this will be a level fully capable of competing in races.

4. A final word

ICAN's mail-order system allows for consultations until delivery.

You should be able to choose a frame you are satisfied with.

We look forward to hearing from you.

【Reference Article】

Road Bike Standard: Carbon Clincher Wheels