WHEELTOP EDS TX - Chinese Wireless Electric Groupset - Build & Test Ride
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- Опубликовано: 2 июл 2024
- In my previous video I showed you this, the new fully wireless groupset from Wheeltop, a Chinese brand that is not exactly a High Street name, but has been supplying the industry for over 70 years. We did a quick unboxing, and had a brief look at its features and functions. But I didn’t actually get it on the bike.
So the To-Do list for today is this:
* Can I mount the Wheeltop shifters to the Shimano clamp bands….. making install a lot quicker and easier?
* Will the Wheeltop shifters fit directly onto my Shimano hoses, or do I need to change the olives?
* Can I use my existing Shimano brake callipers with the Wheeltop shifters
* Will the Wheeltop callipers fit directly onto my Shimano hoses, or do I need to change those too?
* And lets not forget, there’s the whole thing about how this groupset rides, so we’ll be doing that too
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Affiliate links to products and tools used and discussed in this video
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Link to Wheeltop website:
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Wheeltop User Manuals:
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Epic Bleed Solutions - SRAM ’Style’ Bleed Kit (Don’t by the SRAM style fluid, use Shimano style mineral fluid):
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Links to points discussed in this video
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Previous Wheeltop EDS TX Unboxing Video:
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How To Bleed Hydraulic Disc Brakes:
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About Ribble Valley Cyclist:
I am a regular road cyclist based in the North West of England. I have been a cyclist my whole life, and try to get out every day. The purpose of my RUclips channel is to share the knowledge I’ve built up in my 40 years as a cyclist.
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I’m pleased to now be able to share with you the response from Wheeltop on the questions put to them.
Questions to Wheeltop about the EDS TX groupset:
* *Do the road shifters pair with the previous Wheeltop MTB derailleur?*
* Unfortunately, the road and mountain groupsets are not compatible for cross-pairing.
* *Can the system be used without the front derailleur, in a one-by style for either gravel or MTB use?*
* You can certainly operate the system without the front derailleur. However, it's not recommended for gravel bikes or MTB. Rest assured, a gravel bike version is in development for future availability.
* *Android App/Font Derailleur - Some users have reported that the front derailleur cannot be fine tuned via the Android app, is this correct, and if so, is this being looked at?*
* Fine-tuning the front derailleur is recommended using the micro-adjust screws. Adjusting the limit screws should typically suffice. The app's front derailleur fine-tuning feature requires administrator access, limiting direct adjustments by regular users.
* *Availability in countries outside of Europe. What is causing the delay, and do you have any timescales?*
* Awaiting an answer.
* *Battery levels during inactivity - When the groupset is in ‘Racing Mode’, the battery is draining, even when the groupset is not in use.. What is causing the battery to drain?*
* *In 'Racing Mode,' the system stays active to ensure responsiveness, similar to a phone not going into standby mode. However, in 'Casual Mode,' the system will go into sleep mode when not in use to save battery.
* *Automatic Shifting (Stop cross chaining) - This behaviour is similar to the Shimano Semi-synchronous shifting. Is there a patent concern with that?*
* Awaiting an answer
* *Automatic Trim - This behaviour is similar to the Shimano Auto Trim. Is there a patent concern with that?*
* Awaiting an answer
* *Does Wheeltop plan to work with any wholesalers local to Europe or US?*
* Wheeltop is collaborating with dealers in France and Spain and expanding to other areas. If you're interested in becoming a dealer, feel free to contact service@wheeltop.com.
* *Any news on communication with Garmin and Wahoo?*
* We are excited to announce that a firmware update, scheduled for release in May, will support connectivity with linkable devices.
* *Replacement components - Is it possible for a user to buy replacement components? For example, if they crash and break a lever.*
* Standalone replacement components are not currently offered. However, we provide a 2-year quality warranty and will forward your feedback on the availability of replacement parts to our product team for future consideration.
* *Spares - Is there any date on when spares can be purchased - IE, lever hoods?*
* Standalone replacement components are not currently offered. However, we provide a 2-year quality warranty and will forward your feedback on the availability of replacement parts to our product team for future consideration.
* *Warrantee Claims - What is the process with this? Does the End User need to return to the retailer, or Wheeltop? If the latter, who will cover shipping costs?*
* For purchases through dealers, the dealer handles post-sales responsibilities. For wheeltop.com orders, any product-related concerns can be directed to service@wheeltop.com. If product quality issues arise requiring a return, Wheeltop will cover the shipping costs.
Reading the comments on my RUclips videos, these are peoples biggest concerns, and my opinion is that these need addressing.
1. *You can’t replace the battery*
1. Suggestion to Wheeltop by RVC. Make a replacement battery, and put a ‘How-To’ video on your RUclips channel. *Reply From Wheeltop* - ”Rest assured that the battery has a lifespan of 2-3 years, so there is no need to worry about battery life issues. Additionally, we are planning to establish offline service centers in various locations. You will have the option to replace the battery at your own expense in the future.”
2. *Crash replacements*
1. People will break things. You need to be able to buy spares *Reply From Wheeltop* - ”We understand that customers are interested in the availability of accessories. Although we cannot provide a definite timeline at the moment, please be assured that we are actively working on preparing the accessories. Once we have a confirmed timeline, we will promptly update you with the details.”
They can’t be serious in claiming that the battery being non-replaceable is somehow not an issue. Lithium batteries will degrade over time even if not used. Phone batteries lose capacity and this is noticeable… while still useable, this degraded capacity means more frequent charging and more wear. So eventually the battery will need to be changed. Since the components are not sold separately, are they expecting people to buy another set for 700 quid? Or is the design life of the mechanism similar to that of a battery? That sounds iffy. I was actually impressed by the L-Twoo solution with a casing that holds 2 standard lithium 14500 cells. But not every frame will have the holes to fit the cables in the seatpost…
@@HNedel this groupset seemed interesting at first view. But the battery life of 2-3 years is clearly a non sense ( without replacement possible ). I will stay with my campagnolo centaur 11s - mechanical / rim brake - on my super six evo 2018
Seems like a great option for Rim Brake riders wanting to go fully wireless
But can you use the shifters also for rim brakes with bowden wires?
@@Killroy76 there’s a rim brake version
Thank you!
Agreed, Hutton 👍
SRAM offered the etap for rim brake bikes then dropped it for axs disc g.sets BUT you can get a rim brake version 🙄 even tho it's not really pushed..
For the automatic adjustment at the rear of the 2 speeds, it is normal that it does not shift the small chainring automatically when you are in Large chainring on the last speed (top cassette)
-Because if he does that, and you are a dancer, passing a small chainring will make you "spin in the void" and you may fall.
-Conversely, when switching to Big chainring --> small chainring at the lowest gear (10/11T), going up +2/3 speed will not bother you because it is your choice to put the small chainring, so you are aware that you will "soften" your pedaling.
I don't know if I'm clear in my explanation, I used Google translation, because I'm French lol
You put together a couple of really interesting and thought provoking video's. Chapeau.
Cheers, Tinniswood, appreciate it 👍. A lot of work went into the two videos.
Excellent video..... Think I'll wait a while before purchasing this.
But definitely keep us in the loop with regards to your experience with it. Good and bad as time goes on.
It's staying on my daily. Will keep you all posted, as I go. Thanks for watching, glad you enjoyed it 👍
Every video you do is total class
Thanks, Kevin 👍
Enjoyed seeing your countryside!!! Lucky you!
Also the electric gremlins observations are spooky and curious...( thank you for the full disclosure) finally now that this cliffhanger has dropped/ I'll get some sleep😂😂😂😂😂( first ever Fred flintstone reference in a bike tech review !!!!!😂😂😂 you are the best !
Hi Steve, Glad you liked it, and can now finally get some sleep 🤣🤣🤣
Was tempted to throw in a Fed Yabba Dabba Doo clip, but was worried the RUclips bot would pick up on it, and ban my video! It happened to me once before, when I used the Benny Hill theme music!!!
Thanks for the detailed review. With regards to when you shift into the small chain ring thr cassette jumps 1 or 2 cogs up. This is to prevent cross chaining. Same things happens with all sram axs groupsets and it cannot be disabled. Synchro shifting is to provide a similar gear ratio in either of the 2 chainrings which is different to the cross chaining function
Great content mate 👍🏼
Cheers, Ben 👍
Love this review. Of course, I'm in USA so very hopeful to get this for my rim brake bikes. This is a game changer. Pity that Shimano didn't think about this before along with the reduction in pricing to make it available for the masses. I'm sold even with the minor issues that I'm sure someone will be able to hack a fix for the firmware. Give someone a challenge and you will find someone who believes in your vision.
Great video mate 😊
Hiya mate. Glad you enjoyed it. This one was a lot of work. Original edit was over 45 minutes long....... So ended up cutting the heck out of it 🤣
@@ribblevalleycyclist looks a good group set, wonder if there get challenged though by Shimano?
fantastic news and review! Some gremlins seem like they can be fixed with firmware updates rather than being deal breakers. Price might be a little high without brakes, bottom bracket, and crankset. But a great option for my older rim brake bike that I can keep rolling for a long time. 10sp parts are very hard to find and this would be a seamless upgrade for any speed.
Exactly that, for people looking to upgrade, it's fantastic. But as you say, crank, cassette, chain, BB..... you're getting close to discounted 105 Di2
Definitely an upgrade option. Sounds like there are too many compromises for me to consider it at the moment though. Thanks for taking the time to review for the rest of us. See you were back at Rudyard again!
Well spotted, Julian. I moved from the Ribble Valley to the edge of the Peak District just over a year ago, so the Staffordshire Moorlands gets used a lot in my videos. 👍
@@ribblevalleycyclist I thought you were travelling a long way to make your video! Now it makes sense.
Miss it, it’s okay, but not as good.
Mostly talking about the non replaceable battery?
Thanks for your honesty 😊. As the Gravel cyclist from the US would say A No Bs REVIEW 😊
I want what you have described. I also want a good price and rim brake compatible
Working on a two month follow up video to this 👍
Great video! I'm going to replace my r8020 hydraulic to this alrd ordered eds tx. 👍🏼
Great review and at least you specified a good reason why you think this groupset is relevant. ✌️
Thanks, Jevgeni 👍
Received mine yesterday in Australia. Ordered on Aliexpress and received within a week! Now to get it on my bike and try it out. Quality feels excellent and pairing was very quick and easy. Just a shame we heading into winter now :(
Thanks for the videos!
Let us know how you get on with the installation. Winter.... where in the world are you then?
@ribblevalleycyclist in Sydney Australia. Clocks just went back so a lot less daylight! Zwift time...:(
Sorry, you did say Australia in your previous comment!!! The opposite here in the UK, clocks have just changed, so we’ve gained an hour. Light now until around 7PM 👍
Have now done a couple of rides (almost 100km) and working so well! Only issue so far is my fault as didn't get the FD perfectly aligned so have had some chain rub. The shifting is so fast and it's very responsive! Very happy so far!
I've got the cable version groupset on the way to me. Was getting sick of my Sora 9sp groupset playing up. Looking forward to it arriving next month, thanks for the video!
Hi Tom, Let us know how you get on with it. 👍
Jon
the synchronous shifting sounds like the Shimano Semi synchronous mode. Whe you change the FD Up or down you get a RD shift down or up a couple gears to spproximate the same cadence in the chainrings. Maybe???
The behavior that you were talking about, that the rear derailleur automatically shifts a couple of gears whenever the front derailleur shifts between the chainrings is exactly the same behavior as Shimano's semi-synchro shift mode.
Nice video !
Regarding the olives, I find that the magura olives are identical !!
Now about your caliper replacement, can you reuse olives like that ? I always assumed when you take them out a new olive is needed, as it needs to be crushed to make a good seal ?
It's probably just trying to keep the chain, when it's on the small chain ring grabbing the big ring or rubbing. Big to big doesn't rub the small chainring, little to little often rubs the big chain ring.
Question: does the rear shifting continue to work correctly if the front mech is removed (can it be used 1x)? Battery discharge issue may resolve as the battery gets more use.
Hi noticed you left it in race more I done the same thing and my battery discharged I've left mine in casul more and never had that problem again seeming you have to take it out of race mode after every ride love you're videos
Hi Anthony, Glad you're enjoying the videos. Yeah, learnt that lesson early on. I now just leave it in casual mode. I'm working on a follow-up video to this one 👍
Very through test! What range of chain rings and cassettes can it handle? 53/39 and a 11 - 34 cassette should be possible.
SRAM axs 1* with blips for me, on TT and gravel bike,good deals atm
Re battery drain, I would suspect it is similar to the SRAM AXS wireless, where when the bike detects any movement, it wakes up the system to a ready state. This include walking past it and slightly knocking it. I have a few rides where I got low battery warnings from AXS, but had not done any big miles. I found it was easiest to remove the derailleur battery (I am on 1x) to avoid this drain
Hi Darren, I imagine you may be right, they may be similar. However, the 30% drain I experienced happened whilst it was in a box on the shelf of the workshop!! Hopefully we'll get some answers from Wheeltop on this point 👍
Great review, thanks. Really love the "average cyclist" bit.....me too!
Glad you enjoyed it, Jonathan. Think we can easily forget that point sometimes.
I looked at the MTB version and to be honest was tempted but the financial saving over the sram one didn't justify taking the chance £30, as for patents that's an issue for the two companies, the Ltwoo version still works without the feature you spoke about
I've ordered one of these groupsets as I'm currently working in Austria for the next few weeks. So looking forward to trying it out when I get back. Also, I did ask them if the rear derailleur cage could be replaced for OSPW. They said no, but I believe TRiPEAK does an offset OSPW that would fit.
Let us know how you get on with the groupset, would be interested to hear your thoughts.
@@ribblevalleycyclist yeah sure I’m looking forward to giving it a go. Your video was very informative and settled my nerves a little. I chose this over the LT-WOO groupset, and it seems to be a better build of the T-woo (excuse the pun!) in its infancy compared like for like.
@andrewmoss1090 Good pun 😂👍
@@andrewmoss1090 The TRiPEAK Jet Stream Pro Pulley Wheels are model-specific, the tension pulley's bearing shield needs to have countours that match the cage's profile. As of now, only select Shimano and SRAM rear derailleurs can run them.
There are also no OSPW systems in the market made for the EDS-TX.
Wheeltop can communicate with a headunit, but it needs to be supported by the headunit, a few chinese ones work with it.
Good install overview and first ride. So the build quality looks good and out of the box it shifts as well as your Ultegra. But the real test will be how it holds up over several seasons of use. You know with proper service your Ultegra will still be going strong in 5 years.
How do they handle warranty claims, obviously it will have to be sent somewhere, which country is that? And if, for example, the derailleur isn't shifting properly, do you have to send the lever and derailleur? It's not going to be like SRAM/Shimano where you just take the bike to your local shop to have the fault diagnosed.
Glad you enjoyed it. I agree with everything you say here, Thomas. Given an infinite budget, this wouldn't be my first choice. I think the old saying goes something like "You pays your money, you takes your choice"!!!!
Do you think the rear derrailleur can handle a 11-42 cassette with compact crankset? I have this setup on my current road bike.
If you have a 50/34, Program the system to a 52/36 or 53/39 and you will be able to use the Small - Small combo.. This works on older Shimano and SRAM. It is there to keep the chain from across chain and the chain catching the big ring. It works. .
Interesting tip/hack, I like it 👍
@@ribblevalleycyclist Have you tried this hack? did it work for you? I would like to find out.
Important to mention that the rear hanger has to be a standard mount, rear derailleur will not work with a direct mount hanger. Based on experience. Hoping my bike manufacturer has a standard mount hanger for my frame.
About the battery thing, you are now using the racing mode which will run out the battery way faster than casual mode, so maybe you can try the casual mode some other time.
Using the groupset didn't drain the battery, it ran down by 30% sat there in the box....... before race mode was even switched on.
@@ribblevalleycyclist Well that sounds like a serious problem😧
the disadvantage is Battery cannot to be remove....and after two year have to repurchase another new groupset...and thank you for review....
Someone needs to take the bullet and disassemble it. If it is some pouch cell and the case can be put back together, then it’s only half bad, as you can find all kinds of battery sizes from china
Really good review in its honesty. My ears pricked up being a a rim brake user but there are a few issues to iron out first, such as I can't buy it in the UK anyway! Not the most attractive looking derailleurs but I'll be keeping a close watch.
Agreed, it looks a bit……. Tesla Cybertruck!
It's already available on AliExpress, although that does mean shipping takes a while. My groupset has been dispatched!
Very interested in the groupset but it is Campag compatible? Seen alot of people retro fitting it to shimano groupsets but no campag.
I think I'll stay manual shifting... never had an issue. But had lots of issues with Chinese tat.
hello, just a quick question : it is possible to use a 54 chainring?
good video i am looking forwed to get them in the uk
Glad you enjoyed it.
Fun fact, it’s already in the women’s pro peloton ;)
Hi All,
I have my call with Wheeltop scheduled for Wednesday, this week (10/04/24). I will be asking the following questions. If you have any more to add, please add by replying to this comment. Thanks:
* Android App/Font Derailleur - Some users have reported that the front derailleur cannot be fine tuned via the Android app, is this correct, and if so, is this being looked at?
* Availability in countries outside of Europe. What is causing the delay, and do you have any timescales?
* Battery levels during inactivity - What is causing the battery to drain, and is it a concern?
* Automatic Shifting - This behaviour is similar to the Shimano Semi-synchronous shifting. Is there a patent concern with that?
* Automatic Trim - This behaviour is similar to the Shimano Auto Trim. Is there a patent concern with that?
* Does Wheeltop plan to work with any wholesalers local to Europe or US?
* Any news on communication with Garmin and Wahoo?
* Replacement components - Is it possible for a user to buy replacement components? For example, if they crash and break a lever.
* Spares - Is there any date on when spares can be purchased - IE, lever hoods?
* Warrantee Claims - What is the process with this? Does the End User need to return to the retailer, or Wheeltop? If the latter, who will cover shipping costs?
Thanks for the great review. What are your thoughts about long term reliability? Has their OX (MTB electronic) groupset been reliable over the past year or so it's been around?
What will international warranty be like?
Do the road shifters pair with their MTB derailleur so you can ride a 1x with a mtb cassette. Like the SRAM groupsets
Are there any known compatibility issues with certain components?
I'm struggling to get a satisfactory calibration with a Shimano R7000 (50-34) chainset, R8000 11-34 cassette and a KMC chain on a 2019 Giant TCR rim brake bike.
Hi, can you share a screenshot of the calibration settings you used in the app?
Hi,
No problem. If you drop me an email (ribblevalleycyclist@gmail.com), I'll do it when I'm in the workshop. Obviously, settings will vary depending on frame type and size, but it'll give you a base to work from.
Hi Ribble Valley Cyclist, thanks for your great videos. I'm new into cycling and learn a lot from your creative/informative content. Currently I own a Cannondale Topstone 2, with 10 Sp GRX 400 - mechanical. Both, the bike and groupset are okay but not fantastic. Question to you (& followers) - could I effectively turn/upgrade, my bike with this groupset into an 11 or 12 speed faster more effective machine - with more or less just the cost of the groupset plus relevant cassette & chain - or is there something else I need to consider (before spending my cash) ?
I'm new to cycling but ride a lot, 5000km this year so far mostly tarmac in Winter, starting now my off rd excursions, as the trails get dry. Can't hv enough of it. Putting my Topstone through its paces & trying to learn all about about components and do it myself approach to cut costs. Thanks in advance to you, and or anyone who can advice. Cheers 🚴♂️👍
5000k, that is some good going right there......I'm nowhere near that!
Yes, you can do what you say. Think of this though, if you go to 11/12 speed, as you say, you're also looking at other drivetrain parts. Which therefore puts the Wheeltop in the same price bracket as 105 Di2. Therefore, would 105 Di2 be the better choice? Also, I use 2x 105 on gravel all the time, it's great.
It's beginners enthusiasm, I'd say. However I follow a few riders who are just as enthusiastic, if not more so - and they do it year upon year. So, I hv a lot of catching up to do. I guess 😂.
Thank you. I was ignoring the fact that I'll hv to change crankset, cassete and so on, in order for it to work. Mine is 2x with FSA omega crankset - it's only an entry level gravel bike - with GRX 400 front/rear derailleur plus gear levers.
Understand what you say about 105 being good for gravel riding - I've not experienced riding a bike with a 105 groupset - however the general consensus is that it's versatile and efficient - not inferior to GRX's even compared to the 600/800 series.
Mine is starting to falter from overuse, every time I replace some parts, something else goes wrong/breaks. Since my last comment the rear wheel hub as collapsed on me/ broke down entirely (luckily I was just 20km away from home, returning from another 100km ride) - it's a Formula cartridge bearing centerlock hub - which do not hv great ratings from what I've discovered online. Maybe it's time to replace the wheel (rebuild new 🙄) - shame because the carbon rims are actually good - and no punctures on my schwalbe's g-one rs, with silca sealant. So having to change all due to hub failure it's not nice. It's all part of the fun/hazards, I guess - that and headwind/crosswinds 🌬 at over 37 plus km/h 🌬. But hey 👋 😊.
@@ribblevalleycyclist"lots of riding' comment; - I don't hv a bike shed full of nice tools & bikes (wish I did). Don't make nice videos helping other cyclists. I'm left with only a few things left to do, mainly riding (if/when the bike holds steady) - happily doing so. 🙂🚴♂️
With regards to the battery. I'm guessing as it's a lithium battery their using they have built in a safety feature to prolong the life of the battery.
Namely li-ions shouldn't be kept at full charge for too long.
So the battery will discharge itself down to a storage voltage if not been used.
So I'm guessing it will need topping up before a ride.
Think that is a question for wheeltop.
@@ribblevalleycyclist yes I agree completely
That sounds correct. My DJI Mini3 batteries do this. They drop to 96% after 1 day and to 60% if idle for 9 days.
Thank you for your review. My main question is. What does it really add to the riding experience? I am not a biker who is constantly shifting gear during a ride. I think the set up time of this set is comparable with a mechanical set. A good shifting mechanical set does compare to this set. The draining of the battery when not biking is also a concern. As most bikers have more bikes which they use independently I think you need to first check the battery before jumping on your bike. Not a nice option when the sun shines and your mates are waiting downstairs. On rides during several days with layovers, charging could be necessary. Can you remove the batteries? All and all, the “bombproof” mechanical shifting still offers a lot of advantages for me.
Oh, it doesn't add anything, in my opinion. But thats just my opinion. What you add to your bike is a personal thing. One persons treasure is another persons junk.
This is worth a watch:
ruclips.net/video/yZhXc1Cr3ps/видео.html
If you can't use a Shimano Olive, could you use a MAGURO one? Or a SRAM one?
we started supplying these systems to Russia. a huge number of problems due to the lack of moisture protection: boards oxidize, components rust. for now it is very raw and unusable.
Is there any sort of clutch on the rear derailleur? It's clear there is no switch like with Shimano but does it have anything going on similar to SRAM? I'm wondering how this would behave on a gravel bike.
No clutch. It’s got similar tension to a Shimano road derailleur
Very interesting, indeed! For the UK, do you have to pay 14% customs duty and 20% VAT when you buy it from abroad?
No. Price on website was the price I paid. And it arrived in 8 days
@@blueninjasix , yes, I got mine from aliexpress and no duty or VAT. Maybe they don't want to annoy people before the elections. :)
It would seem that Wheeltop is taking a different direction in terms of sales and distribution in the Asian market as I have seen RUclips videos and adds posted by bike shops in various Asian countries showing Wheeltop. I think that it could be because the Asian market is already very accepting of Chinese brands unlike the UK/EU/USA markets.
Agreed. When I first started my RUclips channel, it surprised me how anti some countries are to Chinese products. It's like the tide, you ain't stopping it.
When is that Q&A with Wheeltop happening?
I'll be emailing them on Monday, and requesting they set the call up. Once I have a date, I'll pin an update to the top of the comments on this video.
Will these levers work with Shimano calipers? Are they backwards compatible?
Great video BTW!
Yes. Before putting the WT ones one, I first tried the levers with Shimano, and they worked fine.
Great to know thanks a lot!
How is the reach adjustment (screw). Can you increase the reach a lot?
In the workshop now, looking at this. Turns out it's not a reach adjuster, it's a stroke adjuster for the hydraulic brake. So it adjusts when the hydraulic piston engages. I can't seem to see a reach adjuster.
Hey mate, got any news on this Groupset, since you've said you're using it regularly?
I'm currently debating on getting this or the L-TWOO eRX Groupset and can't really decide... 😂
Hi ToasTbrouT, I'm using the bike that this is on, more than my others right now, and I've been very impressed with it. I'm going to do a follow up video saying that, but I've just not had the time.
good video for me. i just wonder is it possible to use shimano break calipers system by replacing olive for wheeltop one? hose/nuts all compatiable with shimano system ? it will be nice if i can upgrade electiric shifting system without disassemble shimano break system...
Hi 박성원,
Yes, you can. Before fitting the Wheeltop brakes, I first tried the Wheeltop levers with my old Shimano 105 brakes. I removed the Shimano olive at the lever end of the Shimano hose, and fitted the Wheeltop olive. I then fitted the Shimano hose and brake to the Wheeltoip lever. The Shimano brakes worked fine.
good to know. thanks
Great - I had the same question as it appears you can buy just the shifters and mechs without the calipers. My existing 105 calipers are fine, so that could make it a more cost effective upgrade
@user-yh6wj1gk6c Indeed, will swap straight over. Use your existing hose, just replace the barb/olive at the lever end.
If you look at the developments in terms of prototyping, 3d printing and every other manufacturing process there is no reason modern electronic groupsets should cost what they do when it comes to cost of development and production. It comes down to what people are willing to pay and at this point I'm hoping there will be a backlash against manufacturers who are as far as I can see are abusing the market.
There was a time when I wouldn't buy a product that violated a patent but at this point, I evaluate on a case by case basis. It's hard to worry about a patent holder when that patent doesn't apply to a particular way of doing something but just doing something obvious - trimming the front derailleur - which is something we've all done for years with mechanical groupsets - particularly the none indexed ones.
Agreed. It's common knowledge that the components and machining tools to make electric groupsets are less than mechanical. So why does it cost more......... I suspect it's because people are willing to pay more!
@@ribblevalleycyclist No doubt.
How did u manage to work this fd with 105 cranks? It's stucking on 12 o'clock position (big ring + small cog) on my bike because of this little auto-triming feature. (ultegra cranks r8000 same problem). And there are no issues with grx-like cranks with larger distance from the crank to the biggest sprocket.
If it were possible to adjust the trim position manually, this could be easily solved. But this option is blocked in the application.
Could you ask them to unlock the trimming position in the next update?
Hi Ilya, It can be done. The trouble is, the Wheeltop app will let you move the FD to crazy positions, that will result in stuff like this. After making this video, I tried to tweak mine, and got myself into a right pickle!!!
Try this:
Go into the 'Fine Tune Gears' section. Take a screenshot of your current setup, so you can put it back if it all goes wrong. My setup is this, this may give you a better base to work from, but it may still need tweaks:
File 1: 130
File 2: 36
File 3: 180
@@ribblevalleycyclist Thank you for the response, Jon! I encountered a problem with the FD adjustment being locked ONLY in the Android app. However, when I tried using an iOS device, the issue was not present. It would be great if Wheeltop could unlock this feature for Android users as well.
Interesting. Will feed it back 👍
Great vid Jon … not much “Ribble valley in shot however 😅. Will say it again , it will get challenged patent wise again , its battery is tripe , its front derailer I have questions around , and honestly this looks like a groupset they have launched to challenge patents but it will get shut down pretty quick .
Glad you liked it, John. You're spot on, not much of the Ribble Valley in most of my stuff nowadays. I moved from the Ribble Valley to the edge of the Peak District just over a year ago, but as the channel was started when I lived in the Ribble Valley, the name stuck.
If it does get challenged, I won't be surprised.
@@ribblevalleycyclistPeak Valley cyclist?
I have considered changing it, but I hope to return to the Ribble Valley one day……. Just haven’t told the Mrs yet 😬
Is it possible to configure it to work with a triple chainring setup?
I haven't tried it personally, but when you consider all of the options in the app, I would be very surprised if it didn't work.
@@ribblevalleycyclist My thoughts exactly - it just looks too flexible for the answer to be a no. If you hear anything about that, let me know!
I agree with you on the integration with the Garmin computer. Not sure I’d be happy with a unit that doesn’t provide that information.
To that question. Garmin doesn’t play well with others when it comes to integrating with non Garmin or non OEM established relationships. I wouldn’t buy one of these units until I know that it is integrated.
I hope that integration happens. Saying that, you can check stuff on the app, but who'll do that??!!
@@ribblevalleycyclist Exactly! Do you have any videos on power pedals? That’s another expensive add-on. Curious about your thoughts on them.
Although I use a power meter (crank arm strain gauge), I’m not an expert on the subject, so wouldn’t want to get involved. Two parts of cycling I never do videos on, nutrition and performance, I know very little about either.
Does this have auxiliary buttons for head unit etc?
Unfortunately not.
But those shifters are also comaptible with rim brakes? Or only hydraulic brakes?
Hi Killroy76, Wheeltop offer two types of lever options, either cable actuated, or hydraulic.
@@ribblevalleycyclistthank you for this Information
Would it work with the grx calipers
I can't imagine why it wouldn't.
what if a battery fails? Do I have to buy a complete derailleur?
Yep!!!
I apologize in advance if this question is in the stupid category, but since it seems to me that the Wheeltop group set in some/many(?) ways is compatible with Shimano and Sram, would it be possible to keep the Shimano brake calipers you already had on your bike and made them work with the Wheeltop brake levers? If the hydraulic brake fluid is the same I would think it would “only” be a matter of fitting the hoses. Could that be done?
Hi BOC-Tony, Yes, it can be done. That is exactly what I did in the video. The Shimano 105 7000 Hydraulic brakes worked fine with the Wheeltop levers.
@@ribblevalleycyclist Thanks for another great video RVC 👍
If you have a moment, can you just clarify a couple of points about your testing with WheelTop Shifters and Shimano 105 Hydro Brake Calipers (as it went past a little quickly).
- It looks you confirmed that the 'Hose Screw' is different, so you had to use the WheelTop one, and you then presumably used the Wheeltop supplied Barb & Olive as well?
- Did you use the existing Shimano Hose (with the Shimano 7070 Calipers I think this is the BH90 hose/barb, which has a small internal-diameter BH-59) ?
@@DerekGreen123 Sorry Derek, I had to cut chunks out of the video, in order to reduce it's length, including those points you're asking about!!
I used the Wheeltop screw, olive, and barb into the Wheeltop levers. I fitted all of those to the existing Shimano hose. I then tested the Wheeltop levers with Shimano callipers, and they worked fine. I then went on to swap out the Shimano callipers for the Wheeltop ones. As the connecting hose thread was the same, I just swapped them out, like-4-like, and reused the Shimano olives/barbs on the Wheeltop callipers. All were BH90. Hopoe that helps.
@@ribblevalleycyclist Thanks so much for letting me know. That's what I thought, but good to clarify.
I was thinking (in future) of ordering the EDS TX 'No Brake' kit * and assuming it doesn't come with any olives/barbs, will need to work out what to do!
(the No Brake Kit it appears to have disappeared from the WheelTop website. They are also showing 'Sold Out'. Perhaps demand is more than their current supply! )
But 5:29 in it definitely looks like you replaced the Shimano calipers with the Wheeltop calipers.
Here is a Spanish follower, I would like if you can clarify a question for me. I bought the one without brake pads, I'm going to use the ones from my Shimano 105, to connect the hose to the lever of this do I need an adapter or is it just a connect? Thank you, I have seen the video but since it is in English I have not understood much I used a translator to write to you, greetings from Spain
Hi Francis, You can use your Shimano 105 brakes. You don’t need an adapter. Cut off your old Shimano olive and barb, and use the Wheeltop Olive and barb. This is what I did in the video. Your Shimano 105 brakes will work fine, I’ve tested it, and it works well. I hope this all translates to Spanish ok. Greetings from the north west of England 👍
It was translated correctly. I bought the kit without brake calipers. I asked before purchasing if I needed an adapter, and they told me no, that it was simply removing my lever and connecting theirs. greetings
Fantastic, enjoy the installation. Let me know how it goes 👍
I'll tell you how the installation goes, but I hope they send the spikes or something, because if not, I don't know how I'm going to connect it.
@franciscojalon7325 My kit included everything I needed
Will it work with a 52t cassette?? Thank you
road rd can support up to 36 teeth gear
Come on! Open it😁 do it for us and check what battery is installed inside 😁
Is there a gravel version?
No, just this version at the moment.
ok....i bought a rim brake set from aliexpress 7 days ago.....for the price of (!!!!!) 570 euros.....quality is exccelent, durability also, weight is perfect (rd is lighter than sram).....as for today, after 68 km of riding (like 2.5 hours) 750 meters of climbing the app showed 100% battery on both derailiers.(!!!)....first settings are kind of tricky and require a lot of time since manual is not that helping...using small chainring will not allow to shift to 1-2 gears.....wheeltop calls this feature "rear derailier shift protection" which is an option on their latest firmware, an option that personaly did not manage to make it work.....in order to save some power on you batteries i suggest you turn off bluetooth and disconect the app from the groupset....after that all you have to do to "wake it up" is just shake the bike.........now, as for the batteries, if in the future will come to the end of their life (hopefully before mine), i will not hesitate to try and replace them, since the cover is supported with screws....finaly , if you have a phone holder mounted on your handlebars, you can use the app to get a lot of info while riding, like number of gear on your casette, front chainring, battery level , distance time etc......
Hi Tolis, Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Rear derailleur shift protection, not seen or heard of this in my version, will look into this a bit more.
Battery, I've been on a call with Wheeltop, and suggested they look at a replacement battery option, with a 'How To' video.
Do they deliver to the UK?
No, not yet.
I've notice Ali Express are selling it, never bought anything from them before are they reliable?
@Andrew-qb8wo AliExpress is a huge marketplace, that is used worldwide. Like any marketplace, you need to check the sellers feedback.
Without auto-trim on the FD the whole electronic shifting thing is useless. I've got an Ultegra Di2 and it's flawless, but I wouldn't entertain anything that doesn't have auto trim. I suppose one way around the patent is to make the firmware open source so that users can modify their own software. After all, the software for this is going to be really simple stuff that a lot of kids could write in their bedroom. Assuming that the system works on regular Bluetooth protocols then it would only be a small step away from fully auto shifting when paired with a cadence sensor ;-)
Agreed, auto trim is a must for any electric GS..... Or some way of trimming.
Auto shift. This is something I've often thought about, and considered doing a 'Will we ever see' video on it. If you think about it, a modern higher end bike measures cadence, power, speed, heart rate, and gradient. All through one device that in some cases has more than enough processing power to handle this pretty simple task.
@@ribblevalleycyclist I run a small business designing & building race car paddleshift systems, and I can assure you that the amount of software necessary for bycicle electronic groupsets is piddling by comparison to what I do. Adding auto shift based on cadence would be just a few lines of code. There's no doubt that whatever processor they're using it will have more than enough capacity.
Interesting. I do however think it'd need to be a little smarter, because unlike a car engine, the power source output isn't a known. I'm sure you'd agree that the system would need to know how hard the engine is working in order to determine what gear is best, and when to change, either up or down. If it also took into consideration heart rate and power output, then I think the system would be more affective. Not that any of this matters 🤣
@@ribblevalleycyclist I guess it depends on your 'style' of riding. Personally speaking, because I'm a very small guy with very limited power (
Can you use the system with shimano calipers?
Did you try/ride with your 105 calipers?
Thanks in advance.
I didn't ride with them, but I gave them a thorough going over on the stand, and there was no sign of leaking or rubbing. I'm 100% confident they'd work fine.
@@ribblevalleycyclist thank you!!
I randomly stumbled into your channel and really like the content. You can now call me a follower.
However, the gum really triggers me 😂
Welcome onboard. Gum?????
There isn;t any gum, it's just a tooth that's a bit longer than the rest.
What's the music please.
RUclips generic background music
Hate manual trimming. I will never update software just in case😂 really 🙂
i guess i will stick to my sram red etap
I think the word "upgrade" is being misused in this case. This "tech" is just another thing that's going to go wrong and distract from what matters which is cycling (rather than consumerism).
wait for few months,This groupset will double the price.
The Chinese group sets are addressing the Rim brake bikes out there the literal millions of them that can be upgraded to these electronic group sets. Shimano and SRAM simply don’t care about that market.
An average cyclicst wouldn't bother this groupset neither. Getting excited that the rd is compatible with cassettes down to 7 speed is nonesense - imagine someone who has a bike with a 7-speed Tourney groupset. That bike for sure is an entry level one. What's the reason in swapping a Tourney for this expensive groupset and keeping the the old 7 speed cassette? All the more this TX groupset would probably be worth more than the bike itself.
This looked interesting... until I realised that in exchange for a positive review you got to keep the groupset. You should have pointed that out at the beginning. Digging a bit deeper, it turns out the company doesn't provide a phone number or a physical address on its website (a red flag). The rim brake groupset has been out of stock for months (see comments on their website), with no indication of when it will be available again. That doesn't bode well for future spare parts availability/ They even confirm that replacement hoods/jockey wheels/batteries are unavailable as of today. You can forget about getting a replacement brake lever after a crash a couple of years from now! The software doesn't work with Garmin headhunts. The product isn't available in the UK - what's the point of you providing a discount code?
Here's hoping your channel doesn't do anymore shilling for obscure Chinese brands with no customer support system. Caveat emptor!
I summarised that it was made well, but there are questions about both battery life, and patents (that could affect its future functionality)...... and that as far as I'm concerned, the jury is still out. That's your idea of a positive review, is it?
@@ribblevalleycyclist Let's not quibble about semantics ;-) I used "positive" instead of "neutral" or "middling" as I would have been considerably less diplomatic than you in pointing out the numerous issues with that groupset and manufacturer. I haven't edited my post to make that correction as not to confuse readers with respect to your reply. Point taken. Keep up the good work!
Patenting auto trim is behaving like a thug. It probably wouldn't stand up in court, but who's going to challenge it.
I spoke to a corporate lawyer on this point, they said the same.
shit
Is that an announcement, an emotional expression, or an observation?
so many shills everywhere
I summarised by saying although it was made well, there are questions about both battery life, and patents (that could affect its future functionality)...... and that as far as I'm concerned, the jury is still out. Yeah, I’m a total Shill………. Should be retiring off the back of that review.
It’s Chinese. You’ve got American and you’ve got Japanese. I know the one I’d miss out.
Yes American
Valid point. However, isn't it about time that Japanese, American, and Western nations manufacture and market more affordable products that they've outsourced from China. I'd love to ride a bike with Di2 or Sram Rival Force, or whichever most advanced eletronic/wireless groupset is available out there - but the costs are prohibitive to me. I can buy a fully mechanical reasonably good bike for half the price of a groupset alone. So, having new players on the market offering reasonably good alternatives may not be a bad thing in the long term. Albeit, the often dubious quality of tat we get from China should not be ignored - and their extremely aggressive methods of shifting it, the advertising is quite shocking, to put it mildly. It's capitalism (consumables) market at its best, and we've not reached peak time yet.
I'd love to hv an electronic, wireless working groupset on me bike at half price of a standard Di2 costs - never ridden a non-mechanical groupset - my experience with mechanical is that it requires regular adjustments and we all know, those unhealthy noises start to build up, if you ride your bike long enough.
@@arturduarte113 I absolutely agree with all you’ve said. I think you have just discribed how I feel. Here is the thing. At this time mechanical group set components are very cheap. I’ve replaced the front mech on my bike with the R7000. Shimano. It’s fantastic. I’ve decided to ignore the hype with electronic group sets and make my mechanical as good as I can. New cables. Re lube everything. Spend time setting it up. The transformation is remarkable. I’m sticking to it. A it’s cheap and B I can fix it if it goes wrong.
The tooling, components, and labour to make electric groupsets is less than it's mechanical counterpart. So why do they charge more for something that costs less? Because we're willing to pay it! The big two are milking the industry like a big fat cashcow. Bike manufacturers are feeling the squeeze right now, as are component manufacturers. All it will take is one of the big 5 bike builders to start using a Chinese groupset, and we will see a change. And that will happen, it's only a matter of time.
My set is on the way and I look forward to installing it. Question - does the hydraulic hose have a specific olives and inserts, or will it work with Shimano BH-90 olives/inserts? Thank you in advance.
Standard Shimano olive/barb will work at the lever end, but the Shimano lever thread won’t fit the WT lever, so you’ll have to cut the old ones off anyway, to swap the hose attachment over.
@@ribblevalleycyclist I appreciate your prompt response. Thank you!
@@bennymabazza No problem Benny, good luck with the build.