The XDS Carbon-Tech X-Lab AD9 frameset, used by the XDS Astana team, is now available for purchase in the UK at a price of £2,553.
In December, the Astana Qazaqstan team rebranded to XDS Astana following the Chinese company’s acquisition of the team’s naming rights. The team, managed by Alexander Vinokourov, now rides the newly introduced X-Lab AD9 frameset.
Previously sponsored by Wilier Triestina, with Mark Cavendish achieving Tour de France milestones aboard one of their bikes, Astana’s deal with the Italian brand ended when XDS stepped in. The partnership brought a significant budget boost, and XDS, a lesser-known company from Shenzhen, China, now sponsors the team. The company also owns one of the world’s largest carbon fiber factories.
The X-Lab AD9 frameset, which has been spotted for sale by CycleGears, is priced at £2,553 and comes in three color options: cloud, blue cloud, and black silver. While still a considerable investment, the frameset is more affordable compared to those from other leading WorldTour team sponsors. For example, Trek’s Madone frameset costs around £5,500, and Specialized’s S-Works Tarmac SL8 is priced at about £4,000.
The frameset features advanced aero elements, including dropped seat stays, a cutout seat tube, deep-section aero tubes, and a fully integrated cockpit, making it a top-tier option for competitive cycling.
While the Van Rysel RCR Pro was previously thought to be the most affordable bike on the WorldTour at £7,400, a few strategic upgrades to the XDS frame could offer a similar performance at a lower cost.
The full professional setup, including Shimano Dura-Ace groupsets, Vision wheels, Continental tyres, and Prologo saddles, has yet to be listed for sale but will be used by XDS Astana riders in WorldTour races this season.
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