XACD from source.

GyatsoLa

I was wondering if anyone bought a XACD Titanium frame or parts directly from the factory (I mean, visiting it, not online)?

I've been interested in getting one for a while, but didn't want to take the risk. But a friend of mine (Chinese) is staying in Xi'an for a few weeks over the summer and will have time to drop in. From my experience of Chinese business, a 'local' will get a much better deal than a foreigner.

I want to know if its worth asking her to do some negotiations for me. It'll cost me a nice dinner (she has expensive tastes), so I'd have to be sure it would save me some cash to ask her to do this!

Oh, and while I'm on the subject - some threads here have mentioned that they do a knock-off version of S&S coupling. There is nothing on their website about it. Anyone with experience of this?

de_sisti

I am awaiting a frame a ordered from them a couple of weeks ago which was shipped from
the factory today. I received an email from them with a tracking number.

If you know what you're after, you can get a custom built titanium frame for half the price of
a one sold by well known manufacturers. I've ordered from them before. If you can accept
that their English is better than your Chinese, you'll probably end up as a happy customer.

When you place your order, they'll send you full engineering drawings. You can then tweek
it to your complete satisfaction. After you've told them of any alterations, they'll send you
another 'final' drawing. Once you agree on it and wire the money by bank transfer, they will
then start build it for you.

They were good to their word and shipped the frame within the 2 weeks timeframe they
estimated. For the frame, including shipping charges, their bank charges (over $100), and
my charges, the cost came to $650, roughly £450.

Monty Dog

As you say, a local Chinese will probably be able to negotiate a good deal and save you some money. Xi'an quoted me for some S+S type couplings a while back - but the change in $ exchange rate killed off my plans.